Embark on a unique journey from the crystal-clear Ionian Sea to the azure Adriatic, exploring four neighbouring countries, each offering a distinct and captivating backdrop for a luxury yacht charter. Begin in Corfu, where lively tavernas and fabulous scenery set the tone, then head north towards Albania’s secluded beaches and historic landmarks – still emerging from their veiled past. Immerse yourself in Montenegro’s ancient charm and modern elegance, before concluding in Dubrovnik, Croatia’s capital, famed for its baroque beauty. Sit back, relax, and let us entice you with a taste of the Eastern Mediterranean.
The island of Corfu is the gateway to the southern Adriatic and a great starting point for a yacht charter vacation. In the idyllic northeast, the sea is warm, the beaches are quiet, and the walking trails are among the best in the Greek islands. It is no wonder that the famous Durrell family chose this part of Greece as home – with both Lawrence and Gerald Durrell living for many years in Kalami. For those looking for some nightlife, the area around Kassiopi (part of Millionaire’s Row) is lively, but without the boisterous reputation of resorts in the south. Further north is the charming seafront town of Sidari, from where a visit to the Canal d’Amour is a must. All manner of activities can easily be arranged here, from waterskiing and paragliding to mountain biking and horse-riding.
A short cruise – but a world away – lies Albania. Once shrouded by communist rule but now an increasingly popular stretch of coastline, this is where the Ionian Sea washes into the Adriatic. Arriving in Sarandë, Lëkurësi Castle looms high on the clifftop and is worth visiting for the views alone and is a wonderful sunset spot. If you come ashore by tender, then be sure to take a stroll along the promenade and grab a coffee while people-watching in the heart of the city.
While cruising north, take the opportunity to relax on board. Often local, your captain and crew will be delighted to show off the culture, landscape and cuisine of their home country, by stopping in hidden coves, retelling local history and serving authentic cuisine. Yachts come in all shapes and sizes, from 40m+ superyachts to more modest sailing catamarans, with something to suit most budgets. An experienced charter broker is essential and can recommend the best yachts and perfect itineraries to match your exact needs. When discussing your ideas, consider how you want to spend your days, what food and drink you prefer and what amenities are important.
Albanian’s coast is rich in history and natural wonders, but the area around the Karaburun Peninsula and the ancient capital Vlorë has it all. Once closed to the public as a military area, Albania’s largest peninsula is now a marine national park. The stunning landscape, including mountains, islands, cliffs and canyons, contributes to the outstanding biological diversity both on land and in the water. You might be lucky enough to see golden jackals, sea turtles, seals or dolphins. Stop in any number of hidden coves, dive into the crystal-clear water with a snorkel and mask and see what you can find.
Vlorë is a vibrant coastal city with a long history: a crossroads for various civilisations evident in the ancient ruins of Apollonia; and where Albania declared its independence in 1912, commemorated by the Independence Monument in the city centre. There is a strong Italian influence with wonderful pizzas and ice cream to be found in cafés along the city’s palm-lined waterfront.
As you leave Albania in your wake, the glorious coastline of Montenegro comes into view with the river island of Ada Bojana welcoming you. On the Adriatic side, there is a 3km sandy beach, while the Bojana river side boasts a wonderful choice of seafood restaurants and cafes. There is a well-known nudist beach here, so if ‘getting back to nature’ is not your thing, be sure your captain knows the area!
No yachting vacation in Montenegro would be complete without a stop in Porto Montenegro in Tivat. The town has undergone a makeover in recent years thanks to the development of the superyacht hub – originally a naval base. Now home to modern apartments and yacht berths, there is also a collection of high-end boutiques, outdoor bars and a really cool atmosphere.
Tivat sits in the Bay of Kotor – Europe’s southernmost fjord – and from here there is plenty to see and do – either from the yacht or its tender. Cruise past the charming medieval town of Perast, with its elegant Venetian architecture, and stop at Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made islet crowned by a 17th-century church filled with maritime legends. As you explore the bay, venture into the secretive naval tunnels—hidden remnants of Yugoslavia’s military past—where submarines were once concealed during the Cold War. Continue to the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor, where ancient city walls cling to the mountainside and cobblestone streets lead to bustling squares. For a refreshing dip, head to the nearby Blue Cave, where the sunlight illuminates the water – giving the cave its name.
A final four-hour cruise to Dubrovnik gives ample opportunity for guests to bathe in the Mediterranean sun and the passing scenery while making the most of the luxury amenities on board. Most yachts offer al fresco dining, seating and entertaining spaces, with larger yachts boasting several deck levels. It is not uncommon for superyachts to have a deck jacuzzi, gym, water’s edge beach club plus the latest thrilling water toys. A typical selection of water toys might include a top-of-the-range jet ski or two, wakeboards, snorkelling and diving gear plus stand-up paddleboards for those who enjoy a more leisurely self-powered pace.
On a bespoke luxury charter vacation, you can do as much or as little as you like. Whether that be diving into crystal clear waters or immersing yourself in culture and history; observing the scenery with a cocktail in hand or hiking and kayaking along the coast; visiting authentic local restaurants and nightlife or being served delicious international cuisine on board … the choice is yours.
Trina Howes
Trina Howes is a Director of CharterWorld America. CharterWorld America is a luxury private yacht charter company that creates outstanding vacations with excellent yachts at amazing prices – worldwide. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
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