The Top Destinations for a Winter Charter

As the temperature drops across many areas of the globe, those looking to embark on a winter superyacht charter are faced with the decision of which location to choose from. Starting with the Carribbean, we head to the Red Sea, Australia, and the Maldives to highlight some of the top winter charter destinations.

Antigua & Barbuda 

A true gem of the Caribbean, Antigua & Barbuda are industry favourites when it comes to a winter charter, with the Antigua Charter Yacht Show being held at the start of December. A diverse range of factors contribute to these islands being a superb destination choice; however, particularly relevant when it comes to a winter charter is the climate of the islands. With consistent warm weather, crystal blue waters and hundreds of pristine beaches, guests are guaranteed a remarkable Carribbean experience.

Whilst for some relaxing on the shore is the preference, others may wish to fill their charter with activities, of which Antigua has many. The island is packed with unforgettable experiences, both on land and sea, as guests can enjoy thrilling activities such as swimming with stingrays, ziplining through the rainforest, and spectacular snorkelling opportunities. 

Barbuda is an island which offers luxurious possibilities for charter guests; with unspoiled beaches and tranquil waters, it is certainly not to be missed. Highlights of the island include the Barbuda Ocean Club, an exclusive paradise that spans over 900 acres, and Nobu, a divine restaurant located right by the sea in which guests can enjoy delicious food whilst soaking up the stunning scenery.

To find out more about the incredible locations that are Antigua & Barbuda, watch The Fam Trip.

Bahamas 

A second Caribbean offering is the Bahamas: sixteen major islands that cover 100,000 sqm of the clearest ocean. Charter guests can expect a diverse range of experiences when sailing through the Bahamas, from bustling island life to peaceful unwinding opportunities on the chains of smaller islands, for instace the Exumas and the Abacos.

With a wealth of experiences on offer, the Bahamas has something for each and every person. Visit the famous swimming pigs in the Exumas, snorkel in untouched reefs, and visit Treasure Cay beach in the Abacos, identified as one of the world’s top ten beaches. 

The Bahamas is not short of luxurious experiences: Bakers Bay on Great Guana Cay being one such example. A secluded resort offering everything from golfing, spa facilities and premium dining opportunities, Bakers Bay encapsulates the height of luxury that can be found when visiting the Bahamas. 

Red Sea

The Red Sea poses a whole host of fantastic charter opportunities, with rich underwater exploration, vibrant culture and the utmost tranquility. Due to the desert climate, winter is a prime time to visit this beautiful area of the world. 

Safaga is one such area that encapsulates all properties which make for an unforgettable charter experience. It has beautiful beaches and top snorkelling and diving locations, perfect for those who wish to feel connected to the water throughout their charter. With a rich history, Safaga is also home to several ancient Egyption tombs, so guests with a craving for culture can also be fulfilled by this destination.

It has been noted that Safaga is known for its healing properties, with natural hot springs and mud baths for guests to enjoy. A superb natural relaxation experience, Safaga is the perfect representative of the wonders that the Red Sea has to offer. 

Australia 

Known for its vastness, Australia is a charter destination that poses hundreds of unforgettable experiences for guests. From bustling city life to the most stunning nature excursions, Australia is an unmissable charter location. 

The Whitsundays are a perfect example of Australia's outstanding beauty. At the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays are made up of 74 tropical islands; a true aquatic playground. It is recognised as one of the world’s best cruising destinations, with secluded anchorages, pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. 

It is home to multiple national parks and is perfect for those who wish to engage with the natural world, whether that’s on land or in the water. As well as having exceptional opportunities to explore the wildlife, the Whitsundays also have luxurious offerings to guests. With champion golf courses and serene spa days, the world-renowned resorts that grace this chain of islands are perfect additions to a superyacht charter in this part of Australia. 

To discover more, watch 'An Infinite Charter Destination', a Superyachts.com indepth series on Australia. 

Maldives

Forever a charter favourite, the Maldives is the perfect place to spend a winter charter, especially because the peak season is between December and March. During this time, water visibility is excellent, rainfall is scarce and winds are light. Visiting the Maldives at this time means experiencing the nearly 1200 islands at their best. 

Highlights of the Maldives are all within reach of the capital of Male, meaning that it is an accessible charter location as Male has an international airport. The islands play host to unforgettable dive sites, in which one may encounter manta rays, immense whale sharks, and hammerheads. Over a thousand coral atolls spread across 90,000 square kilometres of Indian Ocean, meaning that the opportunities to become immersed in the water are endless. 

As you travel further from Male, the ultimate paradise hot spots can be found. Remote sugar-white sand beaches and blue lagoons are scattered throughout the islands, meaning that after a thrilling time exploring the ocean, guests can relax on the beach and marvel at the serenity of it. 

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These five locations encompass the best winter charter prospects possible, spanning across the globe and including everything from vibrant culture to some of the best snorkelling opportunities in the world. Despite these locations being further away than popular Mediterranean destinations, they are undoubtedly worth the distance. Whether one chooses to relax in the natural hot springs in the Red Sea or become immersed in Australian wildlife, their winter charter is bound to be an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives.