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Articles Top Christmas and New Year Superyacht Charter Destinations

17 Sep 2024 | Adventure

Discover the best superyacht spots to celebrate Christmas or ring in the New Year.

There is nothing quite like spending the holiday season with family and friends on a luxury yacht, surrounded by breath-taking scenery and luxurious amenities. From our most popular winter destinations of the Bahamas and Caribbean to exotic destinations further afield, whether you want to count down the final seconds of 2024 stargazing from your sundeck, or head onto dry land to join the local Christmas traditions, we have all the details you need on the top destinations to celebrate New Year’s Eve in superyacht style.

1 The Bahamas

The Bahamas is one of the most popular destinations for superyacht charters at Christmas and New Year, and it’s easy to see why.

With warm winds, white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters, it’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Nassau, the capital, offers rich cultural experiences, historical sites, fine dining, and vibrant nightlife. The New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade on Bay Street is a must-see, with costumed dancers, music, and festive energy. So much more than just a parade, this is one big party; elaborately costumed dancers head down the street to the sound of horns, drums and bells, in a celebration of Bahamian art and culture and a nod to welcoming in the New Year.

The Exumas, an archipelago of 365 islands, provide diverse experiences like swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay or dining at Sentinel Cay. Staniel Cay Yacht Club even hosts a highly popular New Year’s Eve masquerade party, complete with traditional Bahamian pig roast and midnight fireworks on the beach. The next day, the Staniel Cay Cruising Regatta is always great fun.

For those seeking a tranquil escape or a lively celebration, the Bahamas offers a wide range of world-class yachts to suit every preference. Celebrating Christmas or New Year here means unparalleled freedom to explore secluded anchorages, enjoy tropical scenery, and create unforgettable memories aboard a luxury yacht.

2 St Maarten

While those of us residing in more northern climbs are now heading into the cold winter months, St Maarten is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year while soaking up the Caribbean sun. Stunning turquoise waters, picturesque beaches, and a festive holiday atmosphere all make the island of St Maarten ideal for winter charters.

With endless possibilities for activities both aboard and ashore – like most island destinations – St Maarten is best appreciated from the water and a superyacht charter is the perfect way to get the most out of this stunning destination.

Whether it’s taking in the French ambiance at Simpson Bay bustling with cafés and quaint restaurants, or dropping anchor at Grand Case for an afternoon of watersports in crystal clear waters before zip‐lining through the jungle at Loterie Farm, your festive celebrations at St Maarten certainly won’t disappoint. Not to mention the island’s close proximity to both Anguilla and St Barts, the latter famous for it’s spectacular New Years fireworks display over Gustavia Harbor.

Bright and colorful harbor view with yachts and boats in the marina of Marigot in Saint Martin, French side of the Caribbean Island.

3 Antigua

The most famous of the Leeward Islands, chartering at this iconic destination will allow you to enjoy the best of Caribbean cruising. Before exploring the charming towns with beautiful pastel facades Antigua has to offer, follow in the footsteps of Admiral Nelson and visit English and Falmouth Harbour. Both sheltered harbours were used for centuries by fishermen and naval officers alike, and now provide a stunning backdrop to fully equipped superyacht marinas and supporting amenities.

And with natural beauty and diverse marine life abundant in Antigua, visit the awe-inspiring Devil’s bridge where geysers and blowholes all erupt with Atlantic seawater as the waves crash against the shore, or meet South Atlantic Stingrays when anchoring in the north sound. Swim, feed, and play with these friendly creatures for an unforgettable memory.

Steeped in history and truly one of the most beautiful places in the world, what could be more special than spending Christmas and New Year on a luxury yacht charter in Antigua?

Shirley Heights, Antigua and Barbuda view from the overlook.

4 Thailand

Known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and friendly people, Thailand has something to offer everyone who visits. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, this tropical paradise is perfect for those who want to relax on deserted beaches surrounded by palm trees and blue water bays, or ring in the New Year with a bang with the amazing fireworks show at midnight in Phuket.

With no shortage of incredible activities, in Thailand you will never be bored. Some of the top activities include diving or snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters at Koh Rock, elephant trekking through Krabi’s National Park, and partying at world-class nightlife spots such as Koh Phangan and Bangkok.

One of the coolest vibes is found on Patong Beach at the heart of the island’s nightlife, where revellers take to the sand for one huge celebration. Beach clubs burst into life the minute the sun sets with infectious beats filling the air and a breath-taking fireworks display lighting up the bay at midnight. For those wishing for a slower pace, anchor your superyacht off Surin Beach in the west and settle down to enjoy a front row view of the dazzling pyrotechnics staged by the renowned Amanpuri Resort.

Whatever your preferences, chartering a superyacht in Thailand will give you unbeatable views of the magical landscapes, access to only-by-boat bays and beaches, and a taste of the authentic Thai lifestyle as you immerse yourself in the local culture.

5 Costa Rica

For a truly unforgettable Christmas or New Year, consider chartering a luxury yacht in Costa Rica. From the lush jungles and misty volcanoes of the Central American coastline to the glistening beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, this picturesque country has something for everyone.

Whether you’re socialising on deck under panoramic mountain views or watching sailboats pass by as you sip cocktails in a shaded cabana, every moment spent on board a superyacht charter in Costa Rica will be filled with natural beauty.

Home to some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife in the world, be sure to take advantage of excursions, such as zip lining through the rainforest or swimming with dolphins. You may even get lucky enough to spot monkeys swinging through the trees or whales breaching offshore.

6 The Seychelles

The Seychelles is home to some of the most luxurious and exclusive superyachts in the world. So, if you’re looking to spend Christmas and New Year in style but want something different to the Caribbean, the Seychelles are a great option.

The perfect place to relax and take in the stunning scenery, this tropical paradise offers powdery white beaches, crystal clear waters, and thriving forests. While the larger islands such as Mahe have vibrant towns to explore and plenty of evening entertainment, cruising around a string of the other smaller islands and coves gives a true undiscovered and wild feel.

Exotic destination in Seychelles - Anse Source d'Argent - beautiful beach on tropical island La Digue

The idyllic island of Praslin is unrivalled in terms of beaches for sunbathing and swimming. Particularly stunning at sunset, Anse Lazio is often voted the world’s best beach and the perfect place to unwind before sailing north to the small island of Curiruse. Home to a carefully protected population of Aldabra tortoises, Seychelles Black Parrots, Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles, and rare coco de mer palms, the island is a must see for those nature lovers.

With so much to do and every island offering visitors incredible and unique experiences, chartering a superyacht is the best way to take in the amazing islands.

Before it's too late

Every year yachts are booked months in advance for Christmas and New Year, so if you are considering a luxury escape this holiday season, now is the perfect time to start planning while there is still availability on many of the most sought after yachts.

Contact the charter team

Tropical beach winter yachting destination

Need help or advice?

The yachting journey can be complex with many decisions to be made. Get in touch with Ocean Independence, and one of our specialist consultants will help you make the right choices.