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The European coastline is like a treasure chest of beautiful islands, crystal clear waters, historic sites, and hidden beaches. All of that and more can be explored from a yacht. It is the most convenient way to discover the seas that surround the continent such as the Barents Sea, the Baltic Sea, the Atlantic Ocean and thousands of bays of the Mediterranean.

Did you know that the Mediterranean Sea is among the leading tourist destinations in the world? It accounts for a third of the world’s tourism activities. Tourists from all around the world experience the sea and the twenty-three countries bordering it. Regardless of the country and the history and culture you choose to visit, the Mediterranean climate and the deep blue waters make it an ideal yacht charter destination. These are Fyly’s top 4!

Fyly’s recommended sailing destinations in Europe

GREECE

Greece is not only an archipelago of more than 3,000 islets and islands, but it also offers a rich culture and cuisine, stunning natural landscapes, and ancient archaeological sites. The Greek islands are a natural draw for yacht lovers from across the globe. Its islands make it a leading place to charter a yacht and for Fyly, this part of the Mediterranean is like an earthly paradise.

The first island that comes to mind is Mykonos. It is the place to be if you want to know just how busy the Greek Islands can be, and to also experience its epic nightlife. Another well knows island is Crete. It is renowned for its ancient archaeological sites dating back thousands of years as well as its exceptional Greek cuisine. Santorini, on the other hand, is home to striking hillside towns, and whitewashed houses.

The best thing about a bareboat charter is that you don’t have to go where all the other tourists go. You can avoid the hotspots like Mykonos and Santorini and explore instead islands like Skiathos, Lavrio or Milos.

MALTA

Secluded anchorages, quiet fishing villages, and an underwater paradise for scuba divers are some of the main reasons sailors choose to visit Malta. For most of them, the voyage begins in the magnificent port Valletta. It is the perfect place to discover traditional Maltese architecture and to indulge in the local cuisine. Valletta also tells like no other the history of this Mediterranean Islands that was a strategic point throughout time.

For those who love history, the trip leads to Mdina – the ancient capital on top of a hill that allows visitors to dive even deeper into the history of ancient empires and knights. If you are interested in scuba diving, you should pass by St. Paul’s Bay and continue your travel along the coast to the smaller islands of the Maltese archipelago: Gozo and Comino. The bays and beaches there do not only compete with the Bahamas but also allow for some quiet time on your holiday. In Gozo, time stands still and it is one of the few spots in the Mediterranean that can still be considered as “off the beaten track”.

CANARY ISLANDS

Although located off the African coast, the Canary Islands belong to Spain and are hence considered a European destination. For decades they have been amongst the most frequented holiday destinations, not only for yacht charters. It’s an area that’s warm all year round and gifted with favourable winds and undisturbed nature which makes them perfect to set the sails. Its islands are a blend of historical influences, people, and rich culture. The locals are known for their warm hospitality.

The bustling Tenerife nightlife and the Gran Canaria beaches are some of the things tourists ought to explore. The island of La Palma is one of the most breath-taking destinations and is what makes this archipelago stand out. Lanzarote is best known for its volcanic ashes that make for a tasty wine production and architecture that has been influenced by art. We recommend stopping in Lanzarote on a Sunday to experience the bustling market in Teguise before heading to the National Park that leads to the most exquisite display of volcanic landscapes.

FRENCH RIVIERA

If we say Monte Carlo, Nice and Cannes image sandy beaches, European high society and the best 5-star-cuisine on the continent come to mind. A yacht charter to the French Riviera provides an experience like no other and you might even meet a celebrity – it’s where they tend to spend their summer trips in Europe and for a good reason.

Heading further inland allows you to explore the local delicacies and sample the vibrant nightlife in this place. If you are looking for quieter places, consider yachting down to Porquerolles and Port Cros. The two areas have a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, small marinas to dock your chartered yacht, and warm sandy beaches with swaying palm trees away from the crowds.