Where to Go on a Yacht in May
The Best Charter Destinations

May is an ideal month for yacht charters, offering warm weather, calm seas, and uncrowded destinations perfect for exploration. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or serene relaxation, Indonesia, Portugal, and Turkey provide amazing charter experiences. This guide delves into the highlights of each destination, ensuring your May charter is nothing short of extraordinary.

Indonesia

Why Visit in May:
May marks the peak of Indonesia’s dry season, with clear skies, calm seas, and vibrant marine life thriving across its 17,000 islands. From the jungles of Sumatra to the coral kingdoms of Raja Ampat, Indonesia is filled with diversity and adventure at every turn.

Top Destinations:

Komodo National Park:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this region is famed for its Komodo dragons and world-class diving. Traverse the rugged islands of Komodo and Rinca, snorkel at Pink Beach, and witness manta rays gliding through coral-rich waters.

Bali & the Gili Islands:
Bali’s cultural heart and beachfront luxury provide a perfect contrast to the secluded Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Meno, and Air), where car-free shores and turquoise lagoons invite relaxation and underwater exploration.

Raja Ampat:
Remote and untouched, this archipelago in West Papua boasts the planet’s richest marine biodiversity. Kayak through hidden caves, dive with wobbegong sharks, and stay in luxury eco-resorts accessible only by boat.

Activities:

• Cultural Immersion: Attend a traditional Balinese Kecak dance or visit Ubud’s sacred Monkey Forest.

• Diving & Snorkeling: Explore WWII wrecks in Tulamben or drift dive through the currents of Nusa Penida.

• Island Hopping: Discover Flores’ volcanic lakes or the Spice Islands’ historic clove plantations.

Booking Tip:
Opt for a liveaboard dive charter in Raja Ampat to maximize time at remote sites, or book a luxury phinisi yacht to experience adventure with comfort.

Portugal

Why Visit in May:
May offers sunlit days and gentle Atlantic breezes, ideal for sailing Portugal’s dramatic coastline before summer crowds arrive. From historic cities to golden beaches, Portugal blends old-world charm with maritime adventure.

Top Destinations:

Algarve Coast:
Cruise from Lagos to Faro, stopping at Benagil Cave’s iconic sea grotto and the secluded beaches of Praia da Marinha. The Sagres cliffs provide breath-taking sunset views.

Lisbon & Cascais:
Dock in Lisbon to explore its hilly streets, tram network, and Belém Tower. Nearby Cascais offers chic seaside dining and the wild beauty of Guincho Beach, a windsurfing hotspot.

Madeira Archipelago:
Known as the “Hawaii of Europe,” Madeira’s volcanic peaks and subtropical forests are best explored by yacht. Dock in Funchal to sample Madeira wine and hike levada trails.

Activities:

• Wine & Gastronomy: Tour the Douro Valley’s vineyards or savour fresh seafood in Algarve’s coastal taverns.

• Water Sports: Surf at Nazaré’s legendary waves or kiteboard in the Tagus estuary near Lisbon.

• Historic Sites: Visit Sintra’s fairytale palaces or the medieval town of Óbidos.

Booking Tip:
Secure berths early in Lagos Marina or Portimão for easy access to the Algarve’s top sites. Luxury catamarans with local chefs are ideal for coastal culinary tours.

Turkey

Why Visit in May:
May’s mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make Turkey’s Turquoise Coast a sailor’s paradise. The blend of ancient ruins, crystal-clear coves, and vibrant bazaars creates a cultural odyssey.

Top Destinations:

Lycian Coast:
Sail from Fethiye to Antalya, stopping at Ölüdeniz’s blue lagoon and the sunken ruins of Kekova. Kas offers boutique shopping and paragliding over Mediterranean vistas.

Bodrum Peninsula:
Combine history and nightlife in Bodrum, home to the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. Anchor in Bitez Bay for windsurfing or Yalıkavak’s upscale marina.

Göcek Archipelago:
With 12 islands and countless coves, Göcek is a haven for tranquillity. Swim in Cleopatra’s Bath or hike through pine forests to ancient Lycian tombs.

Activities:

• Cultural Exploration: Tour Ephesus’s Roman ruins or the mineral terraces of Pamukkale.

• Gulet Cruises: Charter a traditional wooden gulet for a mix of luxury and authenticity, complete with onboard Turkish baths.

• Cuisine: Feast on mezze platters and fresh seafood in coastal towns like Kalkan or Alacati.

Booking Tip:
Book a gulet with a private chef to experience authentic Turkish cuisine and ensure access to smaller ports like Datça or Bozburun.

Planning Your May Yacht Charter
May’s idyllic conditions make it a prime time to explore Indonesia’s jungles, Portugal’s coastlines, or Turkey’s ancient shores. Each destination offers tailored adventures, from wildlife encounters to gastronomic journeys.

Tips for a Successful Charter:

• Book Early: Secure luxury yachts or gulets 6–12 months in advance, especially for peak regions like the Algarve or Komodo.

• Local Guides: Hire experts for wildlife spotting in Indonesia, wine tours in Portugal, or archaeological insights in Turkey.

• Packing Essentials: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, lightweight layers for coastal evenings, and waterproof gear for water sports.

Your May Adventure Awaits
Whether diving with manta rays in Indonesia, savouring port wine in Portugal’s Douro Valley, or tracing history along Turkey’s Lycian Way, a May yacht charter promises memories to last a lifetime.

Contact our charter experts today to craft your dream itinerary.