For many people, the holiday season is all about staying cozy at home, surrounded by loved ones and enjoying a delicious feast. However, not everyone enjoys the cold weather or the stress of cooking for a large family. If you’re looking for an alternative way to celebrate the holidays, why not consider giving the gift of a luxury yacht charter vacation to your family instead?
The winter charter season has traditionally focused on the Caribbean Sea, with destinations such as the Bahamas, Leeward Islands, and the Virgin Islands. However, destinations further afield, like the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, are becoming increasingly popular and offer a wide selection of charter yachts perfect for cruising during the winter months.
The Bahamas is one of the most sought-after destinations for superyacht charters during Christmas and New Year. The vibrant islands offer a plethora of cultural experiences, fine dining options, and nightlife entertainment. In addition, there are secluded anchorages and pristine white beaches that make for a picture-perfect tropical paradise. The Exumas, an archipelago of over 365 cays and islands, each with their own unique charm, offer unforgettable experiences such as swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay.
St. Maarten is another ideal destination for a winter charter. With its stunning turquoise waters, picturesque beaches, and festive holiday atmosphere, it’s best appreciated from the water. Whether you prefer activities on board or ashore, St. Maarten has something for everyone, guaranteeing a memorable holiday celebration.
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For those looking for something different, the Seychelles offer a luxurious and exclusive superyacht experience during Christmas and New Year. The Seychelles are home to some of the most beautiful and sought-after superyachts in the world. Each island offers a unique blend of wildlife and nightlife, with more developed islands like Mahe providing vibrant evening entertainment, while smaller islands offer a tranquil and undiscovered feel, perfect for spotting rare species like green sea turtles and Seychelles black parrots.
If you’re looking for a Christmas paradise along with your Christmas cake, Fiji is a beautiful haven nestled in the South Pacific. Fiji offers a rejuvenating escape surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The festive atmosphere will awaken your senses and leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the new year.
One of the best parts of a Christmas charter is being able to spend quality time with your family and friends, away from the stresses of planning and cooking. Most superyachts sleep up to 12 guests, providing ample luxury accommodations for extended family groups. The variety of facilities on board allows for both privacy and opportunities to come together and celebrate. Kids can relax with a movie while adults enjoy a leisurely al fresco lunch in the sun, or the whole family can spend the day swimming in the ocean, playing with water toys, and indulging in a jacuzzi or spa treatment.
It’s important to choose a yacht that offers flexible cabin arrangements, especially for families with young children. Some yachts have family-friendly setups with twin cabins adjoining the master suite, while others have convertible twin/double cabins that provide adaptable accommodations for groups of friends.
When the sun sets, the crew will create beautiful table settings, switch on the underwater lights, and keep the drinks flowing. The main guest spaces on board offer fabulous indoor-outdoor living, with bar areas and spacious on-deck dining settings that are perfect for enjoying dinner under the stars. Some yachts even have convertible dancefloors and beach clubs that can be transformed into a nightclub after dinner. The crew members will plan fun activities, games, and special surprises to keep the kids entertained, though it’s important to note that children must always be supervised by a responsible adult.
When it comes to dining on a superyacht charter, the guest is in control. The chef on board can create any cuisine or specific dishes you desire. Christmas is no exception, and by communicating your wishes early, the chef and crew can ensure they have all the necessary ingredients on board to create your perfect Christmas feast. You’re not limited to traditional dishes either – whether you prefer a barbecue, Mediterranean banquet, or sushi, the chef can make it happen. Ingredients used for meals will usually be local, fresh, and organic, and all the planning and shopping will be taken care of for you. Guests typically pay an Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) before departure to cover additional costs incurred throughout the vacation, including food and drinks. The APA is usually around 25-35% of your charter fee and any unused funds will be reimbursed, but additional payment may be required if you exceed this amount. Dietary requirements, kids’ meals, snacks, and drinks can all be catered to according to your preferences and will be communicated to the crew and chef via a preference sheet that guests fill out in advance.
Not only will the cuisine be tailored to your tastes, but the crew will offer impeccable service, ensuring your time on board is memorable. Since the crew is usually local, they can provide recommendations for onshore activities, the best restaurants in the area, and even help arrange reservations.
Welcoming in the New Year on a luxury charter yacht is an unforgettable experience. Many waterfront locations put on spectacular firework displays, and viewing them from the vantage point of a yacht is truly magical. For example, Sydney Harbor in Australia hosts one of the best displays in the world, with fireworks exploding from iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Opera House. The captain can secure a prime anchorage before sunset, allowing guests to unwind in the jacuzzi on board, dine al fresco, and sip champagne before the show begins.
In the Bahamas, New Year’s Eve is a particularly festive time, with the Staniel Cay Yacht Club in the Exumas hosting a popular masquerade party and regatta. On New Year’s Day, Nassau hosts the traditional Junkanoo Parade, featuring dancers in elaborate costumes playing drums and bells to celebrate Bahamian art and culture. However, you may choose to have a more intimate celebration on board with your loved ones, enjoying a leisurely al fresco dinner and your own New Year traditions. As the sun sets, casting its warm glow across the deck, you can be sure that celebrating Christmas and New Year on board a superyacht will create memories that will last a lifetime.
