Sail Away

Written by: RINA CHANDARANA 

Luxury yacht charters are on the rise. More and more, travelers are choosing to skip the usual on-land sightseeing for exploration by sea with their families.

And why shouldn't they? Private yacht charters offer the opportunity to see more places strewn across the coastlines of some of the world’s most coveted destinations. And instead of being cooped up in a busy hotel, yachts offer a private, personalized experience with custom itineraries and schedules to suit the whole family. You're the captain on this adventure.

Here are the best yachting locations around the world with Ker & Downey. 

On a luxury yacht charter, travelers can go island hopping around Croatia's islands — there are 1,200 of them to choose from, scattered like pearls in the shimmering sea. Many of these islands remain uncrowded, remote, and spectacularly beautiful.

Climb fortresses, visit old villages surrounded by fragrant lavender fields, and sip wine in centuries-old vineyards on Hvar Island. In Korčula, meet with honey producers to sample their sweet delights. Then jump off the yacht to explore the historic mainland cities of Split and Dubrovnik. Alternatively, just anchor for the day, diving into the underwater world. The choice is yours on a private yacht in the Adriatic. 

Belize

Still somewhat under-the-radar as a sailing destination, Belize has so much to offer in a small geographic slice. Our travelers are choosing to skip the British Virgin Islands and instead sail and go scuba diving in the largest living reef in the world. Sailing charters promise fully customizable itineraries ranging from four to seven nights in length.

These “floating hotels” provide all the benefits of an all-inclusive but without the hordes of tourists. Enjoy air-conditioned cabins, private bathrooms, indoor and outdoor lounging areas, open bar, gourmet meals, and water toys, all managed by a skipper and personal chef. There are also no age limits or mobility restrictions to charter a sailing yacht here.  

Spot dolphins and manatees in sandy inlets. Also, spend hours snorkeling encountering a technicolor world of Moray Eels, parrotfish, and green turtles in one of the country’s healthiest reef ecosystems. If you’re lucky, you may even see an eagle ray gracefully drift by. 

Belize also boasts a rich cultural heritage filled with temples, waterfalls, caves, and a melting pot of Creole, Garifuna, Maya, and Mestizo cultures. These age-old food, language, and musical traditions are at their most immersive during an interactive drumming lesson and a visit to the many quaint fishing villages dotting the coastline.  

Feel like a castaway on a laid-back, teeny tiny island with a barefoot beach bar serving fresh coconut water and icy rum cocktails. Then return to your deck under the stars. Night owls can’t miss the once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness a cosmic bath of stars glowing neon blue below on a nighttime river safari through bioluminescent algae. 

Around Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, marine life is abundant. Little ones will rejoice at the sight of humpback whales and spinner dolphins hurtling through the surf. Your captain knows the perfect spot for jumping into the water all day or finding a secluded white-sand beach fringed by steamy tropical forests for a private picnic. 

Contemporary catamarans in Tahiti provide the utmost in comfort like air conditioning for sweet siestas and dreamy nights. With only a few cabins, there’s only room for two to ten guests who want to follow the winds, listen to the bird songs, and just surrender to the outstanding beauty. Beach bums, this is your invitation to just chill. 

Türkiye

Mainland Türkiye should of course not be ignored with its oodles of timeless historic sites spanning a great swathe of cultures and faiths. But there’s also a reason why Europeans flock to the beaches in the summer.  

To avoid the crowds, many travelers  — especially the honeymooners and romantics — are opting for a private yacht where they quickly discover there’s just as much below the waves, like the fascinating coral reef formations in the Seven Islands region. Swim and snorkel in the crystalline waters surrounded by forests of olive and pine.  

What’s unique about a Türkiye yacht voyage is the blend of both history and nature. Disembark with expert local guides to dig into the ancient Greek city of Ephesus. The island of Sedrai feels like an open-air museum with remnants of pillars, city walls, churches, and an amphitheater beckoning you to learn about the past before retreating to your modern floating home. 

Go on a Luxury Yacht Charter
with Ker & Downey

At Ker & Downey, each itinerary is designed to reflect who you are. When you travel with us, you can expect exceptional service from start to finish. To start planning your own private yacht charter, contact a Ker & Downey destination specialist. For daily travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or X.