The Best Mediterranean Destinations to Charter a Yacht

November 22, 2023 3 min

There are plenty of reasons why the Mediterranean has become one of the most popular sailing destinations in the world. Buckle up, because we’re sharing our secrets to selecting the most spectacular charter holiday of your dreams. Choose from ten Sunsail bases to begin and end your journey. Each stop delivers breath-taking views that are rich in European history.

Which of these top ten bareboat charters in the Mediterranean will you choose for your next sailing holiday?

Explore Croatia’s Wine Country

When you think of all the regions in the world where wine is cultivated, you may not think of Croatia. Although small, its climatic diversity makes Croatia one of the best regions to make wine. Set sail from Dubrovnik or Marina Agana and drink in the sights, smells, and sounds of the Dalmatian Islands that date back to 384 BC. If wine tours aren’t your speed, you may be interested in a number of land or sea excursions.

The “Pearl of the Adriatic” as the character Lord Byron called it, Dubrovnik is a hot spot for fans of HBO’s hit show Game of Thrones. Go behind the scenes by kayak through this walled city to Stradon, where you’ll find the infamous Dubronik Maskeron. This gargoyle is said to bless patrons with luck and love.

Experience the Dalmatians in one of the best ways: by bareboat charter. Roam free from Dubrovnik to the Elaphiti Islands and bask in the beauty of Lopud’s Sunji Beach or the ruins in Sipan, Luka. Set sail from our base in Marina Agana and explore the outer lying islands of the Kornati archipelago, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Bisevó Blue Cave.

About 2.5 hours from Marina Agana, the Blue Cave is at its best from 11 a.m. to noon on a sunny day. One of Europe’s bluest grottos, the water glows a bright blue when the sun’s rays hit the limestone floor. Steering towards a charter in Croatia yet?

sail in croatia

Wander in the Footsteps of Ancient Greeks

Greece, the birthplace of democracy is home to some of the most recognisable ancient monuments and landmarks. From the towering pillars of the Acropolis to Poseidon’s Temple, Greece brings the past to life.

Take the helm on a Lefkas bareboat charter, where you’ll wander in the footsteps of Caesar. Founded in 298BC, Nikopolis is one of the largest ancient cities in Greece. Roman architecture abounds in this “victory city” that commemorates Caesar’s victory over Antony and Cleopatra, and was once a place where philosophers would gather to exchange ideas.

If you’re looking for a sailing holiday that blends relaxation with educational moments, choose Corf u, Lefkas or Athens as your launchpad.

sail in greece

Eat Your Heart Out in Italy

For Italians, food is a catalyst for bringing people together. Not only is Italy’s cuisine some of the world’s best, but it’s also some of the most diverse. Beyond pasta and pizza, you’ll fill up on rich red sauces, hearty staples like Osso Bucco (braised veal), and mouth-watering seafood like mussels, squid, prawns, and more. Start your sailing holiday at the most glamorous ports in Italy. From the black-sand beaches of Procida to the luxurious resorts on Sardinia, each location offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Like food cooked in volcanic ashes, for instance. The volcanic island of Ischia features spectacular gardens, castles, natural thermal spas, and a rich culinary history.

Long after Roman Aristocrats used the hot springs to bathe, locals have continued to use these hot pockets to cook traditional recipes. By burying foil packets filled with vegetables, herbs, spices, chicken, and wine in sands that reach up to 350-degrees, local chefs serve the concoction over spaghetti in a red sauce. Combine your love of Italian cuisine with your love of sailing by discovering Italy on a bareboat yacht charter.

sail in italy

Now that you’ve gotten a taste of what each coastal European destination has to offer, where will you sail to next? If you’re a history buff, a food and wine enthusiast, or a thrill seeker, each destination has something exciting to offer. Depending on where you want to go, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of holiday options. Independently set sail on a monohull or catamaran, or let a skipper guide the way.