Borneo
Borneo is the largest island in Asia and the third largest in the world, covering an area of about 750 thousand square kilometers. Its terrain is covered with jungles and tropical forests, while its coastline boasts beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by picturesque reefs. Borneo is home to a mix of different cultures and traditions, as the island is divided between three states: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. For inland tours, South Borneo is great for jungle trekking and river excursions. However, the most stunning places, including the cleanest freshwater lagoons, are located in the north, in the vicinity of the islands of Maratuya, Derawan, and Kakaban.
Chartering a yacht in Borneo comes with some peculiarities. Yachts with a home port in Indonesia must sail under the flag of this country, and most of the crew, including the captain, must be locals. Additionally, a special fee for changing location is required when traveling on such a yacht.
Solomon Islands
Despite the increasing popularity of the South Pacific among superyacht owners, there is still a lot of unexplored territories. The Solomon Archipelago, located just four hours from Australia, is a striking example of this. Spread across hundreds of uninhabited islands, this unspoiled paradise holds many secrets that can only be revealed by anchoring a charter yacht at one of the thousands of secluded beaches.
Since permission is required to visit the islands, it is essential to have a guide on board who speaks the local language. To travel, you will also need to purchase a permit from one of the local companies that own the license for charter sea cruises. The cost of such a permit, including the services of a professional local guide, will be around $5,000 per week.
Alaska
Despite being separated by some 800 kilometers from the main part of the United States, Alaska is considered completely wild and unexplored. The coastline of Alaska is longer than that of the rest of the United States. Sailing to these shores provides the opportunity to encounter whales and huge icebergs. Avid anglers will have the chance to try to hook tackle or traps for catching Dungeness crab, which can be prepared right on the chartered vessel. Alternatively, you can go dog sledding or bear hunting, and visit traditional local villages by landing on the beach.
The Alaska Yachting Authorities require that ships over 400 GT have a valid oil spill response plan and financial responsibility certificate before entering local waters. Additionally, permits are necessary to visit Glacier Bay National Park, Anan Creek Bear Observatory, and Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary. Navigation rules in Alaskan waters depend on the length of the yacht, and vessels from 19 to 53 meters in length can enjoy certain concessions if they submit their applications 30 days before their expected arrival.
Patagonia
Patagonia offers hundreds of water routes from south to north, along with majestic sky-high cliffs and virgin glaciers. These remote locations are abundant in entertainment, including fishing in a high mountain stream, heli-skiing from the slopes of a volcano, whale watching, kayaking, and trekking. Privacy is not a significant issue as there may be no other yachts in the area for weeks. For navigation in the ports of Chile, a pilot is required on all yachts over 50GT, while in the Patagonian fjords, yachts of 200 GT and above must have a pilot present. For 500 GT yachts, two pilots are necessary if the duration of navigation per day exceeds 8 hours. Since the yachting industry in Chile is still underdeveloped, local authorities do not differentiate between own and charter yachts, nor do they charge additional charter fees. However, due to special migration legislation, it is advisable to plan travel routes with a local agent.
Antarctica
Antarctica is the world’s largest wilderness area, and aside from a few scientific stations, including the Ukrainian one that has the world’s southernmost pub, there are no buildings. Traveling on a charter yacht to the shores of this uninhabited continent can be a fantastic experience. You can enjoy views of majestic icebergs with a glass of champagne in the jacuzzi or watch a colony of penguins or humpback whales.
To visit the coast of Antarctica and engage in any activities, including landings and diving, you will need a special permit that takes at least three months to obtain. Only one yacht may visit the region at a time to keep the environment as clean as possible, and a special booking system is necessary, which is part of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators.
Northern Route
The Northern Route, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Canadian Arctic, has recently gained popularity. Discovered by Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen in 1906, this route is still the least used with less than 160 ships transiting through it since its discovery. Yachting experts consider this route the most suitable for those seeking adventure as you can encounter polar bears, narwhals, and beluga whales, and participate in activities such as kayaking and trekking.
To visit places along the Northern Route, it is recommended to go on a trip to the Arctic Circle accompanied by a recognized expedition company. You will need to cooperate with the Eskimos to explore this area.
Wish List
Seychelles, located in the Indian Ocean, is considered a paradise island and is attracting the attention of yacht enthusiasts as they are now safe and free from pirates.
The Galapagos Islands are on the wish list of many people. However, these heavenly places have strict charter rules designed to protect the fragile ecosystem. Only a small number of charter companies offer a trip to the Galapagos accompanied by a guide.
Cruising along the intriguing coastline of Madagascar is a buzzword, but it is difficult to verify rumors in practice due to the lack of charter yachts permanently based in the ports of the island.
