Known for its famous cuisine, warm climate, stunning scenery, and relaxed culture – the Mediterranean is one of the most sought after sailing destinations on earth. We have compiled below the list of TOP Yacht Vacation Destinations in the Mediterranean
1. The Turkish Riviera, Turkey
Turkey is a unique Mediterranean location with a fascinating cultural history. East meets West in a land of golden beaches, ancient ruins and warm, turquoise waters. The Turquoise coast runs from Cesme to Alanya and includes stunning locations such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye and Kas.
2. Sardinia, Italy
One of Italy’s best kept secrets and a paradise for yachtsmen, Sardinia has to be one of the most incredible sailing destinations in the Med. The Costa Smeralda is famous for its beauty, but the whole of Sardinia boasts pristine white sand beaches and impossibly clear waters. The coastlines are littered with hidden bays, rocky coves, caves and grottoes. By boat you can reach hidden anchorages and untouched islands that seem to belong to another world. The sailing infrastructure is also modern and convenient.
3. The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
National parks, beach clubs, blue caves, medieval fortresses… and that’s just the beginning. The Dalmatian Islands have something for everyone. Hvar, Vis, Korcula and Mljet must be seen, and they are easy to reach from the vibrant cities of Split or Dubrovnik.
4. Ionian Islands, Greece
Greece is a well-established sailing area and there are many cruising grounds to choose from. The Ionian Islands are particularly good for families and beginners who want to sail in short stages. In this part of the Ionian Sea you are never far from a charming port town, a Homeric site or an idyllic beach.
5. Tuscany, Italy
Quintessentially Italian and brimming with culture and architectural splendor, Tuscany is a well-loved holiday destination and a superb sailing area to boot. The Tuscan coast is devoid of mass tourism, and rolling hills scattered with vineyards and olive groves meet colorful towns by the sea. More treasures can be found in the Tuscan Archipelago just off the coast – that is said to have been created when the goddess Venus dropped her necklace into the ocean.
6. Cote d’Azur, France
The Cote d’Azur is the ultimate yachting destination and a playground for the rich and famous. Artists, aristocrats and sailors alike have flocked to the azure coast since the nineteenth century and walked the cobbled streets of Antibes, Cannes and Saint-Tropez. Despite its popularity, the French Riviera has managed to retain its rustic charm. The island groups of Iles de Lérins and Îles d’Hyères make nice contrasts to the busy coast.
7. Kornati Islands, Croatia
Miles of blue dotted with hundreds of green islands. The Kornati Islands are perfect for those seeking a back to basics sailing experience. The islands in this part of Croatia are tranquil and traditional, with small settlements and a lot of natural beauty. Sailors can sit back and enjoy simple pleasures by the sea.
8. The Balearic Islands, Spain
Whether you want to party the night away, release your inner hippy, or find a quiet corner to relax. Sailing between Ibiza, Formentera, Mallorca and Menorca one can find lively tourist towns and surprisingly serene and laid back anchorages.
9. Corsica, France
Corsica, otherwise known as the ‘Île de beauté’ is ideal for those seeking challenging sailing and dramatic scenery. Magnificent medieval port towns tower over blue waters on the wild, often rugged coast. As well as offering exhilarating sailing, Corsica is a dream-come-true for lovers of wine, food and the great outdoors. Places such as Calvi and Ajaccio are effortlessly chic, and the island has an air of low key sophistication.
10. Montenegro
Montenegro’s unspoiled and indented coastline makes it an ideal sailing location. The incredible fjord like landscape has inspired great authors of the past such as Byron and Cervantes, and cruising along the Adriatic past snowcapped mountains and medieval towns, it is easy to see why. The people in Montenegro are also known to be exceptionally warm and hospitable.