With tourist season in many parts of Europe underway, complaints of overcrowding have been posted on social media, with certain coastal locations being inundated with holidaymakers and cruise ships.
To avoid this, some yachters and boaters have been seeking quieter locations that are easier to anchor and provide a more relaxing and peaceful experience.
So, Jo Davies at Princess Yacht Charter has revealed five unknown European charter destinations that you should consider visiting.
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Lastova, Croatia
Lastova is a secluded island off the coast of Croatia, and is a must-do option if you’re planning a charter around the Adriatic Sea. It conveniently sits between Split and Dubrovnik, which, if in your plans, gives you an excuse to add Lastova to your itinerary.
Many of the complaints about Croatia are related to over-tourism, but Lastova remains relatively untouched, surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Its isolated nature makes it a perfect location for those looking for a more peaceful vibe. Dock up and take a walk around the quaint villages, taking in the traditional stone architecture.
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Elba Island, Italy
Not as glorified as its neighbours Corsica or Sardinia, but Elba Island offers secret coves, along with golden sandy beaches. This makes it perfect for yacht or boat owners looking for lesser-known locations to explore while sailing between France, Spain, and Italy.
Elba has plenty of great diving and hiking options, but if you prefer something a little more relaxed, then head to the historic villages of Capoliveri and Portoferraio. Here you can spend the afternoon (or morning) wine tasting, as Elba is part of Italy after all.
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Paxos, Greece
Corfu is a fan favourite among travellers, but what is lesser known in the Ionian Islands is Paxos. You will still get the same welcoming Greek hospitality, but you will be surrounded by fewer tourists.
When considering a port, head to Gaios, a small but lively harbour town located towards the south of the island. There you can enjoy sea caves and snorkel spots in the day, and bars and nightclubs by night. If you truly want to experience the local culture, visit Lakka and Loggos, where you can see traditional Paxiot taverns.
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Porquerolles Island, France
If you’re planning to travel between Marseille and Monaco, then think about stopping at Portquerolles Island. Located southeast of Toulan, Portquerolles Island is often bypassed by mainstream yachtsmen and sailors. But what they’re missing is a peaceful, unspoiled island surrounded by clear Mediterranean waters.
What makes this location so unique is that there are no cars; the only way to travel once on the island is by walking or biking. This means Portquerolles Island is extremely quiet, allowing you to enjoy the local vineyards and olive groves, which are within touching distance of the beaches, in peace.
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Syros, Greece
Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most popular islands in the world, meaning that each year they are both packed with tourists. Yacht and boat owners, in particular, get frustrated due to overcrowding. However, what if I were to tell you there was an alternative nearby that was relatively unknown?
That is Syros in Greece, it has the same rich history and charm as Mykonos and Santorini, but has remained hidden from mass tourism. The island showcases a mix of Greek Orthodox and Catholic heritage and is well-suited for anchorages due to its calm surrounding seas. Traditional villages like Ano Syros are a must-see, offering neoclassical architecture.
Jo Davies Travel Expert at Princess Yacht Charter: ‘’One of the reasons why yachting and sailing are so popular is due to the freedom of travelling. You can visit the islands that airlines and cruise companies won’t take you to, but there are clearly many people not taking advantage of this opportunity.
The five destinations above all have their own charm and remain relatively untouched. Get off the beaten track when you take your next charter, and explore some locations that you never knew existed. You might surprise yourself.’’