Submitted by karen on
Dodge the crowds and take a dream vacation with you and your guests to a bucket list destination. We’ve outlined some of our favorite spots below along with some fabulous yachts to host you on your journey. From Croatia to the South of France, you and your guests will be treated to extravagant sights, secret hideaways dining, shopping, and more.
Croatia - Whether you’re a Game of Thrones or not, Croatia is a destination for those who love ancient cities. See the beautiful village of Milna on the island of Brac. Milna is a delightful 17th century village on the North Western side of the Island of Brac. Brac is famous for its white stone; apparently the 'White House' in Washington was built from it! From Milna, head to the beautiful Pakleni Islands just off Hvar and anchor in a bay for lunch. Take the opportunity to swim in beautiful clear waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Then, cruise to Korkula where Marco Polo was born! The island of MIjet is recognised as one of the pearls of the Adriatic Sea, mainly made up as a national park, making this a must-see stop. Finish up the vacation atDubrovnik with a walking tour of the historic city. Famous sights from Game of Thrones include the Red Keep, which was filmed at Lovrijenac Fort, Blackwater Bay, which was filmed at Dubrovnik West Pier, and the walls of King’s Landing, which were filmed at Fort Bokar.
Maine - Arrive to Rockland Maine, then take a visit to Owls Head Transportation Museum where you will see a collection of pre-1940 aircraft, ground vehicles, engines and related technologies significant to the evolution and transportation for the purpose of education. Then, visit theFarnsworth Art Museum which celebrates Maine’s role in American art. Board your yacht at the Landings Marina and depart for a scenic 2-hour cruise to Islesboro Island and anchor for the night. Visit Penobscot Bay Maritime Museum to understand Maine maritime history. Visit Castine, one of the oldest towns in New England, settled by the French in 1630. Walk around the town with Colonial and Federalist architecture. Next, head to Swans Island, a rugged offshore island, where some lobsterman families live. Visit Swans Island Lobster and Maritime Museum and stop at Lunt’s Dockside Deli for famous lobster rolls. Cruise to Mount Desert Island with many different anchorages like Somes Sound Fjord, the only one of its kind on the East Coast, Northeast Harbor, and Stave Island with many different activities like renting bikes, visiting three Rockefeller Gardens, including their private garden, and more. Hike Acadia National Park and go carriage driving on 55 miles of carriage roads with 17 bridges. Other sights to enjoy are Rocque Island, Cutler, Machias, and Reversing Falls depending on your preferences of scenery.
France and Italy - Arrive in Monaco and take in the beautiful views of the deep blue sea, graceful palm trees, and vibrant flowers. Next, cruise to Portofino where you can spend the night in the harbour. Admire the old and colorful buildings. If you love to shop, Portofino is considered a shopping paradise. Visit luxury stores Gucci, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton stores on the main streets. Next cruise down the Italian Riviera by the Cinque Terre and la Spezia. StVisit Elba, the pearl of the Tuscan Archipelago that offers superb anchorages where you can enjoy swimming and watersports. Next, cruise down the East Coast of Corsica to Porto Vecchio stopping at protected anchorages on the way. We recommend taking time to visit the charming town of Porto Vecchio and its many boutiques and restaurants.
The Lavezzi Islands between Corsica and Sardinia include a natural reserve famous for its mineral beauty and turquoise waters. Spend the day enjoying the sandy beaches before heading to Bonifacio for the night. Bonifacio is known for charming boutiques and excellent restaurants. Then, cruise to Archipel of Maddalena to stop for lunch before continuing south to the famous harbour of Porto Cervo. Enjoy shopping and dining at more fabulous boutiques and restaurants before heading home.
Palermo to Naples Via the Aelionian Islands - Arrive inPalermo and visit the Palermo Catacombes or Palermo Cathedral. Palermo is known for authentic Sicilian street-food and restaurants; a town rich in history, culture, art, and music as well. Next, cruise to Cefalu and see the Cefalu Cathedral (Duomo). Built during the 12th century, King Rugerro II created the Duomo as a gift to God to thank him for having saved him from a storm at sea. The building has two towers, one to symbolize the church power and the other one as the kingdom power. The building contains some masterpiece works of art dating back to the Middle Age! Cruise to Ustica where the snorkeling and scuba diving is spectacular. Here you’ll find brown groupers, saddled sea breams, corals and more in this crystal clear water. From here, head to Lipari and explore the lively bars near Marina Corta. Cruise to the Island of Vulcano and explore/swim in the grottos or visit the hot mud baths and geothermal hot springs. The black sand beaches of Porto Ponente are also a hit!
Let us know your preferences and we’ll arrange the trip of your dreams this summer. Some of the best gifts are those of experiences, so get out there and make some incredible memories this summer with your family - life is too short, so get out there and live it up!