Undiscovered Paradise: Timor-Leste

If you are looking for something entirely unique, Timor-Leste, located on the eastern half of Timor Island in Southeast Asia, is an undiscovered yachting paradise. This rugged, mountainous region is known for its diverse and rich cultural heritage and gin-clear and nutrient-dense waters, perfect for watersports. 

Timor-Lester remains largely untouched by mass tourism, meaning it offers a pristine environment that hasn’t yet been widely explored by yachts. Whether you are looking for expeditions in the jungle, idyllic and empty beaches to enjoy, or cruising to uninhabited islands and plenty of opportunity for some of the world’s best scuba diving, Timor-Leste delivers. The summer months, from May to November, are best as the dry season brings ideal cruising weather. 

Perfect Seclusion: Milos, Greece

Greece is a popular Mediterranean yacht charter destination for the summer, so if you are looking for something more secluded and less busy than the go-to Santorini and Mykonos, then Milos is the perfect alternative. This island at the southernmost tip of the Cyclades archipelago is known for its dramatic landscapes, clear waters, unique rock formations, and white sandy beaches. 

With almost 80 of the beaches and coves to discover only accessed by boat, a yacht charter here is the perfect vacation. Enjoy relaxing days onboard with the water toys and explore the ancient caves and natural hot springs ashore. Milos is ideal to include in a wider Cyclades yacht charter itinerary. 

Nature’s Frontier: Alaska

The iconic Inside Passage in Alaska offers the perfect off-the-beaten-track itinerary for a true sense of wild and unspoiled beauty. Hailed as the ‘Last Frontier,’ the region is for those seeking raw, untamed landscapes and peaceful isolation on the water. 

Alaska is home to some of the world’s most stunning scenery, from snow-capped peaks and fjords carved by glaciers to serene waters. The landscapes give rise to a range of activities to enjoy on a yacht charter here, kayaking while watching bears snatching at salmon, guided hiking ashore with eagles circling above to birds-eye view and private helicopter tours. The prime time to visit is late June onwards, offering long days and peak bear season. 
 

Volcanic Adventures: The Azores

Flung around 1,600 kilometers off the coast of Portugal and in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, you will find the Azores. A regular stopover for yachts crossing the Atlantic but not yet a busy charter destination, these volcanic islands offer dramatic coastlines and lush scenery. 

With plenty to do here across the nine islands, there is huge scope for an adventurous itinerary, from soaking in hot springs, volcanic hiking, visiting caldera lakes, and mountain biking to dolphin spotting and watersports. 

Arctic Escape: Lofoten Islands, Norway

Norway has recently been featured on various yacht charter bucket lists thanks to its dramatic and iconic scenery with mirror-like fjords, impressive mountains, and stunning glaciers. Summer is the perfect time to charter here with Norway’s famous midnight sun, giving you endless daylight to soak up the region’s beauty. 

Located above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands provide a perfect itinerary where you can enjoy anchorages alone and experience jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. You can explore the island’s remote and sandy beaches and waters ideal for paddling, hike through dramatic terrain, and visit quaint fishing villages. The area is also known for its abundant marine life, including whales, dolphins, and seabirds to spot as you cruise by.

Idyllic Anchorages: Kornati Islands, Croatia

The Kornati Islands, located just off the Dalmatian Coast, are perfect for those seeking a quieter yacht charter in Croatia while still enjoying the region’s natural beauty. This national park boasts 89 islands, islets, and reefs, providing you with endless opportunities for more secluded anchorages and locations to explore. 

With few residents and largely unexplored by most, the islands offer an ideal mix of activities: hiking the dramatic cliffs, diving under the water, relaxing on the endless sandy beaches, and anchoring in tranquil bays. Ashore, there are plenty of family-run tavernas where you can enjoy fresh seafood lunches in the most authentic way. 

Marine Wonderland: Gulf of California

Situated between the Baja California Peninsula and Mexico’s mainland is the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), a stretch of sheltered sea with over 240 islands is ideal for a summer yachting vacation. Dubbed “the aquarium of the world” by Jacques Cousteau, the region is one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems; this region boasts spectacular scuba diving and sport fishing opportunities. 

Whether you relax onboard, dive into the watersports, or explore the beaches and desert landscapes ashore, the Gulf of California has plenty of anchorages and spots to enjoy without the crowds. Island Espiritu Santo is one of the many amazing secluded locations for fishing, while the Parque Nacional Bahia di Loreto offers endless snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. 

Island Hideaway: Pantelleria, Italy

Just 100 kilometers from Sicily, the volcanic island of Pantelleria provides a more peaceful and authentic Mediterranean yacht charter. The landscape offers plenty to do here, from touring the many vineyards on the island, swimming in a volcanic crater, soaking in a hot spring, to visiting iconic rock formations. 

Due to the island’s proximity to Tunisia’s east coast, the North African influences here will make you feel like you are far from Italy, with arid landscapes and distinct architecture native to the island. Anchoring in the many secluded bays and coves, a yacht charter is perfect for exploring here; Pantelleria can also be included in a wider Sicily yacht charter itinerary. 

These destinations are perfect for an off-the-beaten-track yacht charter itinerary this summer, from the Mediterranean to further afield. Contact our expert consultants to learn about the available yachts for charter in these top destinations and to create a bespoke itinerary.