Winter destinations are magical and chartering a yacht for Christmas and New Year’s Eve is always special and the possibilities endless.
If you want to fully embrace the magic, there’s snow-coated Scandinavia which explodes in colour this time of year with the natural phenomenon of the Northern lights. If heavy boots, thick clothes and Scandinavian Gløgg aren’t for you, there are many, many places which are sun-soaked and electric with activities. And then, of course, there are The Caribbean and the Bahamas, two incredible winter destinations.
But you’re not just choosing the destination, you’re also choosing the yacht. There are plenty of options, ranging from penthouse-style catamarans like GREYB to pedigree monohull yachts such as NITA K II and TE MANU. All of which cater to different tastes and needs. Our team of brokers can help you choose which yacht is right for you.
Get inspired! Here are our favourite Christmas and New Year’s Eve destinations:
The Americas
1 – St Barts, The Caribbean
The Caribbean is the undisputed champion when it comes to winter destinations. It’s a paradisiacal retreat; soft, powder-white beaches, turquoise waters, phenomenal diving and a rich cultural tapestry. It’s a superyacht haven – and for good reason. Each island has much on offer, but if there’s one island that stands above the rest for a Christmas and New Year’s destination, it’s little St Barts. St Barts is electric with events, galas and parties. The annual regatta that sees yachts race around the island on New Year’s Eve is also not to be missed.
2 – Nassau, The Bahamas
A close contender to The Caribbean is The Bahamas, where visitors can experience the raucous celebrations of the Junkanoo Festival. Colourful outfits, loud music and lively celebrations take place across The Bahamas, but nowhere quite like the capital city Nassau, where the largest parades take place. It’s fun, family-friendly and an experience not to be missed. Expect warm weather, lots of sunshine and a side of The Bahamas that you’ve never seen before.
3 – Miami, USA
Miami is fun year-round, yet the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is when the city truly comes alive. The nightlife is vibrant, the dining is world-class and countless events and parties can be found across the waterfront bars and restraunts. It’s a real spectacle with many fireworks displays, concerts and theatre productions. If you arrive in early December you’ll also have a chance to visit Art Basel, held annually in Miami Beach.
4 – San José, Costa Rica
In stark contrast to modern Miami is San José in Costa Rica. San José is perfect for those looking for an idyllic natural paradise away from the more typical cruising grounds this time of year. December is Costa Rica’s dry season on the Pacific coast and you can expect temperatures around 22°C. The coastline offers the country’s best surfing and diving and you’ll share the waters with incredible flora and fauna. There are also many festive activities taking place throughout San José, including several huge, colourful parades and carnivals.
Asia-Pacific
5 – Sydney, Australia
If you want to see a spectacular fireworks display then look no further than Sydney. It’s estimated that around 8,000 tonnes of fireworks are launched in the Harbour City as part of the spectacular USD $5.8 million New Year’s Eve display. It’s an iconic event – and the best views are from Harbour Bridge or onboard a yacht. There is also the famous Rolex Sydney to Hobart offshore regatta, which runs from Christmas Day to New Year’s Eve.
6 – The Maldives
The Maldives at Christmas is unforgettable. The scattering of islands and atolls basks in the sun year-round, yet December signals the start of summer. Visitors will be greeted by temperatures up to 30°C, sweeping beaches, crystal clear skies and turquoise waters – not your typical Christmas. Expect bonfires, beach parties, gala events and exclusive soirées.
7 – Phuket, Thailand
There is no shortage of activities in Thailand and December is one of the best months to visit. The tropical monsoons have abided and the region basks in beautifully warm sunshine. Phuket turns into a giant disco on New Year’s Eve and many world-famous artists descend to the beaches to perform at the famous parties and events. The city is bountiful and there are plenty of calm, idyllic regions for rest and relaxation.
Europe
8 – Bergen, Norway
Wrap up warm if you’re heading to Scandinavia for a truly magical winter wonderland. A crisp, snowy landscape illuminated by the aurora of the northern lights awaits those who venture north. Bergen, Norway, is our favourite Scandinavian destination as romantic Christmas markets fill the port city, and the surrounding fjords are extra special this time of year. Celebrations in Bergen are unique and visitors can see the world’s largest gingerbread town and enjoy the Festival of Lights around Lake Lille Lungegårdsvann.
9 – The French Riviera, France
The French Riviera is synonymous with summer cruising, yet it also has plenty to offer at Christmas and New Year. It’s unlikely that you’ll spend as much time in the sea but you’ll see Nice, Cannes and Monaco in a totally new light. Charming Christmas villages spring up in every city and you’ll find plenty of activities and seasonal delicacies. While fireworks light up the sky in every city, the display on La Croisette in Cannes is especially spectacular.
10 – Santorini, Greece
The Greek islands have a unique romance this time of year. There are fewer crowds and, while the weather can be a little unstable, you can expect temperatures between 10-20°C – so pleasant. Without the beating heat of the summer months, it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty. Santorini will be quiet and most of the stores close around mid-December.
