Today we here at Magnum Marine would love to share the 18 best yachting destinations across the world. No time is like the present to go on a yachting adventure, especially during and after the effects of COVID-19 on the world around us. If you have been wondering where to take your Magnum craft, this countdown should give you plenty of wonderful ideas for your next voyage. Next week we will break down 17 more idyllic yachting destinations for your autumn boating pleasure. We hope you enjoy this countdown of the 18 Best Yachting Destinations!
At no time before has the idea of white-sand beaches or exotic places only reachable by a yacht seemed more appealing than as we contemplate life after Covid-19. A growing number of yacht clients are searching out these idyllic secret destinations, offering a chance to step off the beaten track and go where few people have gone before.
Our priority is currently staying safe, but once restrictions are lifted we predict a rush on delightful hidden destinations, where sailors will finally be free to explore to their heart’s content.
Here is our guide to (18) of the world’s best places – all only reachable by a yacht
Europe
Europe remains the most popular destination for yachting in the summer months, but even in this sought-after cruising area, there remain a number of exceptionally beautiful islands with beaches accessed by boat, or secret destinations where you will find yourself the only yacht in sight.
1. Svalbard Archipelago, Norway
Svalbard, situated halfway between Norway and the North Pole, is a completely untouched stretch of island off which beluga whales, walrus, and seals play in the arctic waters. Accessible only by explorer yacht, Svalbard offers an experience like no other.
2. Hiddensee Island, Germany
Perhaps not the obvious destination for a luxury yacht, this island in the Baltic Sea offers a unique experience nevertheless, with car-free streets, deserted white sandy beaches galore, and beautiful, green interiors.
3. Navagio Beach on Zakynthos, Greece
Incredibly, there are still a number of places only reachable by a yacht to be discovered in the Greek islands. Try Navagio Beach on the Ionian Island of Zakynthos: also known as Shipwreck Beach or Smugglers Cove, this white sandy bay framed by towering limestone cliffs is the perfect spot to unwind.
4. Karpathos, Greece
This tiny island in the Aegean Sea is only accessible by boat and has so far remained untouched by mass tourism. It has numerous pristine beaches and is a real find. But don’t tell too many people, as this secret destination should remain just that.
5. Palagruza, Croatia
Situated in the heart of the Adriatic, this archipelago is the remotest Croatian region consisting of two large islands, three smaller ones, and 15 jagged rocks. The winds, tides, and shallows make getting here a challenge, but it is entirely worth it to soak up the island’s beauty. There is nothing there in terms of commerce and overnight stays are not generally recommended, but a day trip is a must if you are on a yacht nearby.
6. Biševo, Croatia
At the last count, only 15 residents lived on this tiny Croatian island just five kilometers from the larger and more popular island of Vis. Measuring just 2.3 square miles, it is home to some of the country’s most famous caves such as Modra Špilja, which means ‘Blue Cave’. The island also boasts some beautiful beaches accessed by boat, such as those at Port Porat and Port Salbunara.
7. Azores, Portugal
This cluster of tiny islands in the Atlantic Ocean belongs to Portugal. These volcanic islands are famous for their dramatic landscape and are ideal to explore by boat. As they are literally in the middle of nowhere, the Azores remain very unspoiled and make an unusual and otherworldly destination to see by luxury yacht.
8. Cala Es Portitxol, Ibiza
A yacht is imperative to access this delightful cove on the island of Ibiza, in the much-loved Balearics. With white sand and clear blue sea, it offers the perfect backdrop to a perfect peaceful afternoon.
9. Es Vedrà, Ibiza
This stunning islet off the coast of Ibiza is not only one of the Spanish island’s best top-secret destinations, but it is also one of the island’s most mysterious. Rising 400 meters out of the turquoise sea, Es Vedrà is only accessible by boat. It measures four kilometers and is home to an endemic subspecies of birds and lizards. Many visitors say they have seen strange lights coming from the island and the surrounding water, leading it to be compared to the mysterious Bermuda Triangle.
10. Cunda Adasi, Turkey
Far from the beaten track is this charming island, the largest of the Ayvalik archipelago situated between Greece and Turkey. Take a step back in time in this delightful secret destination, which is as pretty as a picture but remains unspoiled without the crowds.
Central & North America
Central and North America is home to the Caribbean islands, a hugely popular sailing destination in the winter months. As with the Med, many islands and ports tend to be fairly busy during key periods but there are others that remain virtually untouched.
11. Petite Martinique, Grenada
Located off the coast of Grenada, this practically deserted island is a real treat for those of you wanting to get away from the crowds. With kilometers upon kilometers of white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, it is quite possibly the nearest thing to heaven on earth!
12. Stocking Island, The Exumas
This island paradise is situated across the harbor from the port of Georgetown, Great Exuma. Home to a grand total of 10 people, it is full of empty beaches, warm shallow waters, and nature reserves.
13. San Blas Islands, Panama
So remote that they don’t even figure on Google Maps, the 378 San Blas Islands are the ultimate destination for those of you hankering after an unforgettable experience in uncharted waters. With endless hiking trails to discover on land and stunning waters in which to cool down, these islands off Panama are certainly somewhere to consider for a secluded holiday.
14. Andros Island, Bahamas
Much of the Bahamas are very populated, but there are some more remote areas that are worth exploring, such as Andros Island where you will discover beautiful beaches, great diving spots, and ideal fishing conditions.
15. Pine Cay, Turks, and Caicos
With 800-acres of private island to explore, Pine Cay is one of the less-known destinations in Turks and Caicos, with stunning wildlife, great beaches, and surprisingly few tourists.
16. Catalina Island, California
Incredibly, there are still some relatively secret destinations closer to mainland America such as Catalina Island, situated 40 miles off the coast near Los Angeles. With only a few thousand locals living on the island, it offers blissful relaxation with a hint of luxury.
South America
South America is emerging as one of the newest and coolest yachting destinations, with many wonderful places only reachable by a yacht.
17. Victoria Island, Patagonia, Argentina
Victoria Island is situated in Patagonia’s Nahuel Huapi National Park, named after the largest and deepest lake in Argentina’s Lake District. Intrepid travelers who have arrived by yacht can explore the island’s magnificent forests and if they are lucky they might even catch sight of a pudú, the world’s smallest deer.
18. Marble Cathedral, Patagonia, Chile
One of nature’s most mesmerizing regions accessible by yacht is Marble Cathedral, a network of marble caverns that are positioned above the water in South America’s second-largest freshwater lake. Unique swirls reflecting the color of the water have been imprinted into the marble and when the waters are suitably low, you can get a closer look by accessing the passage by small boat.
Complete and original article published on yacht-zoo.com