The Mediterranean's best-known cruising grounds have never been more popular. Summer traffic around the Côte d'Azur, Ibiza, Mykonos and parts of the Dalmatian Coast has surged, with unwieldy anchorages and berth reservations secured months in advance becoming inevitabilities of the high-season destination routine.
For many owners, the appeal of yachting has always been the freedom to escape the crowds. Captains are therefore adjusting itineraries to favour quieter spots, offering the same breathtaking beauty enjoyed at the yacht owner's own pace. BOAT takes a look at some of the off-the-beaten-track options...
Southwest Menorca, Balearic Islands
Instead of: Ibiza
What's any good Balearic tour without a day (or night) in Ibiza? Yet many owners seem increasingly in favour of Menorca's more discreet and sunny south. Much of the island is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a designation that has helped preserve its pine-fringed coves and sloping limestone shoreline. Beaches such as Cala Macarella, Cala Turqueta, and Cala Mitjana remain among the clearest in the Balearics, with sheltered anchorages that appeal to larger yachts (subject to local regulations and conditions). Menorca delivers much of what first drew owners to Ibiza decades ago, but at a languid, breezy pace.
The facts: Port Mahón – one of the world's largest natural harbours – offers berths for yachts well over 60 metres, alongside fuel, customs clearance, technical support and concierge services.
The Maddalena Archipelago, Sardinia
Instead of: Porto Cervo and the busiest stretches of the Costa Smeralda
Porto Cervo remains a glitzy fixture in any Mediterranean itinerary; but for many captains, the seaside resort is now treated as the starting point in a grander tour. Itineraries often continue north into the protected waters of the Maddalena Archipelago, a scenic island group that has escaped the intensity of neighbouring Costa Smeralda while remaining within easy reach of its infrastructure. Anchorages around Cala Coticcio, Cala Corsara and the waters surrounding Budelli provide spectacular overnight stops, with clear depths suited to larger yachts and straightforward tender access ashore.
The facts: Porto Cervo Marina remains less than half an hour away for technical support, provisioning and fuel for superyachts up to 160 metres, while Porto Massimo on La Maddalena accommodates visiting yachts up to 40 metres quayside and 80 metres at anchor.
The Kornati Islands, Croatia
Instead of: Hvar and Split
Any seasoned owner will encourage you to visit Croatia during the shoulder season. For Hvar, Split and Dubrovnik, the summer months amount to little more than crowded waterfronts and sizzling, cobbled streets. Those with their heart set on an Adriatic tour in July or August are encouraged to head north to Kornati National Park.
Stark limestone and shocks of green shrubs characterise this intricate network of uninhabited islands. The region's only accommodation are seasonal fisherman's cottages, which are often rented out to visitors seeking a rugged, Robinson Crusoe-style adventure. For those remaining on board, this trip swaps out Croatia's buzzing nightlife for a starry night sky and private, peaceful evenings alone at anchor.
The facts: ACI Marina Piškera offers a convenient base within the national park itself for superyachts up to 40 metres. A number of deep-water anchorages and mooring buoy fields can comfortably accommodate larger yachts, though infrastructure is tightly controlled to minimise environmental impact.
The Gulf of Gökova
Instead of: Bodrum
Turkey is a sure favourite for superyachts, but owners are beginning to look beyond Bodrum's lively bays. The Gulf of Gökova, for instance, feels distinctly removed from the resort atmosphere further west, with its densely forested hills and quiet, crisp-water inlets. Anchorages around English Harbour, Çökertme, Löngöz and the Seven Islands offer unexpectedly dramatic mountain scenery, while small, family-owned waterfront restaurants offer an understated alternative to Bodrum's bustling marina scene. In mythology, the region's Sedir Island was the secret meeting place of Antony and Cleopatra, with the Roman ruler bringing a vial of its pearl-white sands all the way to Egypt to please his lover.
The facts: Marmaris Yacht Marina and Netsel Marina provide comprehensive technical services, fuel and provisioning for superyachts up to 90 metres.
The Saronic Islands, Greece
Instead of: Mykonos and Santorini
For those who know Greece well, the Saronics have never been a secret. However, owners are increasingly favouring Hydra, Spetses, Poros and Dokos for their dappled blue waters and neoclassical harbours, conveniently reached via the cultural capital of Athens. The region has the classic Cyclades' charm without the constant stream of cruise ships and day-tripper traffic, making it the perfect choice for a week or two of relaxed island-hopping. There are seven islands to explore, offering everything from rolling pistachio groves (in Aegina) to the private-island vibe of Agistri – a tiny, forested land mass famed for its bohemian vibe.
The facts: Porto Heli is a major superyacht base in the region, serving superyachts up to 55 metres and supported by private estate moorings and excellent tender access throughout the surrounding coastline.
The Îles d'Hyères, France
Instead of: Saint-Tropez
By mid-season Saint Tropez can feel more like a regatta circuit than a cruising ground, with tenders criss-crossing between beach clubs and anchorages filling up before morning. An idéale alternative is the Îles d'Hyères: the islands of Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Île du Levant sit only 30 nautical miles offshore yet feel a world away from the Riviera traffic. Much of the coastline falls within Port-Cros National Park, which limits development and keeps activity contained to a handful of small harbours and marked mooring areas. It's bliss for the superyachts able to secure availability, with balmy water and soft sands that feel kinned with the Caribbean.
The facts: The bay of Toulon has mega-berth facilities capable of handling vessels up to 180 metres. Port Saint-Pierre is closer but can only accommodate yachts up to 37 metres in length, while Porquerolles has designated mooring zones suitable for larger yachts (maximum 45 metres).
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