With the global pandemic having disrupted so many travel plans in 2020, this year is set to be much more positive for our clients. A yacht charter is always the most luxurious way to travel, but in the era of COVID it is also the safest, promising a protected bubble in which you can travel between all your favourite destinations, with dedicated staff onboard to cater to your every need. However, with certain travel restrictions still in place, there has been confusion about where people can travel from their place of residence.
For those wondering ‘where can I travel from the Middle East in 2021’ in order to enjoy a yacht charter, YACHTZOO has the answers below.
Where can I travel from the Middle East for a yacht charter?
The Middle East has breathtaking yacht charter destinations on its doorstep, with easy access to the African coast and the Indian Ocean. At the same time, destinations further afield, such as the Mediterranean, are also opening their borders to people travelling from the Middle East who have been vaccinated or can provide a negative COVID test.
Red Sea
Charters on the Red Sea have become very popular in recent years, and for good reason. With a long and beautiful coastline stretching over the western shore of the Gulf of Aqaba and along the eastern coast of mainland Egypt, featuring stunning beaches, exciting national parks ranging from verdant to mountainous, and important historical landmarks, the Red Sea has something for everyone. For those already living in the Middle East, it is also an extremely convenient charter destination.
To explore enchanting Oman, visitors can acquire a 10-day tourist visa with just a negative PCR test upon arrival. The capital, Muscat, is steeped in history, while the fjords of Khasab are the perfect place for dolphin spotting.
To visit vibrant Dubai, guests must be able to present a negative COVID‑19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure and also test negative for COVID upon arrival in most cases.
The Maldives
Bright white sands and secluded lagoons are the basis for this paradisiacal destination, where you’ll find over 1,000 coral islands to explore. Endless beaches promise ultimate relaxation, while thrill-seekers can enjoy world-class diving, surfing, kayaking and more. Our yacht charter travel advice here is to make sure you try snorkeling at least once, with thousands of different species of sea life residing in the waters.
Visitors to the Maldives must present a negative COVID PCR test carried out at least 96 hours before they travel, and must complete a Traveller Health Declaration form. Those who have proof of vaccination do not need to provide a negative test.
The Seychelles
If you are still wondering ‘where can I travel from the Middle East’, consider the breathtaking Seychelles. Located at the midpoint between Africa and Asia, and boasting luscious rainforests, some of the world’s finest beaches, and lively cultural attractions, this exclusive collection of islands is heaven on earth.
Our yacht charter travel advice would be to seek approval from the Health Authorities before you book, and take a PCR test 72 hours before arrival to prove your negative result.
Mediterranean Destinations
The Mediterranean is perhaps the most iconic yachting playground of all, and although some countries in this region may still have strict travel restrictions in place, others are beginning to open up to visitors from the Middle East for the summer season.
To explore the historical wonders of Croatia, you will need a negative PCR or rapid antigen test result undertaken in the previous 48 hours, proof of a vaccination, or a certificate of recovery following a positive test result between 11 and 180 days prior.
Meanwhile, to cruise Greece’s idyllic island groups, you will need proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test, undertaken 72 hours before departure, or proof of vaccination.
All the information in this article is correct at the time of writing. Please submit a yacht charter enquiry to our brokers to learn the latest yacht travel destinations open to the Middle East and measures taken for safe travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.
