Uncovering the Most Popular Charter Destinations of 2025

In Europe, Greece once again led the summer charge, but the story was less about headline islands and more about smart cruising choices. Mykonos and Santorini remained on many wish lists, though congestion makes them increasingly difficult at peak times. ‘They’re popular asks, but they can be challenging,’ Robertson explained. Instead, clients gravitated towards islands such as Milos and Folegandros, prized for their white stone landscapes and cinematic appeal. The real revelation, however, was the Ionian Islands. ‘The Ionian went over very well last summer,’ Robertson said, citing calmer seas, lush greenery and a welcome lack of Meltemi winds. For many, it delivered the Greece they remembered, relaxed, beautiful and effortlessly enjoyable.

Along the Adriatic, Croatia proved its staying power. With Trogir and Split acting as seamless embarkation points, clients embraced easy island-hopping and a warm, welcoming culture. ‘People are incredibly hospitable,’ Robertson noted, adding that feedback from charters was overwhelmingly positive. Islands such as Šolta and Mljet consistently impressed, reinforcing Croatia’s position as a destination that rarely disappoints.

Over in Italy, the Amalfi Coast remained as magnetic as ever, though it demanded commitment. Reservations needed to be secured months in advance, and the experience was unmistakably social, making it perfect for clients who enjoy energy and glamour, but not necessarily for those craving privacy.

Across the Atlantic, 2025 was a year of discovery in the Caribbean. Dominica emerged as a favourite for clients seeking substance over spectacle. Robertson describes it as ideal for active charters, with rainforest hikes, river excursions and black-sand beaches creating a deeply immersive experience. Sunset trips along the Indian River and swims at Champagne Reef, where volcanic gas bubbles rise from the seabed, left a lasting impression. Meanwhile, in the Bahamas, San Salvador quietly impressed with its untouched feel and exceptional diving, offering dramatic drop-offs, coral nurseries and abundant marine life far from resort crowds.

Beyond the usual charter circuits, Asia gained serious momentum. Indonesia, in particular, became a talking point. Robertson highlighted reefs so vibrant ‘you could barely see the bottom,’ and noted a surge in interest from divers and adventure-focused clients. Raja Ampat and Komodo stood out, supported by an increasing number of high-quality yachts. At the same time, Thailand’s improving marina infrastructure and evolving charter regulations helped elevate the wider Asian charter scene, alongside growing interest in Japan and the Philippines.

Some destinations, however, remain timeless. French Polynesia continued to resonate deeply with charterers seeking beauty and emotional impact. ‘It brought tears to my eyes the first time I saw it,’ Robertson said, simply capturing why it remains one of the most powerful cruising grounds in the world.

At the far edges of the map, 2025 also saw charter clients pushing into true expedition territory. With Antarctica now familiar to many seasoned travellers, attention shifted towards Greenland, Norway and even the Northwest Passage, destinations defined by scale, silence and a sense of genuine firsts.

As the year closes, 2025 will be remembered not just for where yachts travelled, but for how charterers chose to travel. Quieter routes, richer experiences and expert guidance defined the most successful charters of the year, and, as Robertson’s insights reveal, thoughtful destination choice has never mattered more.