Summer is coming - looking forward

Published 29 April 2020

Burgess charter experts bring you a round-up of their favourite cruising grounds to help you make your summer charter plans.


Just 20 minutes' cruise from Dubrovnik is Donje Celo, one of just two settlements on Kolocep Island, the smallest settled island in the Elaphiti archipelago
Just 20 minutes' cruise from Dubrovnik is Donje Celo, one of just two settlements on Kolocep Island, the smallest settled island in the Elaphiti archipelago

Compelling cruising - Croatia

Finding a cruising ground that provides fascinating history alongside unspoiled natural areas is rare, but Croatia has both in abundance. These cruising grounds have become one of the most popular charter destinations in the Mediterranean, but they are still a refreshing alternative for clients more used to the hustle and bustle of the western Mediterranean.

A view across Venice's Grand Canal to the Basilica Santa Maria della Salute
A view across Venice's Grand Canal to the Basilica Santa Maria della Salute

Charter broker Chris Gregory recommends beginning a charter in the enchanting city of Venice. 'The culture of this waterbound city is endless,' he says. 'From the floating city, cruise across the Adriatic and trace the Croatian coastline southwards, detouring to explore the country’s unbelievable islands, several of which lie in beautiful national parks.'

An aerial view across Kornati National Park, showing just a few of the thousands of secluded islands and bays Croatia has to offer
An aerial view across Kornati National Park, showing just a few of the thousands of secluded islands and bays Croatia has to offer

Opposites attract - Corsica and Sardinia

This duo of cruising grounds offers the perfect combination of relaxation and tranquility juxtaposed with lively nightlife and bustling towns. A favourite cruising ground for charter broker Gaye Joyeau-Bourgeois, Corsica provides an unspoiled, untamed countryside while Sardinia is one of the most glamorous places to spend summer.

The fortified cliff top citadel of Bonifacio, complete with bustling marina, on the southern tip of Corsica
The fortified cliff top citadel of Bonifacio, complete with bustling marina, on the southern tip of Corsica

'I recommend clients begin their charter in Corsica, cruising down the west coastline from Calvi to Girolata and on to the southern tip and the perilously perched Bonifacio,' says Gaye. 'Corsica’s southern coastline is dotted with beaches with impossibly blue water. From here, cruise into Italian waters and spend a peaceful night’s anchorage at the beautiful Maddalena Islands before you step ashore to people-watch amid the hustle and bustle of Porto Cervo on Sardinia.'

The gin clear waters and characteristic granite rock formations of Sardinia's La Maddalena archipelago
The gin clear waters and characteristic granite rock formations of Sardinia's La Maddalena archipelago

The sun soaked French and Italian Rivieras

Cruising along the Côte d’Azur and the Italian Riviera offers something for everyone. From living the jet set lifestyle to relaxing among unspoiled views and enjoying wonderful local specialities, the beauty of chartering a yacht is that you really can have it all.

The Oceanographic Museum is just one of Monaco's myriad attractions, from food to shopping - and of course the world's most famous grand prix circuit
The Oceanographic Museum is just one of Monaco's myriad attractions, from food to shopping - and of course the world's most famous grand prix circuit

Charter broker Lesley Excoffon is based in Burgess’ Monaco office and knows these cruising grounds well. 'For the French Riviera, Monte Carlo is a good starting point for gastronomy and culture,' Lesley says. 'Check out Alain Ducasse’s three Michelin-starred Le Louis XV at Hôtel de Paris and the brilliant Oceanographic Museum, with or without children.'

La Paloma beach in St Jean Cap Ferrat is famed as one of the best on the French Riviera
La Paloma beach in St Jean Cap Ferrat is famed as one of the best on the French Riviera

The entire stretch of the French Riviera is art central. 'Head to the Fondation Maeght in St Paul de Vence or the Fondation Carmignac on Porquerolles,' says Lesley. 'And don’t miss the deep water bay at Villefranche for swimming and watersports, or the sophisticated anchorage at St Jean Cap Ferrat. Stop in Cannes for a spot of shopping before heading to Saint-Tropez and Plage de Pampelonne - the A-list of A-list beaches.'

Aside from natural and architectural beauty, Villefranche has one of the deepest natural harbours in the Med
Aside from natural and architectural beauty, Villefranche has one of the deepest natural harbours in the Med

La Dolce Vita - Capri and the Amalfi Coast

Charter broker Sophie Homes recommends the Italian Riviera, combining the exclusive island of Capri with the breathtaking Amalfi Coast for the complete charter experience. 'This is the cruising ground to charter if you like swimming in sparkling bays, strolling around romantic fishing villages, eating incredible food and soaking up the stunning scenery,' says Sophie. 'My highlights include a private visit to Capri’s Blue Grotto, and a trip to Anacapri’s Monte Solaro for a spectacular view over the whole island.'

High up on the island of Capri looking over the Faraglioni Rocks on the island's south eastern tip
High up on the island of Capri looking over the Faraglioni Rocks on the island's south eastern tip

On the mainland, the steep cliffs of Amalfi Coast are terraced with lemon groves, and white-washed villas cling precariously to the slopes. 'The cliff top town of Ravello offers amazing views as well as a world-famous classical music festival,' says Sophie. 'Further along the coast, Positano, Sorrento and the town of Amalfi (which gives its name to the region) all offer gastronomic and cultural delights galore.'

The unmistakable dome of Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta nestles deep in the valley of Positano
The unmistakable dome of Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta nestles deep in the valley of Positano

Classic New England

New England’s coastline provides charming cruising grounds with a vast array of landscapes and ample attractions ashore. Charter broker Craig Cohen recommends embarking on your charter in Newport, Rhode Island, before cruising on to the stylish holiday islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

Heritage is everything in Nantucket. It's a laid back town with great cycling trails and wonderful seafood
Heritage is everything in Nantucket. It's a laid back town with great cycling trails and wonderful seafood

'Both of the islands host some of the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches in the United States and they are not overly crowded,' says Craig. 'Many clients are surprised by the warm waters in the shallows and the numerous watersports and activities to be found along the coastline of New England.'

Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket and Cape Cod have some of the best beaches in the world
Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket and Cape Cod have some of the best beaches in the world

Aegean idylls - The Cyclades

Charter broker Christiana Nicolaou recommends her native Greece for an ideal cruising location. 'The wild and rocky Cyclades are located in the Aegean Sea, and the islands are literally packed full with archeological sites, architecture, and culture,' she says.

Santorini is unmistakable, an icon of the Cyclades
Santorini is unmistakable, an icon of the Cyclades

'Mykonos, Naxos and Santorini are best known for their beautiful landscapes, white and blue houses and nightlife. Santorini’s dramatic black volcanic rock is a must-see as are the spectacular sunsets across the caldera, while Mykonos’ beach clubs such as Nammos and Scorpios are perennially popular with the yachting crowd.'

Picturesque Little Venice is one of the main attraction in Mykonos, along with some famous beach clubs
Picturesque Little Venice is one of the main attraction in Mykonos, along with some famous beach clubs

Golden Isles - The Balearics

Despite its enormous success as a tourist destination, Spain’s Balearic Islands preserve a beautiful and unique Mediterranean identity. Charter broker Karen Martensen works in Burgess’ Palma office and believes the islands have so much to offer anyone looking for a late summer charter.

Ibiza's old town has an abundance of charm, some fantastic shopping and amazing restaurants
Ibiza's old town has an abundance of charm, some fantastic shopping and amazing restaurants

'I regularly compose itineraries for clients recommending many hidden gems around Mallorca and the neighbouring islands of Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera,' says Karen. 'There are countless stunning beaches along Mallorca’s coast while inland numerous golf courses, cultural hotspots, and Michelin-starred restaurants coexist. Menorca and Formentera both offer a more relaxing atmosphere thanks to their captivating tranquil beauty and provide the perfect antidote to the hedonistic and wild Ibiza.'

Once you're done with the nightlife in Ibiza, the more relaxed vibes on Formentera can provide a welcome change of gear
Once you're done with the nightlife in Ibiza, the more relaxed vibes on Formentera can provide a welcome change of gear

To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: LondonMonacoNew YorkMiamiSingapore or all other locations.

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