The UK has added the Balearic Islands and Malta to its Green List, making possible Mediterranean luxury yacht charter vacations to some of the best summer spots for culture, nature and relaxing under the summer sun.
Other destinations deemed safe from 4:00 British Summer Time (BST) on the 30th of June 2021 include:
- Europe: The Balearic islands (which include Ibiza, Menorca, Majorca and Formentera), Malta and Madeira
- Caribbean: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat and Turks and Caicos Islands
- Other British Overseas Territories: Bermuda, British Antarctic Territory, British Indian Ocean Territory and Pitcairn
Europe
The Balearic Islands is one of the premier destinations for holidaymakers of all ages: While Ibiza is renowned for its party lifestyle attracting fresh and established international DJ talent, the island also has tranquil golden sand beaches around Portinatx to the north-west, and the landmarks along the coast make a hike all the more satisfying. Admire the Gothic architecture of The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, and The Drach Caves, also on Mallorca, are an atmospheric and cool reprieve from the midday sun. Ciutadella de Menorca has plenty of art and culture to attract visitors, interspersed with aromatic cafes, restaurants and spa services for some pampering while in town. At the opposite end of the island, Parc Natural de s’Albufera des Grau is ideal for non-motorised water sports while seeking out the fauna, and Mahón is a charming sight day or night.
Across the Balearic Sea, Barcelona is an unmissable addition to the beginning or end of any Balearic Islands yacht charter: Visit the stunning La Sagrada Familia – Gaudi’s yet-to-be-completed church – Park Güell and the exceptional Palau de la Música Catalana. The Museu del Modernisme and Museu Picasso are two more impressive stops for culture lovers in amongst fantastic shopping and restaurants.
Malta is dense with UNESCO World Heritage sites which will reveal themselves with a simple amble through the streets and a hike through the countryside. Even more majestic sights are concealed within the brilliant blue Mediterranean Sea, and there are over 100 dive sites around the archipelago which offer something to amaze beginners and experienced divers alike.
The Madeira Archipelago is more off the beaten track for Western Mediterranean luxury yacht charters, making it an ideal destination to leave the crowds behind to explore coastal hamlets and remote beaches at ease. National parks run through the island interiors, and the Madeira Botanical Garden and Monte Palace Madeira are exceptionally beautiful.
The Caribbean
The British Virgin Islands is a favourite destination for luxury yacht charters in the Caribbean: The Baths on Virgin Gorda is just one picture-perfect beach for your group to visit, and your family and friends can settle into the famous Soggy Dollar Bar or Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke for food, cocktails and music.
A trip to Grenada will be truly unforgettable and an opportunity to make use of any snorkelling or Scuba diving equipment on board to see the impressive Underwater Sculptures as well as the vibrant wildlife. Satisfy a sweet tooth at the House of Chocolate before going on a hike to the waterfalls or resting on the golden sands.
The pale sands of Anguilla beckon visitors to its shores, and once you’ve made landfall you’ll relish finding what else the island has to offer. The petroglyphs from the original Arawak inhabitants are about all that remains from the civilisation; however the Heritage Museum has been carefully curated to provide as much information on Anguilla’s history as possible. Snorkel and Scuba dive in the bay to marvel at the reefs and their inhabitants, then return to the beach for sunbathing followed by a sunset meal prepared by your crew.
Other British Overseas Territories
Pink sand beaches and brilliant blue water characterise Bermuda, setting the scene for days filled with sunshine and adventures above and below the crystal-clear seas. There’s more than just natural beauty to entice you to this island; Somerset Village is your one-stop destination for shopping, the famous Bermuda Rum Cakes, the Dockyard Glassworks, galleries and the National Museum of Bermuda.
The Antarctic is an unusual destination, but this once-in-a-lifetime trip is certainly worth doing to see one of the world’s last pristine wildernesses. The season generally runs from October through to March and planning ahead will ensure you get the most out of your visit: Go whale watching, spot emperor penguins at Snow Hill Island, and go hiking, kayaking and even Scuba diving for the brave. The best time to catch the Southern Lights dancing through the night sky is in the winter months, however, visitors in early October or late March might also be lucky enough to witness their splendour.
Make places for a safe holiday this summer 2021 and choose a luxury yacht charter.