SYT has searched far and wide across the globe to find the best hidden gem charter locations for 2022. With more and more people requesting idyllic secret destinations, we have found the best off the beaten track charters in the Mediterranean and beyond. 
Croatia & Montenegro
Kicking off our list from across the globe is Europe, one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the summer months. Although this is a sought-after location for cruising, there still remain some secret spots and exceptionally beautiful islands with beaches that are only accessible by boat. The islands and coastlines of Croatia and Montenegro are able to provide a unique experience with historic towns, sandy beaches, stunning scenery and buzzing nightlife.
A perfect starting point for Croatia is the mountainous Bay of Kotor, where you can sample fresh lobster on a terrace whilst taking in the views. If you are feeling adventurous, you can climb the trail that weaves up the hill to the imposing St John's Fortress for a spectacular view. On the mainland, stroll around the walls of Dubrovnik, then shop for artisan specialities, from ceramics to award-winning olive oil. Then island-hop from one spectacular location after another, from glamorous Hvar to unspoilt Mljet National Park and beautiful Brač.
Burgess' Charter Broker, Seonaid Thomas says “Dubrovnik is spellbinding with its white walls and almost Disney-like quality, and the island of Hvar with its buzzing social scene in the summer months are the big attractions, as well as the Krka River falls further to the north.”
Photo: Faruk KaymakFrom there you’ll find the small island of Biševo, which is home to some of the country’s most famous caves such as Modra Špilja, which means ‘Blue Cave’. At the last count, only 15 residents lived on this tiny Croatian island, just five kilometres from the larger and more popular island of Vis. Long known to fishermen, the cave has only been accessible to the non-diving public since 1884 when an entrance large enough for a boat was formed by blasting a hole in the rock. The sunlight passes through an underwater opening making the caves glow bright blue and the water shimmer in shades of silver and pink. This heavenly site is the perfect place to snap a jaw-dropping photo of some magical nature.
Photo: Bluefin LedThe best times to visit Croatia are between May and June or September to October. To book a charter vacation here you can head to charter brokerage company Burgess to find out more.
Taiwan
Asia is becoming an up and coming contender for yacht charter destinations, with countries such as Thailand growing in popularity for superyachts. There are still a large number of locations that are yet to be infiltrated by mass tourism. The mountainous island of Taiwan is one of those and takes influence from Chinese, Western and Japanese cultures to create a sensational and rich environment. Taiwan has something for everyone making it the perfect destination for nature lovers, foodies, thrill-seekers, shoppers and beach goers.
Photo: Andy WangFor an extremely unique experience, the Penghu islands offers white sandy beaches, coral reefs galore as well as ancient Japanese architecture, nature reserves and picturesque fishing villages. The archipelago of 90 islands is located in the Taiwan strait and is a perfect hidden gem.
Photo: Andrew HaimerlFor those looking to become one with nature during their charter, the Datan Algal Reef is located along the northwest coast of Taiwan. The reef is home to an endangered coral reef, and to a large population of moray eels, crabs and the endangered green sea turtle.There are still many unexplored questions about this amazing reef and many unknown marine creatures await to be uncovered, so why not book your next charter with Camper and Nicholsons to see what you discover.
Photo: Rivergate Marina & ShipyardFrench Polynesia
The next location on our list of destinations is hidden in the waters of Oceania, where secluded islands are plentiful and the sailing conditions are amongst the best in the world. The small islands of French Polynesia make for an exciting charter, surrounded by protected anchorages, warm clear waters and beautiful scenery that remains unmatched. For those looking for something a little more off the beaten path, French Polynesia allows you to explore the contrast from deep blue sea to the lush green tropical rainforest and virgin mountain peaks. It is a tropical island, full of unspoiled beauty, where palm trees outnumber people with French cuisine to die for.
Photo: Tomas Gonzalez de RosenzweigWhilst it is fair to say that all the islands of French Polynesia are worth visiting, the island of Taha’a is really worth exploring. Here you will find stunning inland scenery, endless beaches and some of the best views of Bora Bora you will ever see. If you arrive in the deep lagoon of Bora Bora by lunch time, you can anchor in the clear waters into the sand 60 feet below. You can book your next charter here with Y.CO, as swimming in the deserted Bora Bora lagoon is a must. As the sun sets for the evening you can head ashore for a drink at the famous Bloody Mary’s bar or a cocktail at the famous Bora Bora Hotel.
Photo: Dave ShawFrench Polynesia is suitable for the first time charter guest who would like to enjoy a variety of activities, experience world-class diving and get away from it all.
Photo: Vania MedinaMexico
Central and North America is home to the Caribbean islands, a hugely popular sailing destination in the winter months. However, there still remain parts of North America that are not as populated with visitors and remain hidden gems. Mexico is a country of endless contrasts, steeped in history and natural beauty, providing a land and seascape of incredible beauty. A country with so much variety, from sun to sea, to mountains and the jungle, the possibilities are endless.
Photo: David NietoImperial Yachts offer charters to some of the most beautiful secluded locations in Mexico, and Mexico’s Sea of Cortez is one of the most stunning cruising grounds in the Americas. It is home to one of the most biodiverse seas on the planet, with waters full of humpback whales, manta rays, leatherback sea turtles, and the world's largest animal, the blue whale.
San Jose Del Cabo is the older and more refined of the two towns of Cabos and is a great location to get away from the crowds. The picturesque, cobblestone streets are rich in architecture and history and surrounded by colonial buildings. The town offers an impressive view of the humpback whales playing whilst you dine at the One & Only Resort. If you are looking for a cultural experience, why not join the locals on the famous Art Walk, or take a Mexican cooking course at the organic farms surrounding San Jose.
Photo: Braden CollumFor those looking for privacy and freedom, Isla Moserrate is the perfect secluded island. The clear waters are home to a variety of fish, where you can snorkel with manta rays and whale sharks near the jagged cliffs and if you are lucky you might spot a grey whale! On a clear night no other lights can be seen as you converse into the magical night.
Antarctica
Now we couldn’t round off this list for 2022 without adding a winter charter to the list, and what better place to visit than Antarctica! This charter will make you feel like you have fallen into the pages of National Geographic as you cruise through mysterious glacier bays surrounded by whales and seals. This charter is definitely a hidden gem as Antarctica is only accessible on board a yacht.
Photo: James EadesA definite must on this adventure is Deception Island, which sits above an active volcano. The previous remains of a whaling station, but is now used by the scientific community for research purposes, it is one of the only locations in the world where you can travel through an active volcano. As well as this, it is home to the chinstrap penguin who can be seen whilst cruising the area. If you fly into King George Island on the Antarctic Peninsula you will find giant icebergs and migrating whale pods en route. A great ‘one of a kind’ charter with Fraser will take you to Port Lockroy, and help you find the southernmost British postbox in the world, which you can even send a postcard home from!
Photo: Cassie MatiasThe best times to visit Antarctica are between October and March when it is considered ‘summer’ as the days are long and the weather is more temperate.