What makes the East Mediterranean a top choice for yacht charters?

While the West Mediterranean is often associated with high-end luxury, glamorous beach clubs, and world-famous hotspots, the East Mediterranean has a more relaxed and adventurous appeal. East Med offers more opportunities to anchor in quiet bays, explore charming fishing villages, and discover hidden gems untouched by mass tourism.

According to TridentTrust, while traditional yachting destinations like France and Spain in West Med continue to be sought after, recent anchoring guidelines have prompted charterers to look eastward. This change has caused a huge surge in yachting in the East Med, with more boats cruising these waters than ever because of its greater flexibility, lower mooring costs, and a sense of freedom that appeals to those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path journey.

SuperYacht Times further highlights that the Eastern Mediterranean is set to welcome a surge in large yacht visitation, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier yachting hub. Even new research released by Bloomberg says that the East Med draws increased interest from affluent yacht owners as traditional hotspots see a shift in preference, especially for bigger yachts.

The Eastern Mediterranean has a sweet spot when it comes to location too as it offers easy access to the Suez Canal and major hotspots in the Middle East and North Africa. In addition, it boasts an extended sailing season, diverse cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes, a fact even First Class Yacht Charters have highlighted. It’s clear why the Eastern Mediterranean is not just an alternative but a top choice for yacht charters worldwide.

Which yachts are ideal for chartering in the East Mediterranean?

Motor yachts under 24 meters are ideal for fast island-hopping. These yachts are highly recommended for Greece, Turkey, and Montenegro, offering quick travel between destinations. The Maritime Prefecture of the Mediterranean has implemented restrictions on vessels 24m and above near the coasts of the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var, making smaller motor yachts the perfect option for unrestricted cruising (Abys Yachting).

Catamarans under 20 meters offer exceptional stability and a family-friendly design, making them a top choice for exploring shallow waters. Their versatility is especially valuable in Greece too, since according to Sigma Insurance Brokers, anchoring is restricted in various areas, particularly in marine protected areas and near archaeological sites.

Sailing yachts are highly suitable for a more traditional and eco-friendly sailing experience. These vessels align well with Greece’s strict speed limits in marine protected areas. In Turkey, gulets—traditional wooden yachts with a full crew—are the top choice, offering a culturally immersive experience. ​For those seeking ultra-luxury and full-service crewed experiences, superyachts over 24 meters are well-suited for destinations like Cyprus and Montenegro. These locations boast modern superyacht marinas according to YachtingPages, and generally have fewer anchoring restrictions.

What are some of the best yachting destinations in the East Mediterranean?

Greek Islands

Boasting more than 6,000 islands and islets, the Greek Islands are one of the world's most beloved yacht charter destinations. Dotted through the Aegean and Ionian Seas, these islands are rich in mythology, history, and natural beauty. These are some of the Greek Islands top yachting spots,

• Santorini (Cyclades): Famous for its white-and-blue cliff top villages, sunset views in Oia, and dramatic volcanic caldera. This caldera was formed by a volcanic eruption over 3,600 years ago, and some believe it inspired the legend of Atlantis.
• Mykonos (Cyclades) – Mykonos is named after Mykons, the grandson of Apollo. Its rocky landscape is said to be the petrified remains of giants defeated by Hercules. Now, it is known for its lively beach clubs, luxury shopping, and nightlife.
• Zakynthos (Ionian Islands) – Home to Shipwreck Beach (Navagio), one of the most photographed beaches in the world. This famous shipwreck was actually a smuggler’s ship that ran around in the 1980s.
• Corfu (Ionian Islands) – Known as the “Emerald Isle” of Greece because of its lush green landscapes, which stay vibrant all year round, thanks to its mild climate and frequent rainfall. Here you will find Venetian architecture and stunning bays.
• Rhodes (Dodecanese) – This is where you will find the Medieval Old Town of Rhodes is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Turkish Riviera

Extending from the Aegean to the Mediterranean, The Turkish Riviera which is known as the Turquoise Coast is a yachting dream with its coves, ancient ruins, and luxury marinas. In here you can travel to,

• Bodrum – known as the “St. Tropez of Turkey” because of its nightlife, historic castles, and world-class marinas. The region’s wooden gulet yachts originated here.
• Göcek – One of the most yacht-friendly destinations in Turkey because of its six world-class marinas. Göcek is also part of a protected national park, which means its bays and beaches remain untouched.
• Antalya & Kaş – Home to stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and the Sunken City of Kekova where you can still see the ruins of buildings, staircases, and amphorae beneath its waters.
• Fethiye & Ölüdeniz – Famous for the Blue Lagoon, paragliding, and breathtaking mountain views. While in Ölüdeniz, you can visit the Butterfly Valley, home to hundred species of butterflies.

Croatia

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is considered one of the most beautiful sailing destinations in Europe. It features medieval towns, more than 1,000 islands, and some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean.

• Dubrovnik – A UNESCO-listed city with medieval walls, famously used as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones.
• Hvar – One of the sunniest places in Europe, with more than 2,700 hours of sunshine per year. The island is famous for its lavender fields, and its lavender oil.
• Split – Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, but its Old Town still retains a small, intimate feel, perfect for exploring on foot.
• Korčula – Korčula is often called “Little Dubrovnik” because of its medieval walls, terracotta rooftops, and charming stone streets.

Montenegro

Montenegro, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is quickly becoming a luxury yachting hotspot. The country’s dramatic coastline, fjord-like bays, and exclusive marinas make it perfect for superyacht cruising.

Cyprus

Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, popular for its ancient ruins, sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine.

Where are the best marinas for yachting in the East Mediterranean?

Greece

• Athens Marina – The premier superyacht marina in Athens, near the city center, accommodates yachts up to 130m.
• Flisvos Marina – Exclusive marina with a VIP atmosphere, known for its high-end amenities and a prime location near historical landmarks.
• Gouvia Marina – A large and well-equipped marina with easy access to the Ionian Islands.
• Marina Zeas – Located in a historic port, ideal for luxury yachts exploring the Saronic Gulf.

Turkey

• Yalikavak Marina – One of Turkey’s top luxury marinas, featuring high-end shopping, gourmet dining, and berths for superyachts.
• Setur Marinas – A popular stop for yachts cruising the Aegean coast, offering full-service facilities.
• Kusadasi Marina – A key marina for those traveling between Greece and Turkey, known for its excellent services.

Croatia

• ACI Marina Dubrovnik –A top-tier marina offering excellent amenities near the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Dubrovnik.
• ACI Marina Split – A central marina with access to the Dalmatian islands.
• D-Marin Mandalina – A luxury marina known for its superyacht facilities and proximity to Kornati National Park.

Montenegro

• Porto Montenegro – The most prestigious superyacht marina in the East Mediterranean, offering world-class facilities, luxury residences, and elite yacht services.

• Lustica Bay Marina – A newer luxury marina with a sustainable design located near the Bay of Kotor.

   

East Mediterranean yachting seasons at a glance

Why should you choose the East Mediterranean for your next yachting experience?

Unlike the more commercialized WestMed, East Med is a region that has a mix of adventure and exclusivity. Once home to ancient civilizations, legendary explorers, and maritime traders, the area is filled with historical wonders waiting to be explored from the deck of a yacht. The waters are full of sunken cities, shipwrecks, and marine life, perfect for divers and snorkelers. At the same time, the warm Mediterranean climate ensures ideal sailing conditions for most of the year. Add in top-tier marinas, incredible local culture, and fantastic food; every stop feels like a dream.

For more insights on stunning Mediterranean yacht charter destinations, explore our detailed destination guides or browse the finest Luxury Charter Yachts available now.