Taking a family yacht charter can turn a regular vacation into a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience. With a balance of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable sights, yacht charters are perfect for families of all ages. This article dives into 25 yacht charter destinations that are particularly suited for families, highlighting what makes each spot special and the best time of year to visit.
1. Bahamas
- Why it’s great: The Bahamas boasts 700 islands and cays, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Shallow waters and calm seas make it ideal for children, whether they’re building sandcastles on the famous pink sand beaches or snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs. You can also swim with pigs at Exuma, visit the marine parks, or explore pirate history in Nassau.
- Best time to visit: November to April.
2. British Virgin Islands (BVI)
- Why it’s great: The BVI is a classic sailing destination for families due to its easy navigation and short distances between islands. Anchor in protected bays and swim in crystal-clear waters. Must-do activities include exploring the famous boulders at The Baths on Virgin Gorda, visiting the pirate-themed restaurant The Willy T, and snorkeling in Norman Island’s Treasure Caves. Kids love the mix of adventure and play.
- Best time to visit: December to April.
3. Greek Islands
- Why it’s great: The Greek Islands offer a blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a family-friendly destination with something for everyone. Parents and kids alike will enjoy island-hopping, visiting ancient ruins like the Temple of Poseidon on Sounion, and swimming in secluded bays like those found in the Cyclades. Families can also enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at local tavernas after a day of beach hopping.
- Best time to visit: May to October.
4. Croatia
- Why it’s great: Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is ideal for families looking to combine history with water activities. The city of Dubrovnik is known for its medieval walls (kids can imagine being in a castle!), while the nearby islands offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. Families will also enjoy Mljet National Park and its tranquil saltwater lakes, perfect for kayaking.
- Best time to visit: May to September.
5. French Riviera
- Why it’s great: While the French Riviera is often seen as a glamorous adult playground, it also caters wonderfully to families. Kid-friendly beaches like Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offer calm waters for swimming, while the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco will fascinate young minds. Sailing between picturesque towns like Cannes and Antibes ensures there’s always something new to discover.
- Best time to visit: June to September.
6. Balearic Islands (Spain)
- Why it’s great: The Balearic Islands—Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza—offer diverse landscapes that cater to a range of family activities. Mallorca’s Palma Aquarium and water parks are big hits with kids, while Menorca’s quieter vibe makes it perfect for families looking for peaceful beaches. Despite its reputation for nightlife, Ibiza has a more family-friendly side with secluded coves and nature trails.
- Best time to visit: May to October.
7. Seychelles
- Why it’s great: Seychelles offers warm, clear waters ideal for snorkeling, shallow bays for swimming, and plenty of wildlife to discover. Families can visit Aldabra Atoll, home to the giant Aldabra tortoises, or explore Anse Source d’Argent, one of the most photographed beaches in the world. The calm, warm waters are perfect for families with younger children.
- Best time to visit: April to May or October to November.
8. Tahiti
- Why it’s great: French Polynesia’s islands, including Tahiti, are an exotic paradise where families can enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and exploring lagoons teeming with marine life. Kids will love the vibrant coral reefs, while parents can relax on picture-perfect beaches. Many charter boats offer paddleboards, kayaks, and even diving gear, ensuring endless fun on the water.
- Best time to visit: May to October.
9. Florida Keys
- Why it’s great: A family-friendly destination with warm weather year-round, the Florida Keys offer easy sailing and plenty of activities for all ages. Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling, kayak through mangroves, or take the kids to Dolphin Research Center in Marathon to meet dolphins. For a low-key day, families can enjoy exploring Key West’s charming streets and local attractions.
- Best time to visit: December to April.
10. Turks and Caicos
- Why it’s great: With its incredibly clear waters, Turks and Caicos is a haven for family fun. Grace Bay Beach offers shallow, calm waters that are great for younger children, and older kids can enjoy activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kite surfing. The islands also have an array of luxury resorts with kid-friendly amenities, making it a stress-free family escape.
- Best time to visit: November to April.
11. Amalfi Coast (Italy)
- Why it’s great: Families who love culture, food, and spectacular landscapes will find the Amalfi Coast an ideal destination. Explore the dramatic cliffs and quaint villages like Positano and Ravello, while tasting authentic Italian gelato at every stop. The town of Pompeii is a fantastic educational stop, allowing kids to step back in time and see ancient Roman life frozen in time.
- Best time to visit: May to September.
12. Maldives
- Why it’s great: The Maldives offer a private, tranquil paradise perfect for families who want to relax and reconnect. With crystal-clear lagoons, white sandy beaches, and some of the best coral reefs in the world, kids can swim and snorkel with an array of marine life. Resorts often cater to families with water sports equipment, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services.
- Best time to visit: November to April.
13. Whitsunday Islands (Australia)
- Why it’s great: Situated at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday Islands provide families with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore vibrant marine life and secluded beaches. Whitehaven Beach, famous for its pure silica sand, is a favorite for kids. Families can also visit Hamilton Island, where a wildlife park lets children meet koalas and kangaroos.
- Best time to visit: May to October.
14. New Zealand (Bay of Islands)
- Why it’s great: The Bay of Islands offers a peaceful retreat with calm waters perfect for family sailing. The area is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot dolphins and whales. Families can anchor near secluded beaches, hike through native forests, or visit historic sites like Russell, New Zealand’s first capital. The laid-back vibe makes it a perfect destination for kids to enjoy nature and adventure.
- Best time to visit: December to February.
15. St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Why it’s great: With more than 30 islands and cays, St. Vincent and the Grenadines offer endless exploration opportunities. The islands are home to stunning marine life, which makes for great snorkeling and diving for the whole family. Must-see spots include Bequia, known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, and the Tobago Cays, where sea turtles swim freely.
- Best time to visit: November to April.
16. Sardinia (Italy)
- Why it’s great: Sardinia is known for its crystal-clear waters and family-friendly resorts, making it a perfect destination for a yacht charter with children. Families can explore white sandy beaches like La Pelosa or visit the ancient ruins of Nora. Sailing around the island offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and discovering hidden coves.
- Best time to visit: June to September.
17. San Juan Islands (USA)
- Why it’s great: Located in the Pacific Northwest, the San Juan Islands offer a different kind of yacht charter experience, where wildlife watching and exploring the natural environment take center stage. Families can spot orcas, sea lions, and eagles, or explore tide pools along the rocky shores. The islands offer quiet anchorages and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
- Best time to visit: June to September.
18. Montenegro
- Why it’s great: Montenegro’s stunning Adriatic coastline is perfect for families looking for a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. The calm waters and hidden bays offer excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The fortified town of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where kids can explore ancient alleyways and climb the walls for incredible views.
- Best time to visit: May to September.
19. Great Lakes (USA/Canada)
- Why it’s great: A charter in the Great Lakes offers a unique experience, with a mix of big city excitement and peaceful natural surroundings. Kids will love exploring islands like Mackinac Island with its historical fort, or visiting the various maritime museums and lighthouses scattered along the coast. Fishing, hiking, and beachcombing are great family activities here.
- Best time to visit: June to September.
20. Hawaii
- Why it’s great: Hawaii is a dream destination for families who love nature and adventure. On a yacht charter, you can sail between the islands, stopping to explore black sand beaches, volcanoes, and lush rainforests. Kids will love snorkeling in the warm waters of Molokini Crater or hiking to Akaka Falls on the Big Island.
- Best time to visit: April to October.
21. Corsica (France)
- Why it’s great: Corsica offers a rugged and wild coastline, where families can anchor in secluded bays, explore mountain villages, and swim in turquoise waters. The island’s combination of Mediterranean climate and lush landscapes makes it ideal for outdoor adventures, whether hiking, swimming, or sailing. Don’t miss Scandola Nature Reserve, where kids can explore the rich marine life.
- Best time to visit: June to September.
22. Norwegian Fjords
- Why it’s great: A family yacht charter in the Norwegian Fjords is an adventure into some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. Kids will be fascinated by the towering cliffs, waterfalls, and glaciers that surround them. The fjords are also great for hiking, kayaking, and spotting wildlife, such as whales and sea eagles.
- Best time to visit: June to August.
23. Galápagos Islands (Ecuador)
- Why it’s great: The Galápagos Islands are perfect for families interested in nature and wildlife. From swimming with sea lions to spotting giant tortoises, every day brings a new adventure. The islands’ unique ecosystems will captivate kids and adults alike. Explore Isabela Island for its volcanic landscape and varied wildlife, or visit Santa Cruz for its famous research station.
- Best time to visit: December to May.
24. Bermuda
- Why it’s great: Bermuda is known for its pristine pink sand beaches and calm waters, perfect for family snorkeling and swimming. The island offers more than just beach activities; families can visit Crystal Caves, explore old forts, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see shipwrecks and coral reefs. The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore by boat.
- Best time to visit: March to June.
25. Azores (Portugal)
- Why it’s great: The Azores are a paradise for families who love outdoor adventures. Kids can enjoy whale watching, hiking, and exploring volcanic craters. The islands’ landscapes are incredibly diverse, from lush forests to dramatic cliffs and tranquil lakes. Anchor in the quiet bays of São Miguel or explore the colorful lakes of Sete Cidades.
- Best time to visit: May to September.
Conculsion
- For more ideas, read, “25 Breathtaking Yacht Destinations You Need to Explore“
- And for a guide to chartering, read, “How to Charter a Yacht: A Guide for Your Dream Vacation“
Embarking on a yacht charter as a family is an unparalleled experience, offering a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and quality time together. Whether you’re exploring the pristine beaches of the Bahamas, navigating the historical sites of the Greek Islands, or marveling at wildlife in the Galápagos, each destination provides its own set of unforgettable memories. By choosing the right destination at the best time of year, your family can enjoy a perfect balance of activities and downtime, creating lifelong memories on the water. Wherever your journey takes you, a family yacht charter promises the adventure of a lifetime.
