Mediterranean Summer 2021: Which Countries Are Open to Yacht Charters?
Summer in the Mediterranean is hotting up, and more and more countries are flinging open their doors to tourists. And of all those clamouring for a much needed and long-awaited summer holiday, yacht charter guests are top of most country’s lists. With their inherent ability to socially distance and their strict hygiene protocols, there are few safer places for a holiday. All over the Med, yachts are primed and ready for a packed summer season of cruising along glorious coastlines and anchoring in picturesque coves. Offering the utmost in luxury, the freedom to explore, toy lockers packed with the latest water toys, and crews whose sole mission is to make a charter utterly unforgettable, it is little surprise that the charter industry is seeing one of its busiest booms. While countries get back on their feet after the pandemic, we take a look at those who are welcoming charter guests back with open arms, and what experiences await you there.
CROATIA & MONTENEGRO
Croatia and Montenegro are leading the pack when it comes to getting geared up for a luxury superyacht season. With several simple ways to prove your COVID status to choose from – from a PCR test 48 hours before travel, to a vaccination certificate – and a fleet of waiting yachts, they are making it as straightforward as possible to get cruising.
Croatia and Montenegro are fast becoming the darlings of the Mediterranean, their stunning coastlines and hundreds of islands offering seclusion, traditional life or upmarket towns in equal abundance. In the south, Montenegro’s swanky Kotor Marina and Croatia’s UNESCO –designated Dubrovnik are just the beginning. Cruise along the Dalmatian Coast or northern Adriatic to experience ancient cities, spectacular national parks and time-honoured islands.
Explore Croatia and Montenegro on board M/Y QUARANTA 34.10m
FRENCH RIVIERA
The French Riviera is the quintessential luxury superyacht destination, its glamour and beauty having been recognised for decades. While France has had a more cautious post-COVID opening than some other countries on this list, the good news is that as spring turns to summer its borders are opening and along with them the world-famous beach restaurants and bars.
While visitors heading ashore can expect some restrictions, the French Riviera charm is back with abundance. The sun is shining, the beaches golden and the cities that line its shores – Nice, Antibes, St Tropez, Marseilles and Cannes – full of their usual joie de vivre. Interspersed with staggering coastal beauty and steeped in Cote d’Azur charm, the French Riviera remains as alluring as it has always been.
Explore the French Riviera on board M/Y MY SECRET 46.70m
BALEARICS
The Balearic Islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera need little introduction, their status as one of the Mediterranean’s best-loved yacht charter destinations firmly established. Spain has opened its doors to tourists in 2021, great news for those who have been dreaming of the exquisite cuisine, the rocky coastlines, the golden beaches and the charming culture.
While this year might be a mellower affair, with Ibiza not set to have its usual blow-out nightclubs, the Balearics have plenty to offer. This is your chance to experience the Caribbean-style beauty of tiny Formentera without the crowds, to discover Menorca’s private coves of azure blue, and to hike the stunning coastal path along Mallorca’s great Tramuntana Mountains. As with everywhere, while some restrictions might still be in place, the good news is that the island’s restaurants, cafés, spas, shops and markets are all open to be enjoyed.
Explore the Balearics on board M/Y LEMON NOT LIME 24.7m
AMALFI, ITALY
Italy too is open for tourism this summer, and where better for a luxury superyacht charter than the Amalfi Coast? This pretty corner of Italy is best viewed from a yacht, where the bougainvillea-draped villages, dramatic cliffs and upmarket resorts are perfectly picturesque. Visit the volcanic island of Ischia, trendy Capri, or chic Amalfi for a taste of old-time glamour.
Italy’s restaurants, boutiques, cafes and historic sites are opening back up from May, so trips to the UNESCO-designated Roman site of Pompeii, or long evenings in the clifftop town of Ravello are back on the agenda. A quick cruise to the Aeolian Islands completes an unforgettable charter itinerary, where the red lava of the Stromboli Volcano adds drama to the otherwise tranquil and irrepressibly pretty islands.
Explore the Amalfi coast on board M/Y APOGEE 62.5m
Greece
Greece is another top Mediterranean destination who, thanks to the global vaccination programme, is able to once again open their beautiful doors to visitors from both the EU and beyond. From May 14th 2021, and with a negative PCR test, proof of vaccination or proof recovery from the virus, you can be cruising through Greece’s dreamy islands on board a luxury superyacht.
The destination choices are endless, from the charisma of the seven Ionian Islands – including Corfu, Kefalonia and Zakynthos – to the Cyclades – home to Mykonos, Santorini and Naxos – or the Dodecanese in the far south, each island exudes its own history, charm and appeal. Restaurants, cafes and bars will be open for business, so start dreaming of those glorious Greek dinners spent watching the sunset.
Explore Greece on board M/Y MOKA 50.81m
Demand for the Mediterranean’s best superyachts is high this summer, so don’t delay in getting your charter booked now. With our stress-free booking promise, and flexible cancellation policies you can do so with complete peace of mind. Our brokers are on hand to walk you through the entire booking process, and to ensure you feel safe, confident and taken care of. Contact us today to check availabilities.
Summer 2021 is here…don’t miss out!