Picturesque village of Manarola, Cinque Terre, Italy
While July and August remain the traditional peak months for a Mediterranean yacht charter, May and June offer a quieter and often more relaxing alternative. With warm weather, beautiful sailing conditions and fewer crowds, the early summer months provide an opportunity to experience some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations at a slower pace.
Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France
A Quieter Mediterranean
From the turquoise bays of the Balearic Islands to the secluded coves of Croatia, May and June bring a more peaceful atmosphere to the coast. In Greece, islands such as Mykonos, Paros and Corfu are already enjoying long sunny days, while the busiest summer crowds have yet to arrive. In Croatia, destinations including Hvar, Split and Dubrovnik offer a chance to explore historic towns and beautiful anchorages with more space and tranquillity. Further west, the French Riviera and Amalfi Coast combine warm spring sunshine with a more relaxed atmosphere in Saint-Tropez, Capri and Positano.
A yacht charter in May or June offers many of the highlights of peak summer, but with a distinctly calmer pace. Whether cruising between the Greek Islands, exploring Croatia’s Adriatic coastline or discovering the Balearics, early summer provides an appealing combination of sunshine, freedom and tranquillity. For those looking to escape the crowds and embrace a more peaceful side of the Mediterranean, May and June may be the ideal time to set sail.
Malia beach, Crete Greece
May and June strike a comfortable balance between sunshine and summer heat. The days are ideal for sailing, swimming and exploring ashore, while evenings remain perfect for relaxed dinners overlooking the water. Fewer boats in popular anchorages also mean more opportunities to enjoy secluded bays and peaceful evenings on board, an important consideration for those seeking a restful escape rather than a busy summer holiday.
We recently toured the BVI to see what had changed for 2024 and what had remained timelessly and thankfully the same!
Timeless BVI – What hasn’t changed?
The good news – almost everything that makes the BVI the world’s most special charter destination is timeless and unchanged. We’ve been going to the BVI for over 30 years, and all the things we love – the gorgeous islands, pristine beaches, the snorkeling, the beach bars and restaurants, the amazing sunsets, all bring the same wonder and beauty as they have for decades.
A charter that starts in the Bight on Norman Island, passes through the Indians, the Caves, the Wreck of the Rhone, the Baths, Virgin Gorda’s North Sound, Anegada, Sandy Spit, and the beaches of Jost Van Dyke is still as amazing as ever. When we first bareboated in 1992, we visited Willy T’s, the Pirates, The Bitter End, Foxy’s, and the Soggy Dollar Bar, and, while they all were renewed after Irma’s destruction, we were thrilled to enjoy each one again in this year!
What’s New?
WINDWARD – Bali 5.4 Catamaran
It’s a cat’s world, we’re just sailing in it. The most obvious change in the BVI chartering world is the size and type of yachts. While there are still plenty of monohull bareboats sailing the waters, the BVI is now a catamaran world. And the catamarans have become so much larger and more luxurious! Another change: whereas there are still plenty of Lagoon cats around, Bali catamarans are literally everywhere. Charterers are drawn to their walk-through salon that goes directly to the large foredeck, and their high-quality fit and finish.
We were lucky enough to spend a week aboard WINDWARD, with the delightful Aussie Crew of Jon and Tracy. The salon, kitchen, cabins, and decks were all spacious, comfortable, and impeccably cared for. Consider a Bali catamaran for your next BVI (or anywhere) charter, you’ll be impressed.
Power to the People. Not only have the catamarans become the predominant type of yacht, and much larger than 10 years ago, powercats are everywhere as well. Charterers choose these for their excellent comfort and fuel efficiency, without needing to hoist sails. Five years ago a powercat would be an anomaly, today they can be found at every anchorage.
SOL – Sunreef 80 Eco Power Catamaran
The e-revolution is coming. Dropping in on our friends at Voyage Charters in Sopers Hole, we saw their take on the future of catamaran electrification. I think we can all agree that diesel generators are the most annoying part of sailing yachts – their noise, pollution, and smell are completely incongruous with the fundamental concept of sailing, yet every yacht currently needs one (or two) generators to power the aircon and amenities such as hair dryers. Diesel motors are also noisy and belch smoke when there is insufficient wind to power the boat.
Voyage has redefined this with their new series of electric catamarans such as the Voyage 480 Electric. The diesel motors have been replaced with virtually silent electric engines driven by batteries that can be recharged by solar panels, plugged in ashore, or by onboard generators. Generators are only used when the batteries are below 20% charge, meaning that you will not always need to hear the generator when you’re sleeping, even if you have the aircon on.
We also saw the impressive SOL Sunreef 80 Eco electric power catamaran. She’s gorgeous and virtually silent, with an electric drive train and solar skin. While she also, at times, resorts to backup generators, much of the time cruising and sleeping on SOL is virtually silent.
We expect to see much more of this in the future, as climate-conscious charters are demanding more sustainable options, and hope that soon all sailing yachts will be powered either by the wind or quiet electric motors.
Other Updates and Useful Information
Not crowded over Xmas. We arrived in the BVI on the 19th and finished on the 27th. Surprisingly, it did not seem crowded – the big crowds appear to come after Christmas. We also had no Christmas Winds, making it highly enjoyable to be there, although we sailed less than expected.
Amazing Sunsets on Anegada. It never seems to fail – we’ve been to Anegada countless times, and we’ve always had stunning, nearly hour-long, sunsets. This held true this year. Maybe it’s because of Tortola and JVD off in the distance that creates a weather pattern ideal for sunsets, but Anegada seldom disappoints!
The highly anticipated Monaco Yacht Show is here! Held between the 28th September and 1st October, the exclusive event is where top manufacturers showcase the latest superyachts to clients and the industry.
Boatbookings visits the show each year to discover the newest designs, technologies, and yachting trends, and to personally view the top yachts and crews in the superyacht industry. We have selected the top 3 superyachts we are most excited to see this year, each one demonstrating the future of superyachts!
80 Sunreef Power
Photo courtesy of Sunreef Yachts
Built with long cruising distances in mind, the 80 Sunreef Power bridges the gap between ultimate comfort and seaworthiness. With its smooth and steady cruising, the 80 Sunreef Power glides through the water at 18 knots. Boasting expansive living spaces, perfect for sunning and relaxation, the 80 Sunreef Power is fully customisable and able to accommodate up to 12 guests.
A main feature of the yacht has to be the impressive master suite, spacious with a king bed, vast ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower. The light and modern interior compliments the luxury feel throughout the yacht, including the impeccably styled VIP suite and large double cabins. The large flybridge offers enough room for a spa pool and generous social spaces. The 80 Sunreef Power effortlessly delivers comfort and luxury.
80 Sunreef Eco
Photo courtesy of Sunreef Yachts
The 80 Sunreef Eco is making waves in the industry as a truly impressive eco-responsible super yacht that is pioneering the move towards responsible luxury sailing. Guests can enjoy fully-electric silent cruising thanks to the custom-built solar panels and green gadgetry onboard. The 80 Sunreef eco aims ‘to create and promote a new philosophy of responsible yachting’. Her striking and stylish interior impresses the eye, and her expansive decks provide beautiful uninterrupted views. The 80 Sunreef eco really is the perfect charter yacht for green, luxury cruising.
Silent Vision F82
Photo courtesy of Silent Yachts
This hybrid catamaran is driving positive change with its solar panels on the extended flybridge and state-of-the-art batteries. Guests can enjoy a noiseless experience and zero emissions when anchored or docked in a marina. Her new design dedicates vast spaces for socialising on the forward deck. A bright interior contrasts the striking dark exterior with impressive, stylish guest rooms in the form of one large master suite, and 3 ensuite guest cabins, providing an ultimate feeling of comfort and luxury living. For those looking to enjoy stunning views in style and comfort the Silent Vision F82 is sure to provide just that.
Our team attends the Monaco Yacht Show every year and we always look forward to experiencing the newest innovations in the yachting market, and sharing our recommendations for your own luxury yacht charter.
1. Book your 80-150’ motor yacht in Greece now, or you will miss out. Some of my top recommendations are JULIE M, BLADE 6, THEORIS, TACOS of the SEA and BARENTS SEA. Explore the secret anchorages of the Peloponnese, as well as the Cyclades hotspots (Paros, Mykonos, Milos) in 2019.
2. Everyone loves Italy, particularly the Amalfi Coast but have you considered Sicily? With fantastic island hopping throughout the Aeolians, chic hillside villages (Taormina) and volcanoes to explore (Etna), the area has something for everyone.
3. Give Ibiza a go. It has the best beach clubs and nightlife, but it also offers natural beauty and some of the finest sunsets in the Mediterranean. Check out Cotton Beach Club (Cala Tarida), Benirras Bay and Isla Tagomago for some of our top picks.
4. The Bahamas are the ultimate water sports playground. Easy island hopping, cerulean waters, hidden cayes to explore, it’s the perfect family retreat.
5. Explore somewhere off the beaten track and learn to sail in Sweden. Yacht: ICHIBAN (Swan 70) Captain Jan is the perfect teacher to guide you along your Scandinavian adventure, while Chef Kirsten will showcase the wonderful local cuisine. Bring on the Elk meatballs!
Biscayne National Park holds a myriad of mysteries, secrets and natural wonders; ranging from jaw-dropping scenery to vast coral reefs, alive and bustling with a full spectrum of tropical fish and other aquatic wildlife- there is a lot more to see than meets the eye!
Biscayne Bay
Biscayne National Park is one of the largest marine parks in the National Park system. Comprised of 95% water as well as a portion of the third largest coral reef in the world, this National Park is almost exclusively accessible by boat. If you really want to see why Biscayne is so widely renowned, you’ll need to get below the surface to really experience this treasure chest of history, nature and an unforgettable display of colour.
The Secrets Beneath the Surface
The human history of this immense body of water and scattering of islands dates back almost 10,000 years, to the very first Native American settlements and Caribbean societies. Buried amongst the bejeweled coral reefs many meters under the water, or nestled safely within the timeless, emerald forests and twisting maze of mangroves, the history of humanity is embedded into the nature of Biscayne Bay, swallowed up, but not forgotten. Biscayne Bay holds the key to a myriad of secrets, and it’s up to us to find the clues and piece together the puzzle of life.
Boca Chita Key
During the 17th and 18th Century, Biscayne Bay was the centre of operations for a notoriously revered pirate: Black Caesar. The name of Black Caesar resonates throughout history; being the subject of many myths and tales, it is said that Black Caesar had used Elliott Key and Old Rhodes Key as bases for buried treasure that had been seized from North American ships and trade ships of other nationalities. The evidence of major conflicts is laid-bare on the bottom of the ocean in the form of shipwrecks, cannonballs and various other relics, preserved over time, that have been gracefully absorbed into the natural world and transformed into beautifully established, perfectly functioning vibrant coral reefs, alive with a myriad of flashing colours.
The Sunken Wreck of Erl King, 1891
Biscayne National Park has something to offer for everyone; from lovers of history, to those who become captivated by the wonders of the natural world, to those who become captivated by the warmth of the sun and the sparkling, golden sand. The Maritime Heritage Trail, preserved carefully by the park rangers, paints an illustration of human history through various nautical skeletons and ancient infrastructure, such as the Fowey Rocks Lighthouse, which was built in 1878. This trail is only accessible via boat, so if you want to travel through history then get in touch with us about Miami Day Charters!
What some may see as the biggest attraction of Biscayne National Park can be found absolutely everywhere; under every rock, hidden in every nook and cranny; on land, in the sea and even in the sky… This is referring to the vast range of wildlife that inhabits Biscayne Bay, from the smallest insect to possibly the largest crocodile you will ever see, Biscayne Bay is home to a surprisingly wide variety of animals.
American Flamingo
For SCUBA divers, there is an endless list of sealife to be found beneath the surface; ranging from Turtles, Seahorses, Angelfish and Scorpionfish to a myriad of Shark species (including Great White) and the more friendly Dolphins– if you’re lucky you may even bump into a peaceful Manatee, which is a protected species in this National Park, but everywhere you look there’ll be something waiting to catch your eye!
For twitchers (bird watchers to the layman), Biscayne National Park offers an enchanting assortment of bird species; from your Common Loon, to the American Flamingo, to the rather self-descriptive Greater Yellowlegs, to name a few. On land, there is a spectrum of reptiles, butterflies and insects for you to search for, as well as native rodents such as the Key Largo cotton mouse.
Kayaking through the Mangroves
Biscayne National Park is perfect for fishermen, photographers, artists, explorers, sunbathers – you can see where this list is going, but most importantly, this secluded island surrounded by a plethora of buried secrets is only accessible by boat. Imagine yourself waking up in the morning on board your own private yacht, stepping out onto the sundeck and enjoying your morning coffee with this tropical paradise as your back garden for the day- it can’t get much better than that!
If, after reading this blog, you’re itching to go on an excursion to see for yourself the breathtaking sights and menagerie of wildlife, we can help you, just drop us a message and we will sort you out with a personalised itinerary.
