As the nights begin to draw in, there is no better time to start planning the ultimate winter getaway aboard a luxury yacht charter.
While the Northern hemisphere prepares itself for the onset of winter, the Southern hemisphere beckons yacht charterers to its sun-drenched shores.
If you need some inspiration on where to cruise to this coming winter, then keep on reading. Here we explore some of the most refined winter yacht charter destinations for those in search of some winter sun.
Winter yacht charter destinations
St. Barts
Crystal clear waters and palm-fringed beaches greet yacht charters to St. Barts, one of the most elegant and refined destinations in the Caribbean. The winter playground of the world’s wealthiest, St Barts’ French influence ensures a chic Caribbean escape for the most discerning paradise seekers. Cruise St. Barts and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches, such as the pristine Colombier Beach, which offers superb snorkelling, or the shell-strewn Shell Beach. Lovers of architecture will delight in St. Barts’ cobblestoned streets, French chateau-style buildings, and gothic churches, offering plenty of things to see and do. Designer boutiques, such as Louis Vuitton, Dior and Bulgari, can be found along Quai de la Republique with more premium brands in Gustavia. Alternatively, enjoy traditional French Creole cuisine at several award-winning restaurants.
The Exumas
Crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches personify the Exumas, an archipelago of more than 350 paradisiacal islands. Soak up the sun on beaches all to yourself, sink beneath the waves and explore vibrant marine life, or make the most of your luxury yacht charter’s tenders and toys on azure blue water. A must-visit is Big Major Cay, where visitors can enjoy the novel experience of swimming with the island’s resident pigs. On Stocking Island, dine at the ‘Chat N’ Chill Bar’ a famed Exumas eatery accessible only by boat. Feast on its legendary hog roast and wash it down with exquisite, handcrafted cocktails while soaking up the views. Alternatively, enjoy fine dining at Exumas’ numerous five-star seafood restaurants, boasting fresh lobster dishes and traditional conch salad.
Seychelles
Renowned for its incredible wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery, the islands of the Seychelles are scattered across the Indian Ocean, offering an idyllic winter yacht charter destination. The beautiful coastline is a water sports lover’s dream and is teeming with colourful marine life. Cruise along the 10-mile stretch of the La Digue coastline at your leisure, debarking for swimming, exploring, fine-dining, or spending the day perusing the market cities of Victoria, Beau Vallon, or Baie Lazare. Fine diners can enjoy extravagant meals at eateries, including Sakura on Silhouette Island (famous for its incredible sushi) or Les Lauriers on Praslin Island.
The Whitsundays Islands
The Whitsundays Islands consist of 74 islands, located some 34-miles off Australia’s Queensland coast. Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, these South Pacific Island gems offer the ultimate warm water wonderland, and one of the best ways to explore them is aboard a luxury yacht charter. A snorkeller’s paradise, the marine life here is incredibly diverse, with whales, turtles, dolphins, sharks, and manta rays regularly spotted, while those in search of privacy will find plenty of exquisite beaches to relax on. Alternatively, cruise to Hamilton Island, one of Australia’s most desirable destinations, and enjoy limitless levels of luxury at exclusive resorts, spas, and award-winning restaurants.
South Africa
Boasting spectacular mountain ranges, unspoiled beaches, award-winning wineries, and some of the most mesmerising wildlife in the world, South Africa offers a winter yacht charter destination that is a feast for the senses. Explore Port Elizabeth, a cultural hub boasting museums and historical monuments, partake in a wine tasting experience at world-class wineries set amidst rolling hills or enjoy gourmet restaurants, designer shopping, and luxury resorts in Cape Town. Those with a thirst for adventure, swim with the great whites off Cape Town while protected by a shark cage or head to Tsitsikamma, where the highest commercial bridge bungee jump awaits. Of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without enjoying a safari and seeing the “Big Seven.”
Which winter yacht charter destination do you fancy exploring aboard a luxury yacht charter?
