There is something about the allure of travelling under sail that makes a sailing yacht or catamaran an irresistible choice for many charter clients. With sailing widely regarded as the purest form of yachting, chartering a luxury sailing superyacht is a truly unforgettable experience. At the same time, luxury catamarans, renowned for their expansive capacity, stability, and dual power systems, are popular charter yachts among those seeking a luxurious sailing experience. The IYC charter fleet includes a range of sailing yachts and catamarans to choose from, with different sizes and types on offer. From family-friendly cruisers to racing-focused performance craft, there is a choice for everyone. So why should you consider opting for a sailing yacht or catamaran for your next charter? Here are our top tips on why a sailing charter is such a magical experience.
Luxurious comfort
While it is true that many motoryachts have more space than the average sailing yacht of the same size, what is also true is that there is no need for a compromise on comfort and space with a modern sailing superyacht. With large spaces, inside and out, and generous living areas, sailing yachts are cleverly designed and boast large spaces and sumptuous outfitting. Built by one of the most iconic sailing yacht builders, Almyra II, a 164’ (50m) Perini Navi has all the qualities of a sailing yacht, including award-winning performance, yet is as luxurious as a motoryacht with large on board spaces – truly the best of both worlds. In 2022 she underwent a substantial multi-million dollar refit and offers the glamour of a classic sailing yacht with the luxury of a modern motorsailer.
Regatta thrills
Performance focused yachts are perfect for experiencing the incomparable regatta atmosphere, racing on azure waters for victory against other competitive superyachts. With a busy calendar of regatta events to time a charter around there are plenty of options for charter guests wanting to experience a sailing regatta. 131’ (39.93m) Aristarchos is the largest yacht ever built by acclaimed sailing yacht builder Nautor’s Swan and boasts sleek looks and impressive performance credentials when racing under sail. Meanwhile Almyra II also has impressive racing credentials. There is something majestic about watching a large superyacht cutting through the water with ease with its huge sails unfurled – gazing upwards, it is easy to appreciate why modern sailing yachts are such a marvel of design.
On-water living
Being on board a sailing yacht allows guests the feeling of being close to the water and able to appreciate the sensation of true on-water living. Guests can relax on sweeping decks, dangle their legs in the water, or take in the views from a comfortable cockpit. With large decks, there are plenty of spaces to take advantage when on board a sailing yacht, for socialising, relaxing, dining or more. A yacht that cleverly blends luxury and performance for on-water living is 100'7"/30.65m Black Lion, which stands out for her panoramic views, contemporary interior and exceptional engineering – take advantage of the yacht’s ample deck spaces. 76'/23.16m Admiral Gigreca, is a luxurious vessel that combines sleek lines and superior performance under sail and engine. She is tailored for fast cruising and luxurious comfort, providing an exciting sailing experience without sacrificing style or comfort.
Comfortable, stable cruising to shallow waters
Luxury catamarans are increasingly becoming the charter yacht of choice due to their many advantages, including capacity, stability, and a combination of motor and sail power. These vessels boast large hulls that provide guests with a spacious interior, complete with guest cabins and expansive exterior decks, in addition to a separate hull reserved exclusively for crew and operations. With the ability to traverse shallow waters, and their capacity for greater speed than traditional sailing vessels, catamaran yachts provide an exciting way to experience a yacht charter. The 75’6" (23.06m) Luxury Catamaran Sameli is designed to deliver an unparalleled sailing experience, boasting double the speed of other models of its kind, providing an unforgettable charter journey. Constructed with the utmost attention to detail, and refitted in 2023 she features a tranquil atmosphere inspired by the minimalist designs of acclaimed architect and yacht designer Apostolos Molindris.
Low-impact yachting
Sailing yachts have a much lower impact than their motoryacht cousins, making them an efficient and low-impact yachting choice. Guests can enjoy the stillness and beauty of their surroundings as their charter yacht silently glides through the water, marvelling at how a sailing yacht harnesses the power of the wind. The use of sails helps minimize the impact on beautiful cruising grounds. A capacity for sail power, as opposed to sole reliance on motor power, also means that sailing yachts are often able to travel further than motoryachts, giving them access to a wider range of destinations.
With so many reasons to charter a sailing or luxury catamaran yacht, you can be sure of a special experience on board.
To find out more about luxury sailing yachts available for charter click here. To view a selection of luxury catamarans, available in one of the world's top yachting destinations Greece, click here.
Talk to the IYC charter team today about crafting your own bespoke sailing charter. To contact us click here.