Sailing Tours & Trips in Mediterranean

Sailing Tours & Trips in Mediterranean

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10 best Sailing Mediterranean tour packages

Compiled by

Mediterranean travel expert at TourRadar

Melissa Mediterranean travel expert at TourRadar

1 week of Sailing & Yoga Practice + SUP usage in the SARONIC ISLANDS

Croatia sailing adventure, sailing greece - santorini to santorini, sailing greece - mykonos to santorini, greek islands by cruise - 8 days, croatian islands cruise + land tour with plitvice - from zagreb, greece sailing adventure: cyclades islands, private gulet yacht charter sailing – ms. sanda life, croatia sail - split to split (the dalmatian voyager), croatia deluxe cruise - from split.

“He is a genuinely good guy and he'll make sure everything is safe and all are well.” Salvatore Bisagno, traveled in August 2019

1 week of Sailing & Yoga Practice + SUP usage in the SARONIC ISLANDS

  • Embark on a serene yoga and sailing adventure
  • Swim in crystal-clear waters at secluded stops
  • Savor local cuisine at vibrant harbor-side eateries
Duration 7 days
DestinationsAlimos, Aegina, Palaia Epidavros, Ermioni, Hydra, Poros
Age Range 18 to 80 year olds
Operated in English
Operator
“It really was a privilege to have her guiding us through our holiday. Thanks to her, I will definitely be looking at future TruTravels trips.” Luc Parkinson , traveled in September 2023

Croatia Sailing Adventure

  • Island Hopping
  • Taste local wines in charming Korcula
  • Explore Split on a vibrant city tour
  • Kayak in the serene Mljet National Park
Duration 8 days
DestinationsSplit, Hvar Island, Pomena, Dubrovnik, Korcula Island, Makarska
Age Range up to 45 year olds
Operated in English
Operator
“Excellent tour, great skipper, Marios and great group participation. Though travelling alone, I never felt left out.” Liam Moloney, traveled in June 2023

Sailing Greece - Santorini to Santorini

  • Uncover Venetian ruins on Paros Island
  • Join a welcome meeting on a sailing yacht
  • Enjoy sunset cocktails in cliffside Hora
Duration 10 days
DestinationsSantorini, Ios, Naxos, Mykonos, Syros, Paros, Sifnos, Folegandros
Age Range 16 to 70 year olds
Operated in English
Operator
“I felt the experience was good and the scenery spectacular.” Tanya Weathers, traveled in June 2024

Sailing Greece - Mykonos to Santorini

  • Explore Mykonos by night on arrival day
  • Discover hidden gems with flexible sailing
Duration 8 days
DestinationsMykonos, Naxos, Paros, Antiparos, Ios, Sifnos, Folegandros, Santorini
Age Range 18 to 99 year olds
Operated in English
Operator

Greek Islands By Cruise - 8 Days

  • Sightseeing
  • Enjoy leisure days on the Mediterranean
  • Tour Athens and its ancient landmarks
  • Explore the UNESCO site of Ephesus
Duration 8 days
DestinationsAthens, Lavrion, Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Rhodes, Heraklion, Santorini
Age Range 4 to 99 year olds
Operated in English
Operator
“Every member of the crew was excellent. We have been telling people to go to Croatia and take a cruise with the Katarina Line.” Ralph Baker, traveled in September 2019

Croatian islands cruise + Land tour with  Plitvice - from Zagreb

  • Tour the beautiful Korcula - the birthplace of Marco Polo
  • Stroll the streets of Dubrovnik - the Pearl of the Adriatic
  • Visit the stunning Plitvice Lakes and see the historic Split
Duration 11 days
DestinationsZagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Makarska, Mljet Island, Dubrovnik, Sipan Island, Trstenik, Korcula Island, Hvar Island
Age Range 20 to 88 year olds
Operated in English
Operator
“Great way to see and experience the cyclades.” Kornelia Ring, traveled in September 2022

Greece Sailing Adventure: Cyclades Islands

  • Sample delicious seafood
  • Admire views of the Aegean Sea
  • Stroll through stone laneways
Duration 10 days
DestinationsSantorini, Ios, Amorgos, Cyclades, Naxos, Syros, Mykonos, Sifnos, Folegandros
Age Range 15 to 99 year olds
Operated in English
Operator

Private Gulet Yacht Charter Sailing – Ms. Sanda Life

  • See the sunken city near Kekova Island
  • Board the gulet at Fethiye Harbour
  • Relax in the scenic Gokkaya Bay
Duration 8 days
DestinationsFethiye, Oludeniz, Kas, Kaleucagiz, Kekova, Kalkan
Age Range up to 82 year olds
Operated in English
Operator
“Beautiful boat, clean 5 star accommodation. Enjoyed every moment of the Koda sail Croatia trip.” Sally Gerges, traveled in August 2024

CROATIA SAIL - Split to Split (The Dalmatian Voyager)

  • Explore Dubrovnik’s “King’s Landing”
  • Indulge in local delicacies and nightlife
  • Enjoy views of the Croatian coast
Duration 8 days
DestinationsSplit, Bol, Hvar Island, Mljet Island, Dubrovnik, Korcula Island, Makarska
Age Range 25 to 40 year olds
Operated in English
Operator
“I would travel with Katerina lines again.” Lydia Lomas, traveled in August 2019

Croatia Deluxe Cruise - from Split

  • See the magnificent Diocletian Palace in Split
  • Expierence the lively nightlife of Hvar
  • Ride the cable car in Dubrovnik
Duration 8 days
DestinationsSplit, Korcula Island, Mljet Island, Dubrovnik, Peljesac, Scedro, Hvar Island, Bol
Age Range up to 84 year olds
Operated in English
Operator

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Mediterranean

Mediterranean Yacht Charters

A Mediterranean yacht charter is a perfect way to explore the Old-World charms, beautiful white-sand beaches, and stunning landscapes of the region. From the Michelin-starred restaurants and high-roller casinos of Monaco to the swanky beach clubs of St. Tropez and glimmering beaches of Sardinia, The West Mediterranean boasts some of the best and most beautiful cruising grounds in the world.

Showing 1–4 of 131 results

Chakra Profile

282.2ft / 84m

More info

278.1ft / 83m

titania main

239.6ft / 71m

Yacht Serenity 236

Serenity 236

236.3ft / 70m

Yacht Charter Mediterranean: Where to Go

Few luxury yachting destinations compare to the Mediterranean, which includes the Amalfi Coast, the Italian and French Rivieras, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, and the Balearic Islands of Spain on the west and Croatia, Greece and Turkey on the east.

The cruising grounds of the West Mediterranean represents the finest in luxury yachting . Stunning anchorages, world-class marinas, postcard-worthy beaches, and lively city centers welcome yacht charter guests across the entire region. Some top Mediterranean yacht charter destinations include:

  • Croatia – The charm of Croatian old seaside town and villages is unmatched. The water is crystal clear and breezes are gentle – making Croatia the perfect summer destination for yachting.
  • France – From the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera, which includes the amazing beaches of St. Tropez and Nice and famed palaces of Monaco, to the charming ports and windswept islands of Corsica, France is one of the most desirable locales for a luxury yacht charter.
  • Greece – Greece has very diverse cruising grounds – from the lush Ionian Islands to the rocky and historic Cyclades. If you are looking for the perfect mix of history, upscale dining and clear waters, Greece is the place to be.
  • Italy – Breathtaking landscapes, exclusive beach clubs, and incredible food and drink are a few reasons to explore Italy’s yachting destinations, which include the Italian Riviera, Sardinia, Sicily, and the Aeolian Islands, and the stunning Amalfi Coast.
  • Spain – Spain’s luxurious and mysterious Balearic Islands, which include the gorgeous coastal towns of Mallorca and the famed nightclubs on Ibiza, offer plenty to do and explore: All-night parties, amazing beaches, ancient ruins, lively festivals, and amazing Spanish cuisine.
  • Turkey – Beautiful mile long beaches, charming seaside villages and friendly locals make Turkey a desirable summer charter destination.

Mediterranean Yacht Charter Highlights

  • Fine dining, amazing local wines, and indulgent cuisine
  • Charming Medieval towns and Roman ruins
  • Miles-long beaches & upscale beach clubs
  • Tranquil landscapes matched with glamorous ports of call
  • Amazing nightlife and vibrant culture
  • Breathtaking scenery, islands, and protected landscapes

Yacht Season in the Mediterranean: late May through late September

The Mediterranean has become the world’s top destination for summer yacht charters for jetsetters , celebrities, and the well-to-do. During the summer months – and particularly in July and August – the ports of the West Mediterranean teem with luxury super yachts and well-heeled guests. It’s the place to be, and visitors are welcomed by the most incredible weather, water temperatures, and cruising conditions.

During the summer months, temperatures hover in the mid-70s and reach highs in the mid-80s in July and August. With plenty of sun, the summer offers the best weather for enjoying a yacht charter in the region.

Throughout summer, the waters of the Mediterranean hover in the 70s and offer ideal temperatures for watersports, swimming, and enjoying the beaches. There’s a steady breeze, great for a sailing charter, with waves in the 2-4 foot range.

Yacht Rental Mediterranean: Motor Yacht

The Mediterranean is the world’s most desirable luxury yachting destination , and as such, you’ll find a selection of some of the finest motor yachts for hire available anywhere in the world: From tri-deck superyachts – which the best in luxury amenities – to sleek, sporty motor catamarans.

Luxury motor yachts deliver amazing cruising across the Mediterranean and ensure smooth, comfortable passages. Hiring a motor yacht will also allow you to cover more ground and see more of the Med’s lovely scenery. Marinas in the South of France, the Italian Riviera, Amalfi, and Mallorca are where you’ll find the region’s most luxurious super yachts , although motor yachts are available in every location.

Turquoise Yacht

182ft / 54m

More info

Yacht Hire Mediterranean: Sailing Yachts

One of the world’s top sailing destinations , the Mediterranean is the place to be to charter a luxury sailing yacht . Beautifully appointed luxury cruisers with state-of-the-art sailing systems allow you to have a classic Med sailing experience while delivering the best in comfort and amenities.

Although you’ll find incredible sailing and sailing yachts for hire throughout the region, the steady breezes of Sardinia, the French Riviera, Corsica, and the Balearic Islands make these some of the best locales for a luxury sailing charter. In these locations, you’ll find a wide range of luxury sailing super yachts , as well as exhilarating summertime sailing.

Mediterranean Yacht Charters: What to Do and See

The Mediterranean offers adventures to suit every yacht charter guest’s taste. From tours of ancient ruins and Old World churches to luxury shopping and the legendary casinos of Monaco, you’ll find it all.

Whether you plan to party all night in Ibiza, or you’d rather relax with a glass of wine in a historic city center, you’re in for a luxury travel experienc e unlike any other. What should you plan to do and see? Here are some of the reasons the Mediterranean is the world’s most popular destination for a luxury yacht charter :

History The body of water the Romans called “mare nostrum” (or “our sea”) is full of historical landmarks important to all of modern Western civilization, from the basilicas of Italy to the earliest churches and monasteries of France and Spain. It’s an architectural goldmine and an inspiration to those who visit. UNESCO World Heritage Sites dot the landscape, as do museums, galleries, and centuries-old historical markers. If you’re interested in art and culture, you’ll love it here.

Food It’s no secret that most of the cities, towns, and villages bordering the Mediterranean Sea are famous for their cuisines. And for foodies, the Mediterranean is a destination like no other. In every port of call, you’ll find a place serving to-die-for foods. From the Michelin-starred restaurants of Monaco to the seaside cafes in Cannes, charter guests are welcomed by great food wherever they go.

Luxury Shopping The Mediterranean is one of the world’s top fashion destinations, with France and Italy holding as much significance in the industry as New York City. Across the region, visitors can explore high-end designer boutiques selling couture garments, accessories, and handbags. Planning to shop? Try Le Metropole Shopping center in Monte-Carlo, one of the world’s best fashion shopping centers. Porto Cervo in Sardinia and La Croisette in Cannes are also must-visit shopping destinations.

Festivals In the Mediterranean, guests are regularly treated to great food, wine, sporting, and cultural festivals. Cannes Film Festival, of course, might be the most famous, drawing A-list celebrities from around the world. Yet, every weekend in the summer, there’s a seaside festival to attend.

Water Sports The waters in the Mediterranean are inviting, and chances are, you’ll spend quite a bit of time in the water while on charter. In particular, the Mediterranean is a hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing – especially throughout Italy. Yet, sea kayaking and paddle-boarding are other top activities on a Mediterranean charter. Bottom line, you’ll bask in the sapphire waters during your visit.

Scuba Diving The Mediterranean is rich with history inland, as well as under the sea. In fact, you’ll find incredible dive spots throughout the region. Secca della Colombara and Punta Omo Morto in Italy are favorite dive spots, for example.

Wine For wine-lovers, the Mediterranean is a mecca, offering the best glasses in all of the world. The region’s wine-making tradition, of course, goes back thousands of years, and in every port of call, you’ll find a wine bar, cellar, or bodega serving the best wines. From Sassicaia and Ornellaia from Italy to Bordeaux from France, wine lovers will find much to try and taste in the Mediterranean.

Beach Hopping The Mediterranean offers it all. Art, culture, food, you name it. But there’s another reason to book a luxury yacht charter : Mediterranean beaches! From the Amalfi Coast to Ibiza, from St. Tropez to Sicily, you’ll be welcomed by sun-soaked, white-sand beaches offering the best spots to relax and take in the scenery in every port of call.

Super Yacht Charter: Cruising Conditions

Across the Mediterranean, charter guests are welcomed by amazing cruising conditions: Small swells, calm seas, and amazing weather. Yet each destination offers its own unique cruising experience.

  • Corsica – Corsica offers more than 700 miles of coastline to explore and is known for its upscale marinas, ports, and stunning anchorages. In particular, the Strait of Bonifacio is a top sailing destination, thanks to its steady natural breezes. Around the island, visitors are welcomed by calm seas and cooling breezes throughout summer, as well as warm water conditions.
  • French Riviera – The South of France has a short coastline – just about 400 nautical miles – but there’s much to see and explore along the Cote d’Azur. Here, you’ll find a collection of the world’s most exclusive marinas – like Port Hercule in Monaco and Port de Saint Tropez Marina – and breathtaking anchorages. (Plaga Mala, for example, is a super-tranquil South of France beach anchorage.) Cruising conditions here are ideal: Steady winds, easy 2- to 4-foot swells in summer, and cool breezes.
  • Spain – The Balearic Islands some of the most beautiful anchorages in all of the Mediterranean. The island of Espalmador is a favorite superyacht anchorage. Plus, the marinas like Mallorca’s Club du Mar attract some of the finest superyachts in the world. Sailing is great throughout summer with warm sea winds – June through August. Spring and fall offer more challenging conditions.
  • Sardinia – One of the top sailing destinations in the Mediterranean, sailors come for the steady sea breezes, as well as the protected waters and safe harbors. Calm seas and warm waters welcome visitors in summer.
  • Italian Riviera – An ideal motor yachting destination , with some of the most exclusive marinas in the country including at Portofino and San Remo, the Italian Riviera is an ideal spot for a luxury motor yachting experience.
  • Amalfi Coast – Here you’ll find a collection of some of the most breathtaking anchorages anywhere in the world: Marina Piccola near Capri and the Pontine Islands are two see-it-to-believe-it anchorages. Due to its somewhat longer passage, Amalfi tends to be better for motor yachts.
  • Sicily – The northern and eastern coasts of Sicily offer the best in sail and motor yachting. Here you’ll find well-established marinas, protected waters, and short passages between destinations. In the nearby Aeolian Islands, island hopping in calm seas is a tradition.

Planning Your Trip: Boat Charter Mediterranean Sample Itineraries

The itinerary for your Mediterranean yacht charter will be packed with adventure, incredible scenery, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Your itinerary, of course, will be customized to your exact preferences, but these sample itineraries provide an idea of the possibilities.

  • French Riviera – This week-long sojourn in the South of France whisks you away to the region’s most exciting destinations. Set sail in glamourous Monaco, before exploring the beautiful beaches of Cannes, St. Tropez, and the Porquerolles Islands. You’ll see all of the Cote d’Azur’s must-see ports on this France yacht charter.
  • Amalfi Coast – This adventure in Amalfi takes you to some of the most incredible islands and villages on the coast. Set sail from Naples, before stopping off on the beautiful islands of Procida and Ischia. Capri, Salerno, and Positano are also on the itinerary – a few of the most exclusive destinations in the region.
  • Balearic Islands – This exploration of Spain’s islands takes you to the most exclusive ports: From the stunning city of Palma on Mallorca to Cala Portinatx on Ibiza and the lovely island of Formentera. You’ll also explore a mix of Mallorca’s quieter, more exclusive eastern ports.

Yacht Rental Mediterranean Sea: How Much Does It Cost?

Mediterranean yacht charter prices can vary significantly, depending on your destination, the yacht your hire, and your itinerary. In general, luxury super yachts rent from $100,000 to more than $1,000,000 per week, plus expenses. Guests must fund an advanced provisioning allowance (APA), which covers expenses like docking fees, fuel, and food, and drink. There are some smaller yachts for hire in the Mediterranean from $20,000 to $75,000 per week.

Plan your dream yacht charter in the Mediterranean with Worldwide Boat. Contact a Worldwide Boat broker today to learn more about our exclusive Mediterranean offerings and yachts available in the region.

Mediterranean yachts by type

Mediterranean yachts by budget.

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  • $50,000 - $100,000 Yachts
  • $101,000 - $200,000 Yachts
  • $200,000 - ∞ Yachts

Turquoise Yacht

120ft / 36m

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Mediterranean Sea

MEDITERRANEAN SEA YACHT CHARTERS

16301 boats available for bareboat or crewed charter

Yachts from professional fleet operators in Mediterranean Sea

Free cancellation of reservation without obligations within 4 days

Most popular boats For rent in MEDITERRANEAN SEA

Vojvotkinja -

Dufour 41 Performance - 4 cab. (2025)

Loreste -

Oceanis 41 (2022)

Jelo -

Dufour 390 GL (2021)

no name -

Bavaria C45 (2024)

Main image -

Lagoon 450 Flybridge (2020)

Bibi -

Bavaria Cruiser 37 - 3 cab. (2016)

KALLI ZOI II -

Sun Odyssey 449 (2018)

London -

Elan E4 (2019)

Princess Lea -

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 - 3 cab. (2017)

Main image -

Dufour 470 Grand Large (2022)

Top destinations in mediterranean sea for boat rental.

Croatia

6323 boats for charter

from ₽12,600 per week

Greece

5470 boats for charter

from ₽56,700 per week

Turkey

1334 boats for charter

from ₽31,230 per week

Continental Italy

CONTINENTAL ITALY

786 boats for charter

from ₽75,600 per week

Sardinia

573 boats for charter

from ₽65,610 per week

Sicily

530 boats for charter

from ₽63,000 per week

  • Mallorca 386 boats in Mallorca 386
  • Southern coast of France 369 boats in Southern coast of France 369
  • Ibiza 178 boats in Ibiza 178
  • Mediterranean coast of Spain 130 boats in Mediterranean coast of Spain 130
  • Corsica 116 boats in Corsica 116
  • Slovenia 75 boats in Slovenia 75
  • Montenegro 58 boats in Montenegro 58
  • Malta 15 boats in Malta 15
  • Cyprus 2 boats in Cyprus 2

Types of boats available for rent in Mediterranean Sea

Sailboat charter

There are 9914 sailboats available for charter in Mediterranean Sea, prices start from ₽12,600 per week. Most budget friendly option for a vacation.

Sailboat charter

Catamaran charter

4436 catamarans available for rent in Mediterranean Sea, form ₽72,450 for 1 week charter. Ideal option for group of friends or family vacation.

Catamaran charter

Power boat charter

1429 powerboats available in Mediterranean Sea for rent, starting from ₽30,330 per week. Bareboat or crewed options available for sailing vacations.

Power boat charter

Gulets charter

332 gulets available for charter in Mediterranean Sea from ₽184,320 per week. These crewed yachts usually offered with full board and provisioning.

Gulets charter

Trimaran charter

32 trimarans available for rent in Mediterranean Sea, with prices from ₽117,900 per week. Great option for skippers looking for performance boats.

Trimaran charter

Houseboat charter

2 houseboats available for rent in Mediterranean Sea, from ₽116,550 for one week. Perfect for relaxed vacation on lakes and rivers with comfort of a floating home.

Houseboat charter

Yacht charter types available in Mediterranean Sea

Bareboat charter, crewed yachts, by the cabin charter, skippered boats, cost of boat rental in mediterranean sea.

Average yacht charter cost in Mediterranean Sea starts from ₽284,490 per week. Graphic below represents fluctuation of charter prices in Mediterranean Sea during the year, based on a sample of 50 boats ranging from 40 to 50-foot. This graphic shows months with lowest prices during the year as well high season when prices are above average. Before booking the boat at lowest rate, please check sailing conditions as usually best prices are during off season.

Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

€3,710

€3,815

€5,645

€6,060

€4,748

€4,361

€3,293

€3,161

€3,268

Mediterranean Sea Yacht Charter Reviews with 12knots

United States

“My first experience with 12 Knots”

My first experience with 12 Knots, very good services, very good communication skills, prompt reaction and easy procedure for booking. I highly recommend their services. Clearly, not everybody could be satisfied, but personally I did not find any wea…

Alberto Goosen

Switzerland

“We had a great time in Greece”

We had a great time in Greece, the first three days we had constant 20-25knots of wind, so we were able to do a lot of sailing. The boat was also in good condition and everything in working order…the boat did however look a bit older than a 2018 mode…

Scott Moser

“I’ve booked a few times through 12 Knots”

I’ve booked a few times through 12 Knots, in Greece and Polynesia, and have had great experiences. Solid customer support… it’s great to have one person I can email anytime with questions!

Shubu Mitra

“Great job”

Great job in organizing a weeklong sailing charter in Croatia. Answered all our questions and arranged for a great skipper. Will be back.

“This was our first bareboat charter”

This was our first bareboat charter and we had a lot of questions. Julia and Grigory were great at walking us through the process and connecting us with a skipper. The boat was fabulous, and Raffaele is a talented skipper. Happy to say we had a wonde…

“Thank you and your team so much for arranging everything”

Dear Grigory, I have been wanting to write you since I got back. Thank you and your team so much for arranging everything. Everything turned out as planned and we had an unforgettable trip! There were some unexpected surprises along the way…. but tha…

Charlie Clarke

United Kingdom

“We had a lovely time and the boat was really easy to handle”

Grigory, we had a lovely time and the boat was really easy to handle and only about 5 months old. All the equipment was in really good order and everything worked without a hitch. We had a really good handover from Nomicos who got us through the chec…

Kieran Crowley

“Our second time to charter through 12Knots”

Our second time to charter through 12Knots, luckily again Irina was our contact, again it was a painless, smooth process. No catches, no dropped messages, excellent value. The upfront price was the bottom line, no hidden extras. Surprisingly when I g…

“Great experience”

Great experience! The boat was in a good shape. Flawless communication with 12 Knots and the base.

South Africa

“Thank you Irina and the 12 Knots team”

Thank you Irina and your entire team for your excellent service culminating in a wonderful sailing holiday out of Fethiye, Turkey. The team at the Fethiye base was on top of their game and accommodating in every respect. The boat was in excellent con…

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Mediterranean Sailing tips

Mediterranean Sailing tips

This time 12 Knots invites you to discover the most traveled  part of the world – a glorious journey around the shores of the  Mediterranean Sea.

It is a long, lively, occasionally challenging and endlessly  fascinating trip off from Gibraltar, one of the fabled Pillars of  Hercules, up the coast of Spain, along the Riviera, to the islands of  Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, then Croatia, the Greek islands and way-way  to Istanbul in Turkey.

Sailing along the coastlines as wild and diverse as anything you  encounter before will give you a real insight in this world – while  probing through layers of traditions and culture, ancient and modern,  rich and poor, fake and authentic.

Be open to surprise and serendipity, be willing to get lost and appreciate each routine’s uniqueness.

The Mediterranean Sea is an intercontinental one that separates  Europe from Africa. The Strait of Gibraltar connects it to the Atlantic  Ocean on the west; the Dardanelles and the Bosporus – to the Black Sea  on the east; and long man-made Suez Canal – to the Red Sea in the  south-east.

Chartering a boat in the Mediterranean

Renting a yacht in the Mediterranean is a  great alternative to a standard cruise on a liner – this way you will  feel the true freedom and get unique experience as a real traveler!  Spain, Croatia, Italy, France, Montenegro, Turkey, Greece, Malta -  wherever you want to go, 12 Knots will help you to charter a yacht that  will definitely meet your needs, type of vacation and budget. "The cradle of civilization" offers a huge number of attractions.  Secluded bays with paradise beaches and lively cities, fishing villages  with colorful boats and modern marinas filled with premium yachts. There  is no other part of the world where you may find such a great  gastronomic, architectural and nature diversity.

           

Renting a yacht in the Mediterranean Sea will give you  chance to see many countries of this area in a different perspective.  Instead of visiting standard touristic places you’ll be able to visit  wide variety of little-known places far from the standard routes. For  example, the Cote d'Azur is not only the luxurious ports of  Saint-Tropez, Monaco and Nice with luxury restaurants, casinos and a  great concentration of mega yachts. Here you may also find little  fishing villages, where in a family restaurant you can dine on freshly  caught fish with white or rose wine. Spain is not only Ibiza discos and  beaches of the Costa Brava, full of tourists and pareo vendors, but also  quiet harbors with amazingly clear water, where you can enjoy unusual  solitude.

Rent a boat and do what you want

Mediterranean yacht charters is the opportunity to do what you  want. Every day you can taste local versions of Mediterranean dishes  that differ in terms of cooking method, spices and sauces. Without any  haste, you may stroll among the ancient ruins and climb the walls of  beautifully preserved ancient fortresses, offering spectacular views on  the sea - exactly the same as hundreds of years ago.

Your  vacations will be much more interesting if you choose to rent a yacht.  The Mediterranean coast length is over 40 thousand km, 21 countries and  three continents with different coastal relief. Here you can find almost  everything: volcanos, starch-white and coal-black lava sand, pebbles  and shell rocks.

For photographers, video bloggers and movie  lovers, renting a yacht in the Mediterranean also gives the opportunity  to see a lot of interesting things – in a quite unique way. Among the  places that must be visited is the Italian town of Portofino, where  Antonioni / Wenders shot one of the episodes of the romantic drama  “Behind the Clouds”. Also don’t miss the Amalfi Coast, which is often  served as a backdrop for films about beautiful life. One of the most  scenic views here is Positano village with its colorful houses that  cascade down right to the blue water.

Those who love nature and  silence should include in the list one of the secluded Greek islands  with bicycles and boats. You can rest peacefully on some beaches of the  eastern coast of Sicily, and find a great combination of warm turquoise  of the sea and white fine soft sand. If you are getting bored with peace  and tranquility, you may always get off the anchor and set up sails to  the place where life is in full swing - like Ibiza, in Barcelona,  ??Monaco.

Benefits of sailing in the Mediterranean

One of the main features of the Mediterranean region is its  relative compactness and high dencity of different attractions. History  and architecture, museums, nature, beach attractions and water sports,  shops, amusement parks - all of these can be in just one sailing  vacation.

Mediterranean bareboat yacht charter gives you a  chance to visit places that are almost inaccessible from land, because  they have neither a parking lot nor a safe trail to the sea. You may  find plenty of secluded coves in rocky shores of Turkey and Greece,  where every spot can be your personal secret place, whit not risk of  finding another company.

Dazzling white streets of the small  coastal towns in Greece or red tiled roofs of Montenegro, contrasting  with the huge mountains. Malta’s cultural microcosm, where European,  Arab and African intertwined, and where, in addition to the magnificent  Gothic and Baroque buildings, there are prehistoric sanctuaries, the  secrets of which have not yet been solved. Turkey, with places not  touched by resorts, where you can clearly feel the breath of antiquity.  All this can be points of interest during your yacht charter in the  Mediterranean Sea!

For active travelers who value independence  versus staying in one spot, decision to rent a boat in the Mediterranean  Sea is definitely a solution. If you plan an ordinary trip with an  accuracy of one day and hotels bookings in advance, then yacht gives you  a chance to improvise and change your plan. Renting a yacht is two in  one option: accommodation and transportation at the same time.

It is not surprising that Mediterranean yacht charters are in great  demand and one of the most popular sailing destinations offered by 12  knots. Sailing in this region is a dream for many people, while we make  it a reality. We offer bareboat and crewed yachts for charter from  classic Turkish gulets to modern sailing boats and premium yachts. Our  manager will give detailed information each boat so that you can make  the right choice.

Above all we also can help with itinerary and  destination ideal for your needs and time of the year. For example, if  you are looking for diving or other waters sports, we will tell you the  best spots for underwater attractions and the best way to get there.  Where to find the most beautiful views? Which cities should go to catch  spectacular holidays? Where are the best water parks, shopping centers,  casinos, discos? Answers to all these questions will help create a  unique roadmap.

Reasons to explore the Mediterranean

Reasons to explore the Mediterranean

  • all attractions are close to each other
  • unique natue and architecture
  • well equipped marinas and ports
  • wide variety of yachts for charter

yachting trips mediterranean

  • Mediterranean Yacht Charter
  • Inspiration

Mediterranean Yacht Charter has 36 Photos

Yacht Off Monaco

Related Locations

The Monaco Yacht Show

  • Mediterranean Fact File

Featured Yachts in THE MEDITERRANEAN

Sailing Yacht RED DRAGON By Dubois - Sailing And Underway

RED DRAGON | From EUR€ 184,000/wk Special

Latest mediterranean yachting news.

Navigating the World of Luxury Yacht Charters: Your Guide to the Perfect Getaway

Navigating the World of Luxury Yacht ...

  • Yacht Charter Locations >

Why: Choose a Mediterranean Yacht Charter?

Mediterranean yacht charter vacations are always by far and away the most popular summer location. You can read hundreds of our client endorsements here . Think the French Riviera, Monaco, Italy, Croatia, Sardinia, Spain and Greece. This is where most of the large crewed superyachts are concentrated and this is where also where you will find a huge variety of interesting places and cultures to experience. The Mediterranean (or Med’ for short) has everything. The area covers a large diversity of countries, cultures landscapes and experiences. Yet, the fantastic thing is that they are relatively close together, so you can create convenient and action packed itineraries very easily. On top of this, the yachting infrastructure in Europe is second to none so there are dozens of beautiful marinas filled with beautiful private superyachts and mega yachts that can be chartered as well as all the shops, restaurants, bars and conveniences that you could need. Because of its popularity the Mediterranean has an incredible choice of charter boats available to rent, both motor (power) yachts and sailing yachts, including the ever more widespread large luxury private superyacht charters.

How Much Does it Cost To Charter a Yacht in The Mediterranean?

Mediterranean yacht charter prices vary according to the size, style and age of the yacht. Our luxury superyacht charter yachts rent from 30,000 Euro to over 1,000,000 per week, plus expenses, in the form of an advanced provisioning allowance (APA). Conversely, smaller 'all inclusive' type vacations cost between Euro 15,000 to 50,000 per week. Here is the full list of all the charter yachts and here are the current Mediterranean yachts with special discounted prices .

Timing & Weather: The Mediterranean Yachting Season

The Mediterranean yachting season generally runs from April to the end of October. During the height of the season, in July and August, the climate is warm and sunny and the winds tend to be light. While this is the high season for all tourism, you can still easily avoid onshore tourists while afloat. The weather can also be good during the shoulder seasons.

Tip: Shoulder Season Means Value & Choice

Another good time to charter your yacht is generally on either of the shoulder seasons from April-May and September-October. These periods fall each side of the main summer season when the temperatures are still comfortable. September, for instance, is an underrated time of the year because the weather is usually good (if not too hot) but the sea is at its maximum temperature which is ideal for swimming. At this time there is greater choice of berths and anchorages for your boating vacation and the onshore tourists are not present in their largest numbers.

Beneteau Italy, Mediterranean

Yachts: The Mediterranean Charter Yachts

Please contact the friendly team at CharterWorld for prompt service and advice and the best crewed luxury yacht charters.

A yacht charter with CharterWorld is a fantastic way to experience the best of the world's coastline, pristine white beaches, sparkling azure waters, vividly colored marine life, national parks, secluded bays or dynamic nightlife; the list is endless. A yacht vacation allows you freedom and choice in some of the most spectacular locations around the world.

Because the Mediterranean covers many countries over a large area and because it is the most popular luxury yacht destination in the world (around 60%), there is a huge range of luxury motor yacht charters available this season, from , right through to the . From the moment you embark on a Mediterranean motor yacht your world will become relaxation, pleasure and delight - your professional motor yacht crew are there to make this happen. .

This season there is an incredible range of beautifully designed and built luxury sailing yachts now available for charter vacations around the world, and particularly in the superyacht hot spot the Mediterranean. A list of smaller Mediterranean sailing yachts can be viewed here and you can browse the largest super sailing yachts here. The Mediterranean is hands down the most chartered area. Within the Med', destinations like the French and Italian Rivieras, Sardinia, The Balearic Islands in Spain, Croatia and Greece continually remain at the top of the list for those favoured by luxury yacht owners and vacationers alike. .

For one reason or another certain yachts are more popular this year. Taste varies but generally if the yacht is new, stylish, has a proven crew, and offers good value then it be coveted and booked out early in the season. Charter brokers recommendations also increase a charter yacht's popularity as these are based on past performance and feedback. Also brokers often visit the yacht, meet the crew and judge it's condition before offering their advice. Charter yacht popularity is constantly evolving, but here is a selection of yachts we have found to be .

Sometimes luxury yachts offer discounted prices in the Mediterranean when, for instance, they have availability in shoulder season or they have a last minute cancellation. Most specials are not advertised because the client ends up getting the discounted rate after successful negotiation by their charter broker. Nevertheless, have a look at the Mediterranean boats on special in just in case there is a boat which looks just right for you and you family and friends. As the largest and most popular yacht holiday destination, there are usually a good number of specials available as advertised on our Med' .

There are a number of yacht events in the Med this year where you can charter a yacht for the event. The Monaco Grand Prix is popular as certain yachts are able to be moored track-side for the best view if the race. Later in the year the Monaco Yacht Show certainly bears a worthy mention. Down the French Riviera coast a little we also have a couple of notable events in Cannes, namely the Cannes Film Festival and MIPIM. St Tropez hosts some important sailing yacht racing events. Sardinia also host an important yacht racing regatta called the superyacht cup. There are various boat shows in the Mediterranean such as the Barcelona Charter Show. Here are .

Endorsements and positive feedback from clients is one of the most important measures of how good a yacht, crew, charter broker and destination really is. Accordingly, we gather feedback from all the clients that are interested in providing it so that we can can use this wealth of real experience to constantly assess the quality of the superyachts and crews that we offer, as well as our own performance. Combined with brokers visiting the boats and crew, this is one crucial way we can recommend the best yachts each year. If you would like to see some of this client feedback .

Important Spots: Consider These For Your Mediterranean Yacht Charter

Mediterranean yachting holiday locations are unequaled in their natural beauty, cultural heritage, passion, glamour and style. There was a time when the Mediterranean was the center of the known and civilized world and for private yacht charter vacations, to an extent, it still is. Today, the clear azure waters of the Mediterranean maintain a cachet of culture, history, sophistication, luxury yachts and stunning beauty, all with an endearing reputation of unrestrained energy.

The sunny Mediterranean is often conveniently split into two main areas - The Western Mediterranean and the Eastern Mediterranean . Both parts are culturally unique, yet both are lipped with stunning beaches, hidden coves, majestic ports and luxury yachts. Yachts of all sizes and shapes grace the Mediterranean, some are large motor yachts, some are sleek sailing yachts, some performance orientated and others of a more comfortable cruising style. This fabled area provides the untamed extravagance of the French Riviera , the gravity-defying architecture of the Italian coasts, the unaffected charms of Croatia, the fragrant orange groves of Spain , the exotic lure of Turkey and Greece , the birthplace of civilization.

"There was a time when the Mediterranean was the center of the known and civilized world and for private yacht charter vacations, to an extent, it still is."

The Mediterranean charter area takes in the Tyrrhenian, Ionian, Aegean and Adriatic seas. It includes the austere and striking islands of Sardinia , Corsica , the Balearics and Malta . Some of the most famous private yacht charter spots include Monaco , Nice , Cannes , St Tropez , Capri , Portofino , Amalfi , Positano, Porto Cervo, Palma de Mallorca , Valencia , Barcelona, Dalmatians, Corfu, Mykonos, Piraeus, Bodrum and Marmaris, to name a few. And some of the charter boat countries bordering the Mediterranean include France , Spain , Italy, Croatia , and Greece .

Yacht Ariadna

Ranked: The Top 7 Mediterranean Yacht Charter Locations

Possibly the most sought after yacht vacation ground in the Mediterranean, the in Southern , is the playground of the world's rich and famous and it’s the domain of magnificent superyachts and mega yachts. The luxury charter Mecca of the Cote d'Azur runs from St Tropez, to the Italian border. It is composed of 100 miles of possibly the most extravagant and exclusive waterfront in the world including the famous ports of Monaco, Cap Dail, Ville Franche, Cap Ferrat, Nice, Antibes, Golfe Juan and Cannes. Along the French Riviera (Cote d'Azur) there are over 30 harbours and more than 3000 restaurants to visit.

The coast, like the French coast, also attracts luxury yachts of the highest quality. A short sail from the endearing chaos of Naples, Italy, can find you at the famously chic Isle of Capri, or the stunning Amalfi Coast. Italy's other yachting highlights include the islands of Ischia, Elba and Ponza, the quaint fishing village of Portofino, the buried city of Pompeii and the prestigious Costa Smeralda of .

With typical Mediterranean charm, warm days and clear blue skies, has grown from strength to strength as a luxury coastal destination in the last decade. It is now one of the very top yachting destinations by popularity. Boasting many national parks and UNESCO World Heritage zones, there are so many fantastic places to see along the Croatia and Montenegro coastlines in the eastern Adriatic sea. Spots worth mentioning include Brac, Dubrovnik, Hvar, Split, Mljet, Vinisce and Trogir. With over a thousand islands, calm winds and turquoise waters, the Dalmatian Islands will make an unforgettable yacht charter holiday. Likewise is a current favourite with it's mix of wonderful historic villages, large dramatic mountains and superb superyacht marinas.

The of have recently become one of Europe's favourite private yacht playgrounds. The constant sunshine, clear blue waters and rugged landscape are steeped in an energetic culture comprised of both old and new. The history is prevalent in Gothic castles, museums and ancient cobbled streets, whilst the famous Spanish nightlife, lives on in tapas bars, nightclubs and port side cafes. A sailing holiday in The Balearics will allow you to experience more than the average mainland holidaymaker could even imagine.

, Turkey and Croatia are situated in the Eastern Mediterranean with centuries of history, culture and mythology. The Aegean and Mediterranean seas between Greece and Turkey were once touched by the Carians, Lycians, Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. The turquoise waters are scattered with sheltered bays, ancient ruins and archaeological sites including Greek cities, sunken Roman harbours and Crusader castles. Greece has such a wealth of culture, history and intrigue. The natural beauty of these great holiday areas is equally enchanting. On your Greece yacht charter vacation you will be greeted with the warm, colourful vista of traditional waterfront villages, as you approach from the sparkling blue sea.

provides a very rich and ancient history and culture as well as the fascinating Erupting Aeolian Volcanic Islands. There is much to see but also much to experience in the form of amazing southern Italian food and the warm Italian people and culture. Being an island, there is no better way to travel than by yacht. Another Island is . Here a private holiday will take you through years of history, openly displayed as part of the charm, from the moment you arrive in the superyacht filled Valetta Harbour. In Malta the past is mixed with the present in a passionate display of life and culture. Malta is more than just a historical gem though; it's also an outstanding sailing destination with warm sunshine and clear blue skies from April to October.

was once touched by the Carians, Lycians, Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. You too can sail upon ancient ruins an archaeological sites including old Greek cities, sunken Roman harbours and Crusader castles. Turkey offers more coastline than any other country in the Mediterranean and one of the most photographed beaches in the Med is Oludeniz or Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is known for its calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, water-sports and among the best places in the world to para-glide.

Yacht Charter Itineraries: For The Mediterranean

The Med' has a huge variation and diversity with respect to what to see and do and experience culturally. There is any number of possible routes you can take on your yacht so we typically customise these to suit you and your particular interests and requests. Bespoke individualized charter itineraries aside, we also publish some general itineraries to give you inspiration. Here are a few examples of Mediterranean yacht charter itineraries: , , , , , , - you can see the rest of the general list of Mediterranean yacht charter Itineraries or request your own personal bespoke Mediterranean yacht charter Itinerary .

and also writes about the Mediterranean . Matha discusses the trending charter hot spots and Croatian bars and clubs . Colin covers Croatian Gulets and Sally takes a look at Turkey . For all the broker advice articles click .

One of the best charter vacation ‘life hacks’ is booking your vacation during the off season, especially in the Med' where there is strong demand for the best yachts in the best locations. Off or Shoulder season Mediterranean yacht charters can give the best of both worlds: both lower price and quiet serenity. Many specials are during the off season - see the yacht specials available . If you are looking to avoid the crowds and the highest charter rates try a shoulder season yacht charter. It can cost much less and you get the beaches to yourself. Your flights will also be cheaper along with transfers hotels and resorts. More about .

This is the best of the best - the top ten of superyachts and superyacht charter. Whether its the largest yachts, the best destinations, the largest swimming pools, the most famous yachts, the most expensive, the best water toys selection or simply an expert charter broker recommending the best value charter yachts available, this is where we rank, judge and mark luxury yachts and luxury yacht charters. View examples of .

Why CharterWorld?

CharterWorld is a specialist charter company with all the yachts in the Mediterranean at the best price. With the industry’s top professional yacht brokers and every yacht in all the Mediterranean available you will be well served. If there is a boat or cruising area in the Mediterranean, or elsewhere, that you are interested in which is not covered here, please contact us and we will provide you with that information personally and free of charge.

See The Yachts & Specials Below or  View all the yachts for charter in the Mediterranean here

  • Mediterranean Charter Reviews
  • French Riviera / Cote d' Azur
  • Natural Mediterranean
  • Eastern Mediterranean
  • Top Mediterranean Charter Spots
  • Western Mediterranean
  • South of France Yacht Charter
  • Italy Yacht Charters
  • Turkey Yacht Charter
  • Croatia Yacht Charter
  • Mediterranean Itinerary
  • Adriatic Yacht Charter
  • Mediterranean Yacht Charter Specials and Discounts
  • Mediterranean Dive Sites
  • Mediterranean Top 10 Beaches
  • Current Mediterranean Charter Special Prices
  • Browse MEDITERRANEAN Charter Yachts
  • Luxury Motor Yachts for Charter in MEDITERRANEAN
  • Luxury Sailing Yachts for Charter in MEDITERRANEAN
  • Luxury Catamarans for Charter in MEDITERRANEAN
  • MEDITERRANEAN Luxury Yacht News

MEDITERRANEAN Yacht Charter Enquiry

Dear Chelsea, Everything was great, the Itinerary was amazing, we really enjoy all the places we visited. The crew was really nice, and we had a great time in the Mediterranean. Steve is a great Captain and would definitely charter again with him. I think our friend also rented a boat from you after I recommend he speak with you for a Charter in Greece. Please send the remaining money to Steve account as a tip for all of the crew. Thank you for everything; we had a great time, and best regards. - Chartered a motor yacht in the Mediterranean.

Yachting Destinations Near the Mediterranean

In close proximity to the Mediterranean are a number of exciting sailing destination.

JETSETTER Italian Riviera

French Riviera

yachting trips mediterranean

Yachts for Charter in the Mediterranean

Romea | from eur€ 1,100,000/wk.

The 81m Yacht ROMEA

80M MODERN CUSTOM YACHT | From EUR€ 1,085,000/wk

Aerial View

PHOENIX 2 | From EUR€ 1,000,000/wk

Phoenix 2 Running Shot

O'PARI | From EUR€ 1,000,000/wk

Motor Yacht O'Pari

85M EXPLORER YACHT | From US$ 950,000/wk

85m Luxury Explorer Yacht

85m CUSTOM SUPERYACHT | From US$ 945,000/wk

86m Custom Superyacht With Jetskis

GOLDEN HORIZON | From EUR€ 910,000/wk

Sailing Yacht GOLDEN HORIZON

82m CUSTOM SUPERYACHT | From EUR€ 875,000/wk

cruising profile of the 82m mega yacht

BOLD | From EUR€ 875,000/wk

Superyacht BOLD

85M CUSTOM MEGA YACHT | From EUR€ 875,000/wk

Luxury Superyacht BOLD By Silver Yachts

74m CRN 131 | From US$ 870,000/wk

74m yacht by CRN

HBC | From EUR€ 850,000/wk

Aft View

Latest News About Mediterranean Superyachts

Charter yachts offering citizen science opportunities around the world

Charter yachts offering citizen science ...

80m motor yacht ELEMENTS offering 10% discount for September

80m motor yacht ELEMENTS offering 10% ...

37m luxury explorer yacht OCULUS brand new to the charter market on both sides of the Atlantic

37m luxury explorer yacht OCULUS brand ...

The mediterranean yacht charter specials, 5% discount location: east mediterranean.

Sailing Yacht DOUBLE EAGLE

DOUBLE EAGLE | From EUR€ 33,250.00/wk

Special rate location: greece.

NATALIA V With Tenders

NATALIA V | From EUR€ 114,750.00/wk

Special offer location: west mediterranean.

Motor Yacht KAR

KAR | From EUR€ 50,000.00/wk

Super yacht ROCKET ONE

M/Y ROCKET ONE | From EUR€ 160,000.00/wk

Special offer location: croatia.

ONE BLUE

ONE BLUE | From EUR€ 89,820.00/wk

Motor Yacht NOOR II - SL102 By Sanlorenzo

NOOR II | From EUR€ 94,500.00/wk

Special discounted rate location: east mediterranean.

Luxury yacht SKY

ILLUSION II | From EUR€ 125,000.00/wk

10% discount location: greece.

AQUILA (ex MY WAY)

AQUILA | From EUR€ 71,100.00/wk

Charter yacht disclaimer.

This document is not contractual. The yacht charters and their particulars displayed in the results above are displayed in good faith and whilst believed to be correct are not guaranteed. CharterWorld Limited does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information and/or images displayed. All information is subject to change without notice and is without warrantee. A professional CharterWorld yacht charter consultant will discuss each charter during your charter selection process. Starting prices are shown in a range of currencies for a one-week charter, unless otherwise marked. Exact pricing and other details will be confirmed on the particular charter contract. Just follow the "reserve this yacht charter" link for your chosen yacht charter or contact us and someone from the CharterWorld team will be in touch shortly.

Blooming flowers overlooking a bustling harbor against a backdrop of rugged mountains under a cloud-speckled sky.

  • The Mediterranean

Yacht Charter Mediterranean 2024

Discover the ultimate Mediterranean yacht charter guide with Northrop & Johnson. We offer a complete selection of the best Mediterranean private charter yachts available for rent this season in Europe – featuring exclusive locations, itineraries, and boat prices. Northrop & Johnson offers a choice of crewed motor and sailing superyachts for hire in the Med from US$50,000 per week in  France ,  Greece ,  Italy ,  Croatia ,  Turkey , and many more summer charter destinations, with tailor-made boating itineraries.

An elegant couple leans affectionately against the railing of a luxurious yacht, gazing out at the riviera coastline during the Cannes Film Festival.

Why charter a luxury yacht in the Med this summer?

  • Picturesque villages and vibrant cities
  • Great fishing and fresh fish
  • World-class restaurants
  • stunning scenery and pretty sheltered bays
  • Incredible food and fine dining
  • Mediterranean climate
  • Beautiful beaches and people
  • Island-hopping adventures
  • Crystal-clear waters and calm seas
  • Scenic coastlines
  • World-class marinas and service providers
  • Exclusive beach clubs and resorts
  • Warm hospitality

Best yachts for charter in the Mediterranean

Motor yachts for charter in the mediterranean, sailing yacht rentals in the mediterranean, mediterranean yacht charter destinations.

Chartering in the Mediterranean offers a unique yacht charter vacation experience. Enjoy picturesque villages and vibrant cities, incredible food and fine dining, stunning scenery and pretty sheltered bays, beautiful beaches and people, crystal-clear waters and calm seas, scenic coastlines, and world-class marinas and service providers – all while enjoying island-hopping adventures, great fishing, fresh fish, world-class restaurants, exclusive beach clubs and resorts, and warm hospitality under the sun-drenched Mediterranean climate.

The most desirable destinations selected by yacht charterers last year in the Med

Aerial perspective of a Sardinian marina with yachts docked in crystal-clear waters.

Best for family

Sunset view over the lavish cityscape of Monaco, a premier destination for luxury yacht charters on the French Riviera

Best for friends

The historic waterfront of Genoa, with its renowned architecture, as seen from the Italian Riviera yacht route.

Best for food

Luxury yachts moored in the harbor of Calvi, with the historic citadel in view, under the Corsican sun.

Best for scenery

Palm fronds frame a serene view of anchored yachts near the mystical rock of Es Vedrà, off the coast of Ibiza.

Best all-rounder

Charming Oia village in Santorini, with vibrant flowers and classic Cycladic architecture, a prime yacht charter stop.

Best to be seen

yachting trips mediterranean

Typically, the Mediterranean is divided into Western Mediterranean yacht charters and Eastern Mediterranean luxury yacht charters. These two areas are very different regions to explore.

What are the best Mediterranean yacht charter itineraries?

Tranquil evening view of Bodrum Marina filled with yachts, with the iconic Bodrum Castle in the backdrop, reflecting Turkey's ancient charm and modern luxury.

Choosing a Yacht for a Mediterranean Yacht Charter

Northrop & Johnson’s charter brokers in Monaco, Fort Lauderdale, and worldwide have access to over 1,000 charter yachts to rent available in the East and West Mediterranean, including luxury charter vessels from renowned shipyards Sunseeker , Princess , Amels , and Feadship in multiple models. Mediterranean yachts are available from popular embarkation ports such as Nice , Monaco , Mykonos , Ibiza , Athens , Barcelona , Dubrovnik , and more.

What type of yacht can you hire in the Mediterranean?

Aerial shot of Sailing Yacht LAMIMA for Charter in the Med

Enjoy the unrivaled experience of setting sail on a crewed sailboat charter in the Mediterranean.

vivere motor yacht right facing profile

Indulge in unrivaled comfort and utmost luxury on a motor yacht for charter in Europe.

LONESTAR Catamaran for Charter | N&J Catamarn Yachts for Charter

From Catamarans to Trimarans, enjoy the perfect combination of enhanced stability and sailing experience.

236-foot (72m) explorer yacht BLUE DE NIMES profile

Explore the most remote destinations in style on a crewed explorer yacht charter in the Med.

yachting trips mediterranean

What are the best charter yachts available in the Mediterranean this summer?

Northrop & Johnson has access to all private crewed charter yachts on the market, plus off-market yachts for charter. We are here to help save you time by working on your behalf to handpick the best charter vessels based on your needs and then managing every aspect of your yachting holiday. Contact our private yacht charter specialists, and they will show you which yachts are available for your dates, budget, and party size. They will also craft an incredible charter itinerary that expertly meets your needs.

Our selection of the best yachts for charter in the Mediterranean

Our selection of the motor yachts for charter in the mediterranean, our selection of the sailing yachts for charter in the mediterranean, everything you need to know about a mediterranean yacht charter, how many people can i take with me on a mediterranean boat rental.

Most luxury boat rentals have five or six staterooms or cabins in various configurations, including twins, double, queen, and king beds. On most charter yachts, you can customize the configuration of the cabins dependent on the number of guests. This will allow you to take between six and 12 charter guests. Depending on the charter vessel, staterooms may include ensuite bathrooms, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, private study areas, and walk-in wardrobes. Larger mega yachts may have additional cabins for staff members like nannies, security, or personal butlers.

What are the sleeping arrangements aboard a yacht?

It depends on the yacht. For example, you could ask for a master cabin that is separate from your yacht charter guests if you want enhanced levels of privacy. If you are one big family, you can request a yacht with cabins closer together. If sleeping arrangements, including the placement of cabins, are an important consideration, then let your charter broker know.

Are kids allowed on a yacht charter?

Of course, kids are welcome aboard a yacht charter in the Mediterranean. Most yachts welcome nannies, too, with some larger superyachts having additional staff rooms specifically for nannies. A yacht charter offers a wonderful family vacation. Onboard amenities, including swimming pools and cinema rooms, are guaranteed to keep youngsters entertained, as too are the water toys, such as snorkeling gear, inflatables, fishing gear, and kayaks. With advanced notice, the crew can also arrange fun, kid-friendly activities, such as treasure hunts or fun fancy-dress parties.

Where do the crew sleep on a yacht?

The crew quarters are separate from guests. Charter crew are highly professional and are trained to provide exceptional service levels with the utmost discretion. They will be as visible as you want them to be.

How long is the luxury yacht charter season in the Mediterranean and when is the best time to go?

The best time to charter a yacht in the Mediterranean is between May and October.

Summer yacht charters in the Mediterranean are most sought after in July or August, but June after the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix is typically viewed as the season’s start date. Some charterers prefer off-peak season trips to avoid crowds and kids and to enjoy the warm, quieter waters of September and October. Let our yacht charter brokers know your dates and budget, and we will do the hard work for you, including finding the right luxury boat for your dates and desired experiences.

What is the air temperature in the Med by month?

It will depend on where you go, but these are a guide to air temperatures on a Mediterranean superyacht charter in France/Italy:

  • May – 20C/68F
  • June – 24C/75F
  • July – 30C/86F
  • August – 35/95F
  • September – 30C/86F
  • October – 25C/77F

What is the water temperature in the Med by month?

It will depend on where you go, but below is a guide to water temperatures on a Mediterranean superyacht charter in France/Italy:

  • June – 23C/73F
  • July – 25C/77F
  • August – 26C/79F
  • September – 24C/75F
  • October – 23C/73F

How long is a Mediterranean yacht charter?

How long you charter a private yacht in the Mediterranean is up to you and will depend on your cruising itinerary, but an average yacht charter in the Med will be seven days. Northrop & Johnson’s charter specialists have booked luxury yacht charters for a week, 10 days, two weeks, and often longer. Contact our charter experts if you want to book a yacht vacation in the Mediterranean.

When should I book my motor or sailing yacht charter in Europe?

If you know the superyacht and the crew you would like to book next summer, it is imperative that you reserve your spot at least six months in advance. Popular boat types, like a Ferretti or Sunseeker charter yacht, are always in high demand. Last-minute yacht charters are also available and often at a competitive price; however, this often means forgoing your first boat of choice. Contact a yacht charter broker at Northrop & Johnson and let them find your ideal boat.

How much does a Mediterranean yacht charter cost?

The cost of a yacht charter in the Mediterranean with Northrop & Johnson starts at about $50,000 per week and will include the charter yacht and crew. You will then be charged for additional costs, including fuel, provisions, marina fees, and other expenses in your advanced provisioning allowance (APA). For larger and newer superyachts, you can pay up to $500,000 per week, not including the APA .

What is an Advance Provisioning Allowance, or APA?

The Advanced Provisioning Allowance acts as a bank account and is designed to cover expenses that cannot be fixed in advance, such as food and drink, fuel, and berthing fees. The APA is typically around 25 to 35%. of the yacht charter fee and is paid before the charter commences. The captain is responsible for logging all APA expenses, and you can view the expenses at any time during your boat charter. Any funds left in the APA at the end of your charter holiday are immediately refunded to you.

Where are the best airports to fly into to easily embark your charter yacht in the Mediterranean Sea?

Depending on your itinerary, these are some of the most accessible airports for easy arrival for your private yacht charter:

  • Nice Cote D’Azur Airport
  • Monaco Heliport
  • Ibiza Airport
  • Mykonos Airport
  • Athens Airport
  • Naples Aiport

What can I expect on a crewed yacht charter in Europe? What do the crew do?

The crew aboard a yacht charter is there to ensure you have the best possible charter experience. Whether cruising in France , Italy , Croatia , Spain , Greece , or Turkey , the yacht crew are there to make your yachting holiday one to remember.

What will the crew do for me on a Mediterranean superyacht charter?

Northrop & Johnson does not handle bareboat yacht charters. All our superyacht charters include a captain, or skipper, and a crew who will make your yacht charter vacation the best experience possible in the Mediterranean in the heart of Europe. A typical crew will include a captain, deck crew, interior crew, and a private chef. Additional crew may include a sommelier, personal fitness trainer, and beauty therapists. The exact roles of the crew will depend on the size and type of your vessel, but you can expect:

  • A captain who is responsible for navigating the yacht and ensuring that all safety regulations are followed
  • Deck crew who take care of the yacht’s exterior, including maintenance tasks such as cleaning, refueling the vessel, water sports activities, and more
  • Interior crew who provide five-star guest services such as serving meals, drinks, cleaning and maintaining the interior, including staterooms, laundry, and more
  • A chef who will prepare gourmet meals to your liking.

Ultimately, the crew will strive to make your experience enjoyable and stress-free by handling even the smallest details during your luxury yacht charter.

Can I decide which meals will be made onboard a yacht charter?

Yes, the menu is completely up to you. You and all guests will provide a preference sheet prior to embarking so the chef and interior crew can provision and have all of your favorites aboard the yacht.

“As a chef, I believe in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes that are tailored to my guests’ palate. I take pride in creating truly memorable dining experiences that are sure to please.” Chef onboard  a private yacht

How do I book my luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean?

After you’ve decided on the destination and dates and even the yachts and itineraries you’re interested in, our charter brokers will take it from there. Contact a Northrop & Johnson charter broker and we will discuss all your wants and needs with you, and then we will send you a short list of available yachts for charter that fit your criteria. Once we have found the right yacht for you, we will draw up a MYBA contract and work with the yacht’s charter manager to make your Mediterranean yacht charter vacation a reality. We will handle everything from organizing the payments, the APA, and even the arrival and departure.

Do I sign a contract for a yacht charter in the Mediterranean?

When chartering a yacht in the Mediterranean, you will need to sign a charter agreement or contract. This contract will outline the terms and conditions of your yacht charter, including the duration of the trip and details of any additional services that you may require. The agreement will also stipulate how much you will be expected to pay in terms of the charter fee and may include other important information such as insurance policies, liability waivers, and maintenance requirements.

How can I pay for a yacht charter with N&J?

You will pay Northrop & Johnson directly for your yacht charter, including the APA.

What commission does the yacht charter broker take?

The yacht charter broker takes a fee of 15% of the total charter fee.

When should I go on a Mediterranean yacht charter? For how long and how much will it cost me?

Western mediterranean yacht charters.

A coastal village by the mountainous shoreline, a stunning destination for N&J yacht charters in Spain.

Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Charters

Pristine Montenegrin coastline with yachts and boats, a prime location for N&J yacht charter customers seeking relaxation and exploration.

What are the most searched destinations for Mediterranean yacht charters at the moment?

  • Yacht charter Greece
  • Yacht charter Croatia
  • Yacht charter Italy
  • Yacht charter Sardinia
  • Yacht charter Balearics

Modern yacht cruising off the coast of Monaco | Yachts for Sale | N&J

Which is better, a Mediterranean or Caribbean yacht charter?

Whether a Mediterranean yacht charter or a Caribbean yacht charter is best will depend on your personal preference. However, typically, the Mediterranean is the charter destination of choice during the western hemisphere’s summer months, while the Caribbean is a popular superyacht destination during the winter months. Popular Mediterranean cruising grounds include the Amalfi Coast, the Greek Islands, the Balearic Islands, the French Riviera, and the Dalmatian Coast. All of these destinations offer upscale marinas, refined attractions, and world-class service providers for an incredible holiday on the water.

What are the top boat brands to rent in the Med?

In Europe, yachts from all shipyards are available for charter. Whether you want to rent a Westport, a Lurssen, a Sunseeker, or a Heesen, we have all the boats available to charter. Browse our top picks or save time and get in touch with a broker who has up-to-date availability and yacht charter pricing by request.

Amels Yacht Charter

Baglietto Yacht Charter

Benetti Yacht Charter

Ferretti Yacht Charter

Feadship Yacht Charter

Lurssen Yacht Charter

Palmer Johnson Yacht Charter

Perini Navi Yacht Charter

Pershing Yacht Charter

Princess Yacht Charter

Sanlorenzo Yacht Charter

Sunseeker Yacht Charter

Turquoise Yachts Charter

Westport Yacht Charter

Oceanco Yacht Charter

Numarine Yacht Charter

yachting trips mediterranean

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MedSailors

Adventure Sailing Holidays

FOR 20 TO 30 SOMETHINGS

The perfect mix of exploring, partying, and relaxation.

Experience an unforgettable 7 days as you set sail around the most breath-taking islands in the Mediterranean, enjoying epic adventures and authentic local culture.

The perfect mix of exploring, partying, and relaxation.

SAVE BIG THIS SUMMER

Book our new Economy Yacht and save up to 25% on your sailing trip

Why MedSailors

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LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

Discover new culture, try local cuisine, explore awesome destinations and their best-kept secrets.

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OWN THE NIGHT

Experience the best of local nightlife. Enjoy sundowner drinks or dance til dawn for unforgettable nights.

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RELAX & UNWIND

Take time out to enjoy beautiful scenery and picturesque landscapes. Rejuvenate, relax and unwind.

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YOUR WELLBEING

Our WTTC accreditation means we’re a company which has adopted global health and hygiene protocols.

Destinations

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Dubrovnik Old Town

Flotilla of MedSailors yachts in Croatia

Visit Croatian Vineyards

Zlatni Rat beach in Croatia

Zlatni Rat Beach

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Learn to sail

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Mljet National Park

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Korcula Old Town

Experience the world’s most popular sailing destination. With three routes to suit any style, choose to spend more time exploring Croatia's beauty from land or sea.

Spetses town in Greece

Poros Watersports

MedSailors flotilla in a beautiful bay in Greece

The Acropolis

Explore one of the world’s top sailing destinations. With two routes to choose from, discover the magnificent Ionian Sea of Corfu or the stunning Saronic Gulf south of Athens.

Oludeniz Beach in Turkey

Oludeniz Beach

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Skopea Limani

Xanthos Letoon ruins in Turkey

Xanthos Letoon

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Butterfly Valley

Cleopatra's Bath House in Turkey

Cleopatra's Bath House

Göcek in Turkey

Saklikent Gorge

Take in the very best of what Turkey has to offer, from beautiful scenery and snorkeling with turtles to sunset cocktails and exquisite Turkish food.

MedSailors yachts anchored in a beautiful bay in Greece

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Popular Trips

MedSailors yachts anchored together in a beautiful bay in Croatia

Croatia Dubrovnik Voyager

Departs Dubrovnik

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Greece Ionian Discovery

Departs Corfu

MedSailors yachts rafted together in Stari Grad

Croatia Split Voyager

Departs Split

MedSailors yachts on the town quay in Paros

Greece Saronic Voyager

Departs Athens

MedSailors yachts rafted together

  • Croatia Discovery

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  • Turkey Voyager

Departs Fethiye

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Sail the Mediterranean

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Your Very Own Sailing Holiday Voyage of Discovery

Sailing over shimmering waters to destinations rich in history and natural beauty: what more could anyone want in a boating holiday? Famous sites from antiquity, white sand beaches painted on an azure ocean, quaint villages overflowing with cultural flavors, and culinary delights you will hunger for.

With its huge diversity of travel experiences, the Mediterranean has something to offer everyone who likes to go sailing. Italy, Greece and Croatia are the most popular cruising destinations, while there's much to enjoy about sailing in the Balearic Islands, Turkey and the South of France. All are covered in our comprehensive guide to Mediterranean yacht charters.

Taking the Work out of a Mediterranean Charter 

With all the great destinations on offer, choosing a charter boat in the Mediterranean can be complicated, even confusing. For smooth sailing, it is essential that you sail with an experienced and reputable boat operating company. During more than 20 years in the charter business, we have developed a network of only the best operators - people who we know can be relied on to take care of you, our client. We will match the right yacht from the best operator to your budget, comfort requirements and boat-handling experience.

Our team members have spent a lot of time sailing in the Mediterranean, checking out the boats on offer and the way they are managed. And of course that gives us first-hand experience of the destinations too, valuable knowldge that we want to share. 

In the Mediterranean, the suitably-able sailor finds bareboat sailing and boat handling quite straightforward. For extra leisure time, there's always the option of adding a skipper, who takes responsibility for the boat and getting you to where you want to go. 

Alternatively, charter fully-crewed, engaging a cook as well as skipper for the ulitimate in relaxation. Even experienced sailors often prefer to hire a crew, which we carefully select in consultation with our operators. Your hired crew not only take care of all the work, but are also willing local guides. They'll recommend the best places to see and best things to do en route, and get you up close to the culture and lifestyles in the places you will visit.

When enlisting our help to organise your charter in the Mediterranean -or anywhere else - you pay no more for our service.

The Best Mediterranean Charter Sailing Destinations

Costa Brava

Costa Brava

Balearic Islands

Balearic Islands

South of France

South of France

Corsica

Latest Blog Posts

Sailing charter versus resort stay: comparing the costs

Sailing charter versus resort stay: comparing the costs

A sailing holiday frequently combines with a land-based resort stay. How many nights aboard charter boat and how many nights onshore, or foregoing one or the other due to cost, is often a discussion point. So we did an exercise on the price comparisons between boat and resort. The cost benefits of a sailing holiday are clear

Charter catamarans for modest sailing holiday budgets

Charter catamarans for modest sailing holiday budgets

Here we highlight some smaller catamarans finding favour with our charterers in the Mediterranean and elsewhere. Robert is our expert evaluator when it comes to helping you select the right boat for your sailing charter, and the following is his personal take on recent introductions to the charter boat market.

The popular Bali Catamaran in all its variations

The popular Bali Catamaran in all its variations

The Bali catamaran, designed and built specifically with chartering in mind, has become so popular that it’s been hard to keep up with all the new models, hard to spot which one has just the right size and amenities to perfectly fit your group's sailing holiday charter needs. We can help you there.

The value of after-charter destination and boat reviews

The value of after-charter destination and boat reviews

At Sail Connections we offer a personal service based on long experience in the business and close attention to what's happening in the destinations we offer. We have also sailed a large number of those places, and can often speak from personal experience.  But we can't be everywhere.

Chartering in Turkiye: feedback we just have to share

Chartering in Turkiye: feedback we just have to share

Turkey is one of those charter destinations that doesn't fail to pleasantly surprise. We're always delighted when we receive such good reports as we did recently from a New Zealand client.

The Sail Connections Guarantee

One contact - every option - advice you can trust.

  • Matching any competitive offer
  • Sourcing boats with discounts available
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  • Qualifying the operator as well as the boat
  • Advising without bias based on 25+ years of experience
  • We do more than just book yachts!

We will match any discount website offer on charter boat price, and still provide our customary high level of service.

The Essential Guide to Sailing Holiday Charters

The Sail Connections Essential Guide to Bareboat and Crewed Sailing Holiday Charters is packed full of useful tips for getting the most out of your next boat charter. And it is FREE to download.

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2,330  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Mediterranean

Mediterranean Yacht Charter

A Mediterranean yacht charter offers an exceedingly rich mixture of cultures, history and landscapes amongst the world's most popular yacht rental destinations. Home to iconic luxury charter locations like the sun-dappled French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast , and innumerable island paradises found in Greece , Croatia and Turkey , a yacht charter in the Mediterranean offers a range of picturesque cruising grounds bound to whet the appetite of any yacht charter guest.

Enclosed by three continents, the Mediterranean's exciting fusion of modern metropolises, sun-soaked beaches, archaeological delights and pleasant year-round weather provide the foundation for an unforgettable charter vacation. And thanks to the region's insatiable popularity, there is a wealth of choice when it comes to renting a yacht in the Mediterranean. Luxury motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans and even gulet charters can all be rented in these epic cruising grounds.

There is also a spectacular array of yacht charter itinerary options in the Mediterranean too, meaning whether you are looking to unwind or turn up the party dial to the max, there is something for everyone.

Mediterranean Yacht Charters: At a Glance

landscape view of popular charter destination Santorini in Greece

  • Cinematic landscapes  Make up the show-stoppingly beautiful jigsaw that is the Mediterranean. From cosmopolitan thrills to blindingly white beaches and eyepopping blue waters, the choice is all yours.
  • Easily accessible The Mediterranean is extremely well-connected to the US and most worldwide destinations, ensuring you travel with ease.
  • Long cruising season Warm temperatures extend well into October in East Mediterranean destinations like Croatia, Greece and Turkey.
  • Endless adventure and entertainment The Mediterranean is full of intrigue: it's an island-hopping, diving and snorkelling wonderland, a designer shopping mecca, and home to some of the world's most glamorous events. Simply put, the Mediterranean is the place to see and be seen.
  • Top-end superyacht marinas The region has some of the most sought-after berth slips in the world, replete with state-of-the-art facilities, hip boutiques and restaurants, as well as jaw-dropping panoramas aplenty, of course.

Why Greece is the perfect superyacht charter destination

Popular Destinations for Yacht Rentals in the Mediterranean

superyacht destination porto cervo and one of its beaches with crystal clear waters

Luxury yacht charters in the Mediterranean are divided into two distinct cruising grounds. The West Mediterranean has been the superyacht hotspot du jour for decades, with the most popular yacht rental destinations undeniably being the South of France, Monaco ,  Italy , Sardinia, Corsica and the Ibiza. Diverse and exciting, these countries offer some of the finest cuisines, architecture, cities, and coastlines to be found in the region.

But East Mediterranean yacht rental destinations like Greece and  Turkey are also buzzing with charter activity, thanks to their incredible culture and history, spellbinding anchorages and boundless islands that make for a rip-roaring yacht charter itinerary. Montenegro and Croatia yacht charters are also becoming increasingly in-demand, with a number of state-of-the-art superyacht marinas having been developed in recent years adding to their attractiveness.

Popular West Mediterranean Regions

There are some locations that garner considerably more attention for superyacht vacations in the Mediterranean than others, which means we highly recommend you book as far in advance as possible if you are considering any of these cruising grounds.

The most popular West Mediterranean yacht charter locations are:

  • The French Riviera: comprising a glittering medley of some of the world's most glamorous hotspots like Saint Tropez , Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco, think world-class restaurants, night-time revelry and endlessly alluring bays and beaches to choose from.
  • The Italian Riviera:  places like Portofino and Cinque Terre are adored for their pastel-perfect villages, otherworldly vistas, and incomparable cuisine.
  • The Amalfi Coast: the heavenly towns of Positano, Sorrento, Ravello and the island of Capri make a yacht charter here an intoxicatingly beautiful experience.
  • Ibiza : international party capital and an upscale bohemian hotspot, Ibiza 's appeal endures.

Popular East Mediterranean Regions

The most popular East Mediterranean yacht charter locations include:

  • Cyclades Islands: the most popular yachting destination in Greece, with a staggering 220 islands to cruise to, including hedonist haven Mykonos , romantic Santorini, and myriad archeological delights in Delos.
  • Ionian Islands : an idyllic Greek island-chain promising pine-scented beauty and serene coves at every turn, with highlights being Corfu, Ithica and Cephalonia.
  • Dubrovnik and Hvar: Croatian cities steeped in historical significance with ample cultural highlights, plus balmy weather all-summer-long late into the season.
  • Bodrum: a vibrant port city in southwestern Turkey thrumming with life, packed with ultra-chic bars, beach clubs and restaurants and topaz-coloured bays.

5 reasons to visit Ravello on your Amalfi Coast yacht charter

Highlights of a Mediterranean Yacht Charter

cinque terre colourful houses in italy

A Mediterranean yacht rental vacation offers a mesmerizing selection of things to see and do. Here is our small selection of some of the most outstanding:

Don't Miss:

  • Cinque Terre:  a string of sorbet-coloured fishing towns carved into the hills overlooking the sea in Italy.

Porto Cervo:  a luxury-lovers nirvana, with its high-end shops and designer emporiums close to the main port.

Promenade de la Croisette,  in Cannes: one of the most famous avenues in the world; peppered with high-end boutiques and Belle Époque hotels.

The Blue Grotto:  a stunning semi-submerged cave in Capri where the light refracts the sunlight from outside creating an optical illusion.

Hotel Splendido:  head to Portofino for sundowners and to try out one of their world-famous peach bellinis.

Porto-Vecchio:  Corsica's most charming town.

Porquerolles : oft-cited as the best island in the French Riviera renowned for its crystal clear waters and fragrant forests.

Îles d'Hyères : one of the best anchorage spots in the South of France.

Les Voiles : world-famous sailing regatta that takes place in Saint Tropez in September.

Villefranche-sur-Mer : postcard-perfect French fishing village.

Casino de Monte-Carlo : set pulses racing at this Belle Époque glory in the heart of Monaco. 

Monaco Yacht Show : one of the most important events in the yachting calendar.

Shipwreck Beach  (Navagio Beach): legendary beach in Greece, famous for the large shipwreck lying on the sand.

Nammos : come to this landmark beach club in Greece for a night of uber-luxe revelry amid the world's gliteratti.

Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn):  located on the southern coast of Brač, Croatia regularly listed as one of the top beaches in Europe.

Diocletian’s Palace, Split : UNESCO site within the walls of Split’s historic and thriving town.

Who Goes on a Mediterranean Yacht Charter?

amalfi coast beyonce

The cultural heartbeat of the rich and famous in the summertime, the Mediterranean has long been welcoming the jet set to its sun-drenched shores. Well-to-do hedonists and socialites enjoy the beach club buzz, designer boutiques and glittering throng of exclusive events found in hotspots like the South of France and Monaco, where some of the most important dates in the calendar year like the Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival also take place.

Equally, with an outstanding array of tranquil beaches, bays and inlets to explore, the Mediterranean is also a veritable nirvana for families or those simply seeking serenity on their yacht charter vacation.

History and Culture

Ancient ruins at sunset in charter location greece

The Mediterranean sea is connected to the Atlantic Ocean, bordering more than 22 different countries, and over 3,000 islands, the largest two being the Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia.  Its name comes from two Latin words: 'Medius” (Middle) and “Terra” (Earth/Soil), roughly translated as the center of the Earth, and the sea itself is thought to be more than 5 million years old.

In terms of Mediterranean culture, there isn't a one size fits all approach — each and every country in the region has their own. But we can say that there are some overarching themes: an appreciation of the finer things in life being one of them: of nature and of cuisine.

Types of Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

A luxury crewed  yacht rental vacation in the Mediterranean is without a doubt the best way to lap up the natural splendor of this magical region, offering you access to a dizzying array of splendid spots far from the typical tourist trail. 

With an extensive selection of vessels available to choose from, the perfect yacht for you and your charter party is destined to be out there. Unsure whether a crewed motor yacht charter, sailing yacht charter, or in some cases, a gulet charter will work best for you? We've laid out the main aspects to consider before making a final decision.

Motor Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

range of charter motor yachts docked at portofino,italy

A crewed motor yacht charter  in the Mediterranean is the epitome of luxury. With seven-star amenities and hotel-serviced living coupled with a completely unrivaled level of privacy, it's no wonder a motor yacht has evergreen appeal. Uncover awe-inspiring that are only accessible by boat, and experience what it's like to have your own floating palace.

There is a huge variety of Mediterranean motor yachts available, from 100m superyachts with all the latest charter-focused amenities to small speedy weekend cruisers, or somewhere in between. But do keep in mind when selecting your motor yacht that slips here are in high demand during the summertime, which means it's more likely you will spend time at anchor.

As for yacht types, those with planing hulls are perfect if you want to zip through locations at speed quickly. However, they are usually less stable at anchor. 

Displacement and semi-displacement hulls are slower and make up most of the global charter fleet, They are more comfortable, voluminous, and more stable with at anchor stabilizers. 

Sailing Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

marina in porto cervo italy

Selecting a luxury crewed  sailing yacht charter in the Mediterranean is a wonderful choice for guests looking for a slower vacation pace, where you will be wooed by the sailing yacht's old-school charm. Plus, with most sailing conditions in the Mediterranean being extremely favorable, typified by calm seas and light winds (apart from the Meltemi at certain times in Turkey and Greece), this is absolutely a sailing paradise.

And with an extensive selection of catamarans, monohulls and racer sailers available, it won't be difficult to find a charter sailing yacht in the Mediterranean that will meet your requirements.

Gulet Charters in the Mediterranean

Turkish Gulets blue water cruising

In  Turkey  & Croatia you also have an additional charter option: the possibility of renting a gulet  with a full crew. Gulets are traditionally Turkish-built wooden motor sailor yachts which are usually much larger in volume than your average sailing yacht, with an abundance of open-plan living spaces.

Turkish gulet yachts are less expensive than other charter vessels of the same size, and can often offer all-inclusive or semi-inclusive packages, meaning you don’t need to worry about additional expenses such as food and drink. They also normally include a standard number of cruising hours per day.  Plus, their crew are often local to the region that they cruise in, meaning they can double as tour guides and can provide a lot of valuable expertise.

You can visit Greek Islands on your Turkish gulet charter vacation, but you will need to embark and disembark in a port in Turkey unless it has a Greek Charter Licence - which is very rare. 

Gulets are not available in the West Mediterranean cruising areas.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht in the Mediterranean?

The average price of a motor yacht or sailing yacht rental in the Mediterranean will depend on several factors, including the vessel's age, type, crew, as well as the duration of the vacation and whether it is high or low season.

With so many options available, there’s something to suit every type of budget. For convenience we have listed the average prices for motor yacht and sailing yacht charters in the Mediterranean below;

  • For motor yacht rentals in the Mediterranean, prices can range from $31,541 to $1.6m per week, plus expenses
  • For luxury sailing yacht rentals in the Mediterranean, prices can go from $20,491 to $532,784 weekly, plus expenses

One aspect to keep in mind is that there are important distinctions to be made between the average costs for West Mediterranean and East Mediterranean yachting vacations. While exact costs can vary from yacht to yacht, typically, West Mediterranean yacht charters will involve newer, larger vessels and include a high-quality, international workforce, and therefore tend to usually incur higher prices. Meanwhile, East Mediterranean yacht charters will usually use older vessels and feature highly knowledgeable local crews. 

RELATED ARTICLES

When is the Best Time for Mediterranean Yacht Charters?

Traditional colourful Greek fishing boats in Pythagorion port, Samos island, Greece

The best time for a yachting vacation on the Mediterranean is between May and August, although weather is still pleasant in the shoulder months of April and September, with some East Mediterranean locations experiencing high temperatures well into October (Croatia, Turkey, Greece).

Yacht charter guests in the Mediterranean during these months can expect mellow seas, cloudless skies  long, sunbaked days and low rainfall.

However, if you are looking to evade the crowds and the heat, avoid July and August.

Where Should I Begin My Mediterranean Yacht Charter?

iconic yacht rental destination french riviera

France is by far the most popular starting point for the classic "Mediterranean milk-run charter" route (Saint Tropez to Portofino), with this term coined in the industry to reflect the most celebrated and chicest locations along the Côte d'Azur.

The best place to begin a Mediterranean yacht charter is in Nice for itineraries along the coast and towards the Italian Riviera, with the majority of guests flying into Nice Airport before being chauffeured to its port or Antibes. Cannes Vieux Port (which is a mere 30-minute drive from Nice's Airport) is also popular if beginning further west towards Saint-Tropez .

Ibiza is also a popular starting point for Balearics charters, while Positano and Ajaccio are useful embarkation ports for Amalfi Coast and Corsica yacht charters respectively.

For East Mediterranean itineraries, Athens is a popular choice for charters around Greece's Aegean archipelagos, with the highest concentration of yacht rentals, while superyachts cruising the Ionian and Adriatic Coast tend to be flexible, with charters embarking from any number of popular destinations; from Venice  in Italy down to Corfu  in Greece's Ionian Islands.

The best off-the-beaten-track places to visit in France by yacht

Popular Marinas and Moorings in the Mediterranean

Aerial view of charter yachts moored in port

There are many marinas in the Mediterranean, but there are some, especially within the French and Italian Riviera that are highly coveted such as St Tropez and Portofino, which means mooring costs in this region in the summer tend to be highest and availability is often extremely limited.

If you would like to spend a night in port while on your charter yacht in the Mediterranean, be sure to make this clear to your crew or your charter broker well in advance, as there is strong competition for slips.

Below is our selection of some of the finest and most popular marinas in the Mediterranean:

French Riviera Marinas

  • Vieux Port de Cannes  and Port Pierre Canto in Cannes, both cater to all sizes of yachts and with 1,200 berths.
  • Port Cogolin  in Saint Tropez, which boasts 1,600 berths for yachts of up to 50m/164ft, and Port Vauban in Antibes, which caters to yachts up to a 165m/541ft LOA.
  • Port de Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat , located near the idyllic village of Villefranche-sur-Mer. This marina has 560 berths that can accommodate yachts up to 60m/197ft in length.

Italian Riviera Marinas

  • Marina di Loano , not far from the French border can accommodate 900 vessels up to 77m/252ft in length.
  • Porto Mirabello , in La Spezia caters to yachts of up to 100m/328ft, and a perfect point for exploring the region's jaw-droppingly pretty Cinque Terre.

Amalfi Coast Marinas

  • Marina di Stabia  is one of the most popular places to begin a yacht charter on the Amalfi Coast, and boasts luxury facilities and the capacity to host yachts measuring up to 100m.

Marina Piccola  in Sorrento has 280 berths, catering to yachts measuring up to 40m.

Corsica Marinas

  • Port Ajaccio Tino Rossi , the capital's largest marina, has 300 slips and caters to yachts of up to 100m/328ft
  • Port Calvi , located in the northwest with 150 berths for yachts up to 65m/213ft LOA.
  • Port de Plaisance Saint-Florent  ,a pretty marina tucked away in the north with 920 slips, and in close proximity to vineyards and the stunning Saleccia beach.

Popular Marinas in Greece

Kos Marina , close to the enchanting island's old harbor, this marina has a capacity for up to 250 berths with a maximum length of 80m.

Gouvia Marina , Corfu's most popular, situated in a secluded bay, with mooring of yachts of up to 80m, and boasts 1235 slips.

Athens Marina , accommodating 130 slips measuring up to 130m. Provides plenty of amenities on land, including a helipad service.

Popular Marinas in Croatia and Montenegro

  • D-Marin Mandalina (Šibenik) , an award-winning marina set between two national parks in a naturally protected lagoon, with 429 sea berths for yachts up to 140m LOA and all modern marina facilities.
  • ACI Marina Split , 5-star marina offering 318 protected berths, accommodating superyachts up to 90m LOA, in the heart of Croatia’s jewel.
  • Porto Montenegro , award-winning marina offering an array of five star facilities, including a vibrant marina village, upscale bars, restaurants, designer emporiums and high-end boutiques, and catering to yachts up to 250m LOA.

Popular Marinas in Turkey

Kaş Marina , recently developed and has capacity for 450 yachts.

D-Marin Marina , tucked away in protected natural cove minutes from central Göcek with a 380 slip capacity for yachts up to 70m.

Setur Antalya Marina , renowned superyacht marina, capacity reaches 235 yachts.

Where to End a Mediterranean Yacht Charter

Superyachts moored in Bonifacio port in Corsica

Portofino is one of the best places to disembark your Mediterranean yacht charter if you are embarking on the typical week-long yachting vacation along 'the milk run' (incorporating destinations in the French Riviera and Ligurian Coast). Guests usually take a helicopter back to Nice or Genoa airport.

For two-week-long Mediterranean charter vacations, Bonifacio is one of the most popular places to finish a private yacht charter in the Mediterranean due to its outstanding natural beauty. It boasts one of the most stunning port entrances in Europe, bordered by soaring limestone cliffs on one side, and on the other its impressive medieval old town teeters on a hilltop. Upon leaving, guests are chauffeured to nearby Ajaccio international airport.

For East Mediterranean charters, Athens is a popular disembarkation port, as well as Porto Montenegro and Dubrovnik or Split on the Adriatic Coast, all of which offer good transport links with international airports.

5 reasons to visit Corsica on a luxury yacht charter

How to Book Your Yacht Charter in the Mediterranean

Ibiza harbor with anchored yachts at sunset

If you want to book a yachting vacation in the Mediterranean, we strongly advise booking through a qualified  yacht charter broker at least three months in advance. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of securing your preferred dates and you will have a greater selection of yachts on offer to choose from.

This also ensures your yacht broker has enough time to craft a personalized itinerary and secure an overnight berth in the most popular marinas.

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Explore the Mediterranean

West Mediterranean Guide

Guide to West Mediterranean

East Mediterranean Guide

Guide to East Mediterranean

The mediterranean yacht charter itineraries.

Our extensive range of Mediterranean yacht charter itineraries has been carefully curated by industry experts to ensure your luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean is nothing short of magical. Browse our selection of itineraries by the number of days you intend to charter a yacht as well as the specific regions you are interested in.

If you are chartering a yacht in the Mediterranean for the first time, we strongly recommend the classic 7-day Mediterranean yacht charter route. Also known as the 'milk-run': a term coined by industry professionals to reflect the most refined locations along the Côte d'Azur, this itinerary begins in show-stopping St.Tropez, cruises towards the Italian Riviera and ends in sun-soaked Portofino. For 14-day luxury Mediterranean charters, incorporating Corsica into an itinerary is also a perennially popular choice.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Discover the Mediterranean

Shopping, Scenic coastlines, cultural attractions, fine dining, luxury and fashion, pretty villages, island discovery

When to Go:

May - September

  • Barcelona, Nice, Athens, Naples, Dubrovnik, Rome

Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Mediterranean 2024 & 2025

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CC-Summer Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

95m   Lurssen

from $1,732,000 p/week ♦︎

Christina O Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Christina O

Carinthia VII Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Carinthia VII

Flying Fox Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Flying Fox 22

136m Lurssen

136m   2019

from $4,446,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Kismet Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

122m Lurssen

122m   2024

from $3,000,000 p/w eek

Ahpo Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

115m Lurssen

115m   2021

from $2,895,000 p/w eek ♦︎

IJE Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

108m Benetti

108m   2019

from $2,001,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Dream Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

107m Olympic Yacht Services

107m   1997/2022

from $2,223,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Black Pearl Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Black Pearl 14

105m Oceanco

105m   2018

Christina O Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Christina O 34

99m Canadian Vickers

99m   1943/2020

from $778,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Carinthia VII Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Carinthia VII 12

97m Lurssen

97m   2002/2023

from $1,559,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Faith Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

97m Feadship

97m   2017/2022

from $1,778,000 p/w eek ♦︎

CC-Summer Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

CC-Summer 12

95m Lurssen

from $1,732,000 p/w eek ♦︎

O'Pari Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

95m Golden Yachts

from $1,190,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Whisper Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

from $1,334,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lady S Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

93m Feadship

from $1,556,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Tatoosh Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

92m Nobiskrug

92m   2000/2023

from $1,056,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Aquarius Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Aquarius 12

92m Feadship

from $1,500,000 p/w eek

Moonlight II Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Moonlight II 36

91m Neorion

91m   2005/2020

from $717,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Tranquility Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Tranquility 22

92m Oceanco

92m   2014/2023

from $1,100,000 p/w eek

Nero Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

90m Corsair Yachts

90m   2007/2021

from $497,000 p/w eek

Phoenix 2 Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Phoenix 2 12

90m Lurssen

90m   2010/2024

from $1,000,000 p/w eek

Athena Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

90m Royal Huisman

90m   2004/2024

from $324,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Dar Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

90m Oceanco

90m   2018/2024

Lauren L Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Lauren L 36

90m Cassens-Werft

90m   2002/2008

from $750,000 p/w eek ♦︎ *

Barbara Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

89m Oceanco

Maltese Falcon Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Maltese Falcon 12

88m Perini Navi

88m   2006/2023

from $490,000 p/w eek

Project X Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Project X 12

88m Golden Yachts

from $1,223,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Chakra Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m Scheepswerf Gebr. van der Werf

86m   1998/2024

from $531,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Man of Steel Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Man of Steel 12

86m Oceanco

86m   2010/2023

Aquila Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m Derecktor Shipyards

86m   2010/2021

from $945,000 p/w eek

HBC Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m Abeking & Rasmussen

86m   2009/2024

from $953,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Sunrays Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m   2010/2018

from $1,278,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Bold Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

85m SilverYachts

from $973,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Grand Ocean Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Grand Ocean 12

85m Blohm + Voss

85m   1990/2019

from $703,136 p/w eek

Meridian A Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Meridian A 12

85m Lurssen

85m   2011/2019

O'Ptasia Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

O'Ptasia 12

85m Golden Yachts

85m   2018/2024

from $1,000,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Solandge Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Solandge 12

85m   2013/2022

from $1,111,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Victorious Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Victorious 12

85m Ak Yachts

from $889,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Le Ponant Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Le Ponant 32

84m   1990/2022

from $506,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Savannah Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Savannah 12

84m Feadship

84m   2015/2020

Emir Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

83m Golden Yachts

83m   2004/2022

Romea Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

82m Abeking & Rasmussen

82m   2015/2021

Air Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

81m Feadship

81m   2011/2017

from $1,028,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Aalto Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

80m Oceanco

80m   2007/2019

from $861,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Elements Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Elements 12

80m Yachtley

Excellence Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Excellence 12

80m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $1,150,000 p/w eek

My Dragon Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

My Dragon 12

80m Columbus Yachts

from $945,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Tatiana Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

80m Bilgin Yachts

Mimtee Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

from $965,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Amaryllis Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Amaryllis 12

78m Abeking & Rasmussen

78m   2011/2022

from $770,000 p/w eek

Malia Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

78m Golden Yachts

78m   2023/2024

from $811,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Legend Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

77m IHC Verschure

77m   1974/2019

from $661,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Boadicea Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Boadicea 18

77m   1999/2024

from $645,000 p/w eek

Wheels Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

76m Oceanco

76m   2008/2019

from $878,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Cloudbreak Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Cloudbreak 22 6 12

75m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $834,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Kensho Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

75m Admiral Yachts

Arrow Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

75m Feadship

from $900,000 p/w eek *

M'Brace Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

from $880,000 p/w eek

Cocoa Bean Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Cocoa Bean 12

74m Trinity Yachts

74m   2014/2020

from $611,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Starburst IV Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Starburst IV 12

from $1,011,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Naia Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

74m Freire Shipyard

74m   2011/2014

from $595,000 p/w eek

Lady Vera Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Lady Vera 12

74m Nobiskrug

74m   2011/2023

Siren Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

74m   2008/2013

from $561,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Coral Ocean Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Coral Ocean 12

73m Lurssen

73m   1994/2022

from $724,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Laurel Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

73m Delta Marine

73m   2006/2015

from $525,000 p/w eek

Nautilus Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Nautilus 12

73m Picchiotti

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Mediterranean Yacht Charter Q&A

We advise booking your Mediterranean yacht rental at least three months in advance to ensure you get the yacht you desire. The longer you leave it, the fewer choices you will have to rent in the Mediterranean.

One of the wonderful aspects about renting a yacht in the Mediterranean is the exceedingly long season. For example in West Mediterranean locations like France, Spain and Italy, the best time to visit is usually from May until September. This balmy weather extends to well into October in East Mediterranean destinations like Greece, Croatia, Montenegro and Turkey.

For your Mediterranean superyacht charter, you will need to provide a completed charter agreement and 50% of the charter fee as a deposit. This is payable once the contract has been signed.

When booking a Mediterranean yacht rental, do keep in mind the costs that aren't included in the base rate, namely VAT and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). The APA is usually paid in advance of the charter and is commonly set at 30% of the charter fee. This allowance covers expenses such as fuel, berthing, food and drinks, as well as any special requests. 

Please consult your yacht charter broker for any other costs you may need to factor in for your yacht charter in the Mediterranean.

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The Ultimate Guide to Yachting Destinations in the Mediterranean

The Ultimate Guide to Yachting Destinations in the Mediterranean

Introduction to yachting in the mediterranean.

Welcome to our ultimate guide to yachting destinations in the Mediterranean! If you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply looking to explore the best of the Mediterranean, you’ve landed in the right place. The Mediterranean Sea, known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, is a paradise for yachting lovers. This guide will introduce you to the unique experiences that yachting in the Mediterranean has to offer. From the glamorous French Riviera to the ancient ruins of Greece, each destination has something special to offer. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey!

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Top Mediterranean Yachting Destinations

If you’re planning a yachting trip, the Mediterranean Sea is a treasure trove filled with stunning destinations. From the glamorous French Riviera, the crystal clear waters of the Greek Isles, to the rich history of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, each spot offers a unique yachting experience. The Mediterranean is also home to lesser-known gems like Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast and Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. This post will guide you through the top Mediterranean yachting destinations, providing key insights to help you choose the perfect spot for your next sailing adventure.

Understanding the Mediterranean Climate for Yachting

The Mediterranean climate sets the perfect stage for yachting adventures. Characterized by dry, hot summers and mild, wet winters, it offers optimal conditions for sailing. In summer, from June to August, the sea is calm and the winds are predictable, making it the ideal time for yachting. However, the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing the overall yachting experience. Understanding these seasonal patterns can help you plan your Mediterranean yachting trip to perfection.

The Best Time for Yachting in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean, with its azure waters and sunny climate, is a dream yachting destination. However, the best time for yachting in the Mediterranean is during the summer months, from May to October. During this period, the weather is warm and pleasant, with minimal chances of rain. It’s also the perfect time to explore the Mediterranean’s beautiful beaches, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. Keep in mind that the peak season is July and August, when the region gets quite crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider planning your trip in the shoulder months of May, June, September, or October.

Famous Yacht Routes in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea boasts some of the world’s most famous yacht routes. These routes are renowned for their stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and historical significance. The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a popular starting point for many yachting adventures. It offers a blend of glamorous destinations like Cannes and Saint-Tropez. The Amalfi Coast in Italy is another must-visit route, famous for its picturesque coastal towns and delicious cuisine. Then there’s the Greek Islands route, where you can explore the rich history and vibrant nightlife of destinations like Mykonos and Santorini. Each route offers a unique yachting experience, making the Mediterranean a paradise for any yacht enthusiast.

Essential Tips for Yachting in the Mediterranean

Experience the Mediterranean like never before through yachting. Firstly, choose the right yacht for your needs – this could be a sailboat, motor yacht or a luxury super yacht. Plan your route carefully, the Mediterranean offers a plethora of stunning destinations like the French Riviera, the Italian Amalfi Coast, or the Greek Islands. Always check the weather forecast before setting sail to ensure a smooth journey. Don’t forget to pack the essentials such as sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to protect yourself from the Mediterranean sun. Lastly, respect the sea and its wildlife by minimizing your environmental impact. Happy yachting!

Exploring Unique Mediterranean Cultures

The Mediterranean is more than just stunning azure waters and beautiful landscapes; it’s a melting pot of diverse, rich cultures waiting to be explored. From the vibrant Spanish flamenco to the tranquil Greek island life, each destination holds its own unique traditions and customs. As you sail through the Mediterranean, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in these cultures. You can dine on authentic Italian cuisine in Sicily, dance to traditional Turkish music in Bodrum, or explore the ancient ruins of Greece. Your yacht will be your passport to these unique experiences, making each stop a new adventure.

Food and Wine Experiences in the Mediterranean

If you’re a foodie and a wine lover, the Mediterranean offers you a culinary adventure like no other. The region is renowned worldwide for its unique, fresh, and flavorful cuisine. From savoring the fresh seafood in Greece, tasting the rich pasta dishes in Italy, indulging in the exotic spices of Moroccan cuisine, to sipping the world-class wines in the vineyards of France and Spain, the Mediterranean is a gastronomic paradise. Each destination is a feast for your senses, allowing you to immerse yourself in their rich culinary culture and traditions. So, as you plan your yachting adventure, prepare your palate for an unforgettable food and wine experience.

Luxury Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

Take a journey across the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean with luxury yacht charters . These charters provide an unrivaled experience that combines comfort, style, and the thrill of discovery. From the glamour of the French Riviera to the timeless beauty of the Greek Islands, you have an array of destinations to choose from. Enjoy the freedom to explore hidden coves, dine on world-class cuisine, or simply soak up the sun on the deck of a high-end yacht. It’s more than just travel, it’s a unique adventure that caters to your desire for luxury and exploration.

Conclusion: Planning Your Mediterranean Yachting Adventure

In conclusion, planning your Mediterranean yachting adventure can be an exhilarating task. It’s all about choosing the right destinations that offer a blend of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Remember to consider factors such as the season, your budget, and the type of experience you seek. Whether you want to explore the glamorous French Riviera, the picturesque Greek Islands, or the historic coasts of Italy, the Mediterranean has something to offer for every yacht enthusiast. With the right planning, your Mediterranean yachting adventure could be the trip of a lifetime!

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Mediterranean Private Yacht Charter Cruises

Best mediterranean private charter cruises for 2024-2025, classic croatian adventure, cruising greece, turkey & saudi arabia, private charter - venice and mantua cruise aboard la bella vita, private charter - canal du midi voyage - le somail to marseillan aboard anjodi, private yachts to charter in the mediterranean.

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8$5690The 8-passenger Anjodi Yacht carries guests through the picturesque countryside of France. Elegant cabins are cleverly-designed featuring hardwood … 0
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$25995Discover a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel aboard this glamorous limited-capacity yacht with … 0

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Sailing the Mediterranean: Your Complete Guide

The Mediterranean is famous for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful coastlines, and many ideal destinations. That...

Table of Contents

Table of contents, why sail the mediterranean, top mediterranean destinations for sailing, planning your mediterranean sailing trip, preparing your mediterranean sailing voyage, sailing the mediterranean onboard experience, sailing the mediterranean yacht brokers, sailing the mediterranean sustainable practices, frequently asked questions (faqs).

The Mediterranean is famous for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful coastlines, and many ideal destinations. That makes it perfect for yachting adventures. From ancient ruins in Greece to vibrant nightlife in Ibiza, sailing the Mediterranean combines historical exploration with modern luxury.

Sailing the Mediterranean

A. Diverse Destinations

Cultural richness and historical significance.

Explore rich cultural history, medieval towns in Italy, and bustling markets in Greece and Turkey. Offering unique experiences rich in heritage.

B. Ideal Sailing Conditions

Enjoy a mild climate year-round, predictable weather patterns, and favorable winds like the Meltemi and Mistral. That is perfect for sailing in spring and autumn.

C. Ease of Access

Major marinas like Monaco, Barcelona, and Dubrovnik offer top-notch facilities, with easy travel connections from global cities.

A. Western Mediterranean

French riviera: monaco, nice, cannes.

French Riviera : Monaco’s harbor, Nice’s Promenade des Anglais, and Cannes’ Film Festival.

Italian Riviera : Portofino’s charm and Cinque Terre’s UNESCO sites.

Balearic Islands : Mallorca’s beaches, Ibiza’s nightlife, and Menorca’s tranquility.

B. Central Mediterranean

Amalfi Coast : Capri’s luxury and Positano’s scenic views.

Sicily : Palermo’s markets and Taormina’s ancient theater.

Malta: Valletta’s history and Gozo’s natural beauty.

C. Eastern Mediterranean

Greek Islands : Mykonos and Santorini for nightlife, Rhodes and Kos for history.

Turkey : Bodrum’s castle and Marmaris’ Turquoise Coast.

Croatia : Dubrovnik’s medieval charm and Split’s Diocletian Palace.

A. Best Time to Sail

High season vs. low season.

The high season for sailing in the Mediterranean runs from July to August, offering warm weather and bustling ports. The low season runs from April to June and September to October. Have a quieter experience with fewer crowds and lower prices. Both seasons have their advantages, depending on your preferences.

Weather Considerations

The Mediterranean climate is generally mild, but weather can vary by region. Summers are hot and dry, while spring and autumn are cooler and less crowded. Always check local weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes, especially when sailing in open waters.

B. Choosing the Right Yacht

Types of yachts:.

Decide between motor yachts for large spaces and luxury or sailing yachts for a traditional experience. Both are available through as crewed luxury yacht charters .

C. Trip Planning

Craft routes tailored to your interests, balancing sailing with onshore activities. Exploring historical sites, island hopping, enjoying nightlife, or relaxing on secluded beaches.

D. Budgeting Your Trip

Consider yacht charter, crew, fuel, and mooring fees, provisions, and activities.

Tips for Cost-Effective Sailing

To sail cost-effectively, consider traveling during the low season when prices are lower. By being mindful of expenses, you can enjoy a memorable Mediterranean sailing trip without breaking the bank.

A. Legal and Documentation Requirements

Visas and passports.

Ensure your passport is up-to-date and valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Check the visa requirements for each country you plan to visit, as they vary.

B. Health and Safety

Vaccinations and medical preparations.

Consult your doctor about any necessary vaccinations and carry a basic first-aid kit. Include seasickness remedies, prescription medications, and essential over-the-counter drugs. Health insurance that covers international travel is also advisable for peace of mind.

Safety Equipment and Protocols

Make sure your yacht has life jackets, flares, a VHF radio, and other essential safety gear. Familiarize yourself with the yacht’s safety protocols and emergency procedures. Ensure everyone on board knows how to use the safety equipment and understands basic first-aid.

C. Packing Essentials

Clothing and gear.

Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather and cooler evenings. Include a waterproof jacket, non-slip shoes, swimwear, and a hat. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential for sun protection. For evenings ashore, a few smart-casual outfits are useful.

Navigation and Communication Tools

Bring updated nautical charts, a GPS device, and a compass. A reliable smartphone with navigation apps and international roaming capabilities is handy. Walkie-talkies or a satellite phone can be useful for communication in remote areas.

Food and Provisions

Stock up on non-perishable food items, snacks, and plenty of water. Plan meals and purchase fresh produce at local markets along your route. Consider the dietary needs and preferences of all on board. Always have extra supplies in case of unexpected delays.

A. Life on a Yacht

Daily routines and onboard activities.

Life on a yacht combines relaxation with adventure. Start your day trips with a refreshing swim or morning yoga on deck. Engage in water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or fishing.

Enjoy quiet afternoons sunbathing or reading. Evenings are perfect for stargazing or socializing with fellow travelers.

Dining and Local Culinary Experiences

Croatian Food

Dining on a yacht is a highlight of the journey. Enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared onboard or dine at waterfront restaurants when docked. Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with seafood, pasta, and regional delicacies. Share meals with your crew and guests, making each meal a memorable experience.

B. Top Onshore Excursions

Must-visit historical sites.

The Mediterranean is rich in history. Explore ancient ruins like the Acropolis in Greece, the Roman Colosseum in Italy, and medieval fortresses in Croatia. Each sailing destination offers a unique glimpse into the past, with guided tours providing deeper insights.

Local Culture and Traditions

Immerse yourself in local culture by exploring bustling markets, attending traditional festivals, and visiting museums. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza, the flamenco shows in Spain, and the wine tours in Italy. These cultural experiences enrich your journey and create lasting memories.

Best Beaches and Natural Attractions

The Mediterranean boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and natural attractions. Relax on the pristine sands of Sardinia, and explore the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Swim in the turquoise waters of the Greek Islands. Natural parks and marine reserves offer hiking and wildlife viewing, adding variety to your adventure.

A. Leading Yacht Charter Brokerage

Company profiles and offerings, ckim group: expertise and personalized services.

CKIM Group is a premier yacht charter brokerage, renowned for its expertise and personalized services. They offer a range of yachts and tailor each charter experience to meet individual client preferences and needs.

B. CKIM Group: Your Trusted Charter Broker

Overview of ckim group, history and reputation in the industry.

CKIM Group has a longstanding history in the yachting industry, earning a reputation for excellence and reliability. Their deep industry knowledge and commitment to client satisfaction have made them a trusted name among yacht charter enthusiasts.

Range of Services Offered

CKIM Group offers a comprehensive range of services, from yacht selection and tour planning to concierge services. They aim to make your charter experience seamless and enjoyable. Offering support from your first inquiry to the end of your voyage

Benefits of Using CKIM Group

Tailored yacht selection.

CKIM Group helps clients find the perfect yacht, tailored to their needs and preferences. Whether you want a luxurious motor yacht or a traditional sailing yacht , they have options to suit everyone.

Personalized Tours

CKIM Group specializes in creating personalized routes that highlight the best of the Mediterranean Sea. They take into account your interests, preferred destinations, and desired activities to craft a unique and memorable journey.

Comprehensive Support and Concierge Services

From booking to boarding, CKIM Group offers comprehensive support and concierge services. They handle all the details, including travel arrangements and provisioning. They also organize onshore excursions, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable sailing vacation.

C. Booking Your Yacht

How to choose a reputable broker.

When choosing a yacht broker, consider established companies with strong industry reputations. Look for positive client reviews, such as those for CKIM Group. They have extensive experience and a broad selection of yachts that meet your needs.

Online Booking

Many reputable brokers, including CKIM Group, offer online booking services. This allows you to browse available yachts, compare options, and book your charter conveniently from anywhere in the world.

Key Considerations When Booking

Consider the yacht’s size, amenities, and crew when booking. Ensure the tour aligns with your interests and check for hidden costs, fuel, or mooring fees. A reputable broker will provide clear and detailed information to help you make an informed decision. You can also check “ Cost to Charter A Yacht “.

D. Sailing the Mediterranean Special Offers and Discounts

Early booking discounts.

Take advantage of early booking discounts by planning your charter well in advance. CKIM Group offers reduced rates or special promos for clients who book their yachts months ahead of the departure date.

Being flexible with dates and destinations, last-minute deals can offer significant savings. Check with CKIM Group for any available last-minute offers. That can provide great value for a spontaneous yachting adventure.

A. Eco-friendly Yachting

Reducing carbon footprint.

To reduce your carbon footprint, consider using yachts with energy-efficient engines. Those powered by renewable energy sources like wind or solar. Limit engine use by sailing whenever possible and use eco-friendly products onboard. These practices help minimize the environmental impact of your voyage.

B. Protecting Marine Life while Sailing the Mediterranean

Avoiding sensitive areas.

Avoid sailing and anchoring in sensitive areas, such as marine protected zones and breeding grounds for aquatic animals. Respect no-go zones and follow local guidelines to help preserve these vital ecosystems. Awareness and caution are key to protecting marine life.

Sailing the Mediterranean promises a journey of a lifetime, blending history, culture, and natural beauty. Plan wisely, choose reputable services, and embrace eco-friendly practices for a memorable and sustainable yachting adventure. Set Sail and Explore!

How do I get started?

There are a few necessary parameters to consider. For example, what type of boat, your destination, the time of year, and who will accompany you. The questions below can help guide your thought process, and your CKIM yacht charter broker will assist in asking the right questions and providing the expertise to design the perfect experience for you.

What culinary experiences can I expect on a Mediterranean yacht charter?

The Mediterranean cuisine includes olive oil, fresh produce, fish, and whole grains, with regional specialties like pasta in Italy, kebabs in Turkey, and spinach pie in Greece.

What are the two culturally unique regions of the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean is divided into the Western Mediterranean and the Eastern Mediterranean, both known for their beautiful beaches, quiet coves, upscale marinas, and luxury yachts.

What is the Mediterranean known for in terms of yachting?

The Mediterranean is renowned for its sailing history and attracts numerous yacht charter vacations due to its culture, history, and sophisticated blue waters.

What types of yachts are available for charter in the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean offers a variety of yachts including motor yachts, superyachts, megayachts, traditional gulets, catamarans, sailboats, and sailing yachts like PANORAMA or AURELIUS.

When is the best time to charter a yacht in the Mediterranean?

While summer is the busiest season, late spring and early fall offer excellent conditions with fewer crowds and lower rates, especially in the off-season. The Mediterranean climate is suitable for yacht charting almost year-round.

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Let us deliver on your dream vacation.

Contact us to start a conversation about your dream vacation, and let us show you how we can help bring your vision to life through our exceptional yacht charter services.

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Western Mediterranean Yacht Charter

The Western Mediterranean is the world’s most popular destination for luxury yacht charter. Mediterranean glamour awaits - hop aboard.

Western Mediterranean Yacht Charter

The Western Mediterranean is the world’s most popular destination for motor yacht charter thanks to a combination of pleasant climate, beautiful coastlines, and vibrant history and cultures. A Western Mediterranean yacht charter can take you to the fascinating architecture of the Amalfi coast, the chic beach parties of the Cote d’Azur, the white sand beaches of Corsica or the refined island of Sardinia. The rich blend of the Mediterranean Sea, cuisine and wine will melt away any stress and leave you recharged. A well planned luxury yacht charter – Mediterranean style – will fuse all of the fun, adventure, and relaxation the Western Mediterranean has to offer.

Sold on a Western Mediterranean private yacht charter? Mediterranean adventure is something we can help with – contact our Moran team today!

Back to Destinations

Italian riviera, cote d'azur, spain & the balearics.

Italian Riviera Yacht Charters

The Italian Riviera, also known as the Ligurian Riviera, has long been a destination for the world’s rich and famous. Tucked between the Cote d’Azur and Tuscany, this narrow strip of land is home to famous locales such as Portofino, Cinque Terre, Bordighera, San Remo, and Genoa. The old-world flair, colorful buildings, and quaint fishing villages exude style and charm; it’s no wonder this is such a popular charter destination.

Cote d'Azur Yacht Charters

Also known as the French Riviera, the Cote d’Azur is a hub of new superyachts and private yacht charters. Mediterranean cities and towns such as Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Nice, Antibes, and the principality of Monaco have become world-renowned, with this sun-drenched area acting as the playground of the rich and famous. This beautiful stretch of coastline was one of the first destinations to be considered a “resort area” due to its great weather and idyllic landscapes.

Corsica Yacht Charters

Located approximately 160 km from the French mainland, this island’s culture is an amalgamation of the various foreign nations that have occupied Corsica over the years. The capital of Corsica is the city of Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, perhaps Corsica’s most infamous son. Corsica has about 1000 km of coastline, much of it accessible only by boat making it perfect for luxury yacht charter . Mediterranean cliffs and mountains cover much of the island and deliver scenery you will not soon forget.

Sardinia Yacht Charters

The island of Sardinia is the second largest in the Med and a very popular destination for luxury yacht charter. Mediterranean Costa Smeralda, translated to mean the Emerald Coast, is world-renowned for it’s turquoise seas, rugged landscape, and exclusive resorts and hotels. With its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, fantastic nightlife, and secret grottos to explore, Sardinia is certainly a yachter’s paradise.

Sicily Yacht Charters

The fabled land of Persephone and Aphrodite, Sicily has been enchanting visitors with its natural beauty for centuries. Located in the center of the Mediterranean, directly off the tip of the boot of Italy, this island has been host to the Greeks, Romans, Spanish, Arabs, Normans, and finally the Italians. This has left an indelible imprint not only on the architecture of the region, but on its people as well. With such a varied and rich history, culture, and scenery, Sicily is not to be missed.

Spain & The Balearics Yacht Charters

The Mediterranean coast of Spain and it’s Balearic islands offer a fantastic blend of old world culture, thriving nightlife, picturesque scenery, and fabulous cuisine for those on a private yacht charter. Mediterranean cruising will take you down to the islands of Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca for sunshine, hidden bays, old world charm, and secluded beaches. Best to stay off the beaten path to truly experience the essence of these islands. Discover ancient fishing villages for mouthwatering tapas and seafood.

Crewed Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

Book your luxury yacht charter.

Mediterranean yacht charter vacations are a popular summer choice. The French Riviera, Monaco, Italy, Croatia, Sardinia, Spain and Greece are all fashionable destinations. Many of the large crewed superyachts are concentrated in those areas and this is also where you'll discover a huge array of alluring places and cultures to experience.

The Med (as it is often shortened to) has everything a yacht charter vacation could look for. It is one of the largest sailing vacation areas in the world. The Mediterranean covers a large mix of countries, cultures, scenery and a rich diversity of places to visit. Many consider the Med as the embodiment of the yacht charter experience. The great advantage of the sailing in the Med is that they all are relatively close together, so you can create well planned and action-packed itineraries very conveniently.

Europe has dozens of magnificent marinas filled with exquisite private super yachts and mega yachts that can be chartered. The region offers an amazing and unique combination of pleasant weather, beautiful locations, engaging history, rich cultures and delicious food as well as all the shops, restaurants, bars you could want to visit. The popularity of the Mediterranean means it has an unbelievable choice of private charter boats available, sailing yachts and motor yachts of all sizes and levels of luxury.

Top Yacht Charter Destinations

Greece

Amalfi Coast

Turkey

Balearic Islands

Sicily

French & Italian Riviera

Corsica & Sardinia

Corsica & Sardinia

Top features.

Island Hopping

Greece is one of the world's most popular yachting destinations. The Cyclades, Ionian, and Saronic Island groups each have their own unique charms, drawing charter guests to return for new experiences. Read on to explore each of these areas.

Unspoiled Islands

Croatia is a popular yacht charter destination for good reason, with hundreds of pristine islands, stunning marinas, glamorous beaches and charming, historic towns.

Secluded Beaches

The Amalfi Coast, widely regarded as Italy's most picturesque coastline, attracts the most affluent visitors due to its breathtaking scenery of cobblestone streets lined with colorful villas, mountains covered in greenery, and the cobalt blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Ancient Cities

While on your next yacht charter to the cosmopolitan and astonishing Turkey, there is plenty to take in and explore, from delightful beaches and lagoons to ancient sites and vibrant towns.

Slow-paced Islands

The Balearic Islands are a beautiful and diverse archipelago that make for a dreamy yacht charter vacation, with some areas only accessible by boat. This stunning group of islands is home to numerous alluring beaches, historic towns, and luxury nightlife spots.

Boutique Shopping

Sicily is the epitome of a Mediterranean summer vacation, with its picturesque coastline punctuated by beautiful fine sand beaches, lovely fishing villages, and a mountainous interior scented with lemon groves and pine forests.

Fashion

The Riviera is a section of coastline between Cannes in France and La Spezia in Italy, offering such mild winters and gloriously hot summers that it’s the perfect spot in the Mediterranean for a vacation spent aboard a glamorous yacht. While the activities and events you can get up to are wide-ranging, it’s wise to do your research and make your selections well ahead of time for shore visits.

Fishing Villages

A Corsica & Sardinia yacht charter is the best way to experience this distinctive combination of class and charm, which is influenced by both French and Italian cultures, and which can be found in the cuisine, architecture, and dialect.

Fully Crewed Yachts in this area

CHRISTAL MIO

CHRISTAL MIO

Sleeps 10 guests in 5 Cabins

Size: 67 Ft

SAMARA

Sleeps 8 guests in 4 Cabins

Size: 80 Ft

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After Yacht Sinks, Experts Say Mediterranean Growing More Dangerous

Reuters

Rescue personnel work in the area where a luxury yacht sank, off the coast of Porticello, near the Sicilian city of Palermo, Italy, August 20, 2024. REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane

By Antonella Cinelli and Gavin Jones

ROME (Reuters) - The shipwreck of a luxury yacht moored off the coast of Sicily is the latest sign that the Mediterranean is becoming a more dangerous sea to sail in, climate experts and skippers say.

One man died and six people are still missing, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, after the Bayesian, a 56-metre-long (184-ft) sailboat, was hit by a ferocious storm on Monday, sinking in a matter of minutes.

Climatologists say global warming is making such violent and unexpected tempests more frequent in a sea used as a summer playground for millions of tourists, including a wealthy few sailing its waters on superyachts.

Luca Mercalli, president of Italy's meteorological society, said the sea surface temperature around Sicily in the days leading up to the shipwreck was about 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), almost three degrees more than normal.

"This creates an enormous source of energy that contributes to these storms," he told Reuters.

The changes in "Mare Nostrum" (Our Sea), as the ancient Romans called the Mediterranean, are also being noticed by experienced skippers such as Massimo Aramu, who runs the Akua sailing school on the coast near the Italian capital.

Currently sailing around Greece, Aramu said he did not like navigating Italy's Tyrrhenian coast around Sicily or the Spanish Balearic islands because there are "often critical situations with little warning".

Last week, a storm similar to the one that sank the Bayesian hit the Balearic archipelago, which includes the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca, leaving several yachts washed up ashore.

Giuliano Gallo, a former skipper who crossed the Atlantic and has written several books on sailing, said the Mediterranean was becoming more like the Caribbean, which has areas that many boats steer clear of at certain times of the year.

"But things are less predictable in the Mediterranean," he said.

Another sign of the more erratic weather in the Mediterranean was seen a year ago when thousands of people were killed in Libya by flash floods triggered by a so-called medicane - a supercharged Mediterranean storm fuelled by warmer seas.

Karsten Borner, the captain of a boat that was moored alongside the Bayesian but escaped harm, said Monday's storm had been "very violent, very intense, a lot of water and I think a turning system like a tornado".

He also blamed more frequent episodes of intense heat during the summer months for playing a role in causing such storms.

"The water is ... way too hot for the Mediterranean and this causes for sure heavy storms, like we had one week ago on the Balearics, like we had two years ago in Corsica and so on," he said.

(Additional reporting by Gavin Jones and Giselda Vagnoni; Writing by Gavin Jones; Editing by Crispian Balmer and Helen Popper)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Superyacht captain investigated on suspicion of manslaughter after deadly sinking

ROME — A multiple manslaughter investigation has been launched into the captain of a superyacht that sank in a violent storm off Sicily , killing British tech magnate Mike Lynch and five other people, his lawyer has told NBC News.

James Cutfield is also being investigated on suspicion of causing a shipwreck, the lawyer, Giovanni Rizzuti, said in a telephone conversation on Monday. He added that Sicilian prosecutors will question Cutfield, 51, again Tuesday.

In a separate interview Tuesday, Rizzuti said that Cutfield was expected to be questioned by prosecutors at around 3 p.m. local time (9 a.m. ET) at the hotel where the captain, crew and survivors have been staying following the shipwreck.

Being placed under investigation in Italy does not imply guilt and does not mean formal charges will necessarily follow. Notices to people under investigation need to be sent out before authorities can carry out the autopsies on the bodies of the dead.

It is unclear whether other members of the crew of the $40 million Bayesian or any other people will also be put under investigation along with Cutfield, a New Zealand national.

After the luxury 180-foot vessel went down early last Monday, 15 of the 22 people onboard survived and were rescued from the waters off Porticello, a small fishing port off northern Sicily.

The body of Recaldo Thomas, a Canadian Antiguan national who was the ship’s cook, was recovered shortly after the ship went down.

A massive search effort was then launched for Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter, Hannah, as well as Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International and the British insurance firm Hiscox, and his wife, Judy; and a well-known New York City defense attorney, Christopher Morvillo, and his wife, Neda.

All of their bodies were eventually pulled from the wreck.

The Bayesian was owned by a firm linked to Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, who was one of the 15 people rescued after it capsized in what Italian officials called a “violent storm.”

Built by Italian shipbuilder Perini Navi in 2008, the U.K.-registered Bayesian could carry 12 guests and a crew of up to 10, according to online specialist yacht sites. Its nearly 250-foot mast was the tallest aluminum sailing mast in the world, according to CharterWorld Luxury Yacht Charters.

Lynch, who was regularly described in U.K. media as “Britain’s Bill Gates,” was acquitted by a San Francisco jury of fraud charges stemming from the 2011 sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard for $11 billion.

The Mediterranean sailing vacation was designed to be a celebration for Lynch, who took along those who appeared in his defense in U.S. court.

Announcing the opening of a manslaughter investigation at a news conference Saturday, prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio said the sinking could have been caused by “behaviors that were not in order.”

Claudio Lavanga reported from Rome and Henry Austin from London.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

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yachting trips mediterranean

A tornado sank a luxury sailing boat off the coast of Sicily. Here’s what we know

E mergency workers in southern Italy are still hunting for at least one person who remains missing after a tornado sank a luxury yacht early Monday – prompting an air and naval operation off the coast of Sicily .

Twenty-two people are thought to have been on the yacht when the tragedy struck. Fifteen people were rescued from the wreckage, according to Italy’s Coast Guard. One body was recovered on Monday and five more were found on Wednesday, after divers struggled to reach deep inside the yacht around 50 meters underwater (approximately 150 feet).

Two Americans and four Britons were among the six initially reported missing – including British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and Chris Morvillo, a prominent lawyer. The five bodies found Wednesday have not been identified, while the body recovered Monday is thought to be that of the onboard chef Ricardo Thomas.

Here’s what we know.

What happened?

A small waterspout – a type of tornado – spun over the Mediterranean island early Monday, likely capsizing the sailing boat amid lashings of rain and strong thunderstorms.

The British-flagged yacht, called the “Bayesian,” was anchored about a half a mile from the port of Porticello, on Sicily’s northern coast. The vessel sank after its mast broke in half in the storm, Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily’s Civil Protection, told CNN on Tuesday.

Eyewitnesses described furious gales and hurricane-like winds that left an avalanche of debris near the pier.

More than a dozen survivors were spotted in the area hanging onto life rafts, according to the captain of a nearby boat, who steadied his ship to avoid colliding with the Bayesian.

“We got this strong hurricane gust and we had to start the engine to keep the ship in an angled position,” Karsten Bower told reporters in Palermo on Monday. “After the storm was over, we noticed that the ship behind us was gone.”

Bower and his crew rescued four injured people, he said, before calling Italy’s Coast Guard – who later rescued the remaining survivors.

One of those rescued – a child – was airlifted to the children’s hospital in Palermo. Eight people were hospitalized in total, according to the mayor’s office.

The girl’s mother, Charlotte, described how she battled to hold onto Sofia, her 1-year-old daughter, as reported by Italian news agency ANSA.

“In two seconds I lost the baby in the sea, then I immediately hugged her again amidst the fury of the waves. I held her tightly, close to me, while the sea was stormy,” she told journalists. “Many were screaming.”

The mother and daughter were later reunited with the father, James, according to a doctor at the local children’s hospital in Palermo.

“The survivors are very tired and are constantly asking about the missing people,” the doctor, Domenico Cipolla, said Monday. “They are talking and crying all the time because they have realized that there is little hope of finding their friends alive.”

Italy’s fire brigade dispatched helicopters to aid in the search, officials said Monday. After an unsuccessful attempt on Monday, the brigade sent divers to try and enter the sunken ship Tuesday, recommencing the operation on Wednesday.

The depth of the wreck means divers can only work there for limited periods of time, according to Marco Tilotta, an inspector for the diving unit of Palermo’s local fire brigade. The Italian fire brigade said Monday its divers had reached the yacht’s hull 49 meters (160 feet) below sea level.

The United Kingdom’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said it has deployed a team of four inspectors to Palermo which is conducting a preliminary assessment of the scene.

Who was on board?

Twenty-two people were on board the Bayesian, which was flying under a British flag and had mostly British passengers and crew, in addition to two Anglo-French, one Irish and one Sri Lankan person, a spokesperson for Italy’s Coast Guard told CNN.

A troupe of high-profile guests are among those missing, including Lynch, the 59-year-old British tech investor who fought a fraud case earlier this year in the United States – which spiraled from the disastrous $11 billion sale of his company to tech firm Hewlett-Packard (HP) in 2011.

His 18-year-old daughter was also named missing. Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, survived the accident. Bacares told Italian daily newspaper La Repubblica that she woke up at 4 a.m. local time, as the boat tilted. She and her husband were not initially concerned, she said, but became worried when the windows of the yacht shattered and chaos erupted.

Bacares spoke to the newspaper while sitting in a wheelchair, at a hospital in the Sicilian town of Termini Imerese. She had abrasions on her feet and bandages on other parts of her body, it reported.

Bloomer, the finance tycoon, and Morvillo, a prominent lawyer – and both their wives – are also among the missing, according to Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily’s Civil Protection.

Morvillo, an American partner at Clifford Chance, was involved in successfully defeating the US fraud case against Lynch in June. Another employee of the firm, Ayla Ronald, and her partner, survived the incident, according to a spokesperson for Clifford Chance.

The body that was recovered from the vessel on Monday was identified as the onboard chef Ricardo Thomas, an Antiguan citizen, Reuters reported.

What do we know about the boat?

Built in 2008, the 56-meter (184-foot) yacht was manufactured by Italian company Perini Navi, Reuters reported. According to the Associated Press, the boat has been available for charter for $215,000 (€195,000) per week.

Lynch’s wife is linked to the yacht. The Bayesian is held by the company Revtom Limited, according to records from the maritime information service Equasis. The company’s latest annual return from April lists Bacares as the proprietor.

“Bayesian,” the name given to the vessel, is linked to the statistical theory on which Lynch built his fortune, according to Reuters.

The yacht’s mast stood 72.27 meters (237 feet) high above the designated water line, just short of the world’s tallest mast which is 75.2 meters, according to Guinness World Records. It was the tallest aluminium mast in the world, the Perini Navi website said.

Perini Navi is known for making “good quality boats,” according to Caroline White, deputy editor of BOAT International, a media group serving the superyacht industry.

White told CNN that if the Bayesian dismasted, “it should theoretically become more stable.” “But it might be a different story if you are in the middle of a violent storm with incredibly strong winds pinning you to the water,” she added.

Dangerous weather conditions

Strong storms across Sicily brought torrential rainfall late Sunday. Initial reports suggest a small  waterspout , which developed over the area Monday morning, could have been behind the yacht’s sinking.

Waterspouts – one of several types of tornadoes – are spinning columns of air that form over water, or move from land out to water. They are often accompanied by  high winds, high seas, hail and dangerous lightning . While they are most common over tropical oceans, they can form almost anywhere.

Matthew Schanck, chair of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, told CNN that while waterspouts in Sicily are rare, “there is a risk” they can happen – just not every day.

Waterspouts rely on warm waters to gain energy and the Mediterranean Sea has been very hot, reaching a record  daily median of 28.9 degrees Celsius  (84 Fahrenheit) last week, according to preliminary data from researchers at the Institute of Marine Sciences in Spain.

Local temperatures have been even higher, with waters around Sicily reaching almost 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), almost 3 degrees more than normal, Italian climatologist Luca Mercalli told CNN.

“Warmer oceans have more energy and more humidity to transfer to the atmosphere, the most important fuels for storms,” he said.

CNN’s Laura Paddison, Louis Mian, Benjamin Brown, Catherine Nicholls, Sabrina Souza, Niamh Kennedy and Eve Brennan contributed reporting.

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Divers jump into the sea to search for six people missing in Sicily, southern Italy, on Monday. - Handout/Vigili del Fuoco/Reuters

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Sailors warned as experts say the Mediterranean is only going to become more deadly

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The tragic shipwreck of a luxury yacht moored off the coast of Sicily is the latest sign that the Mediterranean is becoming a more dangerous sea to sail in, those who know the waters best have said

One man died and six people are still missing, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch , after the Bayesian, a 56-metre-long (184-ft) sailboat, was hit by a ferocious storm on Monday, sinking in a matter of minutes.

The coast guard said bad weather had been forecast, but added that it was more virulent than expected. Some locals spoke of a waterspout, or sea whirlwind, of exceptional force. “It was a strange thing,” fisherman Andrea Carini told Reuters. The Bayesian was at anchor, its sails down, when the tempest hit, with another yacht moored nearby.

Climatologists say global warming is making such violent and unexpected tempests more frequent in a sea used as a summer playground for millions of tourists , including a wealthy few sailing its waters on superyachts.

A rescue boat of the Vigili del Fuoco, the Italian Corps. of Firefighters operates off Porticello near Palermo, on August 20, 2024 a day after the British-flagged luxury yacht Bayesian sank

Luca Mercalli, president of Italy’s meteorological society, said the sea surface temperature around Sicily in the days leading up to the shipwreck was about 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), almost three degrees more than normal.

“This creates an enormous source of energy that contributes to these storms,” he told Reuters.

The changes in “Mare Nostrum” (Our Sea), as the ancient Romans called the Mediterranean, are also being noticed by experienced skippers such as Massimo Aramu, who runs the Akua sailing school on the coast near the Italian capital.

Map showing where superyacht sank off Sicily

Currently sailing around Greece, Aramu said he did not like navigating Italy’s Tyrrhenian coast around Sicily or the Spanish Balearic islands because there are “often critical situations with little warning”.

Last week, a storm similar to the one that sank the Bayesian hit the Balearic archipelago, which includes the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca, leaving several yachts washed up ashore.

A view of a flooded beach in Soller, Mallorca island, Balearics, Spain, 15 August 2024

Giuliano Gallo, a former skipper who crossed the Atlantic and has written several books on sailing, said the Mediterranean was becoming more like the Caribbean, which has areas that many boats steer clear of at certain times of the year.

“But things are less predictable in the Mediterranean,” he said.

This week, in many areas of Greece, sailors have been hit by extreme heat followed by thunderstorms that saw thousands of lightning strikes. A video has also gone viral of a waterspout, similar to that seen near the tragedy in Sicily, off the coast of the island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea.

It was captured by a British tourist on holiday.

Another sign of the more erratic weather in the Mediterranean was seen a year ago when thousands of people were killed in Libya by flash floods triggered by a so-called medicane - a supercharged Mediterranean storm fuelled by warmer seas.

Karsten Borner, the captain of a boat that was moored alongside the Bayesian but escaped harm, said Monday’s storm had been “very violent, very intense, a lot of water and I think a turning system like a tornado”.

He also blamed more frequent episodes of intense heat during the summer months for playing a role in causing such storms.

“The water is ... way too hot for the Mediterranean and this causes for sure heavy storms, like we had one week ago on the Balearics, like we had two years ago in Corsica and so on,” he said.

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