Summer yacht charters 2025: new trends, must-see spots, and expert tips

The French Riviera

From Monaco to Saint-Tropez, the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) has long captured the hearts and souls of the yachting crowd, with its litany of beach clubs, chic coastal towns, and Michelin-starred delights hidden around every corner. Amid the French Riviera’s signature sun-kissed lifestyle, shopping, beaching, and being seen on red carpets are among the top leisure pursuits.

The hardest part is choosing between meeting friends for lunch at the Monaco Yacht Club or jetting off to party the night away at fabled restaurant La Guérite on Cannes’ Île Sainte-Marguerite. But however you choose to charter here, you're in for an unforgettable summer.

The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s best-loved jewels. A luxury yacht charter here takes in tumble-down cliffside homes whose pastel hues are illuminated by the rising and setting sun. Now designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, dropping anchor along this dramatic stretch of winding roads and coves is a must. A stop-off at Amalfi town itself will deliver picture-postcard delights, infused by the influence of Romans, Greeks, Saracens, and Arabs.

But don’t leave without venturing further inland to witness the ancient city of Pompeii. Its desolate history in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius is as awe-inspiring as ever. There’s only one place to truly appreciate the setting sun at Ravello, and that’s the Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrone. Here, panoramic vistas of the purple-bruised skies paint a picture never to be forgotten.

The Greek Islands

Greece continues to be a summer charter favourite, offering an idyllic mix of history, culture, and crystal-clear waters. From the Cyclades to the Ionian Islands, each region boasts its own unique charm. Mykonos and Santorini remain top choices for those seeking vibrant nightlife and stunning volcanic landscapes, while lesser-known gems like Milos and Folegandros provide a more tranquil escape away from the crowds.

The Red Sea

An emerging hotspot for luxury yacht charters, the Red Sea combines untouched marine life, historical wonders, and year-round warm waters. Egypt’s coast is rich with diving opportunities, from the renowned Ras Mohammed National Park to the dramatic wreck of the SS Thistlegorm. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious new luxury developments, including NEOM's Sindalah, are creating a new frontier for superyacht exploration. If you're looking for an exclusive escape marrying luxury with adventure, there’s no better place.

Scandinavia

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Scandinavia offers breathtaking fjords, pristine landscapes, and the midnight sun. Norway’s Lofoten Islands provide an awe-inspiring mix of towering peaks and sheltered bays, while further south, dramatic fjords offer some of the most spectacular cruising routes, with cascading waterfalls and charming waterside hamlets.

Sweden’s archipelagos offer a serene escape, with thousands of idyllic islets, traditional red cottages, and opportunities for island-hopping, nature walks, and al fresco dining on world-class seafood. From Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes (picture geysers, black sand beaches, and icy glaciers) to Denmark’s historic coastal towns, Scandinavia promises an unforgettable summer yacht charter.