Family-Friendly Catamaran Charter Destinations

Embark on an extraordinary journey with your family aboard a catamaran, exploring the world’s most captivating destinations accessible by sea. Here are the top five must-visit places and activities in each location, tailored for catamaran accessibility.

1. The Virgin Islands: A Caribbean Haven

Top 5 Places to Visit by Catamaran

1. The Baths, Virgin Gorda: This natural wonder features unique granite boulders forming scenic sea pools and grottos. Anchoring near The Baths allows for easy swimming to shore when the weather is calm, where you can wander through the boulders, discover hidden pools, and enjoy the stunning beach.If the weather is not ideal for anchoring, it is possible to dock in the Spanish Town marina and take a short land transfer to explore the Baths.
2. Trunk Bay, St. John: Renowned for its underwater snorkeling trail, Trunk Bay offers clear waters and vibrant marine life. Its white sandy beach and lush surroundings make it ideal for a relaxing day of sunbathing and snorkeling, accessible directly from your boat.
3. Norman Island: Believed to be the inspiration for “Treasure Island,” this uninhabited island is famous for its snorkeling and diving. Explore underwater caves and marine life near The Indians and The Caves, easily reachable by tender from your catamaran.
4. White Bay, Jost Van Dyke: Known for its pristine sandy beach and turquoise waters, White Bay is perfect for a leisurely day. Anchor off the beach, swim ashore, and enjoy the laid-back vibe, with beach bars like the famous Soggy Dollar Bar nearby.
5. Cane Garden Bay, Tortola: This bay offers a quintessential Caribbean experience with its long curving beach, calm waters, and vibrant local culture. Anchor and explore the area, enjoy watersports, or relax in beachside bars and restaurants, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss one of the best restaurants on Tortola, the Indigo Beach House.

British Virgin Islands – top place to visit by catamaran in Caribbean

Top 5 Catamaran-Friendly Activities

1. Snorkelling: The clear and calm waters in the Caribbean are ideal for snorkeling, offering visibility to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Most anchorages provide easy access to snorkeling spots, where you can swim right off your catamaran to enjoy the underwater wonders.
2. Beach Hopping: With a catamaran, you can effortlessly navigate from one beach to another, exploring various coastlines. Each beach has its unique charm, from secluded white-sand beaches to lively shores with beach bars and local festivities, making beach hopping an adventurous and diverse experience.
3. Water sports: Catamarans often come equipped with water sports gear like paddleboards and kayaks. These activities are perfect for exploring the serene waters around your anchorage, offering both a fun workout and a unique way to experience the scenic beauty of the islands and their hidden coves. The water toys available will depend on the exact catamaran you are chartering. Some catamarans, normally the larger catamarans, will have a larger selection of toys due to a greater amount of space to store the equipment. The majority of catamarans however will have paddle boards, tubes, snorkelling equipment and sea bobsor similar type of motorised toys
4. Island Exploring: A catamaran provides the flexibility to visit multiple islands in a single trip. This allows for a rich experience of the Caribbean’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and attractions, from bustling marketplaces to tranquil nature reserves, all within a short sail.
5. Sunset Cruises: There’s nothing quite like watching the sunset from the deck of a catamaran. As the sky turns into a palette of vibrant colors, you can relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the Caribbean Sea, often with the option of a romantic dinner or cocktails under the stars.

2. The Greek Islands: A Blend of Culture and Natural Beauty

Top 5 Places to Visit by Catamaran

1. Santorini’s Caldera: Anchoring near Santorini’s Caldera offers a breath-taking view of the cliff-lined lagoon formed by a volcanic eruption. The dramatic landscape, with white-washed buildings set against the deep blue sea, provides a stunning backdrop. It’s a perfect spot for photography and to witness the famed Santorini sunset.
2. Mykonos’s Southern Beaches: The southern beaches of Mykonos, such as Psarou, Ornos, and Platis Gialos, are popular for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant beach life. Accessible by catamaran, these beaches offer a mix of relaxation and water activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and various beachside amenities. Mykonos island is perfect for older teenagers, wanting to enjoy the island’s nightlife
3. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos: Known as the Shipwreck Beach, Navagio is famous for its picturesque setting, featuring a rusted shipwreck against white sands and turquoise waters. Accessible only by sea, it’s an ideal destination for catamarans, especially those with children on board, allowing visitors to view the iconic shipwreck up close and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
4. Elafonissi Beach, Crete: Elafonissi is renowned for its unique pink sand and shallow, warm waters. It’s a protected nature reserve, offering a serene and unspoiled beach experience. The beach is reachable by catamaran, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and relax in a tranquil environment. We suggest enjoying beach games together as a family. We suggest enjoying beach games together as a family on this safe place.
5. Corfu’s East Coast: The east coast of Corfu offers safe anchorages with a variety of beautiful spots like the bays near Kalami and Kouloura. These areas are known for their stunning natural beauty, clear waters, and peaceful surroundings, making them ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying the scenic landscape.

Greek Islands – Polyegos Cyclades

Top 5 Catamaran-Friendly Activities

1. Cove Exploration: Sailing on a catamaran allows you to discover hidden coves that are often inaccessible by land. These secluded spots, found along the coastline or on smaller islands, offer serene beauty and privacy. You can anchor near the cove and explore its unique features, swim in calm waters, or relax on untouched beaches.
2. Historical Site Visits: Many Greek islands are rich in history, with ancient ruins and historical sites often located near the coast. With a catamaran, you can easily reach these sites, such as the Temple of Aphaia on Aegina or the ancient city of Delos near Mykonos, providing a convenient and unique way to delve into Greece’s rich past. Discuss with your children’s history teachers and see if you can make a visit linked to their studies. Seeing these historical sites in person really does bring learning to life.
3. Gourmet Experiences: Greek islands are known for their exquisite local cuisine, and many seaside tavernas are accessible by catamaran. You can savour authentic Greek dishes, such as fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional mezes, right by the sea, enhancing the dining experience with stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. Most Southern Cyclades, the island of Sifnos in particular, have the reputation as the gourmet paradise of the area.
4. Water Sports: Catamarans often come equipped with various water sports gear, such as snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and kayaks. These activities allow you to explore the waters around your anchorage, enjoy the marine life, and experience the thrill of water sports in a new and exciting environment.
5. Island Hopping: One of the greatest advantages of a catamaran is the ease of moving between islands. This enables you to experience a variety of landscapes, cultures, and attractions in a single trip. From the famous Santorini sunsets to the tranquil beaches of Naxos and the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos, island hopping by catamaran offers a diverse and enriching experience.

3. The Balearic Islands, Spain: Mediterranean Escapade

Top 5 Places to Visit by Catamaran

1. Cabrera Archipelago National Park: This marine park south of Mallorca is a haven for diverse marine life, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Anchoring here allows for exploration of its rich underwater world, including snorkeling or diving to see a variety of fish, seabirds, and possibly sea turtles in their natural habitat.
2. Formentera: Celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, Formentera is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Anchor offshore and swim or paddleboard in its tranquil waters or explore the white sandy beaches that line the coast, offering a peaceful retreat from the busier neighbouring islands. We find paddleboarding is a great water sport for children of all ages. Even the little toddlers can enjoy going with their parents. For those looking for a more active water sport, kitesurfing is great in this area.
3. Cala d’Or, Mallorca: With its sheltered bays and family-friendly beaches, Cala d’Or is an ideal destination for families sailing on a catamaran. The area provides safe swimming spots for children and picturesque settings for relaxing or enjoying beach activities, making it a versatile destination for all ages.
4. Menorca’s Southern Coves: The southern coast of Menorca is dotted with pristine coves and beaches, accessible by tender from your catamaran. These secluded spots, such as Cala Turqueta and Cala Macarella, offer serene beauty and clear waters, perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the natural surroundings.
5. Ibiza’s Western Coast: Renowned for its breath-taking sunsets, the western coast of Ibiza offers numerous secluded beaches and coves, accessible by boat. Anchor at spots like Cala Comte or Cala Salada to witness the stunning sunset views, enjoy a swim in the calm waters, or explore the rugged coastline.

Balearic Islands – Menorca

Top 5 Catamaran-Friendly Activities

1. Snorkelling and Diving: The Balearic Islands are a hotspot for underwater exploration with diverse marine life. Cala Fornells in Menorca and North Mallorca’s Marine Reserve offer vibrant snorkelling, showcasing sargo, gilt-head bream, and wrasse among rocky and sandy beds​​. For nature loving children, this is the place to go. We recommend they bring their underwater cameras to help capture their memories. 
2. Coastal Exploration: These islands boast a variety of coastal landscapes, from rocky coves to Posidonia meadows. Explorers can discover hidden caves, overhangs, and unique marine environments along the Balearic coast​​. For adrenaline seeking families, why not let us put you in touch with local outdoor activity company to take you cliff diving, caving or even base jumping off the Balearic coastline. 
3. Cultural Visits: Rich in history and culture, the Balearic Islands host lively local markets and festivals, offering a deep dive into the traditions and lifestyle of this Mediterranean gem​​.
4. Seaside Dining: Anchoring near ports in the Balearic Islands leads to exceptional seaside dining experiences. Local restaurants serve authentic Mediterranean cuisine, often accompanied by stunning sea views and a relaxing ambiance​​.
5. Relaxing on Secluded Beaches: The islands feature numerous secluded beaches and coves with crystal-clear waters, ideal for peaceful relaxation away from the bustling tourist spots​​. Your crew will know the best anchorages and what kind of experience they offer.

4. French Polynesia: An Exotic Oceanic Adventure

Top 5 Places to Visit by Catamaran

1. Bora Bora Lagoon: The lagoon is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, which are home to a variety of marine life including fish, sea turtles, and manta rays. It serves as a natural barrier, protecting the island and providing a popular spot for snorkeling and diving​​.
2. Moorea’s Bays: Moorea’s bays are accessible and ideal for various water activities. The island offers serene bays with clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying the scenic beauty. This area is fantastic for family friendly charters as the shallow waters are ideal for children of all ages. This bay is renowned for its close encounters with marine wildlife such as manta rays and sharks. 
3. Tahiti’s Black Sand Beaches: These unique beaches are reachable by sea, offering a distinctive and memorable experience. The black sands, contrasting with the blue waters, provide a picturesque setting.
4. Fakarava Atoll: Known for its diverse ecosystems, Fakarava Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Ideal for anchoring, it allows exploration of its rich marine life, including many species of fish and coral.
5. Huahine’s Lagoons: These secluded lagoons offer privacy and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for anchoring a catamaran, they provide a tranquil setting for swimming and enjoying the pristine environment.

French Polynesia – Huahine

Top 5 Catamaran-Friendly Activities

1. Lagoon Swimming in French Polynesia: The lagoons of French Polynesia offer warm, sheltered waters, ideal for swimming. The clear, calm conditions are perfect for a relaxing swim and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
2. Cultural Excursions: French Polynesia’s local communities are rich in culture and traditions. Visiting these communities allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local way of life.
3. Coral Reef Snorkelling: The vibrant coral reefs of French Polynesia are a snorkeler’s paradise. Directly accessible from a catamaran, these reefs offer an up-close view of diverse marine life and stunning underwater landscapes.
4. Whale Watching: Certain times of the year (such as between August and October, in the islands of Tahiti) provide opportunities to see whales up close in French Polynesia. These majestic creatures can often be spotted during their migration, offering an unforgettable experience.
5. Island Exploration: Navigating between the islands of French Polynesia is an enjoyable experience. Each island offers its unique landscapes and attractions, easily explored by catamaran.

5. Croatia: A Coastal Treasure

Top 5 Places to Visit by Catamaran

1. Dubrovnik’s Old City: Anchoring near Dubrovnik offers access to its UNESCO-listed Old City, famed for well-preserved medieval architecture and historic streets. Wander through ancient walls, explore historic buildings, and soak in the city’s vibrant culture. We highly recommend a guided tour of the old town and its city walls and a meal in one of the local restaurants.
2. Hvar’s Pakleni Islands: A short sail from Hvar, the Pakleni Islands are perfect for tranquil day trips. Enjoy clear waters, peaceful bays, and snorkelling in a serene environment, ideal for relaxation and swimming. Talk to us about the bay of Palmizana and one of the best gallery & restaurants in the area.
3. Kornati National Park: This national park, a paradise for nature enthusiasts, provides pristine landscapes for anchoring. It’s an untouched natural beauty spot, ideal for hiking and enjoying serene sea views. This incredible archipelago consists of 140 islands and islets, mostly uninhabited.
4. Vis Island: VVis Island, known for secluded bays and rich, centuries long history, is perfect for exploration. Access hidden spots and historical sites by tender, offering a blend of natural beauty and intriguing history. Do the military guided tour and visit one of the local vineyards and taste delicious local speciality, slow cooked dish – Peka.
5. Krka National Park: Near Skradin, Krka National Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and lush greenery. Easily accessible for day trips, it offers picturesque scenery, nature trails, and refreshing swimming spots. The catamaran will moor in Skradin, from where you can go on the tour of the waterfalls. 

Top 5 Catamaran-Friendly Activities in Croatia

Dubrovnik medieval walls

1. Historical Tours in Dubrovnik and Split: Anchor near Dubrovnik to explore its medieval walls and fortresses, or near Split to visit the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, both offering a deep dive into Croatia’s rich history. For those older children who are fans of the famous Games Of Thrones series, partake in a guided tour to see all the filming locations.
2. Island Hopping: Journey across islands like Korčula for its medieval town, Mljet for its national park, or the Elaphiti Islands for their natural beauty and serene beaches.
3. Wine Tasting on Pelješac Peninsula: Anchor and visit vineyards to taste the renowned Plavac Mali wine and Posip white, experiencing the rich wine culture of the region. Oyster tasting is very popular on this peninsula too.
4. Diving in the Adriatic: Explore the Adriatic’s underwater world, including the shipwreck of the Baron Gautsch off Rovinj or the blue cave on Biševo Island for an extraordinary diving experience.
5. Culinary Experiences: Savor Croatian cuisine in coastal towns like Split or Trogir, where you can enjoy dishes like peka, seafood brodetto, and fresh Adriatic fish.

In summary, these destinations offer a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation for families on a catamaran charter. Each location provides unique experiences and places to explore, all easily accessible from the sea. Whether it’s snorkelling in the Caribbean, historical exploration in Greece, or enjoying secluded beaches in Croatia, a catamaran charter brings you closer to these unforgettable experiences.

Contact Catamaran Charter Experts at High Point Yachting

If you have an enquiry or would like to find out a bit more about where you could charter catamaran yachts with us, our team of yacht charter experts is ready to help. Contact our yachting industry specialists for more information.