As the Mediterranean season winds down, patterns emerge that tell the story of a market in motion: traditional hotspots holding strong, quieter regions rising to prominence and evolving yacht demands, plus the ever-important role of crews who have been delivering moments that reminded us why the Mediterranean remains the beating heart of global yacht chartering.
Our CharterWorld team has taken a moment to look back on the 2025 season, offering their reflections and key insights from a busy summer in the Mediterranean to help guide your future charter plans.
Croatia continues to top the list of favourite charter destinations
Destinations that defined your season
Croatia continued its ascent as the hotspot of the year, with charter numbers higher than ever drawn by culture, diversity and effortless cruising. France maintained its enduring allure, while Italy – usually a perennial heavyweight – saw a slight dip in demand. Greece also quietened, save for the Ionian Islands, which came into their own this year. Clients reported idyllic conditions: calm seas, stable weather, and uncrowded anchorages, offering the perfect blend of charm and tranquillity.
Luxury Gulet DOUBLE EAGLE in Turkey
Perhaps the most pleasant surprise was the resurgence of Turkey and the Dodecanese which resonated with those seeking something different. Once overlooked, they re-emerged as cultural gems where authenticity and charm created an antidote to the busier Western Mediterranean hubs.
The Fleet: Bigger, Bolder, and More Adventurous
The Mediterranean’s fleet diversity remains unmatched, ensuring something for every taste. This summer saw a steady trend toward larger yachts: many families and groups celebrated milestones by stepping up in size, reflecting this evolution as both families and budgets expand.
Motor yacht LUCKY LADY in Portofino
At the same time, a spirit of adventure was clear. Some of you flipped the script – motor yacht devotees embracing the sails and sailing enthusiasts trying the space and power of motor yachts. Quality catamarans were also in particularly high demand, proving harder to secure in certain regions, underscoring their growing desirability.
Experiences that shaped your summer
Your requests this season spanned everything: food, toys, unique itineraries, wellness, sustainability, and cultural immersion. Food and fun on the water still topped the list, but insider knowledge became more valuable than ever. With anchoring restrictions in France, Corsica, and Croatia, and hotspots like Capri, Sardinia, and the Balearics often crowded, local expertise was what elevated your itineraries.
Water toys with Motor Sailer OMNIA
As CharterWorld broker Hadley Albanese noted:
“Food was my summer theme – almost every client told me they wanted to ‘trust the chef and taste the culture,’ which gave yachts and crews enormous creative freedom.”
Crews Who Made the Difference
Behind every standout charter is a remarkable crew. Some worked with us to craft unique experiences – bringing personal trainers aboard, arranging private shopping excursions, or surprising you with their own ideas.
CharterWorld senior broker Colin Srivastava saw remarkable achievements on board one small sailing yacht. “The chef, a former Michelin-starred sous chef, astounded guests with refined meal planning and meticulous organisation, serving outstanding cuisine from a tiny galley with only a two-person crew.”
Al fresco dining – making the most of chef created meals on board
One particularly memorable story came from a client determined to experience the South of France for the first time in a quieter, more authentic way. Nicolas Benazeth, CharterWorld’s Director of Charter takes up the story.
“Many yachts where uncertain they could accommodate his request due to restrictions and crowding, but the crew of 40m motor yacht NEXT stepped up. Leveraging local knowledge, discrete moorings, and a superb chase tender, they delivered a Riviera charter few thought possible – a reminder that with the right crew, even the most well-travelled destinations can surprise.”
Looking ahead
The Mediterranean has always been cyclical in its appeal, with guests rotating through Greece, France, Italy, and Croatia before returning to favourites. Colin summarises this sentiment, “That natural ebb and flow is unlikely to change, though rising prices and crowd fatigue in some hubs may accelerate shifts.”
Kefalonia, Ionian Islands remains a charter favourite
The Ionian Islands look set to continue their upward trajectory, thanks to its stable weather and accessible charm. Croatia shows no signs of slowing down either, with advance bookings already strong for 2026. Meanwhile, the traditional powerhouses of France and Italy will undoubtedly continue to draw clients, even as new hotspots emerge around them.
A Final Word for You
With strong demand already building for 2026, one thing is clear: plan ahead. The most sought-after yachts and prime dates are claimed early. Beyond timing, you can trust the process – your broker hand-picks yachts with care, recommending those that truly suit your needs and setting aside those that don’t.
The Mediterranean offers an extraordinary fleet, but not every yacht or crew will deliver the experience you’re dreaming of. That’s why your relationship with your broker matters. The most rewarding charters come from trust: between you and your broker, and between you and your crew.
Above all, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Because at its best, a Mediterranean charter is not just about moving from port to port – it’s about yacht, destination, and crew coming together to create memories that will stay with you long after the season ends.
