The average superyacht charter could have been designed specifically for partying in mind. Large communal areas, both indoor and out, allow guests to mingle and move around, crew are already on hand to pass round drinks and canapés, and you can berth right in the heart of most towns and ports. Here we offer up five marinas where any charter yacht can host a memorable soirée.
Port Hercules, Monaco
When it comes to putting on the ritz, few places can match Port Hercules in Monaco for a yacht charter. Right in the heart of this exclusive principality, Port Hercules is a great place to host a party on your yacht. All the town's good hotels are within walking distance, there are numerous companies offering party provisions, and during the F1 grand prix the marina is buzzing with the glitterati enjoying themselves aboard numerous superyachts.
Miami Beach Marina, Florida
Miami has a reputation as a party town, and the Miami Beach Marina has seen more than its share of shindigs. The marina is within easy access of all that Miami has to offer, and is a short walk from the many and varied delights of South Beach.
Porto Cervo, Sardinia
Anywhere where Silvio Burlusconi owns a villa has got to be party-central, and Porto Cervo in Sardinia won't disappoint. In high summer this gorgeous marina is jam-packed with superyachts, as this is one of the most fashionable and desirable marinas in the Mediterranean. Top-end provisioning is available on-shore, and there are numerous companies vying to host your party.
Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi
The glamour of top-level motor sport and superyachts is undeniable, and over the weekend of the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix the Yas Marina is full to capacity with superyachts hosting lavish and extravagant parties. Despite being a Muslim country, the Abu Dhabi locals are pretty tolerant of parties in Yas Marina, and at Grand Prix time many of the yachts there throw lavish soirées.
Port de Gustavia, St Barths
Many of the world's biggest yachts make their way to Port de Gustavia in St Barths over Christmas and New Year, for a couple of weeks of mid-winter partying and relaxation. Here you can rub shoulders with oligarchs and captains of industry. New Year's Eve parties are particularly popular, and there is a lavish firework display which will add drama and colour to your party.