Top Yachting Destinations for the Ultra-Rich

Among the many activities exclusive to the wealthy, yachting takes the cake. The sheer luxury, excitement, and exclusivity of yachting make it a fan favorite among high-net-worth individuals, and the world is full of remarkable yachting destinations for them to explore. This piece will take a closer look at some of the world's best yachting destinations.

St Lucia

The Eastern Caribbean's premier yachting nation, St Lucia, is home to one of the world's most fascinating yachting scenes. The five ports of St Lucia are always bustling with yachts that come in all shapes and sizes. Some are good for island hopping, while others are the epitome of luxurious cruising in one of the world's most naturally stunning regions. The country received over 85,000 tourists by yacht between 2019 and 2020, a staggering number considering that it is nearly half of St Lucia's entire population. Chartering a yacht in St Lucia is extremely simple and affordable, and the country has a lot to offer for those who take the plunge. Pitons Peaks are the highest points in the country and are visible from all sides of the nation, while Anse Cochon is a secluded cove that is accessible with smaller yachts that provides a sense of surreal serenity. The country's capital, Castries, is a bustling city with endless activities, and the town of Soufrière complements it by adding a dash of unique culture, exquisite dining, and a vibrant lifestyle.

Antigua & Barbuda

Staying in the Caribbean for one more stop, the dual island nation of Antigua & Barbuda is a must-visit for yachting enthusiasts. With over 240 registered yachts in the country, a person is spoiled for choice. They can take on a small catamaran or go all in on a majestic yacht fit for whatever occasion. The country has a whopping 365 beaches scattered throughout its two islands, providing endless options for nature enthusiasts, while the dichotomy between the islands of Antigua and Barbuda offer visitors a more comprehensive getaway destination. Antigua, the bigger of the two islands, houses bustling cities and towns that are full of activities, top-tier restaurants, and endless fun. Barbuda is more serene and in touch with nature, providing a relaxing backdrop against some of the most visually stunning natural scenery the Caribbean has to offer. Antigua's international airport boasts direct flights to London, the US, and many other countries, making getting to it a simple matter.

British Virgin Islands

Commonly known as the sailing capital of the world, the British Virgin Islands offers a stunning archipelago in the Caribbean that yachters can explore. The islands are full of sheltered anchorages and consistent trade winds, making the yachting experience as easy as it is luxurious. The stunning Caribbean scenery adds a layer to the enjoyment, making the British Virgin Islands a top-tier yachting destination.

The French Riviera

The French Riviera is synonymous with luxurious holidays. Cannes, the epitome of luxury within France, boasts an impressive yachting scene. The town is small but extravagant, offering a multitude of high-end brands for those wanting to do a bit of shopping and astonishing restaurants adorning the shore. A person can take their yacht and sail along the coast to stop at the stunning St. Tropez for a relaxing lunch encompassed by layers of historical significance and natural scenery. Or they could enjoy the view of the forest-filled coastline until they reach the busy city of Nice, where top-tier restaurants, an exuberant lifestyle, and endless activities await.

Fort Lauderdale (US)

While the US Eastern Coast may not seem to be the best yachting destination in the world, one city does thrive on the yachting business - Fort Lauderdale. The Florida city is full of palm trees, restaurants, shopping outlets, and, more importantly, yachts. An average of 2,000 superyachts pass through its waters each year, and it hosts about 50,000 yachts within its ports. If you are a yacht aficionado, Fort Lauderdale is the place to be. Its proximity to the Caribbean allows for interesting trips and wonderful experiences, although chartering a yacht from Fort Lauderdale may cost a bit more than doing so in the Caribbean.

Greece

The Greek archipelago consists of a mindblowing 6,000 islands and islets, a massive number on any scale. This huge variety of places to visit makes the country an excellent choice for yachting enthusiasts. Combine the sheer number of places to visit with the stunning architecture, magnificent scenery, mouthwatering cuisine, historical sites, and unique Greek culture, and the country becomes one of the best yachting destinations the world has to offer.

Malta

Being an island, Malta thrives on sailing. Being an EU nation, Malta has an above-average economy for an island nation, and that translates to one thing - superyachts. Malta is situated between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, making it an excellent place for yachting enthusiasts to explore three of the world's continents from one starting point. The country's main port in Valetta offers various yacht berthing or chartering options, and those who want to keep their exploring within the country can visit the legendary Mdina, one of the oldest cities in the region, or the stunning island of Gozo, which was a vital filming location for the hit TV series Game of Thrones. The relaxed vibes, proximity to Southern Europe and North Africa, delicious (and unique) cuisine, and internationalized culture of Malta make it an excellent choice for those looking to make the most of their yachting experience.

Thailand

The Far East is famous for its stunning natural beauty and culture, and sitting on a yacht in Thailand is the peak of the experience. Sailing to Phuket or the Phi Phi islands is something everyone should do at least once in their life, while the bustling city of Bangkok offers a metropolitan center for those wanting to indulge in shopping or the urban lifestyle. Thai food and culture are also a massive draw, and the ability to travel between Far East countries on a superyacht is a remarkable experience.

Yachting Means Freedom

The idea behind being on a yacht, totally free of any restrictions or obstacles, is one that only a few get to enjoy. Yachting is freedom. The freedom to move where you want, do what you like, and experience life the way you prefer. Those who love yachting understand that having no strings attached is what makes it such an amazing experience. NTL Trust can help you access that enhanced global mobility. With our help, we can provide you with the freedom to travel the globe simply by assisting you to obtain a second citizenship through investment. Various countries offer citizenship by investment programs, and two of those on this list (Antigua & Barbuda and St Lucia) are also premier yachting destinations. A second passport allows you to move freely, unlocking greater global mobility through an increased number of visa-free destinations. Antigua & Barbuda's passport offers visa-free travel to over 150 destinations worldwide. This increased global mobility will greatly enhance anyone's yachting experience, as well as their individual sovereignty, allowing them to explore the globe with little to no obstacles. To know more about gaining a second citizenship through investment, contact us today to speak with an expert.