SUN, SEA AND SECLUSION: YACHTING AWAY FROM THE CROWDS

September 2, 2020

THIS YEAR, TRADE CROWDED STREETS FOR NATURE TRAILS AND BUSY RESTAURANTS FOR PRIVATE BEACH BARBEQUES – A YACHTING HOLIDAY IS THE PERFECT WAY TO EXPERIENCE AN OUTSTANDING ESCAPE AWAY FROM THE CROWDS.

Whether on a private yacht or as part of a yacht charter holiday, flexibility and variety have long been benefits of luxury yachting. While most summer charters usually give guests the opportunity to experience bustling towns, popular historical sites and vibrant nightlife, social distancing and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic have prompted many to rethink their travel plans. This year, trade crowded streets for quiet nature trails and busy restaurants for private beach barbeques – a yachting holiday is the perfect way to experience an outstanding escape away from the crowds.

At One with Nature

Take a break from busy ports and congested towns this year. Many popular yachting destinations are also close to fantastic national parks and nature reserves where you can find a huge array of fascinating flora and fauna with hardly a soul in sight.

Where?

Croatia is home to a wealth of stunning national parks. Swim in the waterfalls at Krka, visit the salt lakes at Mljet or climb to the top for outstanding views at Paklenica.

In southern France, the Provençal delta of Camargue boasts a rugged beauty and huge variety of wildlife. The ancient Camargue horse is indigenous to the region and can be spotted roaming the marshland and beaches, while flamingos are one of the many species of birds that can be seen here.

Explore the Water

Water sports are always a popular yachting activity and offer the perfect opportunity to explore the waters around you. With everything from Jetskis, stand-up-paddleboards (SUPs), snorkelling equipment and more coming as standard on many yachts, the ocean is your playground.

Where?

In Mallorca, explore Cova de Coloms, near Cala Romántica. Drop anchor and swim or kayak to these fascinating caves, where you will discover natural underground lakes and one-of-a-kind rock formations.

La Maddalena National Park, off the north coast of Sardinia, is home to over 30 dive and snorkelling sites of all levels. The archipelago’s waters are inhabited by an awesome variety of sea life including moray eels, lobsters, barracudas and octopus.

Beachside Dining

Yachting allows you to experience fine dining every night, with many yacht chefs having honed their skills at some of the best restaurants around the world. Even so, guests will normally dine out at least once during their yachting holiday for a change of scenery and to experience local cuisine. This year, why not create your own private restaurant? Your crew can set up a private barbeque or romantic meal for two on a secluded beach, with top-class food prepared by your chef using fresh local ingredients.

Where?

The Bahamas and Caribbean boast an untold number of secret beaches perfect for a private dining experience. In the Grenadines, the private island of Canouan is a hidden gem with a secluded white sand beach.

In the Greek Cyclades Islands, bypass busy Mykonos and instead head to nearly deserted Rineia where you can set up the barbeque and have the beach to yourself.

A Private Tasting

Summer yachting in the Mediterranean isn’t complete until you’ve sampled the local wines. Instead of travelling to the vineyards, ask your Captain to enlist a private sommelier to put together a selection of the finest local wines for a private onboard tasting. Take it one step further with cooking classes from your highly-trained yacht chef, perfect for learning about wine pairings.

Where?

Cruising the coast of Italy offers so many opportunities to sample outstanding local wines, from the traditionally famous wines of the Cinque Terre and Tuscany, to the more recent popularity of Sicily and Mount Etna.

In northern Croatia, the relatively undiscovered Istrian winemaking region is one of the oldest in Europe and produces a wide range of wines using local and international grape varieties.

Open-Air Cinema

While nightlife is a big draw for many yacht charterers, a large number of bars and nightclubs will remain closed this year due to ongoing social distancing requirements. Try something a little more laid back with an open-air cinema on deck – your crew can set up the ultimate viewing party complete with cosy blankets, a fully stocked bar and your favourite movie snacks. Take it one step further by matching the film to your destination for a totally immersive experience.

Where?

Sing along to Mamma Mia in Greece, re-enact Pirates of the Caribbean in St Vincent & the Grenadines, or take in the classic Blue Lagoon in Fiji.

For more information on booking the ultimate secluded superyacht getaway, please contact us.