If you’re thinking of taking a luxury yacht charter in 2021 then it’s vital to book ahead even earlier than usual: The 2021 summer charter season is already filling up in due to the number of postponed 2020 vacations as a result of the global coronavirus situation.
Not only have many of the 2020 bookings moved to next year, but there has also been an additional interest in luxury yacht charters as holidaymakers realise the benefits of transport and accommodation in one package while maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards on board.
Vessels and crews that have a proven reputation on the market are seeing increased interest in the Mediterranean and beyond: US citizens are choosing to charter closer to home in destinations such as the Caribbean the Bahamas and Maine, where there are numerous natural attractions, hiking trails, remote beaches and snorkelling sites for a fantastic holiday.
Alternative luxury yacht charter grounds for 2021
If you find that your preferred vessel, location and/or dates are already taken, consider making 2021 the year that you explore a new yacht charter ground. The Great Barrier Reef is available throughout the year and boasts some of the world’s most incredible dive sites, many of which are shallow enough for those just learning to dive on the trip. The Kimberleys are another sensational option on the other side of Australia which will not fail to enchant photographers, artists and others with an appreciation for natural wonders, and a cruise south will take charter guests to the world famous Ningaloo Reef for fishing, snorkelling, diving, surfing and close encounters with a variety of friendly sharks.
New Zealand has seen a surge of interest as hosts of the America’s Cup, and visitors to the two islands will discover massive diversity between locations, unique endemic wildlife, pristine national parks, fantastic hiking trails and plenty of outdoor sports as part of the local lifestyle.
Destinations in Southeast Asia offer the perfect balance between natural beauty and modern culture, and in the case of Thailand the yachting infrastructure is modern, recent and capable of six-star service for effortless travels. Indonesia is renowned for its variety of dive sites and incredible biodiversity, and the traditional wooden sailing yachts known as phinisi add to the ambiance of a luxury yacht charter in the region.
The South Pacific is scattered with gorgeous tropical islands where you can truly get away from it all, and of note is Fiji, the Cook Islands and French Polynesia. Here, life is in tune with the pace of nature, soft sand beaches are plentiful and souvenirs unique to the area – such as farmed pearls – make a treasured memento of the trip.