As the cost of living increases, destinations with tax-friendly legislation are growing in popularity. Similarly, charter brokers are creating itineraries to include several anchorage points within a close nautical distance. This therefore minimizes the yacht’s fuel needs and reduces the costs associated with the charter. In fact, IYC, with 129 charter yachts in its global fleet, particularly recommends these budget-conscious yacht charter destinations for discerning travelers.
CARIBBEAN
St. Martin might surprise you among budget-conscious yacht charter destinations. However, a seven-day itinerary to this French territory offers guests an incredible time exploring the island’s coves and beaches. (St. Martin is the French side of the bi-national island St. Maarten/St. Martin, with the St. Maarten side being Dutch.) It is a perfect jumping-off point to explore nearby islands, too. Your yacht can cruise a short distance, for instance, to Prickly Pear Cays (above). These are two uninhabited islands just north of Anguilla. Enjoy the impressive natural park before your yacht drops anchor in nearby Crocus Bay. Diving enthusiasts, meanwhile, will enjoy the abundance of marine life off Ile Fourche, en route to St. Barths. Additionally, you can spend one of your final days in the yachting hub of St. Barths. This volcanic island earns renown for its vibrant island life and buzzing atmosphere.
EXUMAS
The Exumas are a chain of islands in the Bahamas renowned for warm, azure waters, pristine beaches, and colorful island life. The proximity of the coves and cays makes it a fuel-efficient charter that still offers a variety-packed itinerary. For example, you can visit the exclusive Highborne Cay (below), the Exuma Land and Sea Park, and Staniel Cay’s famous swimming pigs. Wreck dives and beach setups are some of the most popular activities in the Exumas. This yacht-charter destination especially appeals to those who want to make the most of their cruising grounds.
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Some mistakenly believe the U.S. Virgin Islands is overpopulated by cruise ships and isn’t pretty. Actually, the Virgin Islands National Park occupies most of St. John. A jewel in the park’s crown, Trunk Bay (top) continually earns accolades for being one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Rich-green forests run down to meet the satin-colored sand and endless blue sea. Trunk Bay is perfect for dropping anchor with a rum in hand or ducking underwater to follow the 225-yard-long coral trail. If the waters get too choppy for snorkeling, count on Maho Bay, further prime for seeing turtles and stingrays. Additionally, it’s a dreamy place to paddleboard out from the cay, since the turtles swim alongside for the ride. And, finally, Watermelon Cay, a tiny islet, is one of the best snorkeling spots thanks to an epic reef surrounding it. Take the boat, or hike from the Annaberg Plantation Ruins.
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