Chartering a yacht and gliding across Europe’s crystal‑blue waters is one of the most magical holiday experiences imaginable. Not only do you get to unwind in serene open seas, but you also step ashore in some of the continent’s most fascinating coastal towns, historical ports, island hideaways, and gourmet dining scenes. Whether you seek laid-back island hopping, glamorous nightlife, or cultural immersion, these top destinations deliver unforgettable yachting holidays.
1. The Dalmatian Coast (Croatia)
Why go?
This stretch of coastline, from Split and Dubrovnik, boasts over 1,000 islands, secluded bays, UNESCO sites, and vibrant nightlife on Hvar and Brac. It’s been dubbed Europe’s “next cruising hot spot”, seeing a 10.2 % rise in tourist arrivals by October 2024.
- Must-see anchorages: Hvar town, Vis and the Blue Cave, Mljet National Park, the Elaphiti Isles.
- History and culture: Dubrovnik’s Old City, Korčula’s medieval architecture, UNESCO-listed.
- Events: Add the Adriatic Boat Show in Šibenik to your itinerary (usually in early summer) to witness Croatia’s marine industry and yacht innovations in action.
Insider tip: Book early for July/August routes to snag premium spots during Sail Croatia’s Ultra Flotilla Week, which coincides with the Ultra Music Festival in Split.
2. The South of France and Côte d’Azur
Why go?
The South of France remains the epicentre of European yachting culture, with lots of premieres, celebrities, and superyachts between St. Tropez, Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes.
- Ports to love: Monte Carlo, Cannes, Saint‑Tropez, Cap d’Antibes.
- Glamour and culture: Rolex Fastnet Race starts at Cowes, but the Riviera’s marina parties, Cannes Film Festival and Monaco GP are yachting magnet events.
- Quiet alternatives: Pull into Èze or Villefranche-sur-Mer for a peaceful yet chic experience.
Pro tip: Visit in late May or September to avoid summer crowds; marinas are less busy, yet the climate remains ideal.
3. The Italian Riviera and Amalfi Coast
Why go?
From Portofino to Positano, the Italian Riviera offers picture-perfect coastal landscapes, superb Italian cuisine, and legendary charm.
- Routes: San Remo → Portofino → Cinque Terre (La Spezia) → Amalfi Coast (Capri, Positano, Amalfi).
- UNESCO coastline: Amalfi’s colourful cliff‑side villages and ancient Roman/Gothic architecture make it a bucket‑list yachting route.
- Industry strength: Italy builds half the world’s superyachts and is investing in marina infrastructure, though registration, etc., remains challenging.
- Smart planning: Tie your charter to the Genoa International Boat Show to catch a glimpse of the future of yachting design and technology.
4. The Greek Islands (Cyclades, Ionian, Saronic Islands)
Why go?
Greece offers unmatched island-hopping diversity: white‑washed Santorini cliffs, the emerald bays of the Ionian Sea, and mellow island culture. It remains a top charter spot.
- Cyclades highlights: Mykonos for nightlife, Santorini for views, and Milos and Folegandros for serenity.
- Ionian gems: Saronic group (Aegina, Poros, Hydra) for minimal daily sailing and proximity to Athens; Ionian Islands like Kefalonia and Paxos for quiet beauty.
- Local flavour: Complimentary Greek cooking, pistachio-rich desserts in Aegina, coral‑bright bays and cultural amphitheatres await.
How to Choose the Right Destination for Your Charter
A. Match your trip type to the location
- Culture, walking, and food lovers → Dalmatian Coast, Amalfi Coast, Greek islands.
- Luxury, nightlife, and glamour → South of France and Monaco.
B. Season and climate
- Mediterranean and Croatia: Ideal from April to October.
- Off-peak months (May, September) offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists.
- Greece’s Meltemi winds (July-August) are ideal for sailing but may be strong for beginners.
Sample Yachting Routes and Highlight Destinations
Croatia (Dalmatian Coast)
A classic 7–10 day route might look like this:
- Start in Split
- Sail to Brac for beach coves and watersports
- Head to Hvar for vibrant nightlife and scenic promenades
- Visit Vis and the famous Blue Cave
- Drop anchor at Korčula for medieval charm
- Finish in Dubrovnik with its UNESCO-listed Old Town
Highlights: Mljet National Park, secret anchorages, local wine tasting, and centuries-old fortresses.
French Riviera (South of France)
A luxurious itinerary could include:
- Depart from Antibes
- Explore Cannes and its famous bay
- Stop at Saint-Tropez for high-end beach clubs
- Cruise to Monaco for glamour and casinos
- Wind down in Èze or Villefranche-sur-Mer for tranquillity
Highlights: Michelin-starred restaurants, high-end shopping, iconic marinas, and celebrity spotting.
Greek Cyclades (Greece)
For a mix of culture and island charm:
- Begin in Mykonos with its nightlife and beaches
- Sail to Naxos for authentic Greek villages
- Anchor in Santorini for volcanic views and sunsets
- End in Folegandros for peace and postcard-perfect scenery
Highlights: Whitewashed buildings, seaside tavernas, ancient ruins, and deep-blue waters.
Italian Riviera and Amalfi Coast
For stunning scenery, romantic ports, and world-class cuisine:
- Start in San Remo or Portofino for charm and luxury
- Head south to Cinque Terre, with five colourful cliffside villages
- Continue to La Spezia or Elba for a more relaxed vibe
- Sail past Naples to the Amalfi Coast, stopping at Capri, Positano, and Amalfi
Highlights: UNESCO-listed coastline, Italian seafood, wine tasting, cliffside villas, and glamorous piazzas.
Yacht Transport Solutions to Europe with SG Haulage
At SG Haulage, we have 25 years of haulage expertise and specialise in transporting yachts, canal boats, and caravans across Europe. Whether you need to relocate your yacht to Spain, Portugal, or France, we handle:
- Route planning and customs logistics
- Heavy‑lift transport for yachts up to superyacht size
- Safe delivery to major Mediterranean marinas
Visit us at Plot 9, Saxilby Enterprise Park, Lincoln LN1 2LR, call 01522 702 443, or email info@sghaulage.com for tailored yacht transport solutions. Let’s ensure your vessel arrives ready for the charter season in style.
Final Thoughts
From the historic Adriatic islands of Croatia to the chic harbours of the French Riviera, the postcard-perfect Amalfi coast, and serene Greek isles, Europe’s yachting destinations offer something for every travel style.
With SG Haulage seamlessly transporting your yacht across borders, your next yachting adventure, from chartering perfection in Europe to docking in style, is already in motion. Are you ready to set sail?