Luxury yacht charter is one of the safest ways to travel. Socially distanced vacation with a highly trained crew sounds like a smart thing to do. Here are the top 10 yacht charter destinations for 2021 recommended by Denison Yachting.
Florida Keys
Chartering a yacht in the Florida Keys means cruising along the Atlantic coast to Key Largo, Islamorada, and Key West. This is one of the best spots for snorkeling, fishing, and diving in the continental United States. Key Largo is known for having the best scuba diving in Florida, so ask your captain about booking a dive excursion during your charter. In Key West, take advantage of snorkeling through colorful coral reefs, watching incredible sunsets, and learning about Florida’s history. The laidback lifestyle of the Florida Keys makes it one of the best charter destinations in 2021. Denison Yachting recommends the 34m Il Capo.
The Bahamas
The Bahamas are open to US citizens. Before arriving, each traveler must submit a Travel Health Visa Application that requires a negative RT PCR COVID-19 test result. A yacht charter to the Bahamas is one of the safest and most private ways to travel through the Caribbean. Fill your days with snorkeling, laying on quiet beaches, and enjoying cocktails on the sundeck of a superyacht. Your charter itinerary may include visits to Norman’s Cay to snorkel around an airplane wreck, Compass Cay to swim with nurse sharks, and Big Majors Cay to feed the friendly wild pigs. The 45,7m yacht Excellence will be a nice choice.
British Virgin Islands
The travelers must obtain a BVI Gateway Travel Authorization Certificate prior to arrival and a negative RT PCR COVID-19 test. Once you arrive safe and sound, expect gorgeous weather and turquoise waters. Denison’s Virgin Islands yacht charter itinerary includes amazing beaches, snorkeling spots, uninhabited cays, hiking trails, shops, and restaurants to visit by yacht. One of the best spots to visit in the BVI is Jost Van Dyke, where you can walk along the powder sand beaches and stop by Soggy Dollar Bar, home of the original Painkiller. The 24.4m Sunreef’s Bundalong will complete the experience.
New England
Eager to trade big cities for charming coastal towns? Escape to New England. Summertime in the Northeast United States is simply beautiful, making it one of the top yachting destinations of 2021. A New England yacht charter may include stops in Newport for incredible seafood, Block Island for timeless architecture, or Nantucket to visit the whaling museum. Get your fill of US history and quaint coastal towns packed into one yacht charter experience. Denison Yachting recommend Kefi, built by Sunseeker in 2004.
Mexico
Visitors arriving to Mexico are subject to temperature checks upon arrival and those showing symptoms may be asked to quarantine voluntarily. Fly into Cabo San Lucas and head straight for a superyacht charter to enjoy a luxurious and exclusive Mexico experience. Swim with exotic fish, eat fresh food, and sink your feet into white sand beaches. You’re bound to come back from a Mexico charter destination with a golden glow and relaxed state of mind.
Croatia
Croatia is open to foreign visitors. All travelers (regardless of citizenship) must complete an arrival form and present a negative RT PCR COVID-19 test result within 48 hours of arrival. US citizens are not required to quarantine. Croatia is one of the world’s best yachting playgrounds – the breathtaking coastline and blue-green colors of the Adriatic sea are hard to resist, especially when you explore it on board Katarina. Enjoy fine dining in Dubrovnik, swim in the crystal clear lakes of Mljet, and explore the fortresses of Hvar.
Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is comprised of more than 40 islands surrounded by brilliant blue water. The islands are relatively untouched thanks to a small population. A Turks & Caicos yacht charter is filled with tropical vegetation and nature, private land tours, whale watching, and dive adventures at The Wall. All visitors over 10 years old must show a negative test result taken in the past five days and apply for TCI travel authorization. Tourists must have insurance that covers COVID-19 related medical costs and fill out a travel authorization form prior to arrival by plane. Sun, smiles, and snorkeling for the next few days on board of the Sea Ray's MR.GV makes a perfect vacation.
Alaska
An Alaskan yacht charter is a totally unique experience. The area is known for its diverse landscape of mountains and forests with abundant wildlife and small towns. On a yacht charter around Alaska, experience whale watching, hike through national parks, and relax in hot springs. There’s no better way to see Alaska than by luxury yacht charter, for example, Kayana. It’s an incredibly scenic, isolated, and memorable vacation destination.
Leeward Islands
A travel bubble is set among Caribbean countries (CARICOM) to include Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia and the Grenadines. That means visitors traveling to one of those countries are not required to take COVID-19 tests or undergo quarantine to travel to countries within the Bubble. This makes it easy to island-hop. The Leeward Islands are located between Puerto Rico and Dominica on the northeastern rim of the Caribbean Sea. Among the islands is a range of destinations including Antigua and Barbuda, St. Barths, and St. Kitts and Nevis.
Costa Rica
A true adventurer will be eager to charter a yacht in Central America, and Costa Rica is one of the best destinations. Visitors must complete an online Health Pass 48 hours prior to travel to Costa Rica. A negative PCR test is not required upon entry, but tourists must provide proof of a medical insurance policy to cover any COVID-19 related medical treatment. Costa Rica is a rugged, rainforested country filled with ancient ruins, excellent surfing, and active volcanoes.
Credits: Denison Yachting
Italian shipyard AB Yachts, part of Next Yacht Group, has unveiled the AB 110S, a sportier version of its AB 110 model. The 33.7-meter yacht marks AB Yachts' first collaboration with automotive design firm EXE Design, incorporating elements such as a raked windshield and lightweight profile."We also boast over 20 years of experience in naval architecture. [And] this cross-sector approach is the real added value of our work," said Stefano Bedoni of EXE Design.Key features include multiple retractable systems: a sliding cockpit cover, a sunroof between the helm and saloon, and a hardtop that can cover either the helm station or sunpad. The main deck integrates a sunbathing area and a bar serving both indoor and outdoor spaces. A forward "flying couch" provides elevated seating with panoramic views.Powered by three MAN V12X-2200 engines, the AB 110S reaches 48 knots. The engine room is fully soundproofed to minimize noise and vibrations. No pricing or delivery details were disclosed.Italian shipyard AB Yachts was founded in 1992. In 2001, AB Yachts was acquired by the Fipa Group. Today Next Yacht Group is the owner of the historic Maiora, AB Yachts, and CBI Navi brands. AB Yachts range consists of semi-displacement yachts from 17.70 to 42 meters.Credits: AB Yachts
June 26, 2025
Cantiere del Pardo has introduced the Grand Soleil 65 Performance, a performance-oriented evolution of its 20-meter sailing yacht series. Following the Long Cruise version, this model emphasizes speed and responsiveness while retaining onboard comfort. The yacht made its debut at the Palma International Boat Show in May.As part of the Plus Line for vessels over 18 meters, the 65 Performance involves owners in the customization process from initial design stages. Franco Corazza, project manager for the Plus Line, stated: "The 65-footer is the result of a totally Made-in-Italy design process that brings together a team of professionals representing Italian excellence in the yachting sector." Naval architecture was handled by Matteo Polli, structural design by Marco Lostuzzi, and layout by Nauta Design.Environmental considerations include sustainable teak, laminated glass insulation, linen-reinforced composites, water-based paints, and solar panels. The hull utilizes epoxy-infused biaxial fiberglass and carbon reinforcements, with construction processes meeting strict quality certifications.Matteo Polli's design adapts features from the larger Grand Soleil 72, including a V-shaped bow for reduced drag and improved light-wind performance. The sail plan positions the mast aft to maximize the foretriangle, with a self-tacking jib as standard for simplified handling. Underwater, an inverted T-keel and single rudder balance stability and maneuverability, offering draft options of 3.5 meters (standard), 3.0 meters (shallow), or telescopic configurations.Nauta Design optimized deck space and interior flow, lowering the saloon to align with cabin levels for improved continuity. The coachroof's tapered profile distinguishes it from the Long Cruise version's panoramic windows. Massimo Gino of Nauta Design noted: "Our challenge was to convey a sense of motion and energy while preserving comfort, functionality, and style."Interior materials are customizable, with owners selecting finishes from the shipyard’s portfolio. No pricing or delivery timelines were disclosed.Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 in Italy. Pardo Yachts, the brand of Cantiere del Pardo dedicated to powerboats, was born in 2016. The first model, the Pardo 43, was launched in 2017. Grand Soleil was founded in 1973 and is famous for its yachts, which ensure performance for regattas, autonomous long-distance navigation, as well as a high level of sustainable consciousness.Credits: Grand Soleil Yachts
June 26, 2025
Denison Yachting has announced the availability of the fourth hull in the Conrad C144S series, priced at EUR32 million with a two-year delivery window. The vessel follows three previous models, including the award-winning Ace (hull 1), Extra Time (hull 2), and the upcoming Moonlight (hull 3), the latter two sold by Denison.Built by Conrad Shipyard in Gdańsk, Poland, the 44-meter C144S is a full-displacement superyacht with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. The design features exterior styling by Reymond Langton Design and naval architecture by Diana Yacht Design, emphasizing seakeeping performance. The "S" designation refers to the straight bow, which increases interior volume while maintaining a streamlined profile.Interior options include the original M2 Atelier concept seen on earlier models or alternative designs, such as Nauta Design’s understated approach chosen for Moonlight. The yacht accommodates 10–12 guests across a full-beam owner’s suite and four VIP cabins, with crew quarters for nine.Key features include a sundeck with a hot tub, infinity pool, and outdoor cinema, along with a beach club featuring a wet bar and wellness area. Storage capacity includes a 7-meter tender, two jet skis, and multiple SeaBobs.With a transoceanic range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles, the C144S cruises at 11 knots (max 13.8 knots) and complies with IMO Tier III and Lloyd’s MCA LY3 standards."The C144S represents a proven platform with award-winning design and strong value in the 500GT segment," said Denison broker Alex Clarke. Delivery is scheduled for 2027.Conrad Shipyard is located in Gdansk, Poland and specializes in building steel, and aluminum luxury yachts ranging from 24 to 100 meters in length.Credits: Denison Yachting
June 26, 2025
The Italian Marine Industry Association will present the 65th Genoa International Boat Show at Expo 2025 Osaka on June 30, highlighting the Mediterranean’s largest boating event and the world’s third-largest boat show.The Japanese presentation serves as a strategic platform to reinforce the Genoa International Boat Show’s position as a global hub for promoting Italian marine manufacturing. The event is part of Liguria Week at the Italian Pavilion, aiming to demonstrate Italy’s leadership in the boating sector.The Italian boating industry achieved a record global turnover of €8.33 billion in 2023, marking a 13.6% increase from the previous year. Exports surpassed €4.3 billion, with Italy leading worldwide superyacht production (>24m) and inflatable boat manufacturing. The sector supports over 200,000 jobs with a 90% export rate.Organized by the Italian Marine Industry Association – Confindustria Nautica, the Genoa International Boat Show has maintained its status as a global reference point for the marine industry for 65 years. According to Nielsen analysis, the event generates between €65 and €70 million during its duration and attracts industry professionals from over 30 countries.Alessandro Gianneschi, Vice President of the Italian Marine Industry Association responsible for promoting Made in Italy production, commented: “With its presentation at Expo Osaka, the Genoa International Boat Show, organised by the Italian Marine Industry Association, continues in its role as an ambassador of the Made in Italy brand across the world and of the industrial value of the boating sector. For 65 editions, the Genoa International Boat Show has promoted and supported the boating industry, thanks to its specific nature as a supply chain event, designed and organised by the Italian Marine Industry Association, an Association of Companies for Companies, and has fostered such an exceptionally positive trend over the last twenty years, accompanying the sector’s businesses on a journey defined by growth and excellence.”The 2025 edition will take place from September 18-23 at the new Levante Waterfront venue designed by architect Renzo Piano. The 20,000 sqm event features five interconnected product areas: Yachts & Superyachts, Sailing World, Boating Discovery, Tech Trade, and Living the Sea. The venue’s unique design allows 85% outdoor space for sea trials and seamless visitor access.The show will also host the 4th World Yachting Sustainability Forum and the Design Innovation Award, recognizing creativity and technological excellence among new products.Credits: Confindustria Nautica
June 26, 2025
The centenary edition of the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s Rolex Fastnet Race is set to feature a fierce competition among the world’s fastest 100-foot maxi yachts vying for the prestigious Erivale Trophy for monohull line honours.The main contenders this year are Black Jack 100, owned by Ramon Vos, and SHK Scallywag, belonging to Seng Huang Lee. Black Jack 100, originally Alfa Romeo II, underwent a complete refit in Italy. Skipper/project manager Tristan le Brun noted: “We’ve done a full overhaul of all systems… We’ve replaced all the moving parts.” The yacht features a revised sail plan with a reduced mainsail and enlarged foretriangle.SHK Scallywag, formerly Ragamuffin 100, has a notable racing history. In the recent Rolex Middle Sea Race, it finished 18 minutes ahead of Black Jack 100. The yacht recently won the Loro Piana Giraglia.Another strong contender is Leopard 3, owned by Joost and Laura Schuijff. Long-term skipper Chris Sherlock reported: “We had a new rig and a new sail package and we reduced the weight of the boat by 10 tonnes.” The yacht is preparing for the event after winning the Rolex IMA Maxi 1 World Championship in Porto Cervo last year.The fleet also includes VO70 yachts, with Christian Zugel’s Tschüss 2 being a strong contender. The yacht, originally Groupama 70, has an impressive racing record, including victories in the Volvo Ocean Race, RORC Caribbean 600, and the Transatlantic Race.The current monohull race record stands at 2 days, 7 hours, 16 minutes, and 26 seconds, set by Charlie Dalin’s IMOCA MACIF in the previous edition. The race presents the unique opportunity for a yacht to achieve the ‘triple’ — winning line honours, IRC overall, and setting a new race record. The last to achieve the ‘double’ (line and IRC honours) was Ludde Ingvall’s Nicorette in 1995.The race, which covers 695 miles to Cherbourg, will test the yachts’ capabilities in various conditions, with the potential for record-breaking performances.Credits: Royal Ocean Racing Club
June 25, 2025