​​A Guide to Chartering in The Rest of the World

Beyond familiar waters, a yacht charter opens the globe’s most diverse horizons—from Nordic fjords to tropical spice isles.

In Norway, endless summer light bathes the Lofoten Islands, where towering cliffs rise from still, glassy fjords. Iceland’s volcanic coastline steams with geothermal wonders, while Denmark’s island-dotted archipelago welcomes yachts into colorful harbors. Around the United Kingdom, from the Hebrides to Cornwall, secluded bays and historic ports carry centuries of maritime tradition.

Farther afield, the Indian Ocean reveals a different kind of paradise. In the Seychelles, giant granite boulders frame turquoise lagoons, while Madagascar’s anchorages brim with coral reefs and lemurs calling from the treetops. Zanzibar entices with Stone Town’s spice-scented alleys and waters alive with dolphins and reef fish. Fun fact: Finland boasts more islands than any country in the world—over 180,000—while Sweden’s Stockholm Archipelago alone spans 30,000.

From polar landscapes to equatorial shores, these waters invite discovery at its most rare and rewarding.

Where are the must-see destinations in the rest of the world?

Denmark

• Tourist hotspots: Copenhagen, Bornholm, Funen, Ærø Island
• Marinas and ports: Copenhagen Marina, Rungsted Harbour, Svendborg Harbour
• Popular beaches: Dueodde Beach (Bornholm), Marielyst Beach (Falster), Vesterø Beach (Læsø)
• Historic sites: Kronborg Castle, Nyhavn, Frederiksborg Castle

Denmark offers a charming mix of historic harbors, island‑hopping routes, and modern marina facilities, making it a hidden gem for luxury yacht charters in Northern Europe. Sail between the colorful waterfronts of Copenhagen and the artistic island of Bornholm, anchor in sheltered coves, or explore sandy beaches. Historic landmarks like Kronborg Castle and Frederiksborg Castle add cultural depth to your cruising itinerary.

England

• Tourist hotspots: Cornwall, Isle of Wight, Solent, South Coast Harbors
• Marinas and ports: Cowes Yacht Haven, Lymington Yacht Haven, Falmouth Marina
• Popular beaches: Fistral Beach (Cornwall), Sandown Beach (Isle of Wight), Bournemouth Beach
• Historic sites: Tower of London, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Tintagel Castle

England blends centuries of maritime heritage with world‑class sailing grounds. The Solent is a premier yacht racing hub, while Cornwall’s rugged coastlines offer dramatic anchorages and charming fishing villages. Historic harbors, golden beaches, and coastal landmarks like the Tower of London and Portsmouth Dockyard make England an engaging destination for cultural and sailing enthusiasts alike.

Finland

• Tourist hotspots: Helsinki, Turku Archipelago, Åland Islands
• Marinas and ports: Helsinki Marina, Nagu Marina, Mariehamn Marina
• Popular beaches: Hietaniemi Beach (Helsinki), Bellevue Beach (Hanko), Käringsund Beach (Åland Islands)
• Historic sites: Suomenlinna Fortress, Turku Castle, Old Rauma

Finland’s archipelago cruising is unrivaled, with over 180,000 islands to explore. Sail between the sun‑drenched skerries of the Turku Archipelago, visit the autonomous Åland Islands, or enjoy Helsinki’s vibrant waterfront. Historic fortresses, medieval towns, and serene anchorages make Finland a paradise for those seeking nature and culture in equal measure.

Iceland

• Tourist hotspots: Reykjavik, Westfjords, Akureyri, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Marinas and ports: Reykjavik Harbour, Isafjordur Harbour, Akureyri Marina
• Popular beaches: Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach, Rauðasandur Beach, Diamond Beach
• Historic sites: Thingvellir National Park, Skálholt Cathedral, Hofskirkja Turf Church

Iceland offers otherworldly yacht charter experiences with its volcanic coastlines, geothermal wonders, and dramatic fjords. Cruise the untouched Westfjords, explore black‑sand beaches and iceberg‑strewn shores, and anchor in small fishing harbors that open gateways to hot springs and glacier hikes.

Norway

• Tourist hotspots: Lofoten Islands, Bergen, Geirangerfjord, Oslofjord
• Marinas and ports: Bergen Marina, Tromsø Marina, Oslo Marina
• Popular beaches: Haukland Beach (Lofoten), Godalen Beach (Stavanger), Bystranda (Kristiansand)
• Historic sites: Bryggen Wharf (Bergen), Nidaros Cathedral (Trondheim), Akershus Fortress (Oslo)

Norway is a world‑class yacht charter destination famed for its deep fjords, towering mountains, and midnight sun sailing. From the dramatic Lofoten Islands to UNESCO‑listed Geirangerfjord, every anchorage feels like a natural masterpiece. Cultural ports like Bergen and Oslo balance wild nature with historic charm.

Sweden

• Tourist hotspots: Stockholm Archipelago, Gothenburg, Gotland, Marstrand
• Marinas and ports: Wasahamnen Marina (Stockholm), Långedrag Marina (Gothenburg), Visby Marina (Gotland)
• Popular beaches: Sudersand Beach (Fårö), Tofta Beach (Gotland), Smedsuddsbadet (Stockholm)
• Historic sites: Drottningholm Palace, Visby Old Town, Vasa Museum

Sweden offers over 30,000 islands in its Stockholm Archipelago alone, making it a sailor’s dream. Cruise between quaint fishing villages, chic summer resorts, and nature reserves. Gotland’s medieval heritage and Gothenburg’s vibrant harbor scene add variety to your voyage.

United Kingdom

• Tourist hotspots: Scottish Hebrides, Cornwall, Isle of Man, Channel Islands
• Marinas and ports: Largs Yacht Haven (Scotland), St. Peter Port Marina (Guernsey), Plymouth Yacht Haven
• Popular beaches: Porthcurno Beach (Cornwall), Luskentyre Beach (Harris), Vazon Bay (Guernsey)
• Historic sites: Edinburgh Castle, Tower of London, Stonehenge

The United Kingdom offers a rich tapestry of yacht charter routes, from the remote Scottish Hebrides to the sun‑kissed Channel Islands. Rugged coastlines, historic harbors, and iconic landmarks make it a rewarding destination for sailors seeking variety and cultural depth.

Madagascar

• Tourist hotspots: Nosy Be, Île Sainte‑Marie, Baie d’Antongil
• Marinas and ports: Hell‑Ville Marina (Nosy Be), Port Sainte‑Marie
• Popular beaches: Andilana Beach, Île aux Nattes, Lokobe Beach
• Historic sites: Île Sainte‑Marie Pirate Cemetery, Royal Hill of Ambohimanga (inland)

Madagascar offers unspoiled tropical cruising with a dash of adventure. Nosy Be is a hub for diving and whale watching, while Île Sainte‑Marie charms with historic pirate lore. Coral‑rich waters and unique wildlife make it a standout in the Indian Ocean.

Seychelles

• Tourist hotspots: Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, Aldabra Atoll
• Marinas and ports: Eden Island Marina (Mahé), Baie Sainte Anne Marina (Praslin)
• Popular beaches: Anse Lazio, Anse Source d’Argent, Beau Vallon Beach
• Historic sites: Victoria Clocktower, Mission Lodge, Vallée de Mai (UNESCO)

Seychelles is a luxury yacht charter paradise, with powder‑white beaches, granite boulders, and crystal‑clear waters. Anchor off La Digue to explore cycling trails, visit UNESCO‑listed Vallée de Mai on Praslin, or dive in the Aldabra Atoll’s pristine waters.

What are some cultural highlights, festivals, and events awaiting you?

In Scandinavia, winter ignites with Scotland’s fiery Up Helly Aa and Norway’s Tromsø International Film Festival, while spring welcomes the vibrant Walpurgis Night bonfires in Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. Summer brings long‑day festivities like Midsummer in the Nordics, England’s prestigious Royal Ascot, and the colorful Tall Ships Races in ports across Denmark, Norway, and the UK. In the tropics, the Seychelles Regatta and Madagascar’s lively Jazz Festival blend island culture with world‑class sailing. Autumn highlights include London’s Notting Hill Carnival and the Gothenburg Culture Festival, while December sparkles with Christmas markets across Europe and the Festival of Lights in Zanzibar. Experiencing these events from the comfort of your yacht adds a vibrant cultural layer to your voyage, making each stop as memorable as the destinations themselves.

What local dishes should you try?

A yacht charter across the rest of the world is also a passport to some of the planet’s most remarkable culinary experiences. In Denmark, savor open‑faced smørrebrød topped with fresh seafood or cured meats, paired with aquavit. England tempts with classics like beer‑battered fish and chips enjoyed at a seaside pub, or a hearty Cornish pasty. Finland offers delicate Baltic herring dishes, creamy salmon soup (lohikeitto), and fresh cinnamon buns from coastal cafés. Iceland serves up freshly caught Arctic char, succulent lamb stews, and indulgent skyr yogurt. Norway is famed for gravlax, king crab from the Barents Sea, and rich fish soups served in harborside taverns. In Sweden, enjoy Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce, pickled herring, and fresh prawns from the Gothenburg fish market. Across the United Kingdom, feast on Scottish smoked salmon, traditional Sunday roasts, or Orkney crab straight from the boat. In Madagascar, try romazava, a beef and greens stew, and fresh coconut crab from coastal markets. Seychelles delights with Creole fish curry, grilled red snapper, and octopus salad. In Tanzania, explore the flavors of Zanzibar with spice‑infused biryani, grilled lobster, and urojo—a tangy soup brimming with tropical spices. Sampling these dishes while anchored in scenic harbors or enjoying them freshly prepared aboard your yacht turns every stop into a culinary adventure, adding depth and flavor to your luxury cruising experience.

What’s next? 

From sailing beneath the midnight sun in Norway to drifting over coral gardens in the Seychelles, the Rest of the World yacht charter experience is defined by contrast and discovery. Whether you’re drawn to Scandinavia’s crisp summer horizons or the Indian Ocean’s year‑round tropical allure, our curated itineraries are designed to help you explore these diverse cruising grounds in unmatched style. 

Browse our hand‑picked selection of luxury yachts and start planning a voyage that takes you beyond the ordinary—where every destination offers a new chapter in your sailing story.