Chartering A Yacht In The Mediterranean This Summer? Don’t Miss These 10 Experiences 

The Mediterranean has long been a summer playground for those looking to explore by yacht charter. And this season, appetite for Mediterranean yacht charters is stronger than ever; those wanting to explore one of the world’s best cruising grounds seek out longer itineraries, multi-destination routes, and more activities that rival those found when vacationing on land. 

Whether the Mediterranean appeals for its rich culture and history, delicious menus, ancient and contemporary contrasts, or simply the warm summer climes, it is certainly a destination not to miss out on when it comes to yachting. 

Why Charter A Yacht In The Mediterranean?

A yacht gives you the ultimate access to Mediterranean destinations that no luxury hotel, resort, or cruise ship can match. You can drop anchor in hidden coves and bays, cruise uninhabited islands, and access harbors that big ships cannot. 

A Mediterranean yacht charter itinerary can be tailored to virtually any interest, whether you want a culinary immersion, attend exclusive events, dive in and play in the crystal-clear waters, set out on cultural expeditions, or engage in outdoor pursuits—it is a region that delivers in spades. 

And you don’t have to be restricted to just one country; thanks to its geography, it is easy to combine multiple Mediterranean countries into one itinerary. Perhaps you want to explore both the French and Italian Rivieras, island-hop between both Greece and Croatia, or sail the Balearic Islands. There are so many options for exploring and experiencing as much of the coastlines and islands as you can in one go. 

With the Mediterranean yacht charter season just around the corner, here are our top ten recommendations for experiences not to miss out on when cruising this summer: 

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Croatia 

When it comes to a yacht charter in Croatia, there is nothing more iconic than the popular Split to Dubrovnik one-way itinerary, stopping at islands such as Hvar and Korcula. Whether you begin or end in Dubrovnik, it is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Europe to visit, and few places carry history quite like this fortified city. 

Arrive by tender, or stay in the marina and take a privately guided tour of the city walls—best to visit at sunrise when summer crowds are at bay and before the day-trippers arrive. Walk the city walls, which is around a 2-kilometer circuit, and take in the extraordinary views from every direction, looking back down onto the old town and across the Adriatic. Dating back to the 10th century, the walls were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 and were built for protection. They are among the world’s best-preserved medieval fortifications. After, continue exploring and soaking up the charming ambiance of Dubrovnik’s old town. 

Embrace The Glamour Of The French Riviera 

From Monaco, Cannes, St Tropez to Antibes, the French Riviera remains a well-celebrated and visited address for superyachts in the summer, and experiencing its chic glamour ashore is not to be missed. 

It is where the yachting lifestyle flourishes, from superyachts securing a spot in Port Hercule, designer and luxury boutiques lining Cannes, to sought-after tables at fine-dining restaurants and long, leisurely rose lunches in St Tropez. You can also time your visit around the many exclusive summer events hosted here, from the Monaco Grand Prix to the Cannes Film Festival, both of which kick off the season. 

Sail The Fjord-Like Waters Of Montenegro 

Montenegro isn’t always on the radar when it comes to Mediterranean destinations to visit, but it has proven increasingly popular with yacht charters and for good reasons. It is best explored by water thanks to its deep fjord-like waters. The Bay of Kotor cuts into the Dinaric Alps, which have a striking resemblance to Norway’s fjords. 

Sailing here is an incredible experience in itself, with dramatic scenery to marvel at, and then to reach the medieval walled city of Kotor. Ashore, explore the UNESCO-protected old town, full of a labyrinth of narrow cobblestones, and keep an eye out for the many resident cats that roam here. Stretching your legs, you can also hike the fortress wall for panoramic views across the bay. 

Eat And Drink Your Way Along The Amalfi Coast 

The Amalfi Coast is one of those Mediterranean destinations where both the food and landscape are both very much deserving of your attention. Begin by checking out the markets in Positano and Amalfi, overflowing with fresh local produce, including lemons the size of grapefruits. Lemons are a big deal here, so while exploring, be sure to check out a limonecello producer, or at least sample the many offerings. 

Food is a main event; there are endless restaurants to book a table at ashore. La Sponda, the Michelin-starred restaurant at the famous Le Sirenuse hotel, is one of the best and perfect for a romantic evening in Positano. Or, La Caravella dal 1959, a classic family-run restaurant that was awarded southern Italy’s first Michelin star and retains its original character. From indulgence to a more hands-on foodie experience, there are also plenty of farm-based food tours and cooking classes to delve into along the Amalfi Coast so you can take a bit of the Italian Dolce Vita back home with you. 

Party At Ibiza’s Beach Clubs And Then Retreat 

Over in the Balearics, Ibiza has long held the reputation for being the party island, and today that high-energy spirit continues. The island’s well-established nightlife reputation also extends to its beach club and sunset lounge scene. There is a range to choose from, whatever vibe you are going for. From a long, elegant lunch at Casa Jondal, the bohemian luxury at Beachhouse Ibiza, the polished party scene at Nikki Beach, or the glamorous Blue Marlin. 

But when you need to decompress and unwind, a yacht charter is the perfect getaway, cruising onto the smallest Balearic Islands of Formentera, just a stone’s throw from the party island. With minimal development and pristine beaches, Formentera is the perfect beach club party antidote to include on an Ibiza yacht charter itinerary this summer. 

Watch The Sunset Over Santorini 

Across the Mediterranean, there are endless spots to enjoy a postcard-perfect golden hour, especially when experienced from the deck of a luxury yacht. But one location in particular sets the standard high for the end of the day: the Greek island of Santorini. Anchoring off this Cycladic island at one of the most popular spots, Ammoudi Bay is ideal. 

Head ashore here to the village of Oia, renowned as a sunset spot. Take in the spectacle and witness the sky turn vibrant hues of orange, red, and purple glowing over the whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches. While a busy spot, it is justifiably so given the sunsets you can witness here. 

Cycle Or Hike Mallorca’s Mountains

The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is a yachting hub in the summer, full of golden bays and beaches to enjoy. But inland, those wanting to cycle or hike ashore will be rewarded with the UNESCO World Heritage landscape of the dramatic Tramuntana mountain range. One of Europe’s best cycling destinations, the winding roads attract professionals and enthusiasts alike. 

Non-cyclists can also explore the mountains on foot, with plenty of hiking trails available, from sheer coastal cliffs to pathways leading into stone-built hilltop villages. After activity ashore, return to your yacht and freshen up with a dip in the Mallorcan waters and refuel with indulgent Spanish tapas. 

Get Under The Hull In Sardinia

Sardinia’s waters are among the clearest in the Mediterranean, and nowhere is better to dive into than the La Maddalena Archipelago. Located off the island’s northeastern tip, these islands—and a protected marine reserve—are a popular addition to a Sardinia yacht charter itinerary. 

Thanks to the protected status, snorkelers can experience abundant marine life in the shallows and seagrass meadows. While deeper down, with scuba gear, you can find some of the best dive sites with dramatic underwater topography, from granite boulders, sea caves, walls, and wrecks. Many of the dive sites and snorkeling coves are accessible only by boat, so a yacht charter here is a must. 

Soak In Hot Springs On The Aeolian Islands 

While your luxury yacht may already have well-equipped spa facilities, the Aeolian Islands, north of Sicily, offer up some of the best natural treatments ashore thanks to their volcanic properties. There are seven islands in this chain, and Vulcano is renowned for its thermal springs, hot mud baths, and fumaroles that are said to be extremely therapeutic. 

Come evening, your yacht charter itinerary could then take you onwards to the island of Stromboli, home to Europe’s only continuously erupting volcano. It is a magical spot to anchor in front of where you may be lucky enough to see eruptions as you enjoy your dinner alfresco onboard—one of nature’s best evening shows. 

Dock In Corsica’s Iconic Natural Harbor

While docking in a marina is a standard activity when on a yachting vacation, Corsica has one that is more about simply a parking spot. At the country’s southernmost tip, you will find the iconic Bonifacio, and arriving at the marina by yacht is the finest way to experience it. As one of the most dramatically positioned historic towns in the Mediterranean, the approach alone is worthy of the visit. A long, narrow inlet carves into the cliffs, and citadel walls rise from the rock above as you enter. 

Once docked, the old town is at your fingertips. Explore the medieval streets and architecture, and climb the staircases that offer views back across the Strait of Bonifacio towards Sardinia. An extraordinary natural harbor where you can soak up the town’s charm, history, boutiques, and many restaurants.