Best yacht charter destinations for 2016

Relaxing on a yacht and floating in the ocean sound like a pretty perfect way to spend your time. The freedom of the open water and the impressive beauty of the land from the sea makes sailing one of the best ways to travel. But when the world is your oyster, how do you choose where to go? Here’s our list of the best yacht charter destinations for 2016.
Seychelles
When most people think of the Seychelles they get a vision of shimmering white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and bright sunshine. The good news is that’s all true, but you might not know that the Seychelles is a truly spectacular destination for yacht chartering. Comprising more than 100 islands, there’s almost an unlimited range of stunning sights to see.
The water is beautifully clear, there are jaw-dropping scuba diving sites and the weather is absolutely perfect for days spent hopping between the islands. The large island of Mahe is well worth exploring too with a range of mountainous hiking trails to match its world-class silvery sand beaches.
Croatia
Part adventurous, part relaxing, sailing off Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is a very special experience. There are more than a thousand island sprinkled across this section of the Adriatic Sea offering wild beauty, perfect sailing conditions and amazing island hopping experiences.
The favourite destination in the area is the stunning port city of Split. This is a perfect place to moor a yacht and take in the charming atmosphere and impressive architecture of Croatia’s second largest city. This truly is an ideal place to enjoy a stretch on dry land in between your sailing exploits.
St Vincent and the Grenadines
St Vincent and the Grenadines might sound like a dodgy 70s funk band, but it’s actually a gorgeous archipelago nation of 32 paradise islands in the southern Caribbean. The filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean, this is a truly exceptional place to sail.
The famously clear water of the Caribbean Sea combined with dramatic mountain scenery and forest-covered islands, offers some of the most stunning views in the world. And the fact that most of the islands are uninhabited also creates a lovely sense of serenity and privacy.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Truly the best way to see Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast is from the water on a beautiful yacht. With rugged cliffs, pretty coastal towns and absurdly beautiful sunsets, this charming section of Italy is an unforgettable place to be.
Like much of Italy, the Amalfi Coast is home to wonderful restaurants and a range of must-see historical sites. So when you’re on land here you’ll have some great experiences to look forward to.
British Virgin Islands
The BVIs are famous even amongst the (frankly spoiled) people of the Caribbean as a joyous place to sail. As well as virtually perfect sailing conditions, lovely clear water and impressive scenery, you’ll find excellent harbours and fine golden beaches.
For those who like to explore the underwater world, the BVIs have a famous diversity of reefs and shipwreck sights, ideal whether you’re an experienced diver or just a curious snorkeller. This is a great place to relax and just go wherever the current takes you – enjoy the laidback Caribbean attitude.
Thailand
Thailand has so many incredible destinations for yachting it starts to feel a bit unfair. Phuket might be the most famous with its dream-like combination of wonderful sailing conditions and paradise beachfront. Perfect whether you’re looking for beach parties, scuba diving, swimming or exploring, this area of the country has something for everyone.
Thailand is also famous for its range of islands, giving sailors an enormous variety of opportunities to find their own personal paradise.