category: guide

Remote destinations that can only be reached by sea

Remote destinations that can only be reached by sea are some of the most unique. There's something appealing about arriving at your destination the "old-fashioned way" - stepping onto a dock, jetty, or stepping off a boat, knowing you've traveled to such a distant destination. Idyllic hidden places are becoming more and more popular, offering the chance to get off the beaten track and go where few people have gone before. It's the perfect way to get closer to nature, spend quality time with your loved ones and enjoy the increasingly rare feeling of true isolation away from the stresses of everyday life.

Whether your trip includes hidden beaches and lush tropical coastlines, adventures with polar bears or penguins, uninhabited atolls in the middle of a vast ocean, world-class diving or jungle coastlines teeming with wildlife, we can take you there. Although the destinations may be remote, a private yacht combines the tranquility of natural beauty with luxury on board. Offering exotic spas, fully equipped gyms, elegant interiors with gourmet cuisine and water toys for the more adventurous who long for outdoor exploration. The world’s best vessels are equipped with the latest comfort technology designed for long-distance cruises in the most remote areas of the world.

If you’re considering cruising to remote locations, we’ll highlight those off the beaten track below.

ES VEDRÀ, IBIZA

Legend has it that Es Verde is the gateway to the Lost City of Atlantis and the third most magnetic place on Earth. The island of Es Verde is located off the eastern coast of Spain, about 3 km from Ibiza. Accessible only by yacht, this popular travel destination is quiet and secluded, with a minimal human footprint. For this reason, there is an abundance of wildlife and rare plant species on the island. Es Vedra is the source of many myths and legends about the island. People claim to have seen UFOs, others have heard sirens calling from the shore, and spiritualists claim the place has healing powers. Nevertheless, the beauty of Es Vedra at sunset is unlike anything you will ever see. See it from the extraordinary beaches or the abandoned pirate observation tower, Torre de Savinar.

PALAGRUZA, CROATIA

Croatia’s islands can get quite crowded, but you can also find some seclusion around 60km offshore to Palagruž. This remote and ruggedly beautiful island, perched 100m above the waves of the central Adriatic Sea, is uninhabited except for visits from lighthouse keepers and the occasional handful of summer tourists. Several anchorages provide shelter depending on wind and sea conditions, and small beaches and rocky coves are open for exploring. Hiking trails wind steeply from the beaches to the lighthouse and along the spine of the island, which is especially beautiful in early summer when the bushes are green and the flowers are in full bloom.

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR

The Galapagos are an isolated group of volcanic islands located over 600 nautical miles off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. The biodiversity is extraordinary, with wildlife and landscapes found nowhere else on earth. It is certain that the Galapagos Archipelago is best explored on board a yacht to fully experience this extraordinary and unique region. Consisting of a group of 19 islands, 13 large and six small, and dozens of islets and rocks covering an area of over 17,000 square miles, the Galapagos Islands truly represent the last frontier in natural wonders. Biologist and naturalist Sir Charles Darwin first introduced the world to the Galapagos Islands in 1859 through his book On the Origin of Species and presentations of his theory of evolution, which he gleaned from five weeks of studying the flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands. Since then, the Galapagos have intrigued scientists from many fields, as well as intrepid travelers mesmerized by the countless natural wonders that can only be found there. The human footprint is still very limited here, with iguanas, giant tortoises and birds, seals, sharks and other marine life taking center stage. For divers, the Galapagos Islands are a real revelation. Their location, at the confluence of three major ocean currents, and the mixing of these nutrient-rich waters have created a habitat where tuna, manta rays and hammerhead sharks, among others, can be seen, and 20% of all species live only here.

AMAZON, BRAZIL

The Amazon rainforest is located in 9 different countries and houses the largest and most diverse list of plants and animals in the world. It is home to over a third of all recorded animal species in the world, including 20% of all bird species. The Amazon is home to hundreds of communities, each offering a fascinating insight into how to live in harmony with the river and the rainforest. Visit the village with an experienced guide to learn about the culture and way of life of the inhabitants of the Amazon river banks, called ribereños. Discover the calm waters, observing exotic wildlife, immerse yourself in the most natural freshwater pools in the world.

HIDDEN BEACH, MEXICO

Hidden Beach, also known as Playa del Amor, is located approximately 40 km west of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, at the mouth of the Bay of Banderas. Hidden Beach is part of the Marieta Islands, which was formed by the eruption of underwater volcanoes. The beach is invisible from the outside and can only be accessed through a long tunnel connecting the beach with the Pacific Ocean. Rumor has it that the unique hole was created by deliberate bombings by the Mexican government in the early 20th century. The beach became a national park in the 1960s and only allows swimming or kayaking, sunbathing and other forms of recreation. Apart from the beach, this place is also home to rich flora, fauna and marine life. From December to March, you can potentially see everything from dolphins to eels and turtles, as well as humpback whales.

RAJA AMPAT

Indonesia’s beautiful Raja Ampat island chain is another hidden gem for paradise seekers looking for a remote yachting destination. Comprising over 1,500 jungle-covered islands, Raja Ampat is the perfect island hopping destination for those looking for a sunny sailing adventure in one of the most beautiful and remote locations in the world. The islands are best known for their sublime scenery both above and below the waves. Raja Ampat’s remoteness means the underwater marine life has been dubbed a “biological hotspot” by scientists and as such is an internationally recognized diving destination, boasting an incredibly diverse range of marine species. The kaleidoscope of colors you will see while diving, swimming among dolphins and manta rays, is completely unique. The seascape over the water is also amazing. Steep slopes of the rainforest rise from white sand beaches, and oddly shaped islands dot the turquoise sea. It’s a paradise for rare marine mammals, from dugongs to blue whales. The jungles on land are famous for their birds of paradise, and the cliffs of Misool are home to Stone Age rock paintings. In terms of remoteness, you may not see another boat herefor several days or even the entire cruise, especially if you don’t get to the main diving sites.

TONGA

The Vava’u Islands are the northernmost and most picturesque islands of the Tonga group. Here you will find remote idyllic islands, beautiful lagoons, colorful reefs and small deserted white sand beaches, often surrounded by gently rustling palm trees. Vava’u’s cruise areas stretch from the port of Neiafu to island-dotted waters with over 50 protected anchorages. The reef to the east forms a protective spine that shields these waters from ocean winds and waves. The water is warm and clear, and the visibility underwater is exceptional. Diving enthusiasts can dive reefs, caves and wrecks at many exciting dive sites.

FIJI

Part of what makes Fiji unique is its many island groups, each with its own culture, identity and attractions, and a yacht charter is the best way to experience them. Over 300 islands create a mecca for sailing and yachting, intended for cruises and sightseeing. Just over 100 of them are uninhabited. Be amazed by beautiful white sandy beaches and coconut trees, pristine corals and an abundance of underwater tropical fish. On land, you will be privileged with an introduction to traditional village life. The Yasawa Islands offer charter guests the opportunity to visit Fijian villages and experience traditional lifestyles through cultural performances, welcome ceremonies, handicraft demonstrations, tasting of local delicacies such as kava, and even a feast of “lovo” – smoked meats and seafood grilled on the land. Captivating and peaceful, the untouched Lau Islands group in Fiji’s far east offers a glimpse into pre-European settlement, where locals preserve their ancient customs and ceremonies. A visit to the Lau Islands requires special permission, but provides a unique insight into customs and culture, in a relatively unobstructed way. Ovalau Island and Fiji’s first capital, Levuka, will give you a taste of life in colonial times, while on the neighboringOn the islands of Gau, Batiki and Nairai there are many villages that still preserve their traditional lifestyle.
Taveuni, famous for its wonderful diving spots, such as the Eel Reef and the Great White Wall, an amazing place covered with soft, white coral. The marine park was established in Waitabu in 1990 and today is a magnet for divers wanting to experience the underwater wonders of this paradise for tropical marine fauna. With its abundance of native plants and wildlife, Taveuni is known as Fiji’s Garden Island. You can go on a mountain hike through lush rainforests full of birds and numerous waterfalls. Hikers can head to the Bouma National Heritage Park with trails and world-class bird observatories. Kadavu Island boasts a combination of volcanic peaks and magnificent rainforests.

HORIZONTAL FALLS, AUSTRALIA

One of the world’s greatest natural wonders is located on the coast of the Kimberley region in Western Australia. Horizontal Falls has an unusual phenomenon in which some of the largest tidal movements travel through a gap in the ridges of the McLarty Range and create what appears to be a horizontal waterfall. There are two horizontal waterfalls and both can be found in Talbot Bay in Buccaneer. Moreover, the waterfalls are reversible. Each day when the tide turns, the waterfalls flow in a different direction. The unique waterfalls can only be viewed from a boat or from a bird’s eye view.

NEW CALEDONIA

New Caledonia is a sophisticated travel destination. The tropical French Riviera in the middle of the South Pacific. With more sheltered water than any other island in the Pacific and a vast coral reef system, it is a magical yacht charter location and the perfect place to relax. Remarkable natural beauty meets relaxed European elegance in a warm, sunny climate. Most charters depart from Nouméa, located on the southwest coast of the main island of Grande Terre. Nouméa is the provincial capital and a cosmopolitan city with a colorful waterfront full of bars, cafes, restaurants and nightclubs. This Pacific island nation boasts spectacular coastline and incredible stretches of white sandy beaches, as well as one of the richest tropical forests in the world. New Caledonia also offers some of the best culinary experiences outside of France. Culturally, New Caledonia is also a unique mix of indigenous Melanesian, Kanak and French people. The strong Melanesian tradition in architecture and arts and crafts is combined with distinct French influences and European style and elegance. New Caledonia consists of two distinct cruise areas:

The Southern Province, which includes the world’s largest lagoon and the second largest coral reef. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is home to an archipelago of beautiful islands and over 900 species of coral, some of which are unique to New Caledonia. This is a favorite spot for observing humpback whales, which migrate here from July to September. It is also home to the spectacular Isle of Pines – this postcard-perfect island, with stunning reefs, white sand beaches and the clearest of turquoise waters, is considered the jewel of New Caledonia.

The Loyalty Islands, located approximately 100 km off the eastern coast of Grand Terre, include the three main islands of Lifou, Maré and Ouvéa, as well as several smaller islands and islets. These pristine, palm-fringed islands are sparsely populated and characterized by pristine, secluded beaches, hidden caves, deeply carved cliffs and lush, impenetrable bush. There is wild beauty and a hospitable people who add Polynesian and English influences to the mix.

VANUATU

This paradise is perfect for travelers looking for sun-drenched solitude and a remote place away from the crowds. Vanuatu is a collection of over 80 islands in the Pacific Ocean, which forms the most diverse and picturesque island chain in the Pacific. Full of beautiful beaches with palm trees, smoldering volcanoes and exotic rainforests surrounded by intensely blue water. Each island is different – culturally, anthropologically, landscape and biologically. The people of Vanuatu, with their gentle smiles and warm welcome, will be the highlight of your trip.

BORNEO, MALAYSIA

Another undiscovered cruise area in Southeast Asia is the Malaysian coast of Borneo. Here you’ll find colossal caves and sharp limestone peaks, beaches devoid of tourists, and islands like Sipadan and Mabul with coral reefs where you can dive. More than 60 percent of the Sarawak province is covered by rainforests, which are estimated to be approximately 140 million years old. While hiking in the jungle in Sarawak province, you can meet wild orangutans. To the north, Sabah, at the foot of 4,000-meter-high Mount Kinabalu, is home to gibbons, sun bears and hornbills, making it the third-highest island on earth.

TAHA’A ISLAND, FRENCH POLYNESIA

Taha’a Island is located among the western Leeward Islands of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. Accessible only by boat, this picturesque destination boasts luminous white-sand beaches and mountain landscapes rising above tranquil lagoons. Thanks to numerous vanilla plantations, the aroma of the island is a mixture of fresh sea breeze and the sweet scent of vanilla. Life moves at a leisurely pace here – it is the perfect place to relax. Taha’a is best known for its islets surrounded by fine white sand and topped with clumps of coconut palms that dot the lagoon’s coral reef. They provide ideal anchorages with remote beaches, great snorkeling around the corals and stunning views of Bora Bora in the background.

COCOS ISLANDS, INDIAN OCEAN

Tiny Cocos Keeling, is a pair of coral atolls in the middle of the tropical Indian Ocean. The climate is ideal for nine months a year, with warm and cool winds, thanks to the soothing influence of the south-eastern trade winds. There are 27 islands, located in calm lagoons, surrounded by white sand and coral beachesit and covered with groves of coconut palms and lush vegetation. Only two are inhabited, leaving 25 pristine islands to discover. At North Keeling, isolated from the rest of the archipelago, the yacht can anchor offshore and visitors can swim the last 50m with a local guide to discover a completely unspoilt national park.

NORWAY

Norway offers captivating landscapes. It is a place like no other, situated in the heart of nature, with dramatic coastlines, steep mountains, deep fjords, roaring waterfalls and small islands. Chartering a luxury yacht is the perfect way to experience this coastal country in all its glory. Norway has a huge coastline offering an incredible variety of impressive cruising areas. It is a country of outstanding natural beauty and it is no wonder that the fjords are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is the land of the midnight sun and even in lower latitudes, summer offers many hours of sunshine. One popular route takes in the calm waters of the lower western fjords between Stavanger and Bergen. Both of these cities are charming, combining old world history with modern shopping and nightlife. There are the breathtakingly inspiring fjords Lysefjorden, Jøsenfjorden and Erfjorden. Although the landscapes may seem wild and untamed, exploring the fjords is a real pleasure. There are many small villages in the area and plenty of mountain hiking trails. Further north, far above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are a unique wilderness region known for its majestic mountains. Fishing is still a vital part of the economy, and there are picturesque little fishing villages all over the country. It is also one of the northernmost surfing spots in the world. In addition to its deep, tranquil fjords, the Lofoten Islands also have long, wave-strewn beaches heated by the Gulf Stream, making the area’s climate much milder than many other places at the same latitude. The stunning beauty has been an inexhaustible source of inspiration for photographers and artists for generations.

SVALBARD ARCHIPELAGO

One of the last great wildernesses in Europe, the Svalbard archipelago offers untrammeled nature, providing unforgettable attractions. This breathtaking region is a land of impressive snow-capped peaks, gigantic glaciers, narrow fjords and rich and rare wildlife. Here, you’ll discover a landscape of soaring, ice-covered mountains, get up close to awe-inspiring glaciers in magnificent fjords, encounter colossal icebergs, and trek through vast stretches of tundra. From mid-May to the end of August, the sun never sets and the air temperature is surprisingly mild. Wildlife includes polar bears, walruses and narwhals, a wide range of whales and a huge number of birds. Svalbard is the true Arctic north, postcard perfect. In summer, the midnight sun brings with it an ethereal magic. The land experiences a warm renewal, and the ice-covered fjords resound with the deafening roar of glacial ice crashing into the sea. Nature takes advantage of this short but intense summer – wildflowers bloom and wildlife, including polar bears, seals, walruses and whales, are active. Svalbard is also home to Arctic foxes, reindeer and large numbers of seabirds. There’s a good chance you’ll see it all on board your luxury charter yacht. Here, polar bears easily outnumber residents.

SPITSBERGEN

Spitsbergen is the largest and only inhabited island in the archipelago. Hornsund, described as the most beautiful of Spitsbergen’s fjords, is 25 km deep and is characterized by high mountain peaks above glacial plains. As you sail into Raudfjorden, translucent, blue-tinted icebergs glisten against the backdrop of a variety of colorful cliffs. The coastline here is home to thriving seabird colonies and unexpectedly rich vegetation that thrives in protected areas. Depending on ice conditions, you may have the chance to sail through the Hinlopen Strait covered with drifting ice floes. Danskøys is home to the Seven Icebergs, which are actually seven magnificent glaciers, while Liefdefjorden is home to the massive and majestic Monaco Glacier – a huge wall of ice that groans and cracks as it gently slides into the sea.

GREENLAND

Greenland combines stunning views, bright and clear light and raw natural beauty. It is the world’s largest non-continental island and an unforgettable place for a yacht charter. It is a country of contrasts, even though 80% of its surface is covered by a vast expanse of ice. Green meadows meet rocky peaks, and rich and diverse nature surrounds postcard-perfect villages with nicely painted, colorful wooden houses. A yacht charter in Greenland can be as exciting and refreshing as you want it to be. Enjoy freshpolar air from the deck as you cruise through a monumental display of majestic icebergs. Kayak past huge walls of aquamarine ice. Dive in shipwrecks and discover an amazing other world beneath the floating icebergs. Spot whales, narwhals, walruses and polar bears as you explore the impressive fjord coastlines. Travel effortlessly and quietly through icy blue, frozen fjords on a dog sledding tour, or strap on your skis and head into thrilling gullies with steep descents, ending back in the turquoise sea. Greenland is not only about adventure; it’s also about peace and quiet. This is the perfect place if you want to take a break from your busy life. The incredible silence gives you the opportunity to rest and relax.
Kangerlussuaq is the gateway to Greenland. The surrounding moors, salt lakes and mountain tundra are home to a variety of animal species such as caribou, musk oxen and arctic foxes. Disko Bay in the north is a coastline filled with glaciers and ice fields with impressive mountains and a rugged, wild landscape. It is once again home to a variety of wildlife, including humpback whales, seals and walruses. Ilulissat was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004. The 110-meter-thick glacier here feeds the bay with gigantic icebergs every day. Watching and listening to this is truly a place to behold mother nature at her most powerful. The charming and attractive town of Aasiaat is a mosaic of colorful houses dotted around the area. It offers a rare insight into the Inuit people of Greenland, where traditional values and culture provide a counterpoint to the modern conveniences found here. Kangaamiut is a charming village located at the mouth of Eternity Fjord, dominated by one of Greenland’s most impressive fjords and rich in fishing waters.

ANTARCTICA

As the southernmost continent, stepping onto Antarctica’s glaciers puts you literally at the bottom of the world. No people live here permanently, and the only real inhabitants you can meet are the amazing wildlife. Antarctica is a stunning wilderness. Once a mysterious land known only to a few intrepid explorers. With a growing number of expedition charter yachts heading to this vast, magnificent white continent, you now have the opportunity to share this incredible experience, under the care of your own professional crew. Many consider Antarctica to be the final frontier and the pinnacle of off-the-beaten-track travel adventures. It is the fifth largest, driest and most remote continent in the world with breathtakingly impressive scenery and extraordinary wildlife. The summer months in the southern hemisphere, from November to March, bring warmer weather and days of almost endless sunshine. Although this extreme summer is not as warm as usual, it brings the awakening of flora and fauna. The rocks are covered with yellow flowers and the waters are full of wildlife playing in the sun. These are some of the most amazing species found on Earth. Some, including huge whales, travel from far away, while others, such as playful Weddell seals and stately emperor penguins, usually stay within a few miles of their birthplace. Millions of seabirds call the Southern Ocean home, and the skies are full of circling albatrosses and petrels. It is untouched wild nature and is not afraid of people.
On board the yacht, you’ll sail past blue-tinted icebergs and magnificent glaciers that creak and groan. Rocky mountains loom on the horizon, and deep fjords provide peaceful, stunningly beautiful anchorages. You have the chance to be one of the few to follow in the footsteps of famous explorers such as Cook, Amundsen and Scott. You have the opportunity to anchor in places such as Port Lockroy, where you can visit Base A, now a museum and the only post office in Antarctica. It is also home to Palmer Station, a modern American research facility. This is not a routine yacht charter. To sail across such a distant south, you need a unique ship with an experienced captain and crew. It can be a brutal and harsh environment of the icy wilderness. However, you can enjoy luxury and comfort aboard your private charter yacht while exploring the last untouched place on Earth at your leisure.

DECEPTION ISLAND

One of the few places in the world where you can swim directly into the crater of an active volcano! This fascinating island is the remnant of a volcanic eruption (called a caldera) in the 1970s. Marvel at the sulfurous steam rising from the beach as you sink your feet into the black sand and feel the heat rising from underground volcanic vents. Swim in the thermally heated waters of Pendulum Cove, but be prepared to feel the eyes of thousands of penguins as they perch on the surrounding hills. Deception Island really not to be missed.

PARADISE BAY

It is one of the most beautiful and pristine places in Antarctica. Here, mountains and glaciers are reflected in the calm water and it is the perfect place to enjoy peace and quiet. It’s also surrounded by mountains, so it’s worth kayaking and wildlife spotting.

LEMAIRE CANAL

This 11-kilometer canal is one of the greatest attractions here, so keep your camera ready as you pass through and look out for whales, especially humpback whales and killer whales.

ROSS SEA

A huge bay where the Southern Ocean cuts deep into the Antarctic continent, 3,000 km south of New Zealand. The Ross Sea is the closest to the South Pole where an ice-class yacht can sail. Here in McMurdo Sound, near the active volcano Mount Erebus, lies the southernmost seaport on Earth. It was here that Shackleton, Amundsen and Scott began their polar expeditions, on the western edge of the Ross Sea Ice Shelf, a sheer cliff of ice 570 miles long and 100 feet high. The nutrient-rich waters of the Ross Sea attract a variety of wildlife, from Adelie penguins to Antarctic fin whales dwarf. It is the world’s largest marine protected area and the last fully pristine marine ecosystem on earth. By helicopter you can explore impressive mountain peaks and deep crevasses in ice shelves, historic sites and dry valleys that look like the surface of Mars.

ALASCA

Alasca is an experience unlike any other. Whether it’s cruising past narrow fjords and giant glaciers, hiking through dense rainforests, or watching humpback whales foraging while having a drink on deck, a yacht charter in Alaska is an experience worth having. It’s best to explore Alaska from October to February, when daylight is short, to increase your chances of experiencing the Northern Lights.

GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK

Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its pristine and remote environment. It is not uncommon to see brown bears, humpback whales and sea lions here.

CHICHAGOFA ISLAND

Explore submerged waterfalls, natural fjords, glaciers and spectacular scenery on a cruise to Chichagof Island. Here you will be able to observe killer whales from the deck of a yacht, and if you want to land with a guide, you can watch bears hunting salmon in their natural habitat.

FJORD TRACY ARM

It is home to Alaska’s largest combination of mountains, waterfalls, wildlife, glaciers and icebergs. Visit Sawyer Glacier, an active tidal glacier, where you can listen to the crackling and cracking of the ice as you wait for the glaciers to calve. Pieces of ice ranging in size from a car to a large cruise ship can fall off the glacier wall and hit the water with a bang. Here you will find the largest icebergs in Alaska!

Yacht is a great way to explore remote places and reach areas that are inaccessible to cruise ships and other travelers. In addition to providing exceptional service and delicious cuisine, the crew is often familiar with the natural wonders, culture and ancient civilizations you visit. Over the last few decades, yacht manufacturers have pushed the boundaries, creating vessels that can venture into the ogray, untouched and mysterious. Ice-class yachts can break through ice floes to surprise you with the Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle. Long-range expedition yachts can traverse large, open stretches of ocean to reach uninhabited islands and remote reefs just waiting to amaze you with their colors. Small-draft yachts can navigate steamy jungle rivers. Sailing yachts set off on ambitious cruises around the world. If you thought yachting holidays were limited to popular destinations like the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, think again. Follow in the footsteps of the intrepid Antarctic explorers of the early 20th century or, from the deck of your own yacht, follow the sun as it circles the horizon, never setting in summer in the northern Arctic. Explore the fascinating Galapagos and be mesmerized by the countless flora and fauna that can be found there.

If you’re looking for a yacht charter experience, look no further. Our team will design a unique itinerary and select a luxury yacht that is right for you and your guests. Discover distant destinations with us and enjoy unique experiences that are unattainable on land. From the narrow fjords of Alaska to the charming Amazon River – the world is your oyster.

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