All of us at SuperyachtsMonaco extend our warmest wishes for the festive period. This is the time of year when new dreams take shape, and the promise of extraordinary voyages begins to call. From secluded island anchorages to vibrant Mediterranean capitals, chartering a superyacht offers the rare privilege of experiencing the world in complete comfort and freedom. As plans for the year ahead begin to take shape, we invite you to explore the 2026 yacht charter trends defining the next chapter of luxury travel.
What Are the Biggest Yacht Charter Trends in 2026?
Yacht charter trends in 2026 reflect a clear evolution in client expectations. Charter guests are increasingly experienced, well travelled, and discerning in how they approach time on board. Rather than focusing solely on size or novelty, they are prioritising comfort, flexibility, and the overall quality of the experience.
“Today’s charter clientele place a strong emphasis on spacious, at-water level living. Features such as expansive beach clubs, fold-down terraces, and opening hull sections are no longer viewed as optional extras, but as defining elements of a modern charter yacht. At anchor, these areas naturally become the social heart of the vessel, combining shaded relaxation spaces with effortless access to the water, while also providing a highly practical platform for watersports. An overall must-have for a family charter”.
Chris Craven – SYM Charter Broker
This shift in yacht charter trends is strongly reflected in recent superyacht design analysis. In April 2025, Boat International published an article entitled “The aft party: The best superyacht beach clubs in the world”, noting that beach clubs have progressed far beyond simple swim platforms and are now conceived as fully integrated lifestyle spaces, often comparable to private waterfront lounges.
This design approach supports a more relaxed onboard rhythm. Guests move easily between swimming, sunbathing, and dining without the formality traditionally associated with larger yachts. As a result, the yacht feels more intuitive and comfortable to use, encouraging longer stays at anchor and fostering a stronger connection to the surrounding environment.
Pet-Friendly Yacht Charters
Pet-friendly yacht charters are becoming an increasingly important consideration, particularly for clients travelling with small dogs, and now form part of evolving yacht charter trends focused on flexibility and lifestyle.
For many charter guests, pets are an integral part of family life, and the ability to bring them on board contributes to a more relaxed and seamless charter experience. As a result, more Owners are open to accommodating pets, provided clear guidelines are respected. Yachts best suited to pet-friendly charters generally offer generous exterior deck spaces, practical circulation, and layouts that allow pets to remain primarily outdoors.
Good to Know: Pet-Friendly oriented yachts typically require an additional security deposit, proof of up-to-date vaccinations, and agreed limitations on access to certain areas of the yacht, alongside enhanced cleaning procedures.
At SuperYachtsMonaco, pet-friendly charters are managed on a case-by-case basis, with careful yacht selection and transparent communication between client, captain, and owner. Yachts such as LUCIEN, MARTITA and BLEU DE NIMES, may accept pets under specific conditions, reflecting this considered approach.
Which Types of Yachts Are the Most Popular in 2026?
Explorer Yachts
Explorer yachts have become one of the most significant growth segments within the charter market, reflecting a clear shift in how and where clients wish to cruise.
In 2020, fewer than sixty explorer yachts were in production globally. By 2025, that figure had risen to more than 100, with the worldwide explorer yacht fleet now approaching eight hundred vessels.
This sustained growth, representing an increase of more than 35% over five years, points to a broader change that translates to the charter market. As yacht charter trends evolve, clients are increasingly interested in itineraries that extend beyond traditional cruising routes, favouring remote regions, lower traffic areas, and experiences that offer a sense of exploration and privacy.
Explorer yachts are purpose-built for these ambitions, offering extended range, enhanced stability, and the capability to operate comfortably in more challenging environments. This reflects broader yacht charter trends towards exploration, autonomy and desired access to destinations that were previously difficult to reach, while still enjoying the standards of comfort, service, and design expected at the luxury end of the market.
Catamarans
Catamarans continue to gain prominence within the luxury charter market, moving well beyond their traditional perception as purely practical cruising platforms. According to data analysed by Boat International and presented at MYBA/IYBA Summit 2025, the growth of large multihull yachts over the past five years has been particularly striking.
In 2020, the global fleet counted just over twenty catamarans exceeding 24 metres in length. By 2025, that number has increased to more than sixty, representing close to a doubling of the large catamaran fleet in a relatively short period. Overall, the fleet of large catamarans has expanded by almost 100%, with the average length now exceeding 30 metres.
This growth reflects a clear shift in demand, as yacht charter trends show clients increasingly drawn to the inherent advantages of catamarans: significantly greater interior volume, expansive deck spaces, reduced draught allowing access to shallow anchorages, and enhanced stability both underway and at anchor. At the same time, design and build quality have advanced rapidly, with today’s upscale catamarans offering levels of finish, comfort, and onboard amenities comparable to those found on similarly sized motor yachts.
As a result, catamarans are now viewed as a highly versatile charter option, appealing to families, mixed-age groups, and clients seeking a relaxed yet luxurious cruising experience. Despite rising demand, availability at the upper end of the market remains limited, reinforcing their continued appeal heading into the 2026 charter season.
Yachts Charter Trends: Ongoing Priorities
The Desire for Fully Customisable Yacht Itineraries
Fully customisable itineraries are no longer considered a luxury. In 2026, they continue to be an expectation.
“Charter guests increasingly seek experiences designed around their personal interests, whether that involves culinary-focused journeys, wellness retreats, or specialist activities such as diving and underwater photography. The emphasis has shifted towards itineraries that feel personal, flexible, and thoughtfully curated. In support of these ongoing yacht charter trends, SuperYachtsMonaco’s approach centres on translating client preferences into carefully structured itineraries, supported by in-depth regional knowledge and close collaboration with captains and crew”.
Paola Scalabrino – SYM Charter Broker
Where are the Top Trending Yacht Charter Destinations in 2026
Yacht charter trends are equally influencing where clients choose to cruise in 2026, from timeless Mediterranean favourites to more remote and emerging destinations.
West Mediterranean
The West Mediterranean remains one of the most enduring and versatile charter region, combining established infrastructure with varied cruising grounds and reliable summer conditions.
South of France
The South of France continues to anchor the Mediterranean charter season, offering iconic ports, refined dining, and a diverse selection of anchorages. From the glamour of Monaco and Saint-Tropez to quieter stretches of coastline, the region offers both sophistication and flexibility. SuperYachtsMonaco yachts available in the South of France include PLAN B, BLEU DE NIMES, MAVERICK, CHARADE, MARTITA, SONISHI, LUCIEN, and SOULMATE.
40M BENETTI OASIS M/Y MAVERICK
Corsica & Sardinia
In line with yacht charter trends in 2026, Corsica and Sardinia appeal to charter guests seeking a balance between natural beauty and cultural depth. Clear waters, rugged coastlines, and a more relaxed pace make this region well suited to extended summer cruising. Yachts available through SuperYachtsMonaco in this region include PLAN B, BLEU DE NIMES, MAVERICK, SONISHI, LUCIEN, SOULMATE, CHARADE and MARTITA.
Italy
Italy remains a charter classic, offering variety in both cruising style and cultural experience. In Sicily, CHARADE provides access to volcanic landscapes, historic ports, and vibrant cuisine. Along the Amalfi Coast, VAUBAN is well positioned to explore one of Italy’s most visually striking cruising areas.
East Mediterranean
The East Mediterranean offers a compelling alternative to the West, combining rich history with diverse cruising grounds and generally calmer waters. Greece, in particular, stands out with its iconic islands, crystalline anchorages, and cultural depth, making it a natural highlight of the region. LUCIEN, MAVERICK, VAUBAN, BLEU DE NIMES and BELLINI are available in this region, offering a refined platform for Eastern Mediterranean itineraries.
South & Western Pacific
Aligned with current yacht charter trends, the South Pacific continues to attract charter guests seeking remote and immersive cruising experiences, defined by pristine marine environments and a strong sense of exploration. Our charter yacht TELEOST will be traveling throughout the region with access to some of the most remote and beautiful destinations on the planet, New Zealand, the South Pacific, Raja Ampat, Palau, the Kimberley and the Great Barrier Reef, TELEOST promises a truly unforgettable yachting experience.
50M FEADSHIP M/Y TELEOST
During the winter, BLEU DE NIMES is available for charter in the Maldives, Seychelles and Mauritius, allowing guests to explore turquoise lagoons, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. She can also be available in the Middle East and the Red Sea, alongside LUCIEN, offering access to historic ports, desert coastlines, and secluded anchorages.
72M CLELANDS SHIPBUILDING C LTD M/Y BLEU DE NÎMES.
Conclusion: How are Yacht Charter Trends Evolving in 2026?
As we move into 2026, the prevailing yacht charter trends are clear. Charter guests are not simply responding to new yachts or emerging destinations, but to a broader evolution in how time on board is experienced.
The continued emphasis on at-waterlevel living, the rise of explorer yachts and high-end catamarans, and the sustained importance of family-friendly and pet-friendly charters all point to a more experience-driven market. Clients are increasingly well informed and deliberate in their choices.
Against this backdrop, the role of the broker remains essential. Translating these evolving yacht charter trends into a well-executed plan requires detailed market knowledge, careful yacht selection, and an understanding of both established and emerging cruising grounds.
With a global perspective on yacht charter trends and a highly curated fleet, SuperYachtsMonaco continues to support clients in navigating these choices, ensuring each charter is planned with clarity, discretion, and long-term insight.
For personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to SuperYachtsMonaco’s charter brokers and charter management team.
Your Journey, Your Moment, Our Expertise.
