One of the most exotic Greek islands, sitting adjacent to the Peloponnese in the mesmerising Ionian sea, Zákynthos boasts a wonderful natural landscape and magical beaches.
Exploring the island, you’ll discover picturesque hilltop villages, traditional monasteries and dreamy natural landscapes.
The beaches are also home to the endangered Caretta sea turtles, which lay their eggs in the fine white sand every year.
The trademark of Zante, as the island is known in Italian, is the scenic Navagio Shipwreck Beach. Only accessible by boat, Navagio Beach has magical turquoise waters and white sand, surrounded by dramatic towering cliffs.
While the view from above alone is simply breathtaking, you should also experience a dip in its enticingly clear water.
Apart from Shipwreck Beach, many more paradisiacal beaches are always open for exploration, including Laganas, Gerakas, Vasilikos and Spiantza.
Some of these beaches are where the endangered Caretta sea turtles lay their eggs every spring and summer and you might be lucky enough to see them coming out of the sea to bury their eggs under the sand.
Zakynthos Town is the capital of the island and strongly influenced by the Venetians, also named the island 'Fiore di Levante' (flower of the East).
There are many hidden gems to explore including Saint Mark Square, the Venetian Castle, Solomos Square and the Post-Byzantine Museum which are some of the best places to visit.
In terms of activities, there is plenty to do with a vibrant nightlife, watersports including scuba diving and land excursions to keep you entertained.
Lying in a horseshoe shaped bay is the lovely resort town of Sarandë, nestled between the Ionian Sea and olive groves, with a scenic promenade and noteworthy beaches, it is an ideal starting or ending point for an Ionian charter. The name Sarandë comes from the name of the Byzantine monastery "Agioi Saranda" meaning Forty Saints. Rich in Greek and Roman history, the area is perfect for exploring the interesting ancient archeaological site of Butrint along with the Blue Eye Spring, near the village of Muzinë. The vast beauty of the region is a draw card for tourists seeking a relaxing, nature filled destination, to get away from it all...
Albania’s coastline is still perceived as something of an enigma with its near-empty blissful beaches, glittering seas, and unrivalled riviera. Himara is less a well kept secret and teems with a local scene. Located close to Corfu, this area boasts a collision of Greek and Albanian culture and its previous life of being a small fishing village is fading fast. The collection of beaches that dot the seafront of Himara offers golden sweeps and small pebbles, large and sprawling or small and darling - depending on your mood. The Old Town is a vision of tight-knit winding lanes, tiny shops, coffee spots, and even castles and churches. Charter guests can take a hike along the coastal paths, and take a kayak to the hidden gem of Gjiri I Filikurit.
The former capital of Albania, where Independence was won in 1912, Vlorë features a stunning coastline with beautiful beaches and clean waters. This is where the Adriatic meets the Ionian. In the cuisine, though, you'll find a taste of Italy here, with wonderful pizzas and ice creams that rival Naples. Explore the old town with its rambling golden cobbled streets, and visit the Independence Monument and the Muradie Mosque. Close to Vlore, you can also dive into the dreamy Blue Eye.
Bar is a modern, clean, green town and the perfect base for visiting Montenegro's fascinating attractions, such as the ruins of Stari Bar (Old Bar) at the foot of Mount Rumija, Skadar Lake and it's wonderful bird habitat, the ruins of the Haj Nehaj Fortress and the various monestaries and churches dotted around the area. The Bar Riviera, has plenty of pebbly and sandy beaches to choose from along with coves and bays off which you can enjoy a wonderful day swimming in the clean waters and tanning.
One of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic Coast, at 2500 years old, Budva is the centre of tourism in Montenegro. The picturesque Old Town, encased within ancient city walls, captivates with stone alleys, historic churches like St. John’s, and the imposing Budva Citadel offering panoramic views of the coastline. Budva’s beaches cater to every taste—from lively Mogren Beach with its crystal-clear waters and seaside cafes to quieter coves ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The town’s pulsating nightlife features elegant bars and buzzing clubs, drawing a cosmopolitan crowd. Beyond the coast, explore the nearby Sveti Stefan, a tiny islet village famed for its pink sandy beaches and luxury resorts. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate Podmaine Monastery and the rich tapestry of Venetian and Ottoman influences. The Budva Riviera boasts beautiful, long, sandy beaches set in front of wild mountainous backdrops. The marina lying just north of the Old Town is dominated by luxury superyachts all summer long.
The fortified town of Kotor is a must stop for any Adriatic charter. The Venetian Old Town, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Stroll through her maze of winding cobblestone streets, enjoying Romanesque architecture, medieval churches and quaint orange roofed houses whilst soaking in the views of the stunning surrounding mountainscapes. For the adventurous, hike up the 1300 steps to the St John Fortress overlooking the city.
Delightful Dubrovnik with its golden city walls and pearl of the Adriatic status looks every inch at the fantasy series setting it is famous for. Dating back to the 7th century, exploring Croatia’s capital is all baroque beauty, UNESCO delights, and limestone pavement strolls that will deliver something extraordinary with every corner turn. Walking the city walls is a must to get a feel for the place and to soak up those blue and balmy sea views. Sip a coffee on the pedestrian street of Stradun, see 16th-century paintings from Raphael in the Cathedral, and visit ancient forts and towers. Of course, for fans of the HBO hit series, a Game of Thrones themed tour is a must.
Mljet comes cloaked in forest and is also home to two interconnecting salt lakes. Located in the Mljet National Park, these lakes are fascinating for any history lover as they date back over ten thousand years and were once freshwater lakes until the Christian era. The melody of the deep green forest meets vibrant blue waters, creating a natural paradise for rest and play. On the tiny islet of Veliko Jazero, you'll find the 12th-century Benedictine Monastery of St. Mary. Charter guests can dive, cycle, swim in clear waters against fragrant pine backdrops, and visit the cave of Odysseus, said to be the spot that kept him hostage for seven years after a storm ruined his boat.
The lesser-known but highly treasured island of Croatia should top any charter itinerary. This beautiful island is all lush forests of fragrant Aleppo pine, Cyprus, and ancient Oak, narrow cobbled streets, and vibrant summer festivals. The fortified medieval town is a must and is the rumored birthplace of Marco Polo. Outside the town's 13th-century walls, you will find a wine lovers' oasis with sprawling vineyards, open cellar doors, and glorious cycling routes. Korcula is no stranger to the best beaches, with Pržina, Bilin Žal, and Proizd, some of the best in the area to explore by boat. Sword dances, honey tasting, and the small-town wineries welcome you to taste authentic Croatia.
Sun-soaked Hvar gleams like gold. As one of the brightest spots in Europe, this Croatian town is known for being a high-class beach destination. Those famous topaz skies shine above the sapphire sea, and the landscape boasts an idyllic mix of lavender and olive groves, rolling hills, red-roof towns, and sweet and shady pine forests. As one of the most enticing trading hubs - everyone from the Venetians to the Romans and the Greeks has left their mark on Hvar. Visit the Franciscan Monastery and see the famed Last Supper painting, sail the beautiful beaches of the Pakleni Islands, explore abandoned villages and walk the fortress walls, and be sure to sample some of the best Croatian wines available in the surrounding wineries.
Beautiful Brac is one of the largest of the central Dalmatian group of islands in the Adriatic Sea and continues to be one of the most popular yacht charter spots. Brac has a wealth of culture and history, but it is perhaps most famous for being home to one of the most jaw-dropping beaches in the Med—Zlatni rat in Bol. Aside from swimming, sailing, and sunbathing on these blissful shores, Brac is known for its stone villages, stonemasonry school, and olive oil museum. Foodies will fall hard for Brac with its tender lamb dishes, sharp goat cheese, rich risottos, and excellent wines.
Croatia’s cool and buzzing city of Split is a unique delight. With a lively energy and a wealth of ancient and modern treasures heaped between the low-slung mountains and the jeweled blue sea, Split will split your heart right open. Charter guests should be sure to visit the UNESCO heritage wonder of Diocletian’s Palace which has been wooing visitors for over 1700 years. With its roman square, fun bazaar, and romantic passageways scattered with intimate eateries and wine bars, this is Croatia at its atmospheric best. While the old town and surrounding city are studded with temples, churches, and ruins, Split also offers sublime access to its turquoise beaches, especially at Bacvice and the peaceful cove of Kasjuni.