West Mediterranean Yacht Charter

Luxury Yacht Charter in the West Mediterranean

The West Mediterranean is one of the most iconic yacht charter destinations in the world boasting upscale marinas, exclusive beach clubs, and the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera. For those seeking adventure, Mediterranean sailing offers pristine wilderness and fantastic dive spots in the Balearic Islands; if you’re after culture and cuisine, luxury yacht charters on the Amalfi Coast will offer plenty of both. Picturesque villages on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Italian Riviera are perfect for relaxing holidays in the calm seas, while Monaco is an action-packed destination ideal for entertaining charter guests and enjoying some of the world’s most prestigious events like the Monaco Grand Prix and the annual Monaco Yacht Show.

Best of all, your Mediterranean yacht charter doesn’t have to be just about the luxury, the adventure, or the culture: a week of sailing can easily combine Corsica’s chic holiday resorts with Sardinia’s wild beaches and untouched nature reserves, while a cruise along the French Riviera can include the experience of the Cannes Film Festival and a night out in San Remo’s most exclusive casinos along with the tranquil vibes of Liguria’s towns and mouth-watering Italian cuisine.

What Makes the West Mediterranean Sailing So Irresistible?

Most charter experts agree the West Mediterranean sailing is just about the finest experience on the planet combining class and luxury living with beautiful beaches, stunning coastlines, and plenty to do and see off deck whether it’s extravagant nights in St Tropez or adventures in the uninhabited islands and world-class diving.

The history and heritage of the West Mediterranean run deep: Capri has been an elite holiday resort since the time of the Roman Emperors, and the French Riviera was frequented by European aristocrats and royals as a summer holiday destination since the eighteenth century.

From Hollywood stars to Picasso and Chagall flocking South of France for carefree living and luxury yacht charter holidaymakers descending on the Amalfi Coast for dreamy breaks in Positano and Ravello, the West Mediterranean has got it all.

Culture, glamour, and history aside, the region enjoys balmy weather and endless sunshine year-round with late spring through early fall being the best months to enjoy Mediterranean sailing. Add stunning scenery of bright sand beaches, dramatic coastline of rocky cliffs and fjords, secluded bays, and turquoise-blue water, and the West Mediterranean charter yacht experience can easily rival that of the Caribbean.

Finally, whether you aim for France, Monaco, Italy, or Spain, fine dining, colourful cuisine, luxury shopping, and action are all on the menu as you enjoy your luxury charter yacht cruise in the Med.

Featured Yacht Charter Destinations in the West Mediterranean

Whether you're considering a luxury motor yacht or a sailing yacht, setting a destination is no easy task with so many tempting ports of call along the way. The West Mediterranean is incredibly diverse with plenty of must-see locations spanning a vast region, each unique and equally appealing in its own right – which is why choosing the ideal charter yacht itinerary can be daunting.

A good way to start is by compiling a priority list of what’s important to you. If it’s upscale marinas with easy access from major airports, great locations to entertain charter guests, and lux living combined with world-class sailing and cultural events plus vibrant nightlife, Antibes with its extravagant social scene and lavish nightlife is your best bet – especially as its large marina is capable of hosting anything from motorboats to 100-metre superyachts year-round.

On the other hand, if you’re after idyllic islands, scenic bays, and great diving away from the tourist crowds and party life, Menorca in the Balearic Islands is a haven for quiet private relaxation combined with adventure and exploration.

However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg - the West Mediterranean offers just about everything in between. To help you choose the ideal charter yacht vacation spot out there, we’ve compiled a list of the most sought-after Med destinations highlighting their unique attraction points and tips on how to make the best out of your holidays on the water.

Charter Yacht Experiences in France

Some of the most popular Mediterranean yacht charters in the summer months are aiming for the southern coast of France for several reasons. The French Riviera is a classic destination for luxury yacht rentals known for its roaring social life, rich history of the arts and culture, and its celebrity guestlist: from Coco Chanel and Grace Kelly favouring Cote d’Azur in the fifties to Leonardo DiCaprio and Lewis Hamilton frequenting the bars in Nice and St Tropez today, this is the place to see and be seen.

Lavish living aside, the French Riviera is equally famous for its sunny beaches, scenic nature, tranquil vineyards, and fine dining. While Nice, Cannes, and St Tropez are all about extravagant supercars, silver screen fame, and chic lifestyle, the nearby Porquerolles Islands offer a quiet refuge amongst its pristine bays and unspoiled white sand while Cap Camarat serves up fantastic views of the jagged, rocky coastline and mouth-watering seafood cuisine in Cavalaire Sur Mer.

In addition, the French island of Corsica often makes it to the Mediterranean yacht charter itineraries because of great swimming, diving, and snorkelling opportunities in clear blue waters, famous wine estates, and historic hilltop towns.

Mediterranean Yacht Charter Routes in Italy

Have you truly experienced the Med if you haven’t visited the Italian Riviera? Most charter experts would say no Mediterranean yacht trip is complete without visiting the stunning Amalfi Coast, experiencing the dolce vita in Positano and Ravello, or having an adventure on the island of Sardinia boasting a pirate flag as its symbol.

Yacht charter vacations on the Italian coast combine the glamour of San Remo with dreamy, pastel-coloured coastal villages and traditional cuisine that’s an experience in and of itself. Think of magnificent scenery, sunny days, and perfect blue water combined with exquisite Italian architecture, history, dining experiences, and effortless style.

The Italian coast offers 4,660 miles of yacht charter cruising grounds ideal for romantic honeymoons, idyllic summer getaways, and prestigious, action-filled holidays with friends alike.

While most charter yachts traditionally aim for Amalfi and Liguria, including Sardinia in your itinerary adds a little flavour and flair if you’re after a touch of wilderness and a laidback atmosphere.

Charter Yacht Itineraries in Spain

Although sometimes overlooked due to its close proximity to Cote d’Azur and the Italian Riviera, Spain has a lot to offer in its own right. The Balearic Islands provide a great starting point for your yacht charter offering both A-lister party central in Palma and Ibiza as well as pristine maritime nature and Caribbean-like beaches of Menorca and Formentera. Clubbing and shopping can be replaced with diving and exploring remote caves within a day, making a yacht charter adventure in the Balearic Islands a truly unique experience.

When it comes to the Spanish mainland, Costa del Sol often tops the Mediterranean yacht charter destinations as a place for paradise beaches like Playa de la Fontanilla and Playa del Cristo, Andalusian vibes, and delicious local cuisine.

Barcelona is another famous luxury yacht charter hub in the Mediterranean boasting two spacious marinas, the famous Las Ramblas strip, and a colourful nightlife scene as well as countless points of interest for arts, history, and architecture aficionados.

Luxury Yacht Vacations in Monaco

Monaco is routinely featured on Mediterranean yacht charter routes as a highlight because of its world-famous casinos, designer malls, Monaco Grand Prix, and the hustle and bustle of a celebrity lifestyle.

Barely two square kilometres in size, Monaco has been the playground of the rich and famous for decades packing a serious punch when it comes to yacht charter vacations. Think Casino de Monte Carlo, flashy supercars, sophisticated dining, and exquisite heritage sites with the added glitz of the world’s most luxurious city.

A Monaco yacht vacation is where sophistication and class merge with sun-kissed Mediterranean living right next door to the French Riviera. Whether you’re hoping to wow your charter guests or enjoy a prestigious solo holiday, Monaco is the place to be.

The Hidden Gems of the Mediterranean Yacht Charter Routes

Looking for something off the beaten path? While most Mediterranean yacht charters head for Cote d’Azur, the Italian Riviera, or Spain, there’s more to the Med than its most popular destinations. If you’re looking for something a little different, or if you’ve already experienced the usual luxury yacht haunts in the West Mediterranean, here are two more fantastic destinations to consider – just ask your charter broker:

Sailing to Sicily

In many ways, Sicily is a country of its own: while decidedly Italian, Sicily has a distinct Mediterranean atmosphere where the Greek influence is still felt and where the island’s unique history and heritage provide a mesmerising melting pot of culture, cuisine, and architecture.

Crystal clear waters, jaw-dropping scenery, and the Sicilian way of life provide an ideal playground for a Mediterranean charter yacht vacation with a touch of intrigue and the art of dolce far niente with an espresso in hand.

The Magic of Gibraltar

Once considered the gates of the known world in the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar continues to attract travellers and explorers to this day – including charter yacht holidaymakers looking for adventure.

Chat with your charter broker about visiting Gibraltar to see the famous Gibraltar Rock, gaze across the sea to catch a glimpse of Africa, and experience the colourful mix of British, Spanish, and Moorish cultures coming together at the very edge of Europe.

Find Mediterranean Yacht Charters That Offer the Right Features

Now that you’ve got a list of great destinations to start planning your yacht charter vacation in the West Mediterranean, you'll also need to consider the boat’s features for the best sailing experience.

Are you looking for luxury living on the water where large and comfy cabins, a swimming pool, and onboard entertainment matter? Is it about the romance of harnessing the wind and sailing instead of a motorboat experience? As you’re cruising along, do you prefer to just lounge on the deck or jump in the water and go snorkelling?

Selecting a charter yacht is a very individual choice. Upscale features and amenities on board guarantee a fantastic experience whether you’re after quiet, relaxing moments at sea or entertaining friends, so here are a few key points to consider when talking to your charter broker:

Convenient Swimming Deck

When sailing the Mediterranean in the summer months, being able to hop into the water is a big part of the fun. Look for boats featuring swimming decks: often, while big yachts offer an amazing array of amenities and comfort on board, they may make it tough to get into the water comfortably.

Don’t miss out on all the swimming, snorkelling, and diving opportunities by choosing a boat without a swimming deck – after all, that’s an essential part of the Mediterranean experience.

Jacuzzi Hot Tub

The Med is famous for its sun-kissed shores, but at sunset, the water gets chilly – which is why having a jacuzzi hot tub on your yacht charter is a great way to enjoy a relaxing experience when dusk sets.

As an added bonus, taking in the views with a cocktail in hand while chilling in a jacuzzi on the top deck of the yacht is just about the best way to unwind.

Movie Streaming

The French Riviera boasts undying silver-screen fame – so why not enjoy your favourite movie while cruising? Watching iconic films in a private cinema theatre while sailing past the glittering lights of Cannes or Nice is the ultimate Med experience taking your charter yacht vacation to a new level.

Activities

Whether you’re bringing friends or family along, chartering a yacht that features in-built activities is a sure-proof way to ensure everyone will be having a great time on board.

For example, some yachts are large enough to include a basketball hoop, an open-air gym, a spa treatment room, or perhaps a shuffleboard game laid out on the deck. Whatever the case, built-in activities will add to the experience and will be a huge hit if you have kids along for the journey.

When to Visit the West Mediterranean on a Private Yacht Charter

To enjoy the ideal weather for a charter yacht trip, look to make reservations between April and October. The warmest temperatures usually occur during July and August, but you can enjoy great weather during late spring and all the way into early fall. Summer yacht charters are the best in terms of temperatures for swimming and beach-going, but you'll find higher prices during the high season.

Avoid the Crowds

In addition to the weather, there is also the matter of crowds to consider. While this won't be much of a concern if you plan on spending most of your time out on the water, it's a bigger issue if you want to use your yacht vacation to explore some of the many tourist spots along the way.

For instance, if you're thinking of spending more time ashore in the French Riviera or Monaco, think about avoiding the peak summer months and opt for a shoulder season instead when the crowds subside.

The Cost of a Mediterranean Luxury Yacht Charter

There are too many variables at play to offer any kind of a definitive answer on Mediterranean yacht charter prices. If you want to charter a yacht during an off-peak time and book a boat with minimal amenities and a modest overall size, expect to pay somewhere around €30,000 - €60,000.

However, not all luxury yacht charters will fit into this price bracket. It's entirely possible to spend north of $1 million for a week-long trip if you select a large, sophisticated vessel with all of the latest bells and whistles.

The best way to approach charter yacht pricing is to do your research and book well in advance so you have the widest option range possible.

A Motor Yacht or a Sailing Yacht?

Reserving a motor yacht for your vacation is going to provide a very different experience than opting for sailing yachts. It's not that one is better than the other: it all comes down to your personal preference. Whether you go on a Mediterranean sailing vacation or you work with a yacht charter broker to book a motor yacht, you’re in for a fantastic experience – but do consider your personal expectations.

If you are all about the amenities you'll find on board and the modern conveniences of luxury yachting, it's best to opt for a motor yacht. These are big, luxurious vessels that often turn plenty of heads along the way.

Then again, overlooking the romance and tradition delivered by a sailing yacht charter is a mistake if you’re after an authentic sailing journey. Watching the crew harness the wind and navigate the open waters of the West Mediterranean is an unforgettable experience, and some might argue this type of boat lends to a more bona fide experience sailing past the Amalfi Coast or the French Riviera.

A Nod to the East Mediterranean

Greece

A Mediterranean sailing vacation wouldn’t be complete without experiencing what Greece has to offer. The West Mediterranean may be the most popular charter yacht destination, but the Greek islands are a world of their own offering breathtaking scenery, a touch of the wilderness, and a rich history and heritage attracting culture aficionados in droves.

Sailing around Greece, island-hopping is a big part of the fun, and the Ionian Sea is a fantastic playground for superyacht charter guests exploring the East Mediterranean.

Turkey

Speaking of going east, consider heading even further and discover what Turkey makes available on its Mediterranean coast.

Cheque out Bodrum and Marmaris as options for experiencing Turkish culture and cuisine and keep in mind that Turkey is a particularly appealing spot during the summer sailing season as it’s usually less busy than Cote d’Azure, Costa del Sol, and the Amalfi Coast.

Croatia

Croatia is one of the East Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets: the Adriatic Sea coast boasts a slew of beautiful, secluded coves and bays, sleepy fishing villages, sun-drenched islands, and views of dramatic cliffs plunging into the water.

Opatija, Zadar, and Sibenik are great ports of call for fine dining, exploring charming Old Towns, and enjoying local nightlife, while Dubrovnik is world-famous for starring in the Game of Thrones series thanks to its magnificent mediaeval architecture.

Book Your Dream Yacht Charter Today

The world is full of exciting destinations, but it's hard to think of a more luxurious and unforgettable experience than a private yacht charter in the West Mediterranean.

The freedom of traversing the clear blue waters while visiting some of Europe’s most iconic summer holiday destinations is unparalleled: from St Tropez and Monaco to Palma de Mallorca and Amalfi, you’ll be constantly wowed by the views, the culture, the delicious cuisine, and the unique experiences along the way.

Explore yacht charter options today and start planning a trip of a lifetime.