Escape to the islands

The Dalmatian coast is lined with glittering beaches and pastoral, hilltop villages nestled above a sprinkling of vibrant islands. Dubrovnik and Split are the main cities, but for an altogether quieter experience, the islands of Hvar and Brač offer island escapes, there's the stunning Mljet National Park and beautiful sea caves too.

Any COVID restrictions in Croatia?

Only Croatia’s hotel restaurants are currently open, and all visitors require a 48hr negative Covid-19 test prior to arrival. Those travelling from non-EU countries are not permitted entry until mid-January 2021, and face masks are mandatory on public transport and in taxis, shops and commercial premises. Some cruising limitations still apply.

Best socially distant places to visit in Croatia

Far from the madding crowds, a pre-dinner mojito on the Elisabeth Palace Hotel’s al fresco terrace on Hvar offers views of the rolling Adriatic Sea, while a wine trail itinerary will take in the entire Croatian coastline. Whether on a private yacht or bareboat charter, pepper the trip with shore excursions to a litany of the country’s five star vineyards.

Over 700 islands to explore

If ever there was a place designed for private yacht charter vacations, the Bahamas is it. Over 700 islands offer everything from wreck diving and reef snorkelling to championship golf and deep sea fishing, all carried out in a private social bubble.

Any COVID restrictions in the Bahamas?

A five-day negative Covid-19 test is required for all visitors, but restaurants and ports are open and uninhibited cruising is permitted. All visitors will require a Bahamas Travel Health Visa and a 10pm daily curfew is in place on selected islands. Face masks are not mandatory on the beach but must be worn in all other public spaces.

Best socially distant places to visit in The Bahamas

A sunset visit to Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island will avoid the crowds and show the iridescent blushed sands in all their glory. Or dive to the seabed on Nassau to see artist Jason deCaires Taylor’s underwater sculpture Ocean Atlas up close and personal.

Entertainment ashore and afloat

The 181-islet archipelago of Bermuda is filled with enticing coves, deep sea exploration and some of the best sailing around thanks to is gentle trade winds. Tropical rainfall leaves lush green golf courses in its wake and the aqua waters carry the promise of sighting two calm and inquisitive shark species, the Galapagos and dusky.

Any COVID restrictions in Bermuda?

Social distancing is required on private boats if households are mixed and the popular Bermudian raft-ups (roping boats together) is currently limited to three vessels. Some cruising restrictions may also apply. A negative Covid-19 test is required for all visitors, with a second follow up test on day four, day eight and day 14 of the visit.

Best socially distant places to visit in Bermuda

Sailing Bermuda’s Great Sound is a must-do for any keen yachtie looking for a voyage of discovery. Flanked by land on three sides, the horseshoe bay offers a jaw dropping backdrop for novice and experienced sailors, while the submerged remains of a Pre-Holocene volcanic caldera and crystal caves makes for awe-inspiring diving.

Charter heaven

Jost Van Dyke is the smallest of the British Virgin Islands’ four main islands, but it’s also a yachting hub. Pay a visit to the naturally occurring Bubbly Pool, while Great Harbour offers sheltered anchorages. Shallow waters and the close proximity between islands make BVIs a hotspot for social distanced bareboating, too.

Any COVID restrictions in the British Virgin Islands?

A four-day quarantine is required on arrival and cruising is restricted. Vessels subject to quarantine restrictions are allowed to charter. Restaurants remain open, but a negative Covid-19 test will be required on entry at air and seaports.

Best socially distant places to visit in the British Virgin Islands

Head to the Baths on Virgin Gorda to experience its warren of beachside boulders and epic sea grottoes during your BVI yacht charter. If you’re feeling adventurous, a hike to Gorda’s peak will reward with far-reaching views of the surrounding islets.

Quintessential Caribbean

The twin state of Antigua & Barbuda offers double the laidback enjoyment when in the Caribbean islands. In addition to the cool trade winds, it offers deserted beaches under a rainforest canopy and the freshest conch fritters around. For wildlife lovers, Barbuda’s Frigate Bird Sanctuary is one of the species’ largest nesting sites.

Any COVID restrictions in Antigua?

The only permitted ports of entry are Nelson's Dockyard and Jolly Harbour. Cruising is allowed on vessels that have been cleared by port health, and chartering is permitted though guests may be required to quarantine. Restaurants are only open at 50 percent occupancy, and a negative Covid-19 test is required prior to arrival.

Best socially distant places to visit in Antigua

Forming part of the leeward islands, Antigua sits where the Caribbean Sea meets the western Atlantic Ocean. Paddle by kayak on the east coast to sight brown pelican, sea cucumber and the unusual upside down jelly fish. For a little interaction with Southern Stingrays, Mercers Creek Bay on the northeast side is a secure stingray habitat.

Chic and special

One of the glitziest islands in the Caribbean, St Barth has become a yachting mecca for motor yachts and sailing yachts alike. Pristine beaches, dazzling coral reefs and a constant cooling breeze are just a few of its globally recognised calling cards.

Are there any government restrictions in place in St Barth?

All vessels must be cleared at the Capitainerie, after which unrestricted cruising is permitted. A negative Covid-19 test is required 72hr prior to arrival. If travelling to St Barth through St Martin, a travel entry request form for St Martin will also be required.

Best socially distant places to visit in St Barth

The Francois Plantation restaurant is the height of sophistication offering dinner with a view. Or sample the desert-island vibe at chic eco-hotel Manapany, which takes social distancing on land to a whole new classy level.