Beginner's Guide to Yacht Charters: Choose a 2024 Award-Winning Destination

WHAT APPEARS IN THIS ARTICLE? 

1. Beginner’s Guide to Yacht Charters: Choose a 2024 Award-Winning Destination
2. Navigare Yachting: Award-Winning Charter Company
3. Overview of Top Yacht Charter Destinations
4. What Makes Each Destination Ideal for Island-Hopping?
5. Summary: Making the Right Choice
   
   

Beginner's Guide to Yacht Charters: Choose a 2024 Award-Winning Destination

Every sailor and island-hopping enthusiast can find their slice of paradise with our wide selection of destinations. Whether you prefer the stunning coastal landscapes of the Mediterranean or the white sandy beaches and vibrant culture of the Caribbean, it’s all within reach on a Navigare Yachting sailing getaway. 

Our 12 stunning yacht charter destinations are handpicked for their excellent sailing conditions and ideal weather suitable for beginners and seasoned sailors alike. In this article, we will focus on our 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award-winning destinations in the Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, Greece, and Croatia (Trogir and Dubrovnik).

Whether you are interested in a carefree bareboat charter with maximum freedom to explore the destination on your own or a skippered charter where you are guided to the most stunning locations by our professional crew, the choice is yours. Are you ready to explore some of the world’s highest-ranking yacht charter destinations to help you choose the best destination for your perfect island-hopping vacation? Let’s dive in! The list presented in this article is in no particular order. 

Navigare Yachting: Winner of Five 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards

This summer, we received the announcement that five of our destinations received the 2024 TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award for the 5th consecutive year, thanks to our award-winning concepts and the hard work and dedicated service of our staff and crew members resulting in countless raving 5-star reviews.

Navigare Yachting offers an extensive fleet and exceptional service across these top yacht charter destinations. Whether you prefer a bareboat charter, a skippered yacht, or an all-inclusive luxury crewed experience, Navigare ensures a memorable, award-winning sailing vacation tailored to your needs. At the destinations listed below, Navigare has been consistently recognized for excellence and outstanding customer satisfaction year after year. 

Navigare Yachting’s 2024 Award-Winning Destinations:

• The Bahamas (Marsh Harbour)
• British Virgin Islands (Nanny Cay)
• Greece (Athens)
• Croatia (Trogir)
• Croatia (Dubrovnik)
  
  

Overview of Top Yacht Charter Destinations

The Bahamas

The Bahamas are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches, making them a top destination for yacht charters. With over 700 islands to explore, you can find secluded spots for relaxation or lively areas for activities. Some highlights include remote sandbars and the colorful, historic settlements in the Abacos. The close proximity to the US and affordable direct flights from the mainland makes it an easily accessible paradise for North American travelers.

The British Virgin Islands

Known as a sailing paradise, the British Virgin Islands offer easy navigation, consistent trade winds, and numerous anchorages, perfect for both experienced sailors and novices. The pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and lively Caribbean culture create an idyllic setting for an unforgettable island-hopping experience. While the winter is considered the high season, BVI’s subtropical climate, moderated by trade winds, makes it an ideal sailing destination year-round. 

Croatia

Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is dotted with historic towns like Dubrovnik and Split, offering a mix of ancient history and modern amenities. The calm seas and numerous islands make it a great destination for beginners. Navigare Yachting’s bases in Dubrovnik and Trogir provide easy access to different parts of this beautiful region. A one-way charter with Navigare, made possible by our dual charter bases, is an incredible way to maximize your sailing itinerary and explore a larger part of the Dalmatian Coast. 

Greece

Greece combines stunning scenery, ancient history, and vibrant culture, making it a fantastic yacht charter destination. Sail through the Aegean Sea to explore dramatic coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. Whether you choose to explore the Cyclades or the Saronic Gulf, the Greek coastal landscapes won’t disappoint. Enjoy Greek local cuisine, hospitality, breathtaking nature, and ancient ruins as you island-hop your way through this historic land.

What Makes Each Destination Ideal for Island-Hopping?

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences, scenic beauty, and a variety of activities that make them ideal for a yacht charter vacation. Let’s dive into what makes each of these destinations great for island-hopping, along with some things to keep in mind to help you decide your perfect sailing getaway. Note that these are only a few hand-picked reasons that make these destinations stand out as excellent sailing locations, but it’s far from an exhaustive list. 

The Bahamas

What Makes It a Great Sailing Destination:

• Clear, Turquoise Water and Beautiful Beaches: The Bahamas are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches, including some of the most photographed sand bars and beaches in the world.
• Easily Accessible: Its close proximity to Florida, makes the Bahamas easily accessible for North American travelers. Flights are usually direct, inexpensive, and offered by almost all major North American airlines.
• Variety of Islands: With over 700 islands, the Bahamas is an island-hopping paradise. From the colorful, historic villages in the Abacos to the remote natural wonders of the Exumas, there is no shortage of islands to explore.
• Vibrant Marine Life: The Bahamas’ diverse marine life makes it an excellent destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Marine explorers and vacationers have the opportunity to spot colorful fish, including clown fish, and other marine species such as conch, lobster, sea turtles, dolphins, sharks, barracudas, starfish, and a range of coral varieties.  
• Friendly Locals and Laid-Back Culture: The relaxed vibes, population of friendly locals, and laid-back Caribbean culture create the perfect setting for a stress-free getaway.
• Rich History: North America may not boast as many historical sites as Europe, but the Bahamas stands out from the crowd as a surprisingly historical destination. From the world-famous Elbow Reef Lighthouse, the only still standing lighthouse in the world run with kerosene, to the family-owned sail shop in Man-O-War Cay reflecting the island’s boat-building heritage, Bahamas will easily satisfy any history-loving traveler.

Getaway Planning Notes:

• The Bahamas can be crowded during peak season (Dec-March).
• Far away for European travelers

The British Virgin Islands

What Makes It a Great Sailing Destination:

• A Sailing Paradise: Hands down one of the best sailing destinations in the world thanks to its ideal sailing conditions, low risk of extreme weather, and a subtropical climate that boasts warm temperatures year-round, the British Virgin Islands stands out as a sailing gem even next to its Caribbean neighbors.  
• Easy Navigation: Short distances between islands and protected waters make it ideal for beginner sailors. With consistent trade winds that keep the humidity low, a calm sea state, and overall predictable weather, the British Virgin Islands is a pleasant sailing destination that is well-suitable for both beginners and experienced sailors.
• Natural Beauty: Pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and lush landscapes combine to create one of the most stunning Caribbean destinations.
• Plenty of anchorages and mooring spots: Whether you are looking for a secluded anchorage to spend a few hours swimming and snorkeling or a mooring ball to enjoy dinner onshore, you won’t have any trouble finding it. The BVI is full of beautiful anchorages and there is no shortage of mooring places, which reflects the islands’ rich boating culture.
• Vibrant Caribbean Culture: From vibrant carnivals and joyful festivals to the lively full moon parties at Trellis Bay, the people in the BVI know how to have fun! The BVI’s vibrant Caribbean culture is evident in the many celebrations throughout the year, such as Christmas in July and the Emancipation Festival, yet offers an easy-going and laid-back atmosphere ideal for a relaxing vacation.
• Authentic Cuisine: Watch the sunset paint the sky in a vibrant display of colors as the Caribbean spices fill the air. Try a freshly caught lobster at one of the seaside restaurants in Anegada. Seafood, such as Caribbean conch fritters and the Catch of the Day are dishes commonly served at restaurants throughout the BVI, but it is also easy to find classics such as pizzas, burgers, salads, and steaks with a Caribbean touch.  
• World-Famous Destinations: The BVI offers some world-famous must-see attractions, like The Baths, a beach where impressive rock formations form a maze and tidewater pools, or the famous dive sites the RMS Rhone, the Indians, and the Caves. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay and try the original Painkiller drink.

Getaway Planning Notes:

• The BVI can be crowded during the high season between December and March. During this time it can be challenging to find/reserve mooring balls.
• There is more seasonal likelihood of adverse weather in the late summer and early fall.
• Not as easily accessible as the Bahamas, but flights to the nearby USVI are affordable and the St. Thomas airport is only a short ferry ride away from the BVI. 

Croatia

What Makes It a Great Sailing Destination:

• Historic Coastal Towns: Croatia is so rich with history that no matter what town or island you visit, there will always be historical sites and museums to explore. Two of the most remarkable cities when it comes to history are the ancient cities of Split and Dubrovnik, whose history stretches back over a thousand years. The cities feature UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient buildings, old cobblestone streets, fascinating museums, and more.
• Diverse Landscapes: Croatia's coastline is a breathtaking mix of diverse landscapes. Sail through the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by secluded coves, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Venture inland and you’ll discover lush green hills, rolling vineyards, and picturesque villages.
• Rich Culture: Croatian culture is a vibrant tapestry of Mediterranean, Central European, and Balkan influences, and this rich heritage is reflected in every aspect of life here. The local cuisine is a highlight, with fresh seafood, olive oil, and locally grown wines renowned worldwide. Traditional dishes like "peka" and "pašticada" offer a taste of the authentic flavors of the region. Croatian hospitality is another cornerstone of the culture—locals are known for their warmth and generosity, ensuring visitors feel welcome wherever they go.
• Diverse Experiences: The contrast between the peaceful, remote islands and the bustling port cities like Split and Hvar makes Croatia a truly dynamic destination where different types of travelers can find exactly what they are looking for. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or vibrant nightlife, Croatia offers it all.
• One-Way Charters: Since Navigare has two award-winning charter bases in Croatia, one in Trogir (Split) and the other one in Dubrovnik, we are able to offer charter guests the rare and incredible opportunity to charter one-way, meaning that you check in at one base and checkout at the other. With this setup, charter guests are able to explore a much larger portion of the Dalmatian Coast. Without the need to turn around and go back halfway through their trip, charter guests are able to visit almost twice as many islands during a one-way charter as they would on a traditional charter. 

Getaway Planning Notes:

• Some tourist locations in Croatia, and all around Europe, can be crowded during the summer. Finding a spot in the popular marinas can be more challenging during peak season.
• The Med sailing season runs from late April through early November.

Greece

What Makes It a Great Sailing Destination:

• Ancient History: Greece is a paradise for history buffs, where every island you sail to has a tale rooted in ancient times. Imagine dropping anchor and stepping ashore in old coastal towns like Hydra where the absence of cars still makes donkey-drawn carriages one of the main means of transportation. The echoes of the past are everywhere, from the ruins of temples dedicated to gods of old to ancient theaters still standing proudly against the passage of time. Each destination offers a glimpse into a world that shaped Western civilization, making every stop on your journey a step back in time.
• Stunning Scenery: Besides a rich history, Greece is also famous for its breathtaking landscapes where dramatic coastlines meet crystal-clear water. Picture yourself sailing past towering cliffs that plunge into the deep blue sea, or anchoring in a secluded bay surrounded by rugged mountains and olive groves. The Aegean Sea offers a variety of stunning backdrops, from the white-washed buildings in Mykonos to the lush green hills above Kyparissi.
• Vibrant Culture: Greek culture is a lively blend of ancient traditions and modern hospitality, making every visit a rich and immersive experience. Whether you’re savoring a meal at a seaside taverna or joining in the festivities of a local festival, you’ll be welcomed with open arms. The Greeks are known for their friendliness towards visitors and this hospitality is evident in the warmth with which they approach people.
• Delicious Cuisine: Greek cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage, with dishes that are as varied as they are flavorful. Imagine dining on fresh seafood grilled to perfection, or indulging in traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita. The Mediterranean diet, with its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, is at its finest here. Don’t miss out on the chance to sample local delicacies like feta cheese, olives, and honey, all of which are integral to the Greek culinary experience. And of course, a meal in Greece isn’t complete without a glass of locally produced wine or a shot of ouzo to toast the day.
• Diverse Experiences: Similar to Croatia, Greece offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every type of traveler, making it a versatile destination that can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you wish. Whether you’re exploring the lively nightlife of Mykonos, discovering hidden coves on the quieter islands of the Cyclades, or hiking through the rugged terrain of the Peloponnese, Greece has something for everyone.

Getaway Planning Notes:

• Seasonal Meltemi winds in the Aegean can be challenging for beginner sailors.
• Popular islands can be crowded during the summer months, which can make it difficult to find docking spots in the marinas.
• Limited sailing season (May through October).
  
  

Choose Your Ideal Sailing Getaway

Choosing the right yacht charter destination for your ideal getaway depends on your preferences, sailing experience, and the type of vacation you envision. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:

• The Bahamas: Famous for clear blue waters, excellent snorkeling, and close travel proximity to the US.
• British Virgin Islands: Perfect for easy navigation and smooth sailing. A boating paradise combined with a vibrant Caribbean culture.
• Croatia: Famous for historic coastal towns, calm seas, and stunning landscapes along the Dalmatian archipelago.
• Greece: A breathtaking Mediterrannean destination with ancient history, warm Aegean culture, delicious cuisine, and varied sailing routes.
  
  

Start Planning Your Sailing Adventure

Navigare Yachting offers yacht charters for all lifestyles and skill levels, ensuring an unforgettable experience tailored to your desires. Contact our team of charter experts today and start planning your perfect sailing adventure!

Navigare Yachting is a five-time 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner. Since 2001, over 400,000+ charter guests have set sail with Navigare - it’s safe to say that your yachting adventure will be in capable hands. With 12 exotic locations worldwide, the possibilities are endless! Whether you're an experienced sailor or a first-time adventurer, Navigare Yachting opens up a world of exploration, discovery, and sailing that comes with complete peace of mind.