Luxury Yacht Charter Guide to the British Isles
Afternoon tea, fish and chips for supper, and scotch whiskey before bed - taking a yacht charter around the British Isles is more than a feast for the senses. While yachting adventures are usually associated with warm Mediterranean waters, the British Isles makes for a fascinating sailing destination. From the melting pot of the capital of London to the far-flung highlands of Scotland, the scattered islands and the cool and breezy pirate lore and surf culture of the south – the British Isles is utterly iconic.
Reasons to Charter a Yacht in the British Isles
Centuries of History
From the bloody tales of Henry the Eighth to the heart-breaking beauty of St Paul’s, the roman ruins, the mystical nature of Stone Henge and walking in the footsteps of Vikings – the British Isles pays homage to a thousand and one tales. These fascinating lands have plenty to unravel. Monarchy fans will be in their element cantering around London’s royal sights, and the jaw dropping Jurrassic Coast that stretches down from Devon to Dorset offers plenty of fabulous chances to see prehistoric fossils and dinosaur prints.
Scottish Splendour
Gorgeous glens, luscious lochs, heartwarming whiskey and the smiles to match – Scotland is an unrivalled destination of beauty for yacht charters. Nothing can compare to sailing these shores, witnessing crumbling castles, and hitting the culturally rich cities of Edinburgh with its fringe festival and Glasgow with its up and coming grace. Punctuated with Michelin starred dining and the chance to conquer Munroe’s – Scotland is elemental pleasure at its best.
Seaside Charm
The English seaside scene is postcard pretty and down on the English Riviera, yacht charter guests may feel as though they have stepped back into the past. Pastel painted beach huts sit on golden sands, small children ride donkeys and splash in the shallows, and ice-creams, fairgrounds and cosy tea shops line the piers.
National Heritage
The list of national heritage sites scattered across the British Isles is sure to amp up any bucket list. The impressive Pagan rock formations of Stone Henge and a trip to nearby Glastonbury make for a highly spiritual day out. History buffs will be ecstatic to track down the wildly dramatic landscape that marks out Hadrian’s Wall, and the white cliffs of Dover have been the star of many fable and folksong over the years.
Where to Visit in the British Isles
London
High tea at The Ritz, a tour of Buckingham Palace, sweet nothings at Westminster Abbey and superb shopping on Bond Street – any yacht charter visiting the British Isles should be sure to swing by the loud and lovely capital. The iconic skyline of London is best enjoyed from the top of the Millennial Eye or if you prefer a cocktail with the view – head to the tip of The Shard. Seasoned theatre lovers should grab a show on the West End, and art lovers will be dazzled by the endless exhibitions striking a chord at The Tate.
Western Scotland
One of Scotland’s most evolving cities, step ashore from your yacht charter and spend a day or two soaking up the changing vibes of gorgeous Glasgow. While Edinburgh may have the arts, Glasgow has a burgeoning scene behind the facades of the Victorian Mansions and restored warehouses. Loch Lomond calls with its serene waters and majestic Munroe’s. As you set sail along the Sound of Mull you will be treated to the sight of cosy bright lights glittering from nearby villages, charming pubs serving fresh fish, and whiskey distilleries to keep you smooth tongued and satiated.
Scilly Isles
Less than thirty miles from the mainland, the Scilly Isles boasts no less than 140 little pockets of time frozen paradise. Only five of these islands are inhabited but even on those that are, you won’t find big chain supermarkets or crowds. Visit the vineyards and flower farms that drape St Mary’s in fragrance. Wander the romantic Tresco Abbey Gardens, and hike around the pretty coastal trails. Water lovers can kayak in glass bottomed boats and dive off the yacht deck to snorkel with seals.
The South West Coast
While the south west does boast the most prominent swell, it’s dreamy seaside coasts and tucked away pirate coves make it a worthwhile adventure for yacht charters sailing the British Isles. Rugged coastal paths, the surf schools of Cornwall, Lands End and the Instagram worthy harbour of Falmouth are all worth exploring. In-between hiking Dartmoor National Park, sipping cider in lush little English pubs, and dolloping Cornish cream onto scones you will be awed by the hidden beaches and turquoise hues that can be found in the wilds of the South West Coast.
When to Charter a Yacht in the British Isles
Famed for being a rain-soaked island, a cheery spirit in the face of drizzle is essential when taking a yacht charter around the British Isles. Still, the summer months do bring some relief – and while not smouldering with Mediterranean flair, it can be warm and sunny and perfect for sipping beer out on the deck. During the months of July and August, the beaches of the South West are sure to be packed as family’s head for the sands with bucket and spades in hand.