Tag Archives: mediterraneanyachtcharter

Top 5 Things You Can Do To Help Protect The Mediterranean This Summer

When you charter a boat this summer in the Mediterranean, you will not only have the chance to enjoy the region’s beauty, cuisine, culture and history but also play a crucial part in preserving its delicate marine ecosystem. At Boatbookings, we always look for ways to help our clients have a more environmentally friendly yacht charter. 

Whether a bareboat charter catamaran or crewed charter catamaran, here are five ways you can contribute to being a more responsible boater in the Mediterranean during your yacht charter: 

1. Take Efficient Routes

Planning efficient routes is one of the simplest yet effective ways to reduce your environmental impact onboard a bareboat catamaran this summer. This not only saves fuel but also minimizes your yacht’s overall carbon emissions. Consider plotting courses that take advantage of currents and winds, reducing unnecessary back-and-forth trips, and maintaining a steady, optimal cruising speed. Onboard a crewed catamaran and your captain will ensure you take the most efficient routes. If you want to take it a step further, charter one of our greener crewed catamarans to reduce your impact. 

2. Anchor Responsibly 

Seagrass is vital to the Mediterranean ecosystem, providing habitat for marine life. When anchoring, yachts must do so responsibly, using designated mooring buoys whenever possible. If you anchor, choose sandy areas far from seagrass beds. Technology like sonar helps identify safe anchoring spots. Since 2021, there have been regulations in France that prohibit yachts over 24 meters from anchoring on protected Posidonia seagrass beds for protection. 

3. Proper Waste Management 

Correct waste management is essential for keeping our oceans clean. First, it is recommended that you aim to reduce the amount of waste you produce. On your crewed or bareboat charter, bring reusable water bottles to minimize single-use plastics. While onboard, separate recyclables and dispose of them properly at marina facilities. Request and update your charter preference list to reflect that you wish to use reusables. 

4. Observe Wildlife Responsibly 

The Mediterranean waters and lands are home to diverse wildlife, and observing responsibly is vital to preserving these species. Always maintain a safe distance from animals, especially protected species. In areas known for marine mammals, reduce your speed and ensure minimal disturbance to their habitats. You can also opt for ethical wildlife excursions where you can witness and learn about the varied ecosystems. 

5. Get Involved Locally 

Many coastal communities have programs aimed at protecting the marine environment. Consider engaging with these local environmental initiatives, whether participating in beach clean-ups, supporting local conservation projects, or taking time to learn about regional environmental challenges and solutions. 

By implementing these practices, you can help preserve the Mediterranean’s marine environments for future generations to enjoy. Sustainable yachting isn’t just about reducing our negative impact but about actively contributing to the health of our oceans. Contact the Boatbookings team today to find out how to do so or to book one of our greener crewed catamarans for the next Mediterranean season. 

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Responsible Boaters: Mediterranean Destinations that Champion Sustainability

The Mediterranean remains one of our favorite boating destinations. However, this cruising area is suffering as the world faces mounting pressures from over-tourism and environmental impacts. With the summer season fast approaching, boaters can enjoy more sustainable yachting adventures across the Mediterranean. 

Boatbookings Prioritizing Sustainability 

At Boatbookings, we always advocate for more responsible boating. Firstly, we offer a range of greener crewed catamarans, which have less impact on our seas. When organizing a boat charter in the Mediterranean, we focus on facilitating more sustainable practices onboard through your preference sheet, such as requesting local and seasonal produce and reducing the amount of single-use plastics. 

The Mediterranean is home to some of the world’s best Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), teeming with vibrant marine life that we love to snorkel and dive. While boating in these areas, there are a range of procedures you can follow to not disrupt the ecosystems. Meanwhile, on land, when you are visiting these destinations, we encourage engaging with the local communities when purchasing and getting involved in responsible activities. 

We have put together a list of the top 5 Mediterranean destinations that champion sustianability: 

1. French Riviera 

The French Riviera is a premier cruising destination, and for good reason. From St Tropez to Monaco, the region is full of glamourous destinations, idyllic bays, and prestigious events. However, due to its popularity, there has been some negative impact of yachting. Today, the anchoring of yachts along the French Riviera is strictly regulated to protect the Posidonia seagrass. The French maritime authorities PREMAR have implemented increased anchoring rules in these areas to protect the ecosystem. 

In addition to anchoring regulations, all of the ports along the French Riviera have implemented stringent policies to keep the marina waters clean. You can no longer wash boat oils, wastewaters, and other pollutants into the sea. As an example, Cannes has implemented the following requirements on all ships in the Cannes waters:

  • The use of fuel with 0.1% sulfur content
  • A ban on incinerating waste on board upon entering the compulsory ‘piloting area’
  • The establishment of a tendering process that takes into account the environment
  • A ban on discharging wastewater, even treated wastewater, and water from fume washing systems in the piloting and mooring areas;
  • The obligation to bypass the ‘Posidonia meadows’ during maneuvers and anchoring;
  • the promotion of sustainability initiatives among operators carrying cruise passengers.

2. The Ionian Islands

For island-hopping itineraries, Greece is a perfect destination. The Ionian Islands lie off the country’s west coast in the Ionian Sea. An initiative aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and environment conservation throughout the islands is the Ionian Environment Foundation. Focussing on this area, the program distributes sustainable sailing packs showcasing how boaters can avoid negative impacts when sailing these islands. 

3. Mallorca

The Save the Med Foundation, based in Mallorca, enables the Balearic Sea to recover its rich biodiversity. Through marine conservation, research, educational outreach, and advocating for new MPAs, this organization showcases these islands as a hub for innovative initiatives to inspire other regions. One particular priority for Save the Med is tackling plastic pollution. 

4. Sicily 

A prominent issue within marine conservation is the problem of discarded fishing nets. The Italian island of Sicily is working to combat this while protecting and preserving the island’s nature through the Sicily Environment Fund. One of its projects is the ‘Ghost Net Recovery’ initiative in Ustica, which collects and recycles discarded fishing nets. 

5. Croatia

Croatia is another famous island-hopping sailing destination, especially for our crewed charter catamarans. The Association for Nature, Environment and Sustainable Development (SUNCE) safeguards the country’s marine ecosystems. One project is the ‘Marine Litter Free Dalmation Islands Project,’ which empowers local communities to gather data on marine debris distribution and develop effective waste management systems through active engagement. 

The Mediterranean summer season is fast approaching; let’s protect and preserve these destinations, reducing our impact. If you still need to arrange this summer’s Mediterranean greener crewed charter catamarans, contact one of the Boatbookings team today.

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