Are you thinking about going sailing somewhere exotic, but aren't sure exactly where to head or which boat to rent? We've carefully chosen 10 catamarans and sailboats of various sizes in the most popular exotic locations just for you. So, will you give any of them a try?
What boats can you charter in exotic countries?
1. Monocat in the sun: the Sun Loft 47 Galathil, Martinique
Sun Loft 47, GALATHIL
Simply put, the Sun Loft 47 is a cross between a sailboat and a catamaran. Although it only has only one hull, its internal layout is more like a catamaran (Jeanneau refer to it as a "monocat"). The cabins have their own separate entrances and there are 6 cabins with no fewer than 4 heads with shower compartments. This makes the boat perfect for sharing with multiple couples or families, whilst providing privacy and space. The Sun Loft 47 can accommodate up to 13 people.
The Sun Loft 47 is available for rent in the tropical paradise of Martinique, which is a fascinating blend of French and Caribbean culture. Take in this beautiful spot while sipping Caribbean rum, stretched out on the spacious aft salon or explore the pristine white beaches and beautiful coral reefs.
2. Pure comfort: the Lagoon 52 F, Costabella, Seychelles
Lagoon 52 F, Costabella
Ever experienced the luxury of each cabin having its own ensuite bathroom with shower? The Lagoon 52 F catamaran has exactly that, as well as air conditioning and a huge water tank of 960 litres — there'll be no need to keep heading to the marinas or conserve water, and you'll have respite from the heat. Basically, it's the perfect companion for hot days in the Seychelles. Its base marina can be found on Eden Island about 3.5 km from the capital Victoria, where the airport is located.
Seychelles is one of the most popular destinations for an exotic holiday. Consisting of 115 small islands and islets northeast of Madagascar, it's tropical and sunny with average annual temperatures ranging between 25–30 °C. Summer months are dry, but winter months bring more regular rains.
3. Big wonders: the Lagoon 620, Dream Corsica III, Maldives
Lagoon 620, DREAM CORSICA III
The catamaran Lagoon 620 Dream Corsica III is really something special. It's an unbelievable 10 metres wide — enough space for 6 cabins and 6 bathrooms ensuring high levels of comfort for the entire crew and perfect for several families or a group of friends. The basic equipment includes a mainsail, electric winches, bimini and an outdoor GPS plotter. And of course, there is air conditioning and heating. In addition to the stove and oven in the galley, you can also prepare your meals on the outdoor grill.
The Lagoon 620 is located in the Maldives — a popular tourist spot made up of 1,196 islands and offering attractive sailing opportunities. Here you'll discover magnificent white beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and breadfruit or palm groves.
4. Small wonders: the Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 Ecstasy, Maldives
Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 Ecstasy
For those who would be apprehensive about a catamaran as large as the Lagoon 620, the smaller Fountain Pajot catamaran, also in the Maldives, is well worth considering. At 7.7 m wide and 14 m long, the 2019 Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 Ecstasy has a modern design and fantastic reclining options at the bow — both on the nets and on the loungers. The cabins may be a little reminiscent of those on a sailing boat, but this is compensated for by each of them having its own head. The perfect length of 47 feet ensures a leisurely passage to the marinas.
Dream 82
Setting sail from the renowned island of Phuket, the Dream 82 catamaran is incredibly spacious. The 10 cabins comfortably accommodate up to 20 people, making it ideal for several families with children or a large group. Just be aware that you'll need a properly licensed captain to helm this 82-foot-long (24-metre) boat. A lot of sailors cannot legally captain a boat this big.
Having been built in 2009, the Dream 82 catamaran is slightly older, so don't expect the most modern interior design. However, everything is up to charter standard and you'll benefit from the fact that it is looked after by Dream Yacht Charter, which is one of the best charter companies — you won't have to worry about how well the boat is maintained, the service or on-site assistance.
This boat is located in Thailand, a country full of friendly people, elephants, great massages, breathtaking scenery, and of course, beautiful beaches. The sea here is mild and the conditions pleasant.
More practical tips about sailing in exotic destinations:
6. Luxury: Bali cat space, Busnel, French Polynesia
Bali Catspace
This brand new 2022 catamaran has everything you need for cruising in French Polynesia. It comes equipped with air-conditioning as well as solar panels and a generator so you won't be searching out electrical outlets in the marinas. Even the water tank is big enough at 760 litres.
As well as all this, you'll be pleasantly surprised by its luxurious modern interior — a spacious, bright galley with panoramic views and a very comfortable inviting salon. The 4 cabins (2 double and 2 triple) are equally luxurious, each with its own ensuite bathroom and toilet.
French Polynesia may be far away, but you won't find a truer paradise and we promise you'll have the experience of a lifetime when you visit this region.
YACHTING.COM TIP: French Polynesia is a captivating destination with its natural beauty, fascinating underwater world, friendly locals and culture. It will fulfill everything you could wish for in an exotic boat holiday, so take a look at our guide where we'll introduce you to this yachting destination in all its glory — Try sailing in an exotic paradise: all about French Polynesia.
7. Catana 47, Hudson, French Polynesia
Catana 47
On the Catana 47 Hudson catamaran in French Polynesia, you will find everything you need for a fantastic holiday — solar panels, air conditioning, outdoor GPS plotter, bimini, barbecue... The maximum capacity is 10 people, but we recommend it for 8.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Compared to other catamarans, the Catana 47 has a slightly deeper draft (2.5 metres), so you'll need to keep a close eye on the depth below the surface.
This boat is available on the beautiful island of Raiatea in French Polynesia, which is located right next to the famous island of Bora Bora, offering great sailing.
The view in Bora Bora
8. Practical and luxurious: the Lagoon 46, Sol Griso, Cuba
Lagoon 46, Sol Griso
The Lagoon 46 is a new, modern and spacious catamaran. The 6 cabins comfortably accommodate up to 10 people and it comes equipped with solar panels, air conditioning and a generator that produces drinking water from salt water. As a result, you won't be needing water refills at marinas or jetties for your entire holiday. Those who prefer a bit of comfort will appreciate the luxury of reclining behind the helm station.
With the Lagoon 46, you can sail the pristine seas around Cuba with magnificent landscapes you won't encounter anywhere else. You'll find the boat at the Marina Marlin in Santiago de Cuba.
9. Sailing yacht: the Oceanis 46, Saint Lucia
Sailing yacht Oceanis 46
Oceanis sailboats are among the most popular in the charter industry because they are modern, comfortable and have great handling characteristics. As standard, you'll get a mainsail, generator, bimini and a bow thruster as well as air conditioning/heating. This Oceanis 46 is looked after by the charter company SunSail, which is one of the most attentive and reliable. So you can put any concerns you may have about the technical condition of the boat behind you. The boat accommodates up to 8 persons in 3 cabins.
The Oceanis 46 is anchored on the island of St. Lucia in the Lesser Antilles, nicknamed the diamond of the Caribbean. The scenery here is beautiful and diverse — you'll encounter thermal waterfalls, rainforests, palm beaches and enjoy a rich underwater life while snorkelling. An interesting fact is the presence of the rare, almost extinct Amazon parrot, which is said to only live in the wild on this island.
There are many other islands around St Lucia reachable by boat, including St Vincent, Tobago Cays and Mustique.
YACHTING.COM TIP: If you're going to sail the Caribbean, and get the most out of the fascinating and varied underwater life, pack a snorkel, fins and a mask. But you can still enjoy it at shallow depths without all the scuba gear. The Caribbean coral reefs are full of colourful fish and sealife, where you can encounter manta rays, sea turtles and various species of sharks. Just pick a spot with clear shallow water, anchor and go exploring.
10. Intimate: the Dufour 390 GL, TEMERITY, Bahamas
Dufour 390 GL, TEMERITY
If you want privacy on your exotic cruise and don't want to be in a large group of people, this smaller sailboat is ideal. With a capacity of 6 people, we recommend it for two couples or a family with one or two children. The Dufour 390 GL TEMERITY is equipped with a self-tacking jib for easy handling and the crew will definitely appreciate the air conditioning during hot nights.
Officially known as the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, this country consists of more than 3,000 islands, cays, and islets in the Atlantic Ocean. As well as being a paradise for sailors, this popular tropical destination southeast of Florida offers a wealth of other activities, including visiting historic sites and any kind of watersport you can imagine. At the popular "Pig Beach" on Big Major Cay, you must try swimming with the wild pigs. It's an experience you'll never forget.
Try more exotic sailing destinations. You won't regret it. We'll be happy to arrange a boat for you. Get in contact.
