Explore These Diverse and Unique Charter Vacation Ideas
From rugged adventures in Alaska to gilt-edged Mediterranean itineraries overflowing with the very latest and most luxurious pleasures that life can offer, superyachts are the platforms for endless possibilities. After all, with beach clubs to call your own and crew solely devoted to your every want and whim, it’s par for the course to live life to the extreme. Northrop & Johnson’s leading charter experts inspire you with ideas for a truly diverse and unforgettable vacation.
In our opinion, there are a great deal more than seven wonders in the world. Everywhere you travel, there are unbelievable sights and experiences to be relished. Have you ever wanted to watch a traditional Polynesian dance by moonlight? Or visit the Provençal haunts of artistic legends the likes of Picasso or Van Gogh? Or how about a journey to Napoleon’s birthplace in Corsica?
Every cruising ground has a wealth of culture, ranging from natural phenomena and historic acclaim to cuisine and customs, and a superyacht can take you on an exciting journey of discovery. “Every excursion is organized in the most luxurious manner possible,” explains Charter Broker Fiona Maureso. “A superyacht allows you to go off the beaten track and see sides of destinations that few know about. For example, when cruising aboard the Phinisi-style LAMIMA through the Komodo Islands of Indonesia, guests can get up close to deserted beaches where wild Komodo dragons forage or head ashore with an expert National Park ranger to see them in their natural habitat.”
It’s not just Southeast Asia attracting the superyachts. New destinations are joining the world cruising map regularly. As more and more charterers desire remote, off-the-beaten-track experiences, owners are positioning their yachts in places beyond the more typical cruising grounds of the Mediterranean and Caribbean. “Whether you wish to charter the rugged waters of Alaska, venture to the tranquil shores of the Indian Ocean, or head south to the varied coastlines of Central and South America, a yacht can take you to remote places in comfort and style,” says Fiona. “For example, guests can discover the ‘Rich Coast’ of Costa Rica aboard the 76’ (23.3m) THUNDERBOLT this winter, or the pure waters of Alaska aboard the 130’ (39.6m) SERENGETI in the summer.”
You don’t always need to go off the beaten track to discover some of the finest cruising grounds in the world, however. The Bahamas and Caribbean, for example, offer many opportunities for adventure. “The Exumas offer an endless pool of diving and fishing experiences,” says Charter Broker Greg Gasior, “while the Caribbean Sea is perfect for water-based activities; swimming, windsurfing, waterskiing, kayaking, wakeboarding, knee-boarding and snorkeling are all par for the course when cruising aboard a superyacht.” A yacht is also the perfect way to access some of the finest sporting opportunities ashore. Many of the world’s championship golf courses trace idyllic coastlines, hiking and mountain biking don’t get better than remote tracks winding through tropical island forests and quad biking and horse riding can usually be arranged.
It’s not all about exploring ashore and activities galore. One of the best things about a superyacht is its almost unique capacity to provide a luxurious, secure and private setting with all the facilities required for fun, unforgettable days aboard. “All the yachts in the charter fleet are equipped with fantastic watersports equipment, the salons transform into mini cinemas (some even have dedicated cinema rooms on board) and your chef can cook your favorite meals,” says Charter Broker Diana Meza. “While some guests may choose to cycle, swim and enjoy all the water toys, others can enjoy more relaxing pursuits aboard.” Every vacation should also have time for relaxation, whether that means starting the day with breakfast in bed before lounging on the aft deck or having a massage or beauty treatment with the onboard masseuse (if there is one within the crew). If not, your charter broker can arrange for a masseuse to come on board or book a treatment at a world-class spa ashore.
When it comes to reservations, the team behind your yacht charter are on hand to organize the very best of everything. “Dinners at Michelin-starred restaurants, smooth entry to the hippest clubs in town, transfers to the best boutiques ashore, a round of golf on a championship course… nothing is out of reach on a superyacht,” says Charter Broker Cecile Blin. “Of course, the decks of a superyacht lend themselves well to gourmet black-tie dinners, Champagne celebrations or lazy afternoons spent chatting with friends while sipping cocktails and savoring gourmet snacks.” Whatever style of charter you prefer, a superyacht is guaranteed to deliver the utmost in luxury, inspiration and indulgence.
