A Sailor's Guide to Yacht Charters in the Caribbean Yacht Charter Guide

The Caribbean is an idyllic location for those longing for a chance to unwind in ultimate serenity. With a delectable year round climate and an over 7,000 lush islands to choose from, the Caribbean is a world renowned destination for luxury yacht charters. With each island different to the next, cruise from one to another whilst exploring the cultures, cuisine and landscapes of this tropical destination.

Saturated with sun, this dazzling location offers the epitome of a paradise vacation, with sugar white sun-kissed beaches, a warm climate and beautiful scenery all year round. The Caribbean offers abundant water sport opportunities, clear blue skies and inviting azure waters. This captivating location is brimmed with aquatic life which surrounds dozens of picturesque islands, each unique in character and charm.

Often divided into five main areas, the Caribbean encompasses the Bahamas and Turks, the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, the Greater Antilles and the Leeward Antilles. From plush forestation to cloud-covered mountain summits, there is a diverse range of landscapes to admire.

The Leeward Islands and the Windward Islands are often the most popular charter destinations and include St Martin, St Barts, Martinique, Saint Lucia, and Barbados in addition to the British Virgin Islands, which are ideal for sailing yacht charters, where guests can enjoy secluded anchorages, gourmet cuisine and barbecues on the beach in ultimate glamour and style.

On a Caribbean yacht charter, visitors can enjoy an abundance of activities in even the smallest of areas. With a thriving nightlife, lush rainforest, amazing diving opportunities and first class cuisine the Caribbean is a superb location with something to suit everyone.

The turquoise waters are overloaded with treasures, from miniature beach coral isles to extensive mountainous atolls radiating with rich and vibrant culture. Snorkellers can see clearly to the ocean floor, making for an enchanting encounter where marine life, mesmerising outcrops, reefs and wrecks flourish along the sea bed.

The best time to visit the Caribbean is between December and May, however warm temperatures, mild waters and gentle winds make the Caribbean a fantastic destination all year round. A luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean offers the ultimate escape from life on land into a nirvana of stunning islets and colourful cultures which cannot be found anywhere else.

If you are interested in a private crewed luxury yachting vacation in this tropical region view all Caribbean Superyacht Charters which are available to rent.

Source: https://www.yachtcharterfleet.com/the-bahamas-and-caribbean/the-bahamas-and-caribbean-luxury-yachting-guide-1.htm

Mallorca and Menorca Ibiza Yacht Charter Guide

Set among the three main islands of the Balearics that also includes Mallorca and Menorca, Ibiza offers some of the most dazzling natural beauty in the Mediterranean and includes registered U.N. World Heritage Sites such as ‘God’s Finger’ in Benirràs Bay. It is also the closest of the Balearic Islands to mainland Spain and alongside its beautiful neighbouring island of Formentera can be part of a number of itinerary options.

Ibiza’s 200km of coastline dotted with dozens of tiny coves, more than 50 glorious beaches and myriad stylish hotels, bars and restaurants ensure it is much more than its party island reputation suggests.

Luxury charter yacht vacations in Ibiza can include a number of beautiful anchorages, with a week-long vacation usually featuring stop-offs in the more secluded and private bays situated around the outskirts of the island. The village of Santa Eulària offers beautiful architecture and churches and several quiet beaches where you can enjoy clear warm waters and spectacular views while San Antonio is known for its lively nightlife and magnificent annual firework display that celebrates the fiesta of Saint Bartholomew.

The island is also home to several secluded beaches best reached by luxury yacht, including Es Cubells which is Cubells nestled among terraces entwined with orange, lemon and olive groves and offers high quality, authentic family-run restaurants. For some more rugged exploration, visit the scenic beaches of Cala Codolar, Cala Llarga and Agua Blanca which vary from soft golden sand to pebbles and are fringed by lush woodland.

Ibiza is a fantastic summer luxury yacht charter destination and with its constant easterly winds, is a great choice for a sailing yacht charter. The hottest time of the year is July and August with temperatures reaching 30°C (85°F) most afternoons so it can also be an ideal option during spring and autumn when the weather is still good but the crowds have dispersed.

If you are interested in a yachting vacation in the waters surrounding Ibiza, take a look at all luxury yachts available to rent in Ibiza.

Source: https://www.yachtcharterfleet.com/ibiza/ibiza-luxury-yachting-guide-1539.htm

Mediterranean, the volcanic island Santorini Yacht Charter Guide

Known as the ‘Black Pearl of the Aegean’, Santorini epitomises the picture-perfect Greek island experience and is the main island within the beautifully unspoilt Cyclades archipelago. Steeped in history as much as in scenery, the island was formed from a volcanic eruption in 1500 BC that caused its central point to sink into the sea, leaving a crescent shaped rim of cliffs.

Celebrated as one of the most exquisite locations in Mediterranean, the volcanic island of Santorini encompasses a spectacular collection of multi-coloured beaches and cliffs and idyllic hilltop towns.

Today, it is these sheer lava cliffs of Santorini’s Caldera towering 300m above the cobalt waters of the Aegean Sea that make it iconic in its beauty and hint towards its mythical Greek legends. The volcanic nature of the island has also created naturally multi-coloured beaches, such as the black pebbled Kamari as well as the idyllic black-sand cove of Perissa in the south west. The south eastern corner of the island is perfect for trying out the watertoys on board you luxury charter yacht and also boasts a lively nightlife with a great selection of chic bars and restaurants.

Santorini’s iconic bright white buildings that tumble down the cliff-sides provide some of the most picturesque backdrops in the world and are best seen approaching from the sea from the decks of a superyacht. A visit to the bustling main village of Fira offers a colourful display of traditional Greek gyros and an atmospheric piazza as well as a cosmopolitan collection of bars and clubs that boasts captivating views over the Caldera.

The northern village of Oia meanwhile is famous for its gorgeous sunsets and has successfully managed to maintain its natural, dramatic beauty despite its continued popularity. The Cyclades are most enjoyable in late spring – when the landscape is still green, the sea has warmed up to feasible swimming temperatures, but the crowds have yet to descend – and early autumn, when the summer hordes have departed and the sea is at its warmest.

If you are interested in a yachting vacation in waters of Santorini and the surrounding Greek Islands view all Greece Luxury Yacht Charters which are available to rent.

Source: https://www.yachtcharterfleet.com/santorini/santorini-luxury-yachting-guide-484.htm

Windward Islands St.Lucia Yacht Charter Guide

St. Lucia’s famous Mount Gimie soars some 3,000 feet at its peak to form a dramatic welcome as you approach aboard your luxury charter yacht. An abundance of flora and fauna, including wild orchids and giant ferns, can be found among the forested slopes, filling the air with beautiful floral scents.

Known by many as the jewel of the Windward Islands, St. Lucia is a pleasure to behold for every visiting superyacht traveller. The interior is diverse in landscapes, from verdant hills to volcanic sands whilst a scattering of elegant eateries and well-equipped harbours ensure a feeling of luxury.

Through these forests are a number of curving trails and hiking paths where you can spot the wide variety of tropical birds and wildlife that inhabit the Caribbean island. One of the most popular of these and well-worth a visit during a day or two ashore is the Soufriére volcano and its trail that goes deep into the crater.

The twin peaks of the Pitons are another unmissable sight. With World Heritage status, the volcanic spires are located on the south west coast of the island and their surrounding waters are part of a marine park, teaming with fascinating marine life.

As well as secluded beach hideaways, the island also offers an eclectic mix of cultures and exciting events to discover. A world-renowned Jazz festival takes place annually in May while the Gros Islet houses a street party every Friday.

The Windward Islands are one of the most popular areas in the Caribbean, if not the world, for sailing. The ideal conditions on the Northeast trade belt and stunning coastline views create the perfect setting for a sailing yacht charter and St. Lucia itself boasts many picturesque harbours. Rodney Bay is a go-to base for many yacht charters due to its leisurely nearby sails and chic boutiques and restaurants that occupy the harbour.

The island is also a fantastic place to start a charter itinerary in the region, the longest of which is the passage between St. Lucia and St. Vincent where a patchwork of tropical islands pepper the turquoise waters along the way. To get started take a look at the wide selection of luxury superyachts for charter in the Caribbean, then contact your charter broker to check availability and to plan your vacation.

Source: https://yachtcharterguide.blogspot.com.tr/

Yacht Charter Guide: 5 Reasons To Visit St Kitts And Nevis On A Luxury Yacht Charter

Located in the northern arc of the Leeward Islands, St Kitts and Nevis gained independence from the UK in 1983 following over 350 years of changing hands between the French and English.

The two-island nation of St Kitts and Nevis is a relative latecomer to the luxury yachting scene but is an increasingly appealing destination. Read on to discover why you should visit this idyllic pair of Caribbean islands on a charter vacation.

Today, the federation has been touted as the next superyacht hotspot. Here are five reasons why you should visit the sister islands on your next luxury yacht charter to the Caribbean.

A World-Class Luxury Yacht Marina

Christophe Harbour in St Kitts

boardwalks at Christophe Harbour with luxury yachts
idyllic views from the development at Christophe Harbour
St Kitts and Nevis’ burgeoning reputation as the Caribbean's next premiere yachting destination is mainly down to the newly built Christophe Harbour which, with a state-of-the-art marina, caters to the needs of luxury yachts like nowhere else in the region.

Sitting on the southern tip of St Kitts, the marina opened its doors in February 2015 and currently has 24 superyacht berths. But, once construction is completed, there will be room for 250 yachts, including 50 measuring up to 76 metres.

There is more to Christophe Harbour than world-class superyacht facilities, however. The 2,500-acre development also incorporates a new marina village with a Park Hyatt hotel, a forthcoming Tom Fazio golf course, boutique shops, eateries and luxury properties.

Beautiful Beaches

St Kitts’ best beaches are on its south-eastern peninsula. Enticing views of Nevis and a line-up of restaurants and bars makes the secluded mile-long stretch of Cockleshell Bay Beach a firm favourite, while yacht-goers are likely to have the quiet, golden sands of Major’s Bay Beach to themselves.

Another off-the-beaten-track gem is Frigate Bay North. A long curve of sand on the wilder Atlantic side of St Kitts, this beach is rarely busy and has a long reef protecting swimmers from the bigger waves common on the east coast. Grey volcanic sands, meanwhile, can be found in the north.

In Nevis, three miles of superb white sand await discovery on Pinney’s Beach. With its hip eateries and bars, this is one of the finest beaches in the Caribbean and draws in a star crowd. Graced with shallow waters and sunset views to St Kitts, Oualie Beach is a must-visit too.

Volcanic Hikes

Soaring to 1,156 metres above sea level in the heart of St Kitts, dormant Mt Liamuiga is the highest peak in the federation and offers some fantastic hiking opportunities. But, be aware, treks to the top are not for the unfit or faint-hearted.

Trails weave out from Belmont Estate, through swathes of misty rainforest and lush tropical savannah, up to the half-mile-wide volcanic crater. Those who reach the summit will be rewarded with breath-taking views of the neighbouring islands.

Nevis has its own cloud-swathed, 985-metre-high volcanic peak to conquer. It’s an arduous climb that’s best done with a guide. Slippery, steep and muddy, the path threads along precipitous sections that require scrambling over sheer rocks and grabbing ropes and exposed roots.

Historic Sights

Military post in Brimstone Hill Fortress, Saint Kitts and Nevis

Even if you’re not a huge history fan, the UNESCO-protected Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is likely to leave a lasting impression. Standing 240 metres above sea level, this breath-taking fortification was designed by British military engineers and built by African slaves in around 1690.

Today it houses a museum that gives a fascinating insight into what life would have been like for soldiers living in the dramatic surrounds. What’s more, from such a vantage point, there are spectacular panoramic views of the coastline, countryside and five neighbouring islands.

Other historical attractions include 300-year-old Fairview Great House & Botanical Garden, where visitors can learn about colonial life on the island, and St Kitts Scenic Railway. In the early 1900s, this transported the island’s sugar cane but, today, it takes passengers on a three-hour scenic tour.

Fascinating Dive Sites

Diver silhouette over colorful shallow St. Kitts reef highlighting a purple tube sponge, Aplysina lacunosa
Scuba divers on the reef in St Kitts and NevisOne of the best shallow shipwrecks in the Caribbean, the

River Taw in St. Kitts

Despite the gin-clear waters of St Kitts and Nevis abounding with marine life and dozens of wrecks, the dual-island nation’s outstanding dive sites still remain somewhat under the radar. This is, of course, perfect for charterers looking for peaceful and untouched diving opportunities.

Among the top reef sites in St Kitts are Green Point Reef, Monkey Shoals and Coconut Tree, while there is incredible wall diving at Black Coral and, in Nevis, stunning dives at Clyde’s Reef, the White Hole and the Ledge, which is popular for macro photography.

The best wreck to explore is the coral-encrusted 144ft freighter known as River Taw, which sank in 1981 before being split in two by Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Other notable shipwrecks include HMS Solebay, Talata and Conrinthian.

St Kitts and Nevis is a relative latecomer to the luxury yachting scene but has been touted as the Caribbean's next superyacht hotspot

Scenic view from elevated overlook towards St. Kitts isthmus and Nevis Island, St. Kitts
For help planning a yachting vacation to St Kitts and Nevis, speak to your preferred charter broker.

Alternatively, view all luxury yachts available for charter in the Caribbean.

Source: https://www.yachtcharterfleet.com/destination/article/5-reasons-to-visit-st-kitts-and-nevis-on-a-luxury-yacht-charter-13004.htm

Yacht Charter Guide: Sailing Greece Luxury Yacht Charter Guide

Whether you’re looking for a vacation saturated in the remnants of an alluring history or to island hop between the Saronic, Ionian or Cyclades islands, Greece is boundless in charter opportunities. Greece and predominantly the Greek Islands continue to attract many charter visitors every year. Greece offers an abundance of charter opportunities from the ancient cities of the mainland steeped in history and natural beauty to the myriad of islands which stretch towards the Turkish coastline.

REASONS TO VISIT
Greece

-Rich Cultural Heritage
-Bustling City Life
-White-Washed Villages
-Secluded Coves
-Exquisite Cuisine

GOOD FOR
-Snorkeling
-Nightlife
-Monuments
-Marine
-Life
-Nature
-Diving
-Shopping
-Fine
-Dining
-Anchorage

NEED ADVICE?
-Speak to your
-Charter Broker

The Greek waters encompass a plethora of islands which can be divided into six main clusters from the Sporades Islands down to the island of Crete which marks the southernmost tip of the Aegean Sea. Each group boasts its own identity and is unique in charm and appeal.

Charter Broker

Charter vacations tend to predominantly take place in three island groups which are the Ionian Islands, the Argo-Saronic Islands and the Cyclades. All of which lie within closer proximity of the country’s capital of Athens which makes for favourable cruising time and thus lower fuel costs. Although there are many stunning islands lying outside of these popular charter groups, such as Crete and Dodecanese, they tend to lie much closer to Turkey than Greece, making for lengthy cruising times which will result in less than appealing fuel bills. The Greek Islands offer endless opportunities for spectacular cruising and although marina facilities are a rarity here, this only makes for more beautiful coastlines.

Encompassing beauty, history and crystalline waters, Greece offers a profusion of delights to be had from the bustling mainland to the secluded crescents of islands and with some of them only accessible by boat, this region makes for a seductive and enthralling cruising destination. Meander between sugar-hued houses, roam amongst olive groves and vineyards and stroll amongst the ancient ruins where the haunting allures of a legendary past are almost palpable.

If you are interested in a yachting vacation in waters of the Greek Islands view all Greece Luxury Yacht Charters which are available to rent.With an extensive knowledge of the industry and first-hand experience of luxury charter yachts throughout the world, a 'yacht charter broker' is your key to a successful and unforgettable cruising vacation.

A yacht charter broker researches charter yachts, crews and the market on a daily basis and can offer you advice about every component of your charter, from the most suitable yacht to the best destinations and itineraries.

They also attend seminars about marine law, contracts and destinations so are fully informed about the entire process including contracts, insurance policies and international legal considerations, all of which even the most seasoned charterer will struggle with on their own. Retail charter brokers work directly with the yacht fleet managers and, similar to how a travel agent works on your behalf, will hold all money and protect the client’s interests throughout the process. They will also act as a buffer should, although very rare, any problems arise.

There are four main organisations that yacht charter brokers belong to, including MYBA, CYBA International, FYBA, and AYCA, although any charter broker from anywhere in the world can book any charter yacht anywhere in the world.

Many charter brokers belong to more than one organisation, but looking out for these four leading logos is an important place to start when finding the right broker for you. For further information see our full guide to Finding a Yacht Charter Broker before reading our How to Plan and Book a Yacht Charter to take the step towards your vacation of a lifetime.

Source: https://www.yachtcharterfleet.com/greece/greece-luxury-yachting-guide-672.htm

Yacht Charter Guide: 5 unique destinations best experienced by yacht

For those looking for the ultimate getaway, chartering a yacht can allow you to go one step further and discover some of the world’s most amazing landscapes in a completely unique way. In addition to allowing you to set sail and enjoy views from your own private deck, yacht charter also provides you with on-hand facilities that would rival that of a five star hotel. What’s more, you will also have a dedicated Captain, crew and chef who will ensure an unforgettable holiday for you and your closest friends and family.

Here are five destinations that are best experienced by yacht:

Cocos Island

Located around 550km off the Pacific shore of Costa Rica, Cocos Island boasts four bays, a mountainous landscape and a number of short rivers and streams. It has over 200 waterfalls throughout and boasts a tropical climate with an average temperature of around 26 degrees.

Cocos Island has breathtaking marine life and one of the world’s largest schools of Hammerhead Sharks is regularly reported there. The island, which does not allow inhabitants other than Costa Rican Park Rangers, was also named as one of the best diving spots in the world by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors).

It has also been claimed that 350 tons of gold has been buried on the island!

Antarctica

If you’re looking for a holiday that will never be forgotten, a luxury expedition yacht in Antarctica provides a life-changing adventure that very few get to experience. Utilising a specialist crew and vessel, you can explore this remote landscape whilst still enjoying the luxury facilities of a private yacht.

Antarctica offers an abundance of wildlife and untouched natural scenery that cannot be found anywhere else. Whether you would like to undertake a nature trek or go ice diving with a specialist instructor, there really is no other place in the world like Antarctica.

Central and South America

Whether you’re looking to experience the vibrant Brazil, the stunning wildlife of the Galapagos Islands or the remote Patagonia, a yacht charter to Central or South America offers something for everyone.

These areas are often thought of as very hard to reach, however many of the World’s best yachts are now located here making an adventure in Central or South America easier than ever before.

Virgin Islands

Notoriously hard to get to without a yacht, the Virgin Islands provides an array of beaches, natural seawater pools and coral islands that have to be seen to be appreciated. Whether you would like to visit some of the island’s famous towns or spend the day or white beaches dotted with coconut palm trees, the Virgin Islands provides something for those of all ages.

Cuba

Renowned for its vibrant culture and picturesque beaches, Cuba’s really does live up to its reputation.

Whether you would like to visit the capital city of La Havana, renowned for its cobbled streets and vibrant colours, or visit some of Cuba’s endless sandy beaches and crystal turquoise waters, a yacht charter really does provide an unrivalled experience that will never be forgotten.

Source: https://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/2017/09/05/5-unique-destinations-best-experienced-by-yacht/