Family yachting holidays: which country is the best?
International waters bucket list: best countries for a family yacht vacation
The world is a large place with so much to see and do outside of the bubble of suburban America. With so many places to explore, it can be difficult to decide on a family yachting destination. This list of the best countries for a family yacht vacation can give you a jumping start on your adventure planning.
Greece
The Greek islands of Southern Greece are enveloped by the Mediterranean Sea to the south, the Aegean Sea to the east, and the Ionian Sea to the West.
As you travel on your boat rental among the different islands, you'll enjoy stunning scenery that combines rugged cliffs with white beaches and clear blue water, iconic Greek architecture, and an admirable cultural identity that still permeates the everyday life of the locals.
Ecuador
Ecuador is the small tropical country in western South America known for being home to the famous Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands were, of course, where Charles Darwin studied animals and developed his theory of evolution.
The islands are a significant distance from the shore, so bring plenty of food, water, and sunscreen for your adventure.
Known for its wide range of plants and animals, it's thought to be one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.
Some of the animals only found on the Galapagos Islands include:
- Galapagos Giant Tortoise
- Blue-footed booby
- Marine iguana
- Galapagos penguin
- Flightless cormorant
United Arab Emirates
Dubai in the United Arab Emirates provides a distinct mix of traditional Middle Eastern culture and modern living.
You'll be able to park your yacht on the shore of the Persian Sea to walk on land and enjoy a day of beauty and luxury.
Dubai is a bustling metropolitan with the tallest skyscraper in the world as well as one of the largest malls in the world.
Adventurers will have the opportunity to take in the magic of the desert with a camel ride or riding 4-wheelers up and down the sand dunes.
France
France is a place of style and culture. It's a great yacht destination for a sophisticated family who enjoys quietly chatting at outdoor cafes and perusing clothing stores and art museums while on land.
When you pack for your yacht charter, this is a great opportunity to wear your navy and white striped top with casual capris and a beret without looking foolish.
France has a long and storied history. When you spend a day on the mainland, take time to explore Versailles or Notre Dame. Pictures simply can't do the beauty of the gothic architecture and elaborate landscaping justice.
And don't forget to try traditional French cuisine.
Netherlands
You can reach the Netherlands through the North Sea, which is a small portion of the Atlantic Ocean that separates England from mainland Europe.
The locals in the Netherlands live sincerely and, for the most part, simply. You'll see cute cottages, lighthouses, and windmills sporadically placed among an endless amount of green grass and flowers.
The Netherlands mindset isn't as flashy as many of the other countries on this list. It's best for a family who appreciates culture and simple pleasures. There will be more bikes on the road than cars, so rent a bike to travel around town.
United States
The United States is a large and diverse country with plenty of great yacht locations.
Some of the top yacht destinations in the United States include:
- Chesapeake Bay
- Rhode Island
- Florida Keys
- San Francisco
- Maui
- Alaska
Where you sail your boat will dictate the vibe and activities of your trip.
Bonus: Caribbean Island Countries
The Caribbean Sea is a large Sea surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean, and Pacific Ocean. The Caribbean Sea is home to over a dozen independent countries.
The Bahamas is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations, only a couple of hundred miles from Southern Florida. Its proximity to Florida makes it a great first destination on a Caribbean yacht vacation.
Some more of the most popular countries to visit while chartering a yacht in the Caribbean Sea are:
- Turks and Caicos
- Dominican Republic
- Jamaica
- Virgin Islands
- Barbuda
- St. Lucia
- Barbados
- Trinidad & Tobago
The options are endless. Pick a destination and schedule your boat rental for your family yacht vacation.