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2,317  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Mediterranean

Mediterranean Yacht Charter

A Mediterranean yacht charter offers an exceedingly rich mixture of cultures, history and landscapes amongst the world's most popular yacht rental destinations. Home to iconic luxury charter locations like the sun-dappled French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast , and innumerable island paradises found in Greece , Croatia and Turkey , a yacht charter in the Mediterranean offers a range of picturesque cruising grounds bound to whet the appetite of any yacht charter guest.

Enclosed by three continents, the Mediterranean's exciting fusion of modern metropolises, sun-soaked beaches, archaeological delights and pleasant year-round weather provide the foundation for an unforgettable charter vacation. And thanks to the region's insatiable popularity, there is a wealth of choice when it comes to renting a yacht in the Mediterranean. Luxury motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans and even gulet charters can all be rented in these epic cruising grounds.

There is also a spectacular array of yacht charter itinerary options in the Mediterranean too, meaning whether you are looking to unwind or turn up the party dial to the max, there is something for everyone.

Mediterranean Yacht Charters: At a Glance

landscape view of popular charter destination Santorini in Greece

  • Cinematic landscapes  Make up the show-stoppingly beautiful jigsaw that is the Mediterranean. From cosmopolitan thrills to blindingly white beaches and eyepopping blue waters, the choice is all yours.
  • Easily accessible The Mediterranean is extremely well-connected to the US and most worldwide destinations, ensuring you travel with ease.
  • Long cruising season Warm temperatures extend well into October in East Mediterranean destinations like Croatia, Greece and Turkey.
  • Endless adventure and entertainment The Mediterranean is full of intrigue: it's an island-hopping, diving and snorkelling wonderland, a designer shopping mecca, and home to some of the world's most glamorous events. Simply put, the Mediterranean is the place to see and be seen.
  • Top-end superyacht marinas The region has some of the most sought-after berth slips in the world, replete with state-of-the-art facilities, hip boutiques and restaurants, as well as jaw-dropping panoramas aplenty, of course.

Why Greece is the perfect superyacht charter destination

Popular Destinations for Yacht Rentals in the Mediterranean

superyacht destination porto cervo and one of its beaches with crystal clear waters

Luxury yacht charters in the Mediterranean are divided into two distinct cruising grounds. The West Mediterranean has been the superyacht hotspot du jour for decades, with the most popular yacht rental destinations undeniably being the South of France, Monaco ,  Italy , Sardinia, Corsica and the Ibiza. Diverse and exciting, these countries offer some of the finest cuisines, architecture, cities, and coastlines to be found in the region.

But East Mediterranean yacht rental destinations like Greece and  Turkey are also buzzing with charter activity, thanks to their incredible culture and history, spellbinding anchorages and boundless islands that make for a rip-roaring yacht charter itinerary. Montenegro and Croatia yacht charters are also becoming increasingly in-demand, with a number of state-of-the-art superyacht marinas having been developed in recent years adding to their attractiveness.

Popular West Mediterranean Regions

There are some locations that garner considerably more attention for superyacht vacations in the Mediterranean than others, which means we highly recommend you book as far in advance as possible if you are considering any of these cruising grounds.

The most popular West Mediterranean yacht charter locations are:

  • The French Riviera: comprising a glittering medley of some of the world's most glamorous hotspots like Saint Tropez , Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco, think world-class restaurants, night-time revelry and endlessly alluring bays and beaches to choose from.
  • The Italian Riviera:  places like Portofino and Cinque Terre are adored for their pastel-perfect villages, otherworldly vistas, and incomparable cuisine.
  • The Amalfi Coast: the heavenly towns of Positano, Sorrento, Ravello and the island of Capri make a yacht charter here an intoxicatingly beautiful experience.
  • Ibiza : international party capital and an upscale bohemian hotspot, Ibiza 's appeal endures.

Popular East Mediterranean Regions

The most popular East Mediterranean yacht charter locations include:

  • Cyclades Islands: the most popular yachting destination in Greece, with a staggering 220 islands to cruise to, including hedonist haven Mykonos , romantic Santorini, and myriad archeological delights in Delos.
  • Ionian Islands : an idyllic Greek island-chain promising pine-scented beauty and serene coves at every turn, with highlights being Corfu, Ithica and Cephalonia.
  • Dubrovnik and Hvar: Croatian cities steeped in historical significance with ample cultural highlights, plus balmy weather all-summer-long late into the season.
  • Bodrum: a vibrant port city in southwestern Turkey thrumming with life, packed with ultra-chic bars, beach clubs and restaurants and topaz-coloured bays.

5 reasons to visit Ravello on your Amalfi Coast yacht charter

Highlights of a Mediterranean Yacht Charter

cinque terre colourful houses in italy

A Mediterranean yacht rental vacation offers a mesmerizing selection of things to see and do. Here is our small selection of some of the most outstanding:

Don't Miss:

  • Cinque Terre:  a string of sorbet-coloured fishing towns carved into the hills overlooking the sea in Italy.

Porto Cervo:  a luxury-lovers nirvana, with its high-end shops and designer emporiums close to the main port.

Promenade de la Croisette,  in Cannes: one of the most famous avenues in the world; peppered with high-end boutiques and Belle Époque hotels.

The Blue Grotto:  a stunning semi-submerged cave in Capri where the light refracts the sunlight from outside creating an optical illusion.

Hotel Splendido:  head to Portofino for sundowners and to try out one of their world-famous peach bellinis.

Porto-Vecchio:  Corsica's most charming town.

Porquerolles : oft-cited as the best island in the French Riviera renowned for its crystal clear waters and fragrant forests.

Îles d'Hyères : one of the best anchorage spots in the South of France.

Les Voiles : world-famous sailing regatta that takes place in Saint Tropez in September.

Villefranche-sur-Mer : postcard-perfect French fishing village.

Casino de Monte-Carlo : set pulses racing at this Belle Époque glory in the heart of Monaco. 

Monaco Yacht Show : one of the most important events in the yachting calendar.

Shipwreck Beach  (Navagio Beach): legendary beach in Greece, famous for the large shipwreck lying on the sand.

Nammos : come to this landmark beach club in Greece for a night of uber-luxe revelry amid the world's gliteratti.

Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn):  located on the southern coast of Brač, Croatia regularly listed as one of the top beaches in Europe.

Diocletian’s Palace, Split : UNESCO site within the walls of Split’s historic and thriving town.

Who Goes on a Mediterranean Yacht Charter?

amalfi coast beyonce

The cultural heartbeat of the rich and famous in the summertime, the Mediterranean has long been welcoming the jet set to its sun-drenched shores. Well-to-do hedonists and socialites enjoy the beach club buzz, designer boutiques and glittering throng of exclusive events found in hotspots like the South of France and Monaco, where some of the most important dates in the calendar year like the Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival also take place.

Equally, with an outstanding array of tranquil beaches, bays and inlets to explore, the Mediterranean is also a veritable nirvana for families or those simply seeking serenity on their yacht charter vacation.

History and Culture

Ancient ruins at sunset in charter location greece

The Mediterranean sea is connected to the Atlantic Ocean, bordering more than 22 different countries, and over 3,000 islands, the largest two being the Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia.  Its name comes from two Latin words: 'Medius” (Middle) and “Terra” (Earth/Soil), roughly translated as the center of the Earth, and the sea itself is thought to be more than 5 million years old.

In terms of Mediterranean culture, there isn't a one size fits all approach — each and every country in the region has their own. But we can say that there are some overarching themes: an appreciation of the finer things in life being one of them: of nature and of cuisine.

Types of Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

A luxury crewed  yacht rental vacation in the Mediterranean is without a doubt the best way to lap up the natural splendor of this magical region, offering you access to a dizzying array of splendid spots far from the typical tourist trail. 

With an extensive selection of vessels available to choose from, the perfect yacht for you and your charter party is destined to be out there. Unsure whether a crewed motor yacht charter, sailing yacht charter, or in some cases, a gulet charter will work best for you? We've laid out the main aspects to consider before making a final decision.

Motor Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

range of charter motor yachts docked at portofino,italy

A crewed motor yacht charter  in the Mediterranean is the epitome of luxury. With seven-star amenities and hotel-serviced living coupled with a completely unrivaled level of privacy, it's no wonder a motor yacht has evergreen appeal. Uncover awe-inspiring that are only accessible by boat, and experience what it's like to have your own floating palace.

There is a huge variety of Mediterranean motor yachts available, from 100m superyachts with all the latest charter-focused amenities to small speedy weekend cruisers, or somewhere in between. But do keep in mind when selecting your motor yacht that slips here are in high demand during the summertime, which means it's more likely you will spend time at anchor.

As for yacht types, those with planing hulls are perfect if you want to zip through locations at speed quickly. However, they are usually less stable at anchor. 

Displacement and semi-displacement hulls are slower and make up most of the global charter fleet, They are more comfortable, voluminous, and more stable with at anchor stabilizers. 

Sailing Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean

marina in porto cervo italy

Selecting a luxury crewed  sailing yacht charter in the Mediterranean is a wonderful choice for guests looking for a slower vacation pace, where you will be wooed by the sailing yacht's old-school charm. Plus, with most sailing conditions in the Mediterranean being extremely favorable, typified by calm seas and light winds (apart from the Meltemi at certain times in Turkey and Greece), this is absolutely a sailing paradise.

And with an extensive selection of catamarans, monohulls and racer sailers available, it won't be difficult to find a charter sailing yacht in the Mediterranean that will meet your requirements.

Gulet Charters in the Mediterranean

Turkish Gulets blue water cruising

In  Turkey  & Croatia you also have an additional charter option: the possibility of renting a gulet  with a full crew. Gulets are traditionally Turkish-built wooden motor sailor yachts which are usually much larger in volume than your average sailing yacht, with an abundance of open-plan living spaces.

Turkish gulet yachts are less expensive than other charter vessels of the same size, and can often offer all-inclusive or semi-inclusive packages, meaning you don’t need to worry about additional expenses such as food and drink. They also normally include a standard number of cruising hours per day.  Plus, their crew are often local to the region that they cruise in, meaning they can double as tour guides and can provide a lot of valuable expertise.

You can visit Greek Islands on your Turkish gulet charter vacation, but you will need to embark and disembark in a port in Turkey unless it has a Greek Charter Licence - which is very rare. 

Gulets are not available in the West Mediterranean cruising areas.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht in the Mediterranean?

The average price of a motor yacht or sailing yacht rental in the Mediterranean will depend on several factors, including the vessel's age, type, crew, as well as the duration of the vacation and whether it is high or low season.

With so many options available, there’s something to suit every type of budget. For convenience we have listed the average prices for motor yacht and sailing yacht charters in the Mediterranean below;

  • For motor yacht rentals in the Mediterranean, prices can range from $31,541 to $1.6m per week, plus expenses
  • For luxury sailing yacht rentals in the Mediterranean, prices can go from $20,491 to $532,784 weekly, plus expenses

One aspect to keep in mind is that there are important distinctions to be made between the average costs for West Mediterranean and East Mediterranean yachting vacations. While exact costs can vary from yacht to yacht, typically, West Mediterranean yacht charters will involve newer, larger vessels and include a high-quality, international workforce, and therefore tend to usually incur higher prices. Meanwhile, East Mediterranean yacht charters will usually use older vessels and feature highly knowledgeable local crews. 

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When is the Best Time for Mediterranean Yacht Charters?

Traditional colourful Greek fishing boats in Pythagorion port, Samos island, Greece

The best time for a yachting vacation on the Mediterranean is between May and August, although weather is still pleasant in the shoulder months of April and September, with some East Mediterranean locations experiencing high temperatures well into October (Croatia, Turkey, Greece).

Yacht charter guests in the Mediterranean during these months can expect mellow seas, cloudless skies  long, sunbaked days and low rainfall.

However, if you are looking to evade the crowds and the heat, avoid July and August.

Where Should I Begin My Mediterranean Yacht Charter?

iconic yacht rental destination french riviera

France is by far the most popular starting point for the classic "Mediterranean milk-run charter" route (Saint Tropez to Portofino), with this term coined in the industry to reflect the most celebrated and chicest locations along the Côte d'Azur.

The best place to begin a Mediterranean yacht charter is in Nice for itineraries along the coast and towards the Italian Riviera, with the majority of guests flying into Nice Airport before being chauffeured to its port or Antibes. Cannes Vieux Port (which is a mere 30-minute drive from Nice's Airport) is also popular if beginning further west towards Saint-Tropez .

Ibiza is also a popular starting point for Balearics charters, while Positano and Ajaccio are useful embarkation ports for Amalfi Coast and Corsica yacht charters respectively.

For East Mediterranean itineraries, Athens is a popular choice for charters around Greece's Aegean archipelagos, with the highest concentration of yacht rentals, while superyachts cruising the Ionian and Adriatic Coast tend to be flexible, with charters embarking from any number of popular destinations; from Venice  in Italy down to Corfu  in Greece's Ionian Islands.

The best off-the-beaten-track places to visit in France by yacht

Popular Marinas and Moorings in the Mediterranean

Aerial view of charter yachts moored in port

There are many marinas in the Mediterranean, but there are some, especially within the French and Italian Riviera that are highly coveted such as St Tropez and Portofino, which means mooring costs in this region in the summer tend to be highest and availability is often extremely limited.

If you would like to spend a night in port while on your charter yacht in the Mediterranean, be sure to make this clear to your crew or your charter broker well in advance, as there is strong competition for slips.

Below is our selection of some of the finest and most popular marinas in the Mediterranean:

French Riviera Marinas

  • Vieux Port de Cannes  and Port Pierre Canto in Cannes, both cater to all sizes of yachts and with 1,200 berths.
  • Port Cogolin  in Saint Tropez, which boasts 1,600 berths for yachts of up to 50m/164ft, and Port Vauban in Antibes, which caters to yachts up to a 165m/541ft LOA.
  • Port de Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat , located near the idyllic village of Villefranche-sur-Mer. This marina has 560 berths that can accommodate yachts up to 60m/197ft in length.

Italian Riviera Marinas

  • Marina di Loano , not far from the French border can accommodate 900 vessels up to 77m/252ft in length.
  • Porto Mirabello , in La Spezia caters to yachts of up to 100m/328ft, and a perfect point for exploring the region's jaw-droppingly pretty Cinque Terre.

Amalfi Coast Marinas

  • Marina di Stabia  is one of the most popular places to begin a yacht charter on the Amalfi Coast, and boasts luxury facilities and the capacity to host yachts measuring up to 100m.

Marina Piccola  in Sorrento has 280 berths, catering to yachts measuring up to 40m.

Corsica Marinas

  • Port Ajaccio Tino Rossi , the capital's largest marina, has 300 slips and caters to yachts of up to 100m/328ft
  • Port Calvi , located in the northwest with 150 berths for yachts up to 65m/213ft LOA.
  • Port de Plaisance Saint-Florent  ,a pretty marina tucked away in the north with 920 slips, and in close proximity to vineyards and the stunning Saleccia beach.

Popular Marinas in Greece

Kos Marina , close to the enchanting island's old harbor, this marina has a capacity for up to 250 berths with a maximum length of 80m.

Gouvia Marina , Corfu's most popular, situated in a secluded bay, with mooring of yachts of up to 80m, and boasts 1235 slips.

Athens Marina , accommodating 130 slips measuring up to 130m. Provides plenty of amenities on land, including a helipad service.

Popular Marinas in Croatia and Montenegro

  • D-Marin Mandalina (Šibenik) , an award-winning marina set between two national parks in a naturally protected lagoon, with 429 sea berths for yachts up to 140m LOA and all modern marina facilities.
  • ACI Marina Split , 5-star marina offering 318 protected berths, accommodating superyachts up to 90m LOA, in the heart of Croatia’s jewel.
  • Porto Montenegro , award-winning marina offering an array of five star facilities, including a vibrant marina village, upscale bars, restaurants, designer emporiums and high-end boutiques, and catering to yachts up to 250m LOA.

Popular Marinas in Turkey

Kaş Marina , recently developed and has capacity for 450 yachts.

D-Marin Marina , tucked away in protected natural cove minutes from central Göcek with a 380 slip capacity for yachts up to 70m.

Setur Antalya Marina , renowned superyacht marina, capacity reaches 235 yachts.

Where to End a Mediterranean Yacht Charter

Superyachts moored in Bonifacio port in Corsica

Portofino is one of the best places to disembark your Mediterranean yacht charter if you are embarking on the typical week-long yachting vacation along 'the milk run' (incorporating destinations in the French Riviera and Ligurian Coast). Guests usually take a helicopter back to Nice or Genoa airport.

For two-week-long Mediterranean charter vacations, Bonifacio is one of the most popular places to finish a private yacht charter in the Mediterranean due to its outstanding natural beauty. It boasts one of the most stunning port entrances in Europe, bordered by soaring limestone cliffs on one side, and on the other its impressive medieval old town teeters on a hilltop. Upon leaving, guests are chauffeured to nearby Ajaccio international airport.

For East Mediterranean charters, Athens is a popular disembarkation port, as well as Porto Montenegro and Dubrovnik or Split on the Adriatic Coast, all of which offer good transport links with international airports.

5 reasons to visit Corsica on a luxury yacht charter

How to Book Your Yacht Charter in the Mediterranean

Ibiza harbor with anchored yachts at sunset

If you want to book a yachting vacation in the Mediterranean, we strongly advise booking through a qualified  yacht charter broker at least three months in advance. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of securing your preferred dates and you will have a greater selection of yachts on offer to choose from.

This also ensures your yacht broker has enough time to craft a personalized itinerary and secure an overnight berth in the most popular marinas.

Start Planning - Speak with a Charter Expert

Our yacht charter experts will:

  • Discuss your vacation plans
  • Check availability & shortlist suitable yachts
  • Negotiate booking & prepare your itinerary

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Explore the Mediterranean

West Mediterranean Guide

Guide to West Mediterranean

East Mediterranean Guide

Guide to East Mediterranean

The mediterranean yacht charter itineraries.

Our extensive range of Mediterranean yacht charter itineraries has been carefully curated by industry experts to ensure your luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean is nothing short of magical. Browse our selection of itineraries by the number of days you intend to charter a yacht as well as the specific regions you are interested in.

If you are chartering a yacht in the Mediterranean for the first time, we strongly recommend the classic 7-day Mediterranean yacht charter route. Also known as the 'milk-run': a term coined by industry professionals to reflect the most refined locations along the Côte d'Azur, this itinerary begins in show-stopping St.Tropez, cruises towards the Italian Riviera and ends in sun-soaked Portofino. For 14-day luxury Mediterranean charters, incorporating Corsica into an itinerary is also a perennially popular choice.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Discover the Mediterranean

Shopping, Scenic coastlines, cultural attractions, fine dining, luxury and fashion, pretty villages, island discovery

When to Go:

May - September

  • Barcelona, Nice, Athens, Naples, Dubrovnik, Rome

Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Mediterranean 2024 & 2025

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CC-Summer Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

95m   Lurssen

from $1,715,000 p/week ♦︎

Christina O Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Christina O

Carinthia VII Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

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Flying Fox Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Flying Fox 22

136m Lurssen

136m   2019

from $4,368,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Kismet Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

122m Lurssen

122m   2024

from $3,000,000 p/w eek

Ahpo Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

115m Lurssen

115m   2021

from $2,831,000 p/w eek ♦︎

IJE Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

108m Benetti

108m   2019

from $1,967,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Dream Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

107m Olympic Yacht Services

107m   1997/2022

from $2,144,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Black Pearl Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Black Pearl 14

105m Oceanco

105m   2018

Christina O Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Christina O 34

99m Canadian Vickers

99m   1943/2020

from $750,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Carinthia VII Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Carinthia VII 12

97m Lurssen

97m   2002/2023

from $1,524,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Faith Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

97m Feadship

97m   2017/2022

from $1,715,000 p/w eek ♦︎

CC-Summer Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

CC-Summer 12

95m Lurssen

O'Pari Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

95m Golden Yachts

from $1,179,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Whisper Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

from $1,286,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lady S Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

93m Feadship

from $1,501,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Tatoosh Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

92m Nobiskrug

92m   2000/2023

from $1,018,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Aquarius Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Aquarius 12

92m Feadship

from $1,500,000 p/w eek

Moonlight II Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Moonlight II 36

91m Neorion

91m   2005/2020

from $702,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Tranquility Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Tranquility 22

92m Oceanco

92m   2014/2023

from $1,100,000 p/w eek

Nero Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

90m Corsair Yachts

90m   2007/2021

from $497,000 p/w eek

Phoenix 2 Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Phoenix 2 12

90m Lurssen

90m   2010/2024

from $1,000,000 p/w eek

Athena Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

90m Royal Huisman

90m   2004/2024

from $322,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Dar Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

90m Oceanco

90m   2018/2024

from $1,299,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lauren L Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Lauren L 36

90m Cassens-Werft

90m   2002/2008

from $754,000 p/w eek ♦︎ *

Barbara Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

89m Oceanco

Maltese Falcon Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Maltese Falcon 12

88m Perini Navi

88m   2006/2023

from $490,000 p/w eek

Project X Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Project X 12

88m Golden Yachts

Chakra Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m Scheepswerf Gebr. van der Werf

86m   1998/2024

from $531,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Man of Steel Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Man of Steel 12

86m Oceanco

86m   2010/2023

Aquila Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m Derecktor Shipyards

86m   2010/2021

from $945,000 p/w eek

HBC Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m Abeking & Rasmussen

86m   2009/2022

from $924,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Sunrays Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

86m   2010/2018

from $1,233,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Bold Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

85m SilverYachts

from $938,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Grand Ocean Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Grand Ocean 12

85m Blohm + Voss

85m   1990/2019

from $703,136 p/w eek

Meridian A Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Meridian A 12

85m Lurssen

85m   2011/2019

O'Ptasia Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

O'Ptasia 12

85m Golden Yachts

85m   2018/2024

from $980,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Solandge Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Solandge 12

85m   2013/2022

from $1,072,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Victorious Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Victorious 12

85m Ak Yachts

from $871,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Le Ponant Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Le Ponant 32

84m   1990/2022

from $488,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Savannah Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Savannah 12

84m Feadship

84m   2015/2020

Emir Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

83m Golden Yachts

83m   2004/2022

Romea Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

82m Abeking & Rasmussen

82m   2015/2021

Alfa Nero Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Alfa Nero 12

81m Oceanco

81m   2007/2021

from $728,000 p/w eek *

Air Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

81m Feadship

81m   2011/2017

from $992,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Aalto Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

80m Oceanco

80m   2007/2019

from $832,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Elements Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Elements 12

80m Yachtley

from $859,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Excellence Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Excellence 12

80m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $1,150,000 p/w eek

My Dragon Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

My Dragon 12

80m Columbus Yachts

from $918,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Tatiana Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

80m Bilgin Yachts

from $831,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Mimtee Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

from $965,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Amaryllis Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Amaryllis 12

78m Abeking & Rasmussen

78m   2011/2022

from $770,000 p/w eek

Malia Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

78m Golden Yachts

78m   2023/2024

from $811,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Legend Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

77m IHC Verschure

77m   1974/2019

from $638,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Boadicea Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Boadicea 12

77m   1999/2024

from $645,000 p/w eek

Wheels Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

76m Oceanco

76m   2008/2019

from $847,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Cloudbreak Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Cloudbreak 22 6 12

75m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $804,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Kensho Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

75m Admiral Yachts

Arrow Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

75m Feadship

from $900,000 p/w eek *

M'Brace Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

from $880,000 p/w eek

Cocoa Bean Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Cocoa Bean 12

74m Trinity Yachts

74m   2014/2020

from $590,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Starburst IV Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Starburst IV 12

from $984,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lady Vera Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Lady Vera 12

74m Nobiskrug

74m   2011/2023

Naia Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

74m Freire Shipyard

74m   2011/2014

from $595,000 p/w eek

Siren Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

74m   2008/2013

from $561,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Coral Ocean Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

Coral Ocean 13

73m Lurssen

73m   1994/2022

from $697,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Laurel Yacht Charter in Mediterranean

73m Delta Marine

73m   2006/2015

from $525,000 p/w eek

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Mediterranean Yacht Charter Q&A

We advise booking your Mediterranean yacht rental at least three months in advance to ensure you get the yacht you desire. The longer you leave it, the fewer choices you will have to rent in the Mediterranean.

One of the wonderful aspects about renting a yacht in the Mediterranean is the exceedingly long season. For example in West Mediterranean locations like France, Spain and Italy, the best time to visit is usually from May until September. This balmy weather extends to well into October in East Mediterranean destinations like Greece, Croatia, Montenegro and Turkey.

For your Mediterranean superyacht charter, you will need to provide a completed charter agreement and 50% of the charter fee as a deposit. This is payable once the contract has been signed.

When booking a Mediterranean yacht rental, do keep in mind the costs that aren't included in the base rate, namely VAT and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). The APA is usually paid in advance of the charter and is commonly set at 30% of the charter fee. This allowance covers expenses such as fuel, berthing, food and drinks, as well as any special requests. 

Please consult your yacht charter broker for any other costs you may need to factor in for your yacht charter in the Mediterranean.

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10 Luxury Cruise Lines That Will Make You Want to Ditch Plane Travel Forever

Posted: July 18, 2024 | Last updated: July 18, 2024

<p>Thinking about booking your next dream vacation? As stunning as land-locked adventures and <a href="https://www.veranda.com/travel/g45548087/most-beautiful-hotels-2023/">beautiful hotels</a> can be, there’s something to be said about sailing the seas. Fortunately for us, nowadays, there are cruise ships that far exceed the family-fun agenda of the classic companies so often advertised on TV. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with those cruise liners, there’s something special about not only traversing the ocean but doing so decked out to the nines. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best luxury cruise lines of 2023. Ahead, uncover the company that best aligns with your idea of the ultimate water-bound getaway.</p>

Thinking about booking your next dream vacation? As stunning as land-locked adventures and beautiful hotels can be, there’s something to be said about sailing the seas. Fortunately for us, nowadays, there are cruise ships that far exceed the family-fun agenda of the classic companies so often advertised on TV. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with those cruise liners, there’s something special about not only traversing the ocean but doing so decked out to the nines. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best luxury cruise lines of 2023. Ahead, uncover the company that best aligns with your idea of the ultimate water-bound getaway.

<p>Silversea is the “jewel in the crown” of the Royal Caribbean Group, not to mention the original luxury cruise line, first entering the space in 1994. The company touts 12 all-inclusive ships with destinations all over the world. Whether you want to explore the American West Coast, South America, Northern Europe and the British Isles, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, or even Antarctica, Silversea has a cruise to fit your fancy.</p><p>Speaking of fancy, the most luxurious cruise that Silversea offers is its 125-Day Chile to Norway sail, which rings up at $94,700. You don’t have to invest that much to enjoy a Silversea cruise, though. No matter which type of suite you book, you can expect butler service, optional 24/7 in-suite dining, endless access to premium beverages and craft cocktails, and complimentary caviar around the clock. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.silversea.com/find-a-cruise.html">Explore Silversea Cruises</a></p>

Silversea is the “jewel in the crown” of the Royal Caribbean Group, not to mention the original luxury cruise line, first entering the space in 1994. The company touts 12 all-inclusive ships with destinations all over the world. Whether you want to explore the American West Coast, South America, Northern Europe and the British Isles, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, or even Antarctica, Silversea has a cruise to fit your fancy.

Speaking of fancy, the most luxurious cruise that Silversea offers is its 125-Day Chile to Norway sail, which rings up at $94,700. You don’t have to invest that much to enjoy a Silversea cruise, though. No matter which type of suite you book, you can expect butler service, optional 24/7 in-suite dining, endless access to premium beverages and craft cocktails, and complimentary caviar around the clock.

Explore Silversea Cruises

<p>Paul Gaugin stands out for its single-ship escapade into the luxury cruise space. With a variety of cruises that explore French Polynesia and the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin is a small-ship cruise line with 7-, 10-, 11-, and 14-night itineraries that focus on intimate experiences, delectable cuisine, stunning stateroom balcony views, butler service, and more. With a 1:1.5 crew-to-guest ratio, you can rest assured knowing that all of your needs will be met aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.pgcruises.com/cruises">Explore Paul Gauguin Cruises</a></p>

Paul Gauguin

Paul Gaugin stands out for its single-ship escapade into the luxury cruise space. With a variety of cruises that explore French Polynesia and the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin is a small-ship cruise line with 7-, 10-, 11-, and 14-night itineraries that focus on intimate experiences, delectable cuisine, stunning stateroom balcony views, butler service, and more. With a 1:1.5 crew-to-guest ratio, you can rest assured knowing that all of your needs will be met aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin.

Explore Paul Gauguin Cruises

<p>Scenic is unique in that it not only offers luxury ocean cruises but river cruises, too. The brand prides itself on operating and innovating with guest experience in mind. As such, all of its cruises have so much to offer voyagers, from extensive dining, leisure, and wellness options to striking design elements that will make you want to stay aboard for much longer than your itinerary.</p><p>Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has nine ships with oceanic destinations spanning from the Arctic and Europe to the Caribbean and Australia. Meanwhile, if you find yourself in France, you may want to check out Scenic’s beloved river cruises, in which you can tour the Seine in the utmost style. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.scenicusa.com/ocean-cruises">Explore Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours</a></p>

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic is unique in that it not only offers luxury ocean cruises but river cruises, too. The brand prides itself on operating and innovating with guest experience in mind. As such, all of its cruises have so much to offer voyagers, from extensive dining, leisure, and wellness options to striking design elements that will make you want to stay aboard for much longer than your itinerary.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has nine ships with oceanic destinations spanning from the Arctic and Europe to the Caribbean and Australia. Meanwhile, if you find yourself in France, you may want to check out Scenic’s beloved river cruises, in which you can tour the Seine in the utmost style.

Explore Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

<p>Ponant has a fleet of 13 luxury cruise ships with destinations dotting the globe. The award-winning French cruise line is beloved for its tailor-made voyages, in which guests have access to myriad bespoke experiences both on and off board, from in-room dining to once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions.</p><p>Since Ponant ships offer smaller capacity—more akin to a private yacht experience—they’re able to navigate private ports and preserved locations that large-scale cruise ships are unable to access. While aboard Ponant’s all-inclusive ships, you can anticipate exceptional French cuisine, delicious fine wines, complimentary Champagne and spirits, room service, and more.</p><p>Of course, if you need further inspiration to look into the cruise line, perhaps the fact that three-mast yacht, Le Ponant, is part of the Relais & Châteaux portfolio will do the trick.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://us.ponant.com/">Explore Ponant Cruises</a></p>

Ponant has a fleet of 13 luxury cruise ships with destinations dotting the globe. The award-winning French cruise line is beloved for its tailor-made voyages, in which guests have access to myriad bespoke experiences both on and off board, from in-room dining to once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions.

Since Ponant ships offer smaller capacity—more akin to a private yacht experience—they’re able to navigate private ports and preserved locations that large-scale cruise ships are unable to access. While aboard Ponant’s all-inclusive ships, you can anticipate exceptional French cuisine, delicious fine wines, complimentary Champagne and spirits, room service, and more.

Of course, if you need further inspiration to look into the cruise line, perhaps the fact that three-mast yacht, Le Ponant, is part of the Relais & Châteaux portfolio will do the trick.

Explore Ponant Cruises

<p>Crystal is renowned for its personalized voyages all over the world, not to mention its palatial suites that will leave you picking your jaw up off the floor. In addition to well-appointed design, the cruise line offers an impressive dining experience, with authentic cuisines from all over the world. So whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Peruvian, or Japanese food, you’ll have ample options to choose from.</p><p>It’s also worth mentioning that the luxury cruise line took it to the next level with its spa, Aurora Spa. The gorgeous, sea-view spa offers a variety of face, body, salon, and healing treatments, including massages, facials, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and even IV drip therapy—so you won’t have to worry about feeling hung over at sea (especially considering the cruise line offers complimentary Champagne, fine wines, and premium spirits). </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.crystalcruises.com/">Explore Crystal</a></p>

Crystal is renowned for its personalized voyages all over the world, not to mention its palatial suites that will leave you picking your jaw up off the floor. In addition to well-appointed design, the cruise line offers an impressive dining experience, with authentic cuisines from all over the world. So whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Peruvian, or Japanese food, you’ll have ample options to choose from.

It’s also worth mentioning that the luxury cruise line took it to the next level with its spa, Aurora Spa. The gorgeous, sea-view spa offers a variety of face, body, salon, and healing treatments, including massages, facials, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and even IV drip therapy—so you won’t have to worry about feeling hung over at sea (especially considering the cruise line offers complimentary Champagne, fine wines, and premium spirits).

Explore Crystal

<p>Windstar Cruises operates a six-ship fleet dedicated to extraordinary sailing experiences. With small ships that carry less than 350 passengers, Windstar prides itself on offering guests intimate, aesthetic, unforgettable voyages spanning from Asia and Australia to Italy and Iceland.</p><p>While the staterooms and suites are stunning and the shore excursions are aplenty, it’s the food that really stands out aboard Windstar. As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers a number of themed culinary cruises with food and bev from some of the most notable chefs of today, including Maxime Bilet (The Cooking Lab) and Jose Mendin (Pubbelly Noodle Bar, Habitat, Baja Bao).</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.windstarcruises.com/">Explore Windstar Cruises</a></p>

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a six-ship fleet dedicated to extraordinary sailing experiences. With small ships that carry less than 350 passengers, Windstar prides itself on offering guests intimate, aesthetic, unforgettable voyages spanning from Asia and Australia to Italy and Iceland.

While the staterooms and suites are stunning and the shore excursions are aplenty, it’s the food that really stands out aboard Windstar. As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers a number of themed culinary cruises with food and bev from some of the most notable chefs of today, including Maxime Bilet (The Cooking Lab) and Jose Mendin (Pubbelly Noodle Bar, Habitat, Baja Bao).

Explore Windstar Cruises

<p>The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, so it’s no surprise that the company extended into oceanic adventures with a fleet of three superyachts. Where the Evrima was built in 2021, the Ilma and Luminara yachts are forthcoming in 2024 and 2025.</p><p>While classic cruise lines have a capacity in the thousands, often edging upward of 4,000, the Ritz-Carlton superyachts offer a more curated experience to 500 passengers or less. From the outside, the yachts are sleek and serene, fitting in beautifully with the sea. Within Evrima’s walls, though, moody modern interiors with magnificent ocean views await.</p><p>Guests can look forward to soaking tubs, expansive private balconies complete with sun beds and a whirlpool, walk-in wardrobes, and more. As far as destinations are concerned, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection embarks on oceanic adventures in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com/">Explore The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Cruises</a></p>

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, so it’s no surprise that the company extended into oceanic adventures with a fleet of three superyachts. Where the Evrima was built in 2021, the Ilma and Luminara yachts are forthcoming in 2024 and 2025.

While classic cruise lines have a capacity in the thousands, often edging upward of 4,000, the Ritz-Carlton superyachts offer a more curated experience to 500 passengers or less. From the outside, the yachts are sleek and serene, fitting in beautifully with the sea. Within Evrima’s walls, though, moody modern interiors with magnificent ocean views await.

Guests can look forward to soaking tubs, expansive private balconies complete with sun beds and a whirlpool, walk-in wardrobes, and more. As far as destinations are concerned, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection embarks on oceanic adventures in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Explore The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Cruises

<p>Seabourn is a luxury cruise line that speaks to our soul—and for more reasons than the simple fact that it touts a “Veranda Suite Upgrade.” The luxury cruise line sets sail in the Arctic, Canada and New England, the Amazon, Arabia, Africa, and India, and more. </p><p>Each of the fleet’s yachts, which carry between 458 and 600 guests, is outfitted with ocean-view suites only, so no matter what excursion you book, you can anticipate traveling in luxury style with a picturesque backdrop. You can also look forward to mouth-watering cuisine courtesy of renowned chef Thomas Keller. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.seabourn.com/en/us/cruise-destinations">Explore Seabourn Cruises</a></p>

Seabourn is a luxury cruise line that speaks to our soul—and for more reasons than the simple fact that it touts a “Veranda Suite Upgrade.” The luxury cruise line sets sail in the Arctic, Canada and New England, the Amazon, Arabia, Africa, and India, and more.

Each of the fleet’s yachts, which carry between 458 and 600 guests, is outfitted with ocean-view suites only, so no matter what excursion you book, you can anticipate traveling in luxury style with a picturesque backdrop. You can also look forward to mouth-watering cuisine courtesy of renowned chef Thomas Keller.

Explore Seabourn Cruises

<p>Cunard is known for its iconic black funnels, yes, but more so for its unparalleled large-scale onboard experiences. Although each of the cruise line’s ships carries upwards of 1,500 passengers, the four-ship fleet is adored for its luxury itineraries, stylish design, tranquil spa offerings, delectable cuisine, and unmatched comfort at sea. </p><p>Truly, if your goal is to book an unforgettable, Instagram-worthy cruise, Cunard is the way to go. From the stunning suites (decked out in pops of rich color, sumptuous textiles, and spectacular lighting) to the picturesque destinations, Cunard has it all. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.cunard.com/en-us">Explore Cunard Cruises</a></p>

Cunard is known for its iconic black funnels, yes, but more so for its unparalleled large-scale onboard experiences. Although each of the cruise line’s ships carries upwards of 1,500 passengers, the four-ship fleet is adored for its luxury itineraries, stylish design, tranquil spa offerings, delectable cuisine, and unmatched comfort at sea.

Truly, if your goal is to book an unforgettable, Instagram-worthy cruise, Cunard is the way to go. From the stunning suites (decked out in pops of rich color, sumptuous textiles, and spectacular lighting) to the picturesque destinations, Cunard has it all.

Explore Cunard Cruises

<p>If you want to get the most bang for your buck when booking a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a prime pick. The all-inclusive cruise line crafts a new definition of the category with complimentary roundtrip airfare, free unlimited shore excursions, include 2- to 3-night land programs, on-the-house bar and lounge experiences, and more.</p><p>The six-fleet cruise line is also known for its gorgeous interiors, complete with modern aesthetics, Art Deco embellishments, stunning chandeliers, and more. When traveling with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, guests can traverse the seven seas, with destinations in Africa and Arabia, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean and more. And if you don’t want to pick a single destination, there’s always the option to book a grand voyage or world cruise, which can last up to 168 days and cost upwards of $100,000.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.rssc.com/">Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises</a></p>

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

If you want to get the most bang for your buck when booking a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a prime pick. The all-inclusive cruise line crafts a new definition of the category with complimentary roundtrip airfare, free unlimited shore excursions, include 2- to 3-night land programs, on-the-house bar and lounge experiences, and more.

The six-fleet cruise line is also known for its gorgeous interiors, complete with modern aesthetics, Art Deco embellishments, stunning chandeliers, and more. When traveling with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, guests can traverse the seven seas, with destinations in Africa and Arabia, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean and more. And if you don’t want to pick a single destination, there’s always the option to book a grand voyage or world cruise, which can last up to 168 days and cost upwards of $100,000.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Maiden voyage of Queen Anne at sea, May 2024

World Voyage 2026 - Queen Anne® Eastbound

See the world like never before on Queen Anne’s 2026 World Voyage. Sail roundtrip from London (Southampton) over 109 nights and enjoy time ashore in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and Africa. Revel in breathtaking seascapes and cityscapes as you sail in British style to the Mediterranean. Then head through the Suez Canal and Indian Ocean to East Asia before circumnavigating Australia on the way around the African Coast to return to the North Atlantic. Make memories to last a lifetime as you discover new cuisines, charming people and extraordinary landmarks, including many UNESCO World Heritage sites. Sail roundtrip from Hamburg and extend your voyage to 116 nights! Top 5 Reasons to sail on a World Voyage on Cunard: 1. Iconic ships and legendary journeys 2. Spacious Grill Suites with a Drinks Package included 3. Cunard Insights® guest speaker enrichment programming 4. White Star™ standards of service 5. Sense of celebration with 2 gala nights per week

Insider Tip

Enjoy exclusive perks as a world cruise guest - from use of the private onboard lounge to cocktail receptions, a shoreside Gala Event, and more. Consider adding Cunard’s White Star Luggage Service, the perfect alternative to transporting your own luggage.

With the Cruise Privileges Program, Platinum Card® Members who book an eligible sailing through American Express Travel® can enjoy valuable benefits, † including:

  • Up to $300 onboard credit per stateroom
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† Ship and stateroom exclusions apply, please see full terms and conditions for details.

Enjoy special offers on select cruises and custom vacations when you book through American Express Travel® by 7/16/24. Terms apply.

Share a few details about your dream trip and we’ll contact you to plan the rest.

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Alaska, by Cunard

Collect a plethora of ports and cross item after item off your bucket list on a single Grand Voyage.

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Cruise Privileges Program Cruise Privileges Program (“CPP”) benefits are valid only for new CPP bookings made with participating cruise lines through American Express Travel. CPP benefits are valid only for eligible U.S. Consumer and Business Platinum and Centurion ® Card Members (Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Card Members are not eligible). CPP bookings must be made using the eligible Card. CPP benefits are non-transferable. Participating cruise lines and program benefits are subject to change. The benefits of an onboard credit and amenity are valid for new CPP bookings of at least five nights and require double occupancy; the eligible Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked; the total cost of the CPP booking must be paid using an American Express ® Card in the eligible Card Member's name. Onboard credits and amenities cannot be combined with other offers unless indicated; blackout dates, category and fare restrictions may apply. Onboard credits and amenities may not be available to residents outside of the 50 United States. Onboard credits and amenities apply per stateroom, with a three-stateroom limit per eligible Card Member, per cruise. For new CPP bookings with Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International, eligible Card Members receive an onboard credit (in USD) of: $100 for inside and outside staterooms, $200 for balcony, verandah, and mini-suite staterooms, and/or $300 for suites. For new CPP bookings with Cunard, eligible Card Members receive an onboard credit (in USD) of: $300 for all Queen Mary ocean-view staterooms category EF or higher, and/or Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth ocean-view staterooms category FA or higher. For new CPP bookings with Ama Waterways, Oceania, Regent, Azamara, Seabourn, Silversea, Uniworld, Windstar and Explora Journeys, eligible Card Members receive an onboard credit of US$300 for all stateroom categories. For new CPP bookings, Centurion Members receive an additional US$200 onboard credit on Explora Journeys, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, and Silversea. Onboard credits will be applied at checkout upon completion of the cruise; credit amounts in local currency may vary due to foreign exchange rates; credits are subject to cruise line terms and policies; credits cannot be used for casino charges, gratuities, or other similar charges. Any unused portion of a credit is non-refundable and is not redeemable for cash. Other restrictions may apply. Onboard amenities vary by participating cruise line and are not available on Silver Explorer, Silver Galapagos, and Silver Discoverer. Onboard credits and amenities are not available on Celebrity Cruises Galapagos sailings.

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The Ritz-Carlton’s Massive New 790-Foot Megayacht Just Hit the High Seas

"ilma" will officially start cruising the seas in september., rachel cormack.

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Ritz-Carlton Yacht Ilma

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is coming to fruition.

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“Today marks the culmination of a shared vision and the relentless pursuit of excellence, a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of all those involved,” Jim Murren, executive chairman and CEO of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, said at the delivery ceremony. “We are deeply grateful to the exceptional teams here at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, whose hard work and passion have brought this vision to life.”

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Ilma

Named after the Maltese word for “water,” Ilma took two years of painstaking work to build. The 790-footer showcases a sleek, superyacht -inspired exterior by the folks at Finnish studio Aivan and an elegant, light-filled interior by British firm AD Associates. Some 224 spacious suites are thoughtfully positioned throughout, creating space for up to 448 passengers.

Each suite features floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces that afford prime ocean views. As with sistership Evrima, Ilma has several larger, more luxurious suites for seafarers looking to splash cash. The top-tier Owner’s Suite offers just over 1,000 square feet of living space, an in-suite bar, and a chic dining area.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Ilma

Ilma’s maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome is scheduled for September 2. The liner will then embark on more cruises to the Mediterranean and Caribbean, before sailing the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe during the 2025 summer season. For reservations, contact (833) 999-7292 or your travel professional.

Click here to see all the photos of Ilma.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Ilma

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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luxury sailing yacht cruise

The most fabulous yachts to charter this summer

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There are an estimated 6,000 superyachts — vessels that are more than 100 feet long — at sea in 2024

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As summer reaches its peak across the Northern Hemisphere, it’s hard to imagine a better way of spending a vacation than channeling your inner ship captain and sailing across the ocean.

In recent years, yacht companies have reported a boom in sales — far from the decline that many in the industry feared, due to both the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic realities of the Russia-Ukraine War.

“I spent my days [in 2020] doing worst-case scenarios and drawing up the budgets to go with them,” Giovanna Vitelli, chairwoman of Azimut|Benetti, the world’s largest yacht manufacturer, told the Economist in 2023.

Instead, her company reported a 23% growth in production value in 2023 —a reality that is not unique to just one yacht manufacturer. The luxury yacht market is expected to grow in value from $7.67 billion in 2023 to $17.33 billion by 2032, according to a recent report from Fortune Business Insights .

Analysts attribute the ships’ rise in popularity to the increasing number of extremely wealthy individuals . Yachts have long been considered a status symbol — a reality that has only increased as wealth becomes concentrated in the hands of a small group of high status individuals .

There are an estimated 6,000 superyachts —vessels that are more than 100 feet long — at sea as of this year. This is nearly quadruple the number of yachts seen in the ocean just three decades ago, according to Bloomberg .

Aside from an increase in popularity, the yacht industry has seen other changes in recent years. Increasingly, those in the market for a luxury ship are turning to alternate means of powering their vessels, as critics point to the excess emissions traditional yachts produce simply for recreational use.

In their 2024 report, Fortune Business Insights highlighted the growing trend of electrification as a significant area of growth in the coming years.

“A tough regulatory environment for traditional yachts and rising fuel prices will pave the way for the solid growth of electric yachts in the future,” the report reads. “Huge investments from various manufacturers and government support measures will accelerate the demand for electric yachts.”

Read on to learn more about the most luxurious yachts available for chartering in 2024.

Carinthia VII

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Originally constructed in 2002, the award-winning Carinthia VII was recently remodeled and reimagined specifically for private charters. The 319-foot ship spans six decks and can accommodate up to 12 guests in eight staterooms. Among the ship’s amenities are two bars, a fully equipped gym and an outdoor projection screen that allows for an “immersive cinematic experience like no other.” The cost of chartering the Carinthia VII is $1,525,700 during both the winter and summer seasons.

Image for article titled The most fabulous yachts to charter this summer

The Lady S yacht boasts a number of exciting water toys, including jet skis, water skis, wakeboards and kayaks for athletic guests on the 305-foot ship. For those who prefer more indoor-oriented activities, however, you can also catch a film on the ship’s IMAX Dolby cinema — the first of its kind on any yacht in the world. Accommodating 12 guests, in seven cabins, the cost of chartering the Lady S begins at $1,743,328 a week.

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The interior of the Ahpo yacht seems more reminiscent of a luxury hotel than a simple ship. Accommodating 16 guests and 36 crew members, the vessel features a full-size gym, a winter garden and a spa complete with a Himalayan salt sauna. The 378-foot long yacht was first manufactured in 2021 by the German shipyard Lürssen. Excited sailors can charter the Ahpo from superyacht broker Edmiston, beginning at $2,833,376 a week.

500EXP Para Bellum

Image for article titled The most fabulous yachts to charter this summer

This 154-foot-long yacht can accommodate up to 12 travelers in its six cabins, along with up to 10 crew members. The ship was specially designed to enable “guests a 360-degree experience and relationship with the sea” through its unique stern and sundeck that allow travelers to safely stand “almost at sea level,” according to its Italian manufacturer San Lorenzo . Interested travelers can rent the ship for $359,609 a week.

The Renaissance

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The Renaissance lives up to its grandiose name by going beyond traditional private yachts and bridging the gap between a personal vehicle and a full-on cruise ship. The 367-foot long ship features five decks and can accommodate 36 guests in 19 cabins. The Renaissance’s amenities include a 19-seat movie theater, a sushi-bar, and a full spa deck featuring a wellness area, plunge pools and a hair salon. The cost of chartering the ship from Burgess Yachts ranges from $3,269,280 to $3,814,160 a week.

Protect Your Trip »

Cruise vs. all-inclusive resort: which one is right for you.

Find out the pros and cons of each and see which option is right for you.

Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort

Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: Which Is Better?

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Picking your dream vacation can be tricky. Use our tips to help you plan.

If you're trying to decide whether you should book a cruise or stay at an all-inclusive resort for your next vacation, there are a lot of factors to consider. Beyond selecting a destination, you'll need to determine what type of experience you're looking for and what's included in the price of each option. After all, there's nothing worse than having a stress-free trip turn into a sticker shock surprise when you review the final bill.

To help, U.S. News compiled a list of questions to consider when comparing cruise versus all-inclusive resort vacations, along with suggested options for both.

What are your travel goals?

When deciding between an all-inclusive resort or a cruise, ask yourself the following questions:

Do I want to explore multiple destinations in one trip?

If your answer is yes, book a cruise . Cruises are a great option when you want to visit several locales in one trip, but aren't concerned with spending a lot of time in any one place. They're also perfect for getting an overview of a region, such as the Caribbean or the Mediterranean . If you want to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations instead of busier, more popular ports, consider itineraries offered by cruise lines with smaller ships that can navigate tighter waterways than larger ocean liners. For example, Windstar Cruises' small ships can visit small Greek islands ; remote Tahitian villages; Alaska's wildlife-filled Inian Islands; and sail the only navigable river in Spain, the Guadalquivir River.

Do I want to stay relax in one place?

If a relaxing land-based experience sounds more your speed, an all-inclusive resort may be a better option. You can spend your time taking advantage of luxurious resort amenities and exploring the surrounding areas. The Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico , offers family-friendly accommodations and activities, as well as romantic oceanfront suites with plunge pools and spa bathrooms for couples. The resort also has an impressive selection of internationally inspired restaurants and indoor and outdoor bars. During the day, sign up for holistic treatments at the SE Spa by Grand Velas (for an additional fee) or enjoy complimentary water activities like kayaking and snorkeling. You can even explore ancient ruins in nearby Tulum, Mexico , on an off-property excursion.

Still, for some cruisers, the ship itself is the destination. The details of the itinerary don't matter much to them, as they plan to spend most of their time relaxing on board. Big cruise ships and/or new vessels offer seemingly endless dining and entertainment options.

What kind of atmosphere do I want?

If the shrill screams of children playing might bother you, you can easily opt for an adults-only cruise or adults-only all-inclusive resort . Of course, if you're traveling with kids, there's no shortage of kid-friendly cruise ships and all-inclusive family resorts in the Caribbean , Mexico and U.S.

What's included in the price?

Another huge variable is the price you'll pay for a cruise versus all-inclusive resort – and what exactly is covered.

Cruises: Taking a cruise can be a great value , but it's important to note that inexpensive base fares aboard large, mainstream cruise lines can often be misleading. Once you add in additional costs for taxes, fees and port charges; gratuities; stateroom upgrades; specialty dining and beverage packages; excursions; and Wi-Fi access, the total price of your voyage may end up much higher than you expected.

To avoid surprise extra fees throughout your trip, you might want to consider sailing with a luxury line like Viking Ocean Cruises . Although such cruises typically come at a higher price point, the line's fares cover all meals (including specialty dining venues), beer and wine with lunch and dinner, nonalcoholic beverages and bottled water, one shore excursion in each port, onboard Wi-Fi access and more. Also consider cruise deals, which often include last-minute incentives and kids-cruise-free promos .

Book a cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

All-Inclusive Resorts: When it comes to all-inclusive resorts, be sure to research what's included in the nightly rate before you book. Couples-only Sandals Resorts International in the Caribbean offers some of the most inclusive resort pricing setups, with rates covering accommodations, gourmet dining at up to 16 restaurants, snacks, premium wines and liquors, stocked in-room bars, water sports, complimentary golf course greens fees (select resorts), PADI-certified scuba diving (at most properties), entertainment, Wi-Fi access, gratuities and airport transfers. Extra fees apply for spa treatments, local excursions and personalized events, like private dinners on the beach. Other resort brands may not offer such an extensive list of included perks, so be sure to check with the specific property you are interested in. And again – look for available offers when booking. Many all-inclusive resorts offer kids-stay-free promos on a regular basis.

Do you want to drive or fly to your vacation destination?

Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: Which Is Better?

Courtesy of Sandals Resorts

Before you find yourself sipping umbrella drinks with a good book in hand, you'll have to put in the work of traveling to your destination. It goes without saying that visiting an all-inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean will require an international flight, but you may also need to hop on a plane to reach your chosen cruise ship terminal. Still, many ships sail from popular ports in Florida cities – including Fort Lauderdale , Miami , Tampa and Cape Canaveral (Orlando) – and travelers outside of the Sunshine State can find sailings out of ports in California, Texas, New York and Louisiana. Depending on where you live, you may be able to save yourself a flight (and some money) by driving directly to your embarkation port.

You may also be able to book a stay at an all-inclusive resort (or a property with an all-inclusive option) without traveling too far from home. Florida offers a couple of all-inclusive properties ideal for those who don't want to leave the U.S. Consider Bungalows Key Largo, which caters to travelers 21 and older visiting the Florida Keys. In contrast, some properties across the U.S. offer special packages to create your own all-inclusive experience .

What type of accommodations do you prefer?

Cruise ship cabins can be tight, especially if you're traveling with another person (or an entire family). The good news is that there are plenty of choices when it comes to stateroom sizes and configurations, depending on the cruise line and specific ship you choose. Cabins can be as compact as 100 square feet (in the case of Norwegian Epic 's Studio staterooms) or as vast as 4,443 square feet ( Regent Seven Seas Splendor 's lavish two-bedroom Regent Suite).

If space is important to you, plan to budget for a larger cabin, or one with a veranda. The Azamara Quest 's Club Verandah Staterooms (175 square feet) are not much larger than its Interior Club Staterooms (158 square feet), but the addition of a balcony with extra seating, natural light and outdoor access makes them feel much more roomy. For even more space, consider splurging on a suite, which may also add valuable perks like complimentary specialty dining, laundry service and Wi-Fi access. Some suites are designed with families in mind, such as the Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas . The two-story accommodation features an indoor slide, a private game and movie room, a hot tub, ocean views and VIP experiences across the ship.

Back on land, hotel rooms and suites at all-inclusive resorts will typically be more spacious than most cruise ship accommodations, meaning you'll have more square footage to spread out. At the family-friendly all-inclusive Windjammer Landing in Castries, St. Lucia , accommodations run the gamut from 400-square-foot ocean view rooms for two to almost 1,400-square-foot, two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to six people. The property also boasts a selection of luxury beachfront villas that measure up to 4,200 square feet.

What type of entertainment and dining options do you expect?

Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: Which Is Better?

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Whether you're traveling solo or with a partner and/or friends, decide whether you'd like to party on vacation (think Carnival Cruise Line ) or prefer a more quiet, intimate getaway (such as a river cruise ). Also think about the entertainment and dining options offered by each. On large cruise vessels, like Norwegian Cruise Line 's ships, you can find infinite eateries, Broadway-calibur entertainment and adults-only nightclubs that stay open into the wee hours of the morning. There are also fun-filled activities for younger travelers, like racetracks, laser tag, aqua parks, rock climbing walls and rope courses. Not all these activities will be included in your fare, so you can choose to pay as you go or purchase packages that offer unlimited access. Fitness classes, spa access and entry into adults-only lounge areas may also come with a fee, as can soft drinks and bottled water throughout the day (unless you have a beverage package).

However, smaller, more intimate ships still offer plenty of fun – albeit with fewer crowds. Cruisers can choose from several dining venues, some of which change their menus daily. For example, Azamara changes its menu every evening in the main dining room, Discoveries Restaurant. The eatery always offers classic favorites, such as shrimp cocktail and grilled New York strip steak, but it also includes nightly features, many of which are inspired by the ship's destination. Smaller ships will also typically have a few bars or lounges that host entertainment for more mature, refined audiences (think: piano players or other live music in the evenings), plus theaters that feature a different show each night. Still, you might find fun-loving passengers on the dance floor late at night and DJs spinning karaoke tunes at lounges on the ship.

All-inclusive resorts typically offer a wide range of on-site dining venues, entertainment, activities and amenities as well. For example, the gated 7,000-acre Caso de Campo Resort & Villas in La Romana, Dominican Republic, features three golf courses, an equestrian center, tennis courts, skeet and trap shooting, water sports, complimentary merengue lessons and more. Packages at the resort include accommodations, all meals and beverages and access to most (or all) of these activities.

Resorts may also feature more unique amenities than cruise ships. For example, at Caso de Campo, guests can visit Altos de Chavón. Inspired by a 16th-century Mediterranean village, this impressive replica of a medieval hamlet is home to local artisans and boutiques. There's also an archeological museum, the St. Stanislaus Church and a 5,000-seat amphitheater with panoramic views of the Chavón River and the Caribbean Sea. After dinner at one of the property's signature restaurants, you can hit the nightclubs, or, if you're lucky, catch a concert in the amphitheater. If you'd like to spend an afternoon or two outside of the property, sign up for a resort excursion (additional fees apply). Travelers can explore nearby beaches by catamaran, visit a local cigar-making factory or take an exhilarating zipline ride through the treetops.

Bottom Line

With so many variables to consider, choosing between a cruise and an all-inclusive resort can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Too often, travelers are lured by low prices and get frustrated trying to select from the many alternatives. Instead, follow the simple process summarized below.

Once you've figured out your travel goals and have decided between a cruise or an all-inclusive resort, you can narrow down your options. If you don't want to fly, check out the cruises that sail from ports in the U.S., all-inclusive resorts within driving distance, and even properties that offer package deals for meals, beverages and excursions. Also, consider the amount of entertainment and activities you or your family are interested in. If you're not traveling with kids and prefer adult-focused venues and activities, book an adults-only resort or cruise that doesn't cater to families.

If you're hoping to avoid crowds, then you might be happiest on a small ocean voyage or at an intimate property. You should also arrange to travel in the offseason. In addition to fewer people, this time of year offers some of the best-discounted cruise fares or room rates. Offseason varies depending on the destination, but it's typically between June and early September in Florida. If you're headed to a resort in Mexico, the Caribbean or the Bahamas, or if you're considering a Caribbean cruise, prices drop dramatically during hurricane season – June 1 to Nov. 30. Europe is a great option for deals from late fall into early spring. There is also a period right before Christmas and after the New Year holiday that offers a window where you can score discounted pricing before the season gets busy again.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts
  • The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
  • First-Time Cruise Tips
  • The Top Cruise Line Private Islands
  • Cruise Packing List

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Hotels and Resorts , All-Inclusive Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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IMAGES

  1. Ultimate Sailing In Style: 29 Most Expensive Luxury Yachts

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  2. Luxury yacht FIORENTE

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  3. CORSARIO

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  4. Ritz-Carlton Adds Two More Ultra-Luxury Cruise Ships to Its Opulent

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  5. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

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  6. Yacht Luxury HEMISPHERE, Sailing Yacht

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VIDEO

  1. Luxury Yacht Sailing: Experience Opulence on the High Seas! ⛵✨ #Luxury #Sailing #yacht

  2. TOP LUXURY SAILING YACHT S/Y "ALL ABOUT YOU" 50M FOR CHARTER IN TURKEY

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  4. LUXURY SAILING YACHT KEEWAYDIN FOR SALE

  5. Charter sailing yacht Harmony 42.wmv

  6. Sailing yacht SILVER K luxury charter in Bodrum Turkey Greece 38.500€/w

COMMENTS

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    Embark on a luxury cruise aboard one of our PONANT ships and experience a truly exceptional sea voyage with a difference. PONANT promises you unforgettable moments aboard our sleek and intimately sized cruise yachts, all of which sail under the French flag. Discover the innovatively designed cruise ship Le Boréal and her three sister vessels ...

  21. Mediterranean Yacht Charters

    For convenience we have listed the average prices for motor yacht and sailing yacht charters in the Mediterranean below; For motor yacht rentals in the Mediterranean, prices can range from $31,541 to $1.6m per week, plus expenses. For luxury sailing yacht rentals in the Mediterranean, prices can go from $20,491 to $532,784 weekly, plus expenses.

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  24. Riverside Luxury Cruises Reviews

    Find detailed reviews of all Riverside Luxury Cruises cruise ships and destinations. Effective July 1st. Due to new regulations, prices now include all taxes and fees. ... Sail Date: June 2024 ...

  25. 10 Luxury Cruise Lines That Will Make You Want to Ditch Plane ...

    Paul Gaugin stands out for its single-ship escapade into the luxury cruise space. With a variety of cruises that explore French Polynesia and the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin is a small-ship cruise ...

  26. World Voyage 2026

    For new CPP bookings with Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International, eligible Card Members receive an onboard credit (in USD) of: $100 for inside and outside staterooms, $200 for balcony, verandah, and mini-suite staterooms, and/or $300 for suites.

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    MSC Cruises has expanded the benefits that come with booking accommodations in the line's exclusive luxury enclave, MSC Yacht Club, by adding specially curated shore excursions to the list of perks.

  28. The Ritz-Carlton's Second Luxury Superyacht Just Hit the Seas

    The liner will then embark on more cruises to the Mediterranean and Caribbean, before sailing the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe during the 2025 summer season. For reservations, contact ...

  29. The most luxurious yachts to rent

    The luxury yacht market is expected to grow in value from $7.67 billion in 2023 to $17.33 billion by 2032, according to a recent report from Fortune Business Insights.

  30. Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: 3 Questions to Ask

    If you're considering a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 154-day world cruise, called The Sense of Adventure, sets sail round-trip from Miami in January 2026 and visits 41 countries ...