Firmly into the second half of the year, now is the ideal time to begin planning your next yacht charter. Destination can often be the first consideration, but timing is just as crucial. The best yachting experiences are when the season and weather align perfectly.
To help you make the most of the year ahead, Abigail Davies and Alice Newnham, Charter Consultants at IYC London, share their curated month-by-month guide to the world's best yacht charter destinations for 2026. Whether that's the best time to visit an iconic Mediterranean destination or venturing further afield to escape the usual yachting routes, their recommended spots are backed by experience and an understanding of what truly makes a charter exceptional.
"Recently we have seen a huge uptick in yachting evolving beyond the traditional Mediterranean summer and Caribbean winter seasons," explains Newnham. "There are so many extraordinary destinations around the world to explore, that many clients haven't even considered cruising," Newnham adds.
With its recently expanded office in the heart of Mayfair, global yachting company IYC has grown its London office and now offers a full-service approach to yacht charter, sales and management, all under one roof.

The growing presence in the UK market positions the team as a go-to resource for those looking for expert guidance and a personalised service. "Our role is to take the guesswork out of it," says Davies. "We offer in-depth destination insight, then help you find the perfect yacht and identify the best time to go. We make sure every single detail of the experience is considered resulting in a perfect charter," Davies adds.
Here, the IYC London team share their expert guide to where and when to go yachting around the world in 2026:
January: St Barths & St Martin
January marks the peak of the Caribbean's high season, and there are plenty of islands to explore during this time of year. St Barths is one not to miss; this glamorous, European-infused island effortlessly balances high-energy glamour with laid-back Caribbean luxury. The island is renowned for attracting yachts to welcome in the New Year, with its impressive firework displays over Gustavia harbour and high-energy yacht parties. A popular time for St. Barth's, and rightly so; it's essential to book your charter early to secure a prime position. After the festivities, the island offers a wealth of natural beauty and pristine beaches full of chic beach clubs. Onwards to St Martin, you can enjoy French fine dining cuisine, Dutch nightlife, combined with relaxed Caribbean charm and idyllic beaches. Including these two islands on an itinerary is an excellent way to start the year in style.

February: The Maldives
An equatorial location boasting warm year-round temperatures, the Maldives is an excellent yachting destination for those wanting to experience a tropical escape far from the crowds. With over 1,190 islands to choose from, you can spend days anchored in front of isolated sandbars and enjoy world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. Thanks to the coral reefs surrounding the islands, surfers can also enjoy catching a wave or two. The weather is mild and dry from December through April. In March, you may also be lucky to witness the blue whales migrating through the islands.
March: The Bahamas
The Bahamas has over 700 islands and thousands of coral cays to cruise. Known for island-hopping adventures, these islands are a paradise of white sandy beaches, calm trade winds, and clear, shallow waters. Visit the unique swimming pigs, dive the blue holes, and get ashore for a range of luxury experiences in Nassau. With direct flights available from the UK to Nassau, planning a charter in the Bahamas has never been easier and is a great option for Easter break.

April: French Polynesia
For those looking for the ultimate in South Pacific escapes, French Polynesia delivers. April offers calm seas and a quieter experience compared to its peak season. Enjoy an itinerary spanning over 118 islands and atolls, from Tahiti to Bora Bora, where you can experience reliable trade winds, natural beauty, and culture at your own pace. The gin-clear lagoons present endless watersport options, while ashore, discover vanilla, pearls, sacred temples and jungle-clad activities.
May: Greece
Hailed as the number one charter destination, Greece should be on everyone's must-visit list. As a Mediterranean location, visiting before the height of summer is recommended. The shoulder season of May offers a sweet spot in terms of weather, winds, and crowds. Island hop around the Cycladic Islands, being sure to include the lesser-visited spots in your itinerary, such as Sifnos and Milos, as well as the iconic Mykonos and Santorini.
June: Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is an iconic yachting destination, and June provides an excellent opportunity to visit before the masses descend here. This part of southern Italy boasts long, balmy days that aren't as hot as summer and beautiful spring blooms. The weather is ideal for wandering the cobblestones of the historic fishing villages and hiking trails, such as the infamous' Path of the Gods,' dotted along the coastline. Waking up from winter, the beach clubs are open again in Sorrento, and the sought-after anchorages of Capri aren't yet too busy. Perfect for any culinary adventure, the Amalfi Coast serves up some of the best dishes, from famous Neapolitan pizza to spaghetti alle vongole. Today, the area also has one of Italy's highest concentrations of Michelin stars.

July: Norway
While July is typically the go-to month for popular Mediterranean summer destinations, Norway is gaining popularity on the yacht charter scene, and for good reason. The region boasts dramatic mountain and glacier-carved landscapes and Arctic coastlines. Here, the long summer days under the 'midnight sun' welcome plenty of time to explore and witness the stunning scenery. Cruising the calm fjords and the remote Lofoten Islands provides an authentic off-the-beaten-track adventure, and opportunities for nature immersion are vast. Most begin itineraries from the gateway to the fjords, Bergen, up to the Lofoten Islands, and some continue north to reach the polar regions of Svalbard.
August: Croatia
As the Eastern Mediterranean lures more and more yachts to its coastlines, Croatia is one of the standout yachting destinations. With so many islands dotted along the Dalmatian coastlines, there are endless bays and anchorages to enjoy a summer here. Cruising between the many UNESCO World Heritage sites, hiking in the national parks, and wandering through charming villages, Croatia does not disappoint. Each island has its own personality, from the partying island of Hvar to the more isolated and wild Kornati archipelago.
September: New England
Across the pond, the East Coast of the US provides excellent charter destinations, with New England at the top of that list. September marks the beginning of autumn here, bringing cooler temperatures and beautiful colours with the turn of the season. Hotspots like Newport, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and Cape Cod become quieter at this time of year. Indulge in iconic lobster rolls, visit charming towns, cycle and hike ashore or enjoy the changing landscapes and relaxation from the deck, being sure to keep your eyes peeled for whale watching that runs through to October.
October: Thailand
Southeast Asia is also ticking the boxes, with more yachts chartering in lesser-visited regions, such as Thailand. Cruise the west coast in October and soak up the rays in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi. From buzzing nightlife to secluded beaches and bays, the scenery and activities are complemented by the warm hospitality of Thailand - also known as the 'Land of Smiles.

November: Indonesia
A more off-the-beaten-path, but increasingly popular destination for a yacht charter is Indonesia. Full of adventure, culture and a vibrant underwater world, chartering in Indonesia in November is the ideal time to cruise the spectacular islands of Raja Ampat. A diver's paradise, the islands are full of unique corals and plentiful tropical marine life. In October, the manta rays come out to play in full force at cleaning stations.
December: BVI's
A winter yachting playground, the British Virgin Islands are incredible for festive yacht charters, with over 60 islands and cays to explore. Imagine a Christmas morning in a blissful anchorage, with views of a pearly-white sand beach and the chance to indulge in festive feasts of fresh fish and tropical Caribbean cocktails. The BVI's island-to-island proximity is ideal for yachting, boasting excellent diving spots, iconic watering holes, and hiking trails ashore.
Contact the IYC London team today to further explore opportunities around the world for your next yacht charter. For more information visit iyc.com/office/london