Luxury Yacht Charter in Cyclades, Seychelles, Sardinia, Greek Islands, Italy

Enjoy the wonders of a luxury yacht charter on the Mediterranean onboard FOUR FRIENDS luxury yacht, specifically designed for speed and comfort.

The Mangusta 108 is a maxi open with absolutely stunning lines. The 5,400 horsepower of the twin engines awakens your senses as you skim across the Mediterranean Sea at 35 knots… Motor yacht Four Friends has a sporty nature and combines high-performance with the personalization and comfort of a traditional motor yacht.

Lunch in the midst of the world’s jet set at the infamous club55, Saint Tropez, an afternoon of jet skiing and water sports, or just relax and be pampered by the onboard masseuse whilst at anchor in a secluded bay. The craggy coast of Corsica, the marvellous beaches of Sardinia, the unsurpassed pure style of Portofino or the beautiful tranquil bays of the islands of Porquerolles are journeys Four Friends takes in her stride.

Absorb the majesty of the Côte d’Azur on board Four Friends. Whether it is corporate entertaining, team building or just pure pleasure for you and your family, Four Friends, ­designed for safety, speed and ­comfort.

Her already tasteful interior was completely refurbished for 2007 to include plush cream soft furnishings creating a luxurious area for relaxation after a day of fun on the French Rivera. Sleeping 6/8 guests in 3 en-suite double cabins, with the option of a convertible double bed in a convertible day cabin/massage room (ideally suited to children), Four Friends is very accommodating. Each cabin is equipped with TV, DVD player and sound system, the master cabin offering large flat screen TV.

The aft deck has ample sunbathing areas along with an outdoor eating area, the perfect setting for your personally designed menus by the on-board chef. Forward you will find a vast sunbathing area with folding hood to ensure total privacy.

The main saloon with seating area is equipped with flat screen Sky TV and DVD player and leads to a further dining area with removable roof section.

Wayne Toohill, a professional and experienced captain will be staying on board for a second season along with the Chief Stewardess, Chef, Engineer and 2nd stewardess/masseuse ensuring the continuation of a successful team. Four Friends makes an ideal base for the Monaco Grand Prix, Cannes Film Festival, MIPIM, MIDEM and many more and is looking forwarded to impressing charter guests this summer.

On board facilities include “state-of-the-art” satellite communications and entertainment systems in all ­cabins, fully equipped galley capable of producing formal gourmet dinner parties for up to 12 guests.

Specifications:

• Builder: Overmarine Italy
• Type: Mangusta 108
• Year: 2003
• Length: 33.5 M
• Beam: 7.10 M
• Draft: 1.22 M
• Engines: 2 x MTU 12V 2.735 hp
• Propulsion: 2 x Kamewa 63sII Water Jet
• Range: Approx. 400 NM
• Cruising speed: 35 knots
• Maximum speed: 38 knots
• Air conditioning throughout
• Toys: 2 Jet skis
• Cruising area: South of France
• Commercially registered at Kingstown SVG and fully compliant for charter use
• Max. Nº of guests: 12 cruising – 6 sleeping
• Cabins: 3 (1 master, 2 double)
• Option to use dayroom
• Crew: 4/5 in 4 cabins

Yacht Charter In The Cyclades – Supreme Sailing In The Greek Aegean Islands

The Saronic Gulf and the center of the Aegean Sea – the Cyclades – contain some of the most stunning islands in the whole of Greece. History was made here and you find a multitude of fascinating ancient sites while leisurely sailing from island to island.

Dramatic volcanic landscapes dotted by hilltop towns with the typical Cycladic white-washed houses and windmills, crystal-clear waters, authentic cuisine and atmosphere make a yacht charter here so unique and enjoyable. Let us tell you a bit more about this rich cruising ground in detail.

Why is the Aegean Sea such a sought-after charter destination?

The Saronic Gulf is the link between the Ionian and the Aegean Sea. It is a part of the Aegean Sea and lies at the eastern side of the Corinthian Gulf, which is a 100 km long stretch of water. It contains the eastern entrance and exit point of the Corinth Canal, the city and port of Athens and the main islands Aegina, Salamis, Poros as well as many smaller ones.

There are some amazing ancient sites like Delphi, Corinth, Mycenae and hundreds more. A very convenient starting point for an Aegean yacht charter is Athens with its big airport and the big marina of Kalamaki that offers a multitude of charter boats. It is situated due south of Athens. From there you can directly head to the Saronic Gulf with its interesting coastline and islands. The ideal yacht charter base for the Cyclades is Lavrion, about 37 km south-west from Athens airport.

The Cyclades contain the islands of Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Eschati, iOS, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, and Thira or Santorini plus many more smaller ones. It simply is a vast sailing ground with endless highlights to discover. Distances between the islands are much bigger than in some of the other Mediterranean archipelagos, so it is well suited for the experienced sailor.

The beauty of the islands is legendary. Delos is one of the most important ancient Greek sites. Then there is the volcanic island of Milos. Or Santorini with its huge crater and super-steep cliff that constitutes one of the most famous natural attractions in the world.

The largest airports are Santorini and Mykonos, which offer many charter flights in summer from most European larger cities. Paros, Naxos, Syros and Milos also have airports with domestic flights. The ferry links between the islands amongst each other and with the mainland are brilliant, so it´s no problem to get to anywhere.

As everywhere around Greece, you will find lovely authentic taverns with great local food and fresh fish, charming ports and blue / white painted villages as well as romantic thatch-roofed windmills. The backdrop are impressive serene landscapes, including volcanic rocky coastlines. There are almost no tides but the sometimes occurring Meltemi winds require good sailing skills.

Some relevant info for Aegean sailboat charter:

• Location: Mediterranean Sea east of the Peloponnese; south of Athens; north of Crete
• Main Charter Bases: Kalamaki (just outside Athens); Lavrion (37 km south-east of Athens); Paros
• Main airports: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini
• Country code: +30
• Climate: Mild, Mediterranean

Which main charter destinations are there in the Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades?

The Saronic Gulf is mostly very protected as there is very little chance of the Meltemi blowing and it is therefore a good cruising ground for family sailing holidays.

One of the classic sailing routes in the Saronic Gulf leads from Athens along the coast to Cap Sounion. On the western shore of the mainly mountainous coastline of the Peloponnese there is famous Epidaurus. The Methana peninsula is an ancient volcano about 6 NM north-west of Poros Island. Poros is separate from the Peloponnese only by a 300 m wide channel. It has a lovely port and main town built on a hill with a characteristic bell tower looming above it.

Salamis, the largest island in the Saronic Gulf with a rocky coastline of 104 km, is located only 2 km off the coast of Piraeus, Athens. It´s famous for its important part in many sea battles and offers some very nice fine sandy beaches. Check out the lively port of Paloukia in the North-East of the island or Peristeria in the South – a small town with a yacht harbor and clean beaches. Then there is the big bay of the main town, Salamina.

You can take the charter yacht to Aegina, the so-called istpistachio island´ due to its large cultivation of the crop. It is an extinct volcano with rugged coastline and contains the ports of perdika and aegina town with nice taverns and souvenir shops.

Hydra, which is geographically not part of the Saronic Gulf but one of the Saronic Islands, is a lovely place popular with artists. Moor up in the protected port of its main town Hydra or the quiet unspoilt port of Ermioni with a beautiful steep hilly backdrop.

When sailing to Spetses, you can anchor in the bay or moor up directly in the main town on the north-eastern tip of the island.

Cruising the Cyclades Kea is one of the first islands you encounter. It is a typical Cycladic island with a beautiful old town and situated 12 NM south-east of Cape Sounion.

Kythnos, just to the South, has a very indented coastline great for anchoring or mooring in the beautiful bays or ports, for instance Stefanos bay on the east side or protected Loutra port in the North East. Try the local cheese, which is a famous specialty. The main marina to use on a yacht rental is Merikha on the west side.

Seriphos has a wonderful entry into a long bay surrounded by high-rising hills. The port at the end is Livadhi. Go up to the Chora, where you have an absolutely spectacular view.

Sifnos lies a 9 NM sailing trip south of Serifos. Kamares on the north-west side is a well-protected port at the end of a large bay.

When on a boat charter in the Cyclades, you should pass by the island of Milos. It is an old volcano that forms a huge caldera surrounded by pumice cliffs. The port of Adhamas in the north part of the crater is one of the best-protected harbors in the Mediterranean.

Finally Santorini: Entering the humongous caldera from the North-West and approaching the steep cliffs is a highlight for every sailor.

From Santorini you can steer the sailing yacht via iOS to Amorgos, a bare rocky island that has retained very much of its authentic character and doesn´t have that much tourism.

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Archipelago. Only about 4 NM west of Naxos lies Paros, and adjacent to it, Antiparos. There are many protected bays and inlets. The channel between Paros and Antiparos is good for anchoring as well as the protected bays of the main town, Parikia, and the popular fishing port of Naoussa.

At the coast off the ancient site of Delos yachts are only allowed to anchor until 3 pm, which is when the exhibition grounds close. Fourni Bay a little to the South, or the southern bay of neighbor islet Reneia are options to set anchor overnight.

A main attraction of every Aegean yacht charter is Mykonos. There are enough bays on the south side to look for shelter from the northerly Meltemi.

Syros, Tinos and Andros are 3 more of the bigger Cycladic islands and there are numerous smaller ones on top of that, providing the yacht charterer with endless options for sailing routes.

What are the prevailing weather systems for a yacht charter around the Aegean Islands?

The northerly Meltemi wind can reach force 7, sometimes 8, in July and August. It can occur quite unpredictably as well as blow for 5 days on end, so in that case good sailing skills are required. It may not take place at all, though, and there have been summers without Meltemi entirely. Best suited for family sailing holidays is the well-protected Saronic Gulf.

Summary of the weather conditions for sailing a yacht charter in the Aegean with the example of Santorini:

• Months with the highest average temperature: July / August, 26 °
• Months with lowest average temperature: January / February, 12 °
• Month with highest average precipitation: December, 167 mm
• Months with lowest average precipitation: July / August, 0 mm
• Month with the highest daily sunshine hours: July, 14 hours
• Month with the lowest daily sunshine hours: December, 6 hours
• Average wind speed in summer: 3 – 7 Bft.
• Month with highest average water temperature: August, 25 °
• Month with lowest average water temperature: January, 16 °
• Main season: May – October

How much is Aegean yacht rental and what are the different charter types?

You can rent a 12 m sailboat, for instance, from about 1,400 € a week. Prices rise according to size, model and equipment of the yacht. Due to the strong winds, there aren´t really any flotilla charters. You can do bareboat or skippered charter, and choose between catamaran charter and sailboat or motor yacht hire. You could go for a day charter or opt for luxury boat hire that comes with a lot of extras and a crew according to your specific needs.

What else is there to do besides sailing on a boat hire in the Cyclades and the Saronic Gulf?

On a yacht hire in the Saronic Gulf, visit Epidaurus on the Peloponnese, a large ancient sanctuary and center of healing set in the forest. Its ruins contain a theater with amazing acoustics, where a whisper on the stage is heard anywhere on the 54 tiers of seats, a stadium and much more. Also check out the museum illustrating what exactly happened at the sanctuary in antiquity.

If you rent a yacht in Lavrion, go down to Cape Sounion which is located only about 10 km due south. It is a temple for Poseidon in a beautiful setting on a steep cliff overlooking the sea.

Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta beginning of July makes for some exciting racing with some beautiful sailing yachts, Aegean classic schooners and lateens.

Kea main town, Ioulis, is very picturesque. It sits high on a plateau like most Greek island towns – they used to be built like that for protection from pirates. Moor up the sailboat and visit the medieval Venetian castle. And north-east of Kea town there is the famous carved lion from the 6th c. BCE. Check out the seaside resort of Vourkari where you encounter an ancient city with the oldest temple found in the whole of Greece (15th c. BCE).

Kea is very popular with scuba divers as the water has great visibility and rich wildlife and there are good possibilities for cavern and wreck diving – one of the sister ships of the Titanic, the HMHS Britannic, sank there in 1916, amongst others.

If you have some time in-between sailing trips, attend one of the many traditional festivals in Sifnos – there is one held almost every month. With 360, the island has the highest amount of churches in all of the cyclades. For instance, watch a typical Greek wedding at the Church of the Seven Martyrs in Kastro with its amazing setting above the sea. Or visit the beautifully architected capital of the island, Apollonia.

Milos offers spectacular volcanic landscapes including its huge caldera as well as the hot springs. For some sightseeing head to the remains of the medieval castle of Palaiokastro at the highest point.

Should the Meltemi blow a little too strong for sailing, take some time and visit the amazing archaeological site and museum at Santorini. Also admire the stark volcanic landscape – there are no trees, just craters and pumice cliffs. Go to Fira, which is a sea of ​​whitewashed houses sitting high on top of the black rocks that are beautifully lit up at night.

Watch the sunset over the crater from one of the many bars and restaurants. There is a cable car taking you up to the town or you can ride a donkey up the serpentine path. Try and savor the local wine, which is especially flavored from the volcanic soil.

Amorgos was the backdrop for Luc Besson´s film The Big Blue and when you hire a motor- or sailing yacht in the Aegean Sea, you can go there yourself and soak up the amazing color of the sea and the sky. Go up to the charming Chora of Amorgos sitting on top of the hill next to scattered windmills and a Venetian castle with a stunning view. Other beautiful villages are Tholaria and Langada and the towering monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa in the cliff side north-east of Chora is also well worth visiting,

You could explore some of the many ruins on Naxos or hire some windsurfing / kitesurfing equipment at one of the many schools there.

Take a quick break in-between sailing trips on your yacht charter and try out the buzzing and world-famous nightlife in Mykonos. For party, go to the Scandinavian Bar in the center or the large Cavo Paradiso Club at Paradise Bay to the south. The next day relax at one of the gorgeous beaches, wander through the wonderful charming town with its funky shops and buy some artwork or souvenirs.

Delos was the center of the cult of Apollo and, as such, a holy island. Splendid games were held there and a rich sanctuary with magnificent architecture was built. You can visit the vast ceremonial grounds and the remains of stunning temples and statues as well as the archaeological museum. So don´t miss out on the opportunity to walk these historically important mosaic floors when you´re doing a bareboat yacht charter in the Aegean Sea.

Have a look at one of the most beautiful churches in Greece – Panagia Ekatontapilyiani in Parikia on Paros, built around the 7 / 8th century by one of the architects of the Hagia Sofia. Or visit the nearby ´Botterfly Valley´, a park with tens of thousands of butterflies.

Check out the picturesque old port of Naoussa on the north coast with its white-washed houses and squares that are lit up at night and create a wonderful atmosphere to sit outside and have dinner in one of the restaurants before continuing the sailing or motor yacht charter the next day.

Yacht Charter In The Seychelles – Do You Know The ABCs Of Sailing This Archipelago?

The beaches of the Seychelles archipelago are amongst the most famous in the world and have featured in many movies and advertising spots. Sailing here means you get to experience this dream-like scenery first-hand. Admire stunning coral atolls, rich wildlife that is unique to this archipelago, lush mountains and colonial architecture. The conditions for yacht charter are perfect with year-round tropical temperatures and calm waters. It´s as if you charter a boat in paradise!

What are the main characteristics you encounter when going on a sailing yacht charter in the Seychelles?

Seychelles International Airport offers many daily scheduled direct flights from and to European, African, Indian and Middle Eastern Destinations. There are also some very good ferry and flight connections amongst the bigger islands.

The Republic of Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands with the capital Victoria on Mahé Island. It is located in the Indian Ocean, about 1,600 km east of mainland Africa, just south of the equator. Other island states south of the Seychelles are Madagascar, La Réunion and Mauritius. The population is ca. 93,000, 90% of which live in Mahé. It is the smallest population of any African independent state.

The Seychelles have 42 granitic inner islands that contain the three principal islands Mahé, La Digue and Praslin and that span over a total sea surface of about 31,000 km² and a land surface of 266 km². Then there are 73 coral outer islands forming an arc towards Africa which have a sea surface of about 400,000 km².

The highest point of those islands is only 9 m and they feature very few settlements. It should be noted that on a one or two-week charter there probably is not enough time to sail both groups of islands. In that case it is better to stick to the Inner Islands exclusively.

The archipelago is spoilt by tropical temperatures moderated by trade winds and mostly calm seas throughout the year. So sailing boat charter is possible all year round and navigation is easy. The landscape is pristine and really paradise-like with long sandy beaches, green mountains, waterfalls and amazing lush wildlife. The highest point is Morne Seychellois in Mahé at 905 m.

You can encounter giant turtles and see the famous coco de mer palm trees that are endemic to the Seychelles and that have the largest plant seeds in the world. The underwater flora and fauna is great and ideal for diving and snorkeling as well as lots of other water sports.

The Seychellois are very protective of their beautiful environment. There are seven national parks as well as four protected reserves and a lot of safe anchorages are being created to prevent the coral reefs from being destroyed.

On top of that you have friendly locals, a very interesting culture, lovely Creole cooking with healthy fresh food and French as well as British colonial architecture. All this adds up to a perfect charter vacation.

Some of the most important figures for yacht charter in the Seychelles:

• Location: Indian Ocean; about 1,600 km east of Kenia; 4° – 10° south of the equator
• Surface area: Landmass 459 km²; total territory 1,374,000 km²
• Number of islands: 115
• Coastline: 491 km
• Capital: Victoria
• Most important islands: Mahé (156 km²) with capital Victoria, Praslin Island, Silhouette Island, La Digue
• Highest point: Morne Seychellois, 905 m
• Population: 93,000
• Climate: Tropical, moderated by trade winds
• Languages: Creole Seychellois, French, English
• Tidal range: Inner Islands 0.9 – 2 m; Outer Islands 1.8 – 4m
• Main charter season: All year round, but mainly during the European/North American winter months

What are the most popular charter destinations and cruising grounds in the Seychelles?

Sailing around the Inner Islands, or the “Seychelles Bank” means calm, easy and protected cruising. There are always less than 32 NM between mooring possibilities. You find many mooring buoys in place around north-west Mahé, north-east Praslin and some neighbour islands.

The distance from Mahé to Praslin is about 27 NM and La Digue is just nearby. Mahé alone, which is the biggest island, has miles of scenic coastline with white sandy beaches, coves and grottoes. La Digue and Praslin are home to some of the world´s most stunning beaches.

Anchoring on coral ground is not allowed but there are many good anchorages with sandy bottoms at about 5 – 8 m depth. Most of the ports in the Seychelles are located on the three main islands. Port Victoria has 210 moorings for yachts up to 34 m. The new Eden Island Marina can host 140 boats and super yachts up to 100 m length.

Cruising the Outer Islands you encounter the principal island groups of the Amirantes, the Alphonse Group, the Southern Coral Group, the Farquhar Group and Aldabra. Those islands are between 130 and 630 NM from Mahé and much less frequented, yet therefore very unspoilt and special cruising grounds.

Go to the marine parks of Cousin, Aride, Curieuse Marine National Park, Ste. Anne Marine National Park, Ile Coco Marine National Park and St. Pierre. There are specified zones for anchoring and officials will come to the yacht in order to collect the mooring and entrance fees. Entrance fees are from 10 € per person and for anchoring at night from 10 € per yacht are charged.

What are the prevailing weather systems relevant for your bareboat charter in the Seychelles?

Due to the tropical climate the Seychelles are suited for year-round sailing. The water as well as air temperatures are mostly always between 24° – 32°. The waters are calm because upstream coral reefs are breaking the waves. This makes navigation very easy.

There are two main seasons. One from May to October with south-easterly winds. It is dry with only light showers but has stronger winds. The other one from November to March is characterized by weaker north-westerly winds and a bit more rainfall but calmer seas than in the dry season. April is the month in-between seasons and there is next to no wind.

January brings the most rain with an average of 397 mm and June is the driest month with 63 mm on average. If it rains, though, it is mostly over after a few hours and on another part of the island or on another island it will be dry at the same time, so it´s easy to escape the occasional shower. With the exception of the most southerly islands, the Seychelles are outside the range of the cyclone belt and there are no tropical storms.

Brief summary of the weather for yacht charter in the Seychelles:

• Months with highest average temperature: March/April 31°
• Months with lowest average temperature: July/August 24°
• Strongest wind speeds: South-easterly trade winds May to October, 10 – 20 knots
• Month with highest average precipitation: January 379 mm
• Month with lowest average precipitation: June 63 mm
• Average humidity: ca. 80%
• Month with highest average sunshine: May, 252 hours
• Month with lowest average sunshine: January, 153 hours

How much does a yacht charter cost in the Seychelles archipelago and what types of charter are there?

Prices for sailboat charter vacation in the Seychelles start at about 2,250 € a week and catamaran charter is the most prevailing form of boat rental. Also deep sea or sport fishing trips are very common. You can do bareboat or crewed charter and there are lovely traditional as well as very modern yachts available. Sports and diving equipment is usually provided with the yacht.

What is there to do apart from sailing on your boat rental in the Seychelles?

Visit Praslin and the Vallée de Mai reserve – UNESCO world natural heritage – which is home to the legendary coco de mer palm tree with its huge coconuts that can take up to seven years to mature. There you also encounter some of the rarest bird species in the world and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles.

Explore Birds´ Island, the northernmost island of the Inner Seychelles. It is situated about 100 km from Mahé and home to the oldest, largest and heaviest turtle in the world which is 170 years old and weighs 300 kg. Hundreds of thousands of birds, some of which belong to very rare species, are nesting there.

Go fly-fishing on the Outer Islands where there are some of the best fishing grounds in the world and you can catch humongous fish in a pristine environment.

Discover La Digue with its lovely architecture. It´s best to rent a bike and cycle round. Visit the stunning beach Anse Source d´Argent that featured in the Bacardi, Raffaelo and other ads with its pink sand and dramatic boulders.

Check out the French colonial architecture, i.e. the historical cemetery with the grave of the legendary pirate Olivier Le Vasseur and the Cathedrale de la Conception Immaculée which is the main cathedral of the Seychelles. There also is a lot of British colonial architecture in Victoria like the clock tower for example. You could visit the botanical gardens as well and learn about the rich local flora.

Drive along the coastal roads of Mahé and explore the varied mix of swanky resorts like Eden Island, sleepy port towns and deserted beaches for the perfect castaway experience. Go up into the mountains to enjoy some stunning views as the one over to Silhouette Island.

You can admire giant turtles in the natural parks. Go snorkeling, diving, kayaking or try any of the other kinds of water sports that are available. Sample the local cuisine. It is a fusion of African, French, British, Indian and Chinese influences and involves a lot of fantastic fresh fish and exotic spices. Explore the nightlife, too. Go to clubs in Victoria and at Beau Vallon Beach and mingle with tourists and sailors from all over the world.

We hope you have a good idea now what yacht charter in the Seychelles is like and what this wonderful island state has got to offer for you. It surely is a yacht charterer´s paradise!

Yacht Charter In Sardinia – Costa Smeralda And Beyond

When sailing in Sardinia you are spoilt for choice with stunning cruising grounds. The landscape is gorgeous, the food delicious and the people exceptionally friendly. No wonder this island is so popular with stars and celebrities. The Costa Smeralda and the Maddalena Archipelago are amongst the most sought-after charter areas in the world. Come and spend a sailing holiday in style!

What makes a yacht charter in Sardinia so popular?

Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Its convenient location in the middle of the Mediterranean and the mild climate make it a top sailing destination. In addition, it has beautiful landscape with steep cliffs and red rocks along with simple, authentic culture and cuisine.

Fortunately, Sardinia is very easy to get to. It has three airports – Cagliari in the South, Alghero in the Northwest and Olbia in the Northeast. The main ports are Cagliari, Olbia and Porto Torres. There are ferry connections to Corsica and Sicily as well as the Spanish, French and Italian mainland.

The coastline offers many safe anchorages due to deep bays with upstream islands. There are nearly no tides. Summers are long, hot and dry but temperatures are usually moderated by a westerly sea breeze. Due to the prevailing winds good sailing skills are required.

The island is characterized by a wonderful blend of chic ports like Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo with unspoilt and largely uninhabited cruising grounds as for instance the Maddalena Islands.

Some relevant info for a bareboat charter in Sardinia:

• Location: Centre of the Mediterranean Sea; 200 km from the Italian mainland
• Capital: Cagliari
• Total length of coastline: 1,849 km
• Total surface area: 24,090 km²
• Highest point: Punta La Marmora, 1,834 m
• Population: ca. 1,663,000
• Country code: +39
• Climate: Mild, Mediterranean

Which main charter destinations and marinas are there in Sardinia?

Generally, in Sardinia you find many natural harbours for anchoring. The North is busier and offers better infrastructure. The South, on the other hand, is more authentic, unspoilt and quiet. Sardinia lies only 12 km from Bonifacio in Corsica, so it´s possible to combine northern Sardinia and Corsica for a sailing holiday.

The exclusive Costa Smeralda on the north side constitutes a highly popular tourist destination and an attraction for the international jet set with white sandy beaches, golf courses, luxury hotels and private jet as well as helicopter services. Particularly famous is Porto Cervo Marina – a superyacht harbour that is very protected and has great infrastructure and 720 berths for boats up to 100 m length.

Also on the Costa Smeralda is the Marina dell´Orso with 305 moorings for yachts up to 35 m. You encounter numerous other ports around the area and the island, for example Alghero with its nice old town, Cagliari, Cannigione, La Maddalena, Olbia, Palau and Portisco.

The Maddalena archipelago just off the Emerald Coast features 7 major islands on the northern tip of Sardinia in the Straights of Bonifacio. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and a national park with a myriad of coves and bays, crystal-clear waters as well as breath-taking, perfectly preserved nature. Seek out the wonderful pink beach of Spiaggia Rosa, for example. Only three of the islands are inhabited, and it´s therefore a largely unspoilt marine reserve.

Further over to the East lies the fjord-like gulf of Cannigione. Sailing into the long inlet you can enjoy the view of the rocky and scenic backdrop and a charming port and quiet resort town at the end. Not far at all is the equally protected and popular Cala di Volpe with its wide bay and good shelter. More to the South you can head to the port towns of Olbia and Portisco where you have good shopping facilities and infrastructure.

The Gulf of Orosei on the east coast and the national park of the same name form a big bay with numerous caves and gorgeous aquamarine waters. There you find many sublime beaches like the Cala Gonone, Cala Goloritze or Cala Fuili and the gorgeous Grotte del Bue Marino, a 5 km cave with impressive stalactites/stalagmites and Neolithic wall carvings.

Continue south along the coast of the province Oligastra and discover even more fantastic long white sandy beaches with amazing water like Cea Beach and others.

Check out the island of Sant´Antioco, 87 km from Cagliari off the south western coast of Sardinia. It is the fourth largest island in Italy. Next to it, 7 km off the coast lies the sixth largest Italian island San Pietro. It is of volcanic origin and boasts a rocky coast with pretty beaches and natural grottoes that make for great snorkeling. Its charming harbour and fishing town Carloforte on the protected eastern coast is well worth a visit.

What important weather systems are there for yachting in Sardinia?

Sardinia has an average of 300 days of sunshine per year and 6 months of summer. The heat is often alleviated by a nice sea breeze from the West. There are no significant tides (max. 40 cm). As far as winds go, the Mistral from the Northwest is cold in winter but makes the air drier and more breathable in summer.

The highest wind speed from June to August is no more than 20 – 25 knots. The hot Sirocco from the Southeast brings Sahara dust from Africa. Then there is the easterly Levant that sailors need to take into account.

Summary of the sailing weather conditions for Sardinia yacht rental:

• Months with highest average temperature: July/August, 28°
• Months with lowest average temperature: January/February, 7°
• Month with highest average precipitation: December, 131 mm
• Month with lowest average precipitation: July, 11 mm
• Average wind speed May – October: 8/9 knots
• Month with highest average water temperature: August, 25°
• Month with lowest average water temperature: January, 14°
• Main season: May – October

How much is it to rent a yacht in Sardinia and what are the different charter types?

You can rent a 12 m sailboat from around 2,000 €. Prices go up according to size, type and equipment of the vessel. Luxury sailing charters are available on boats larger than 24 m. In this case of boat rental there will be a captain and a crew. If you choose to do a bareboat yacht charter you can skipper the vessel yourself.

Off course you could also do a skippered or crewed charter on yachts up to 20 m if you do not wish to navigate. You also need to decide whether you want to do a catamaran charter or hire a sailing or motor yacht. Flotilla holidays are a very popular option too. Common in Italy and available in every port is renting of a 4 – 10 m long rib to go on a nice excursion on the water. If this is too small for you, go for motor boat hire on a bigger yacht.

What activities besides sailing are there on a Sardinia boat rental?

Visit some of the fantastically beautiful natural parks. The Parco nazionale del Golfo di Orosei e del Gennargentu on the east coast contains some of the oldest rocks in Europe as well as the only ski resorts on the island. Close-by Altopiano del Golgo, a nature reserve near Cala Goloritze, has amazing landscapes.

The plateau is great for walks in untamed nature. The Sette Fratelli in the Southeast has much wildlife and thick forest. And the Monte Arcosu in the south-west offers some more stunning scenery. Go see the enchanting Neptune’s Cave on the west coast, a 2,500 m long wonder of nature boasting stunning views.

For some excitement attend the Swan Cup in September at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda in Porto Cervo. Admire the racing with many of the world´s best sailors and beautiful yachts. The Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta in June showcases an amazing fleet of luxury yachts on some breath-taking sailing courses in the same location.

For sightseeing check out the town of the island of Sant´Antioco with its ancient acropolis, Roman bridge and Phoenician and Punic necropolises. There is an archaeological museum where you can learn about the rich history of the island. Visit the bastion of Saint Remy in the ancient Castello district of Cagliari. It is one of the symbols of the city with beautiful views over the town as well as the port.

Castelsardo in the North is a lovely medieval village with great views from the top of Doria Castle over the gulf of Asinara. Alghero on the northwest coast has a charming cobblestoned centre encircled by ancient walls. The gothic Cattedrale di �Santa Maria features an impressive bell tower.

Also worth visiting are the Palazzo Guillot, the 14th century Chiesa di San Francesco or the Chiesa San Michele with its lovely colourful tiled dome. Seek out the 6 km long Chia beach, the second southernmost point of the island, and the spectacular lighthouse Faro di Capo Spartivento. Nearby Nora, an archaeological Punic site, is considered to be the most ancient village in Sardinia.

The famous Porto Cervo offers glitz and glamour, boutique shopping, fine wining and dining as well as a pulsating nightlife attracting celebrities and film stars like Leonardo Di Caprio or others partying in Flavio Briatore´s `Billionaire´s Club`. There, you can enjoy mingling with the international jet set listening to the best DJs.

Try the Sardinian cuisine. Do some of the many water sports like windsurfing, kayaking, water-skiing, wakeboarding, diving, snorkeling, etc. Go to one of the festivals like the Sardinia Reggae Festival at the beginning of August or the L´Ardia di San Constantino beginning of June when many villages host a fast-paced, heart-pounding horse race that is followed by joyful music and dancing.

Party Like A Rock Star – Charter A Yacht In Greece And Sail Around The Greek Islands

You too can have a vacation that lets you ‘party like a rock star’ and live the lifestyle of the rich and famous – even if it’s only for a week or two!

In fact, this article will give you all the information you need to plan the perfect champagne and caviar vacation – while having a beer… (well, maybe nice bottle of French wine) – budget!

Celebrities, rock stars, royalty and supermodels all love the Greek Islands – and so should you.

I recommend the Cyclades Islands, mainly because they’re a favorite playground for celebrities, rock stars and supermodels… Mykonos (pronounced Mee-ko-nos) is deserving of its international reputation for being a party island…

Santorini, known as the island for lovers (and mythical location of the lost city of Atlantis), also offers some amazing beaches (red and black sands from its volcanic past), hot night clubs and amazing sunsets…

And then there is Ios, known as the ‘fountain of youth’ – think spring break, the Venice carnival and Mardi Gras all rolled into one…

How to Visit the Greek Islands

If you want to party like a rock star, the best way to visit the Greek Islands is to do it the way they do – charter your own private yacht! (And before you decide you can’t afford it, keep reading – it’s not as expensive as you think.)

Sure there are super yachts that can cost tens of thousands of dollars (or more) a day! But they’re not the only boats sailing across the azure blue Agean Sea!

Who visits the Greek Islands?

One of the definite advantages of chartering your own yacht in Greece are the neighbors! You never know who’s going to be parked in the yacht next to you… And because yacht people tend to be a friendly and close-knit group (to other yacht people), it’s not unusual to get invited over for drinks, dinner or a night out on the town…

Some of the celebrities that have visited the Greek Islands by yacht over the years includes: Sting, Prince Albert of Monaco, Mickey Roarke and wife Carrie Otis, Bruce Springsteen, the late John Denver, Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, Keith Richards and family, supermodels Kate Moss, Claudia Schieffer and Amber Smith, and many, many more!

Choose an ‘all-inclusive yacht charter’ to get the best bang for your buck

An ‘all-inclusive yacht charter’ means that (almost) everything you need to go sailing around the Greek Islands – including the crew, the fuel, marina fees, water and food – is included in the price of your charter. Plus, since you’ll be sleeping onboard your yacht at night, you also don’t have to factor in the expensive hotel bills.

And since meals are included – how many depends on the charter company, and what you want, you can also cut out the cost of eating out at a restaurant every night of the week. Those two things alone – your food and hotel rooms, are the biggest expenses (next to the cost of your flight) for most people who go on vacation.

Some of the things you can do on your vacation in Greece

Besides soaking up the rays on the beaches during the day, and partying like a rock star until the wee hours of the night, there are plenty of other things to do in Greece. For example, you can:

• go snorkeling or scuba diving
• biking
• rock climbing
• para-sailing
• jet skiing
• water skiing
• hiking
• visit museums
• visit archaeological sites
• try delicious Greek food
• meet new people
• go shopping
• rent a scooter or car and explore the islands
• take a guided tour
• go swimming in the sea
• have a picnic lunch on a private beach only accessible by boat
• watch the fabulous sunsets
• eat dinner at an authentic taverna
• have a night cap under a blanket of stars

There’s something for every taste and lifestyle in Greece, and with your own all-inclusive yacht charter, you can go island hopping around the Greek Islands this year and party like a rock star!

Yacht Charter In Italy – Enjoy World-Famous Lifestyle On Your Boat Rental

Italy´s beauty is legendary and one town is more attractive than the other. The country has an immensely rich culture and history, gorgeous cuisine and the all-famous lifestyle and chique. For the yacht charter guest it offers vast and varied sailing grounds as well as pretty ports. This combined with all the impressive sights, stunning nature and the Italian `dolce vita` makes for the perfect sailing holiday.

Why is yacht rental in Italy so popular?

Italy and its islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea are located right in the centre of the Mediterranean. A boat rental in Italy is a great opportunity to explore the amazing Italian culture and the multitude of beautiful towns. With 51, there are more UNESCO world heritage sites in Italy than in any other country in the world. And on top of that you get to enjoy fantastic food and great shopping.

The coastline, especially the Italian Riviera in the West, offers many beaches and bays perfectly suited for anchoring. Italy´s islands are mainly located off the west coast of the mainland and they all possess their own individual character.

A favourable climate and almost no tides provide for good sailing conditions and there are many interesting possibilities for different sailing itineraries. Italy has a large tradition of boat building and sailing, so sailors benefit from a high frequency of ports. The infrastructure in the northern charter regions and southwards until Rome is very good.

The main airports are Venice, Genoa, Pisa, Rome, Naples, Olbia, Alghero, Cagliari, Reggio Calabria, Palermo, Trapani and Catania.

Here is some general information about yacht charter in Italy:

• Location: Central Mediterranean Sea
• Total length of coastline: 7,600 km
• Capital: Rome
• Main charter bases: Genoa, La Spezia, Piombino, Follonica, Castiglione della Pescaia, Salerno, Sorrento, Tropea, Reggio Calabria. Sardinia: Cagliari, Carloforte, Olbia, Alghero. Sicily: Trapani, Palermo, Portarosa.
• Population: ca. 60,675,000
• Climate: Mild, Mediterranean
• Country code: +39
• Charter season: May to October

What are the best charter areas in Italy?

The main charter regions for sailing in Italy are concentrated on the west coast of the mainland, i.e. Liguria, Tuscany, Elba, Bay of Naples, Capri, Sardinia, and Sicily. The Adriatic Coast on the east side is not quite as attractive for boating. Possible charter bases there are Polignano a Mare near Bari, the area around the national park of Gargano and the Venetian Lagoon where you can cruise directly past the world famous Old Town and its stunning buildings.

In the capital of Liguria, Genoa, you encounter the Porto Antico containing the largest aquarium in Europe and many other sights. From there it is only a short walk into the Old Town. After about 14 NM you reach the stunning harbour town Portofino in its protected bay.

From here it is about 30 NM to La Spezia and on the way you will pass by one of the quaintest tourist destinations of Italy, a cluster of five picturesque and colourful coastal towns set in a national park called Cinque Terre. La Spezia forms part of the national park and is the second largest city of Liguria. It is conveniently located in a deep gulf surrounded by high hills.

A little further to the South lies the Tuscan Archipelago containing the islands of Gorgona, Capraia, Pianosa, Montechristo, Giglio, Gianutri and the largest and best known – Elba. There are very good charter bases on the Tuscan mainland to go and explore these islands, or maybe even Corsica.

They are Viareggio, Piombino, Follonica and Castiglione della Pescaia / Punta Ala. In Elba the main town and port is Portoferraio on the north coast, which is well worth a visit. The island also offers lovely big bays and great anchorages. On the very southern Tuscan tip is Puerto San Stefano – a seaside town on a peninsula with a yacht harbour and a massive fortress.

Sardinia offers a great mix of exclusive cruising grounds and ports like the Costa Smeralda and Porto Cervo as well as unspoilt sailing territories like the famous Maddalena archipelago. There are very good ports like Cagliari, Cannigione, La Maddalena, Olbia, Palau and Portisco. Savour the stunning and varied landscape like the pink beach of Spiaggia Rosa and the fjord-like Gulf of Cannigione.

The Bay of Naples and its islands, the Amalfi Coast and the archipelago of the Pontine Islands offer further brilliant options for yacht charter itineraries. The Amalfi Coast is situated between the charter bases Sorrento and Salerno. It is a 50 km stretch of coastline with very picturesque towns sitting on steep rocky cliffs. The towns of Amalfi and Positano are just two examples.

From the mainland you can head to the islands in the Gulf of Naples. Exclusive Capri is where the international jet set meets. The main town and port with its high-end boutiques and first-class restaurants is situated on the north side.

It is very busy and expensive, though. You find good anchorage on the south side in Marina Piccola. There are no sandy beaches on Capri, its coastline is rather craggy and picturesque. The water is deep, so there are not too many safe anchorages.

Then there is quaint, colourful Procida with many beautiful bays and beaches and the natural reserve of Vivara Island, which is attached to Procida via a bridge.

You can cruise to popular, busy Ischia, which is the largest island in the Gulf of Naples. It is an extinct volcano with rich landscape, hot thermal springs, great bays and secluded beaches. The three main ports are Ischia port, Casamicciola and Forio. The South of the island is greener and wilder with beautiful coastline and the north is more populated.

Finally head over to the Pontine Islands. From Ischia to uninhabited and unspoilt Santo Stefano it is about 22 NM. There you are only allowed to anchor in the North of the island. Visit the neighbour island Ventotene and then cross the next 22 NM to the north-western Pontine Islands, Gavi, Palmarola, Zannone and charming Ponza with its many caves and grottos. There you will find nicely protected anchorages and an interesting rugged coastline.

Hugely popular for yacht charter holidays is Sicily, off course. Choose from main charter bases like Marsala or Portorosa in the North, from where you can also explore the Aeolian Islands Lipari, Stromboli, Vulcano, Alicudi, Filicudi, Panarea and Salina. Other possible ports for your Italian bareboat charter are Messina, Taormina, Catania and Syracuse on the east coast. Reggio Calabria on the mainland is also a very good starting point for sailboat charter in Sicily.

Which weather systems are important for your bareboat charter in Italy?

In Italian waters there aren´t any significant tides. The prevailing winds in summer are northwesterlies. Afternoon sea breezes are generally moderating the heat. Long, dry and hot summers make for the perfect sailing weather.

A brief summary of the sailing weather in Italy with the example of Naples:

• Months with highest average temperature: July/August, 25°
• Months with lowest average temperature: January/February, 9°
• Prevailing wind speeds: 3 – 5 Bft.
• Month with highest average precipitation: November, 140 mm
• Months with lowest average precipitation: June/July/August, 30 mm each
• Months with highest average sunshine: July/August, 10 hours per day
• Month with lowest average sunshine: December, 3 hours per day
• Months with the highest average sea temperature: July/August, 26°
• Months with the lowest average sea temperature: February/March, 14°

How much does yacht charter in Italy cost and what types of charter are there?

The average price for yacht charter in Italy is around 3,100 € per week but you could rent a 10 m sailboat, for example, from about 1,600 €. The price is depending on size, model and equipment of the charter boat. In Italy it is quite customary to rent a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) for an excursion on the water.

For weekly or longer sailing holidays you can opt for bareboat or skippered charter and choose from sailing or motor boat rental respectively catamaran hire. Then there is luxury yacht charter, usually with a full crew that is tending to your individual needs. Flotilla holidays are a popular way of sailing the Italian waters. And day charter may be a way just to try out if you enjoy life on board.

What other highlights are there in Italy apart from sailing yacht charter?

Don´t miss out on visiting Rome and its amazing antique sites like the Forum, the Colosseum and the Pantheon. Other incredibly impressive tourist destinations in the Eternal City are the Vatican and Saint Peter´s Church. Sit on the Spanish Steps, admire the Trevi Fountain and soak up the huzzle and buzzle around beautiful Piazza Navona and in the pedestrian zone with its endless shops, boutiques, cafés and restaurants. This city offers so much that you will simply have to come back again and again.

Tuscany is just the perfect place for sightseeing. Florence is second to none in the world when it comes to Renaissance art and architecture. There is the statue of David, the great Uffizi museum, the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo and much, much more. Pisa and the leaning tower are another fantastic attraction. Equally beautiful and worth visiting are Siena, San Gimignano and Lucca.

If you have a day before or after your sailing boat charter, head a little further inland to Bologna with its beautiful old town that is nice to behold from the top of the church tower. It has the oldest academic institution in the wold, dating back to 1088 AD.

Explore Cinque Terre, five stunning villages perched on the steep hills by the seaside surrounded by wonderful nature. Manarola for example is a very pretty, colourful town.

In-between charter trips, check out Pompeii near Naples. It was destroyed by the Vesuvius in 79 AD and now constitutes a `city frozen in time`.

Visit the town of Amalfi and its cathedral, old dockyards and paper mill, amongst others.

Drop anchor in Capri and visit the Blue Grotto – the big cave is filled with spectacular blue light from below.

Go up to the Castello d`Ischia, an Aragonese castle built in 1438 and originally dating back to 475 BC.

While cruising with the charter yacht around the Aeolian Islands or eastern Sicily, admire the active volcanoes of Stromboli and Mount Etna.

Finally, take a break from sailing to enjoy the breathtaking landscape in one of Sardinia`s natural parks like the Parco Nazionale del Golfo di Orosei e del Gennargentu.

How to Come to Italy

Italy gets a steady stream of tourists thanks to all of the many attractions in this boot-shaped peninsula. There are even mini countries inside of Italian territory San Marino and Vatican City. Plus, the country has many historic monuments and art galleries that draw people from all over the world to come and see the spectacular sights.

If you are coming to Italy from the U.S., you have a number of options for your airline carrier. All of these carriers offer direct flights from the U.S. to Italy: Delta, Alitalia, American Airlines, Air France, Iberia, and Swiss International Airlines. If you don’t want to fly one of these carriers, you can always fly into another large city in Europe (like London, Paris, or Frankfurt) and hop on an inexpensive flight from there to Italy.

There are plenty of these shorter flights around. The budget airline phenomenon has made traveling between major European cities quite affordable. There are so many budget carriers now that the competition means better rates for the consumer.

If you fly one of the budget airlines from the UK or elsewhere in Europe to Italy, you’ll be able to get there quite affordably. These are generally flights into well-known and popular cities also.

You can always get a flight into Rome, Milan or Venice. You may find, however, that cheaper flights will land you in less popular cities. Why not give these a try? Often they are lovely in their own right and you should explore them for a weekend.

If you are not European and are traveling in Europe, there’s a new proposal to make dozens of flights available for $99 per seat. Of course these are no frills, but you can expect the flight to be safe and comfortable. Again, this is possible because of low-cost carriers opening in the past few years.

Italy’s national airline, Alitalia, has 37 aircraft and links Italy with around 60 countries. More than 22 million passengers fly safely on this airline yearly. Alitalia flies into 20 locations in Italy alone and 200 around the world.

No tourist should find it impossible to explore Italy. There are plenty of state-run and private airlines that make it affordable to see the amazing beauty of this country.

The Most Luxurious Boats You (Probably) Can’t Afford

Descriptions of the five most luxurious yachts in the world

1. The Eclipse Yacht – The owner of the Eclipse Yacht is Roman Abramovich, a Russian aristocrat. The yacht is approximately 558 feet long and is considered to be the most expensive yacht in the world. It has been reported to cost anywhere between $540 million to $1.1 billion dollars and has exquisite features, including 24 cabins for overnight guests.

Additionally, the Eclipse has two separate swimming pools and even a mini-submarine, for the very adventurous. The master suite itself measures 5000 square feet and is located on the highest point of the deck. Boredom is never an issue with the cinema, private garden and library. To keep the family safe while sailing the open seas, the Eclipse is designed to be completely bullet proof.

2. ‘A’ Superyacht – This yacht is also owned by a Russian aristocrat, Andrey Melnichenko. The cost is rumored to be approximately $323 billion dollars and it measures approximately 390 feet in length. One of the most impressive features of this yacht is the private deck, which measures 80 feet long; designed for the owner’s wife who adores sunbathing. The yacht also has a helipad for guests who wish to arrive in style. Inside the master suite and bathroom are pure marble floors. The finishing touches to the A Superyacht include a private lift and staircase.

3. Platinum 525 or The Golden Star – Owned by the Sheikh Mohammed bin-Rashid Al Makhtoum of Dubai, the cost of this yacht is $300 million dollars. Measuring 531 feet, this mega yacht was originally designed in 1996; in 2001, it was purchased by the Sheikh and renamed, the Golden Star. As the name states, the yacht measures approximately 525 feet and has luxury suites for guests. It also features a squash court, health spa and swimming pool. In addition to the excellent amenities, this yacht also has a special suite for the owner and a total of five suites designated for VIPs. The additional guest rooms can accommodate up to 12 comfortably.

4. Pelorus Yacht – Also owned by Roman Abramovich, this $300 million dollar yacht is considered to be a casual luxury, compared to the Eclipse. However, it is still quite outstanding, measuring 377 feet in length. Included in the superb features are the jet skis, swimming pools, conference rooms and 18 suites for overnight guests. The yacht can accommodate a total of 58 people comfortably. As a security measure, the Pelorus comes equipped with a very unique feature, a missile-detecting system and a mini-submarine for speedy escapes.

5. Dilbari Yacht – The Dilbari is owned by Alisher Usmanov, a Russian businessman. Measuring 361 feet in length, the cost is approximately $256 million dollars. Luxuries include swimming pools and a helipad. The 12 guest rooms are filled with spectacular amenities and extraordinary decor. In total, there are five decks so everyone on board can experience a level of privacy if they want to step away from the entertainment and seek a little peace and quiet.

Available rental options

Each of these tremendous works of art can be rented for day excursions or longer periods. But, be prepared to spend a pretty penny for the privilege. For example, the Eclipse can cost approximately $2 million dollars to rent for a week.

Other yachts, like the Platinum 525 or the Pelorus are a bit less expensive, averaging approximately $500,000 to $1 million per week.

The majority of the people who exercise these options consist of celebrities. In fact, when they vacation in places like the Caribbean or the South of France, they often rent super yachts like these to ensure their privacy and to keep the Paparazzi away.

Over the past few years, renting super yachts has become much more popular with celebrities because of the intimate settings and extreme luxury. They also provide the same accommodations as most 5-star hotels, without the intrusions.