As the Mediterranean yachting season winds down and autumn approaches, BOAT catches up with leading charter brokerage firm Moravia Yachting to explore the current market landscape and highlight some of the finest yachts available.
With coastlines spanning thousands of kilometres, bustling towns, secluded coves and centuries of fascinating history, the Mediterranean is arguably one of the most popular yacht charter destinations. According to Moravia, this year’s charter season has been particularly successful. “Our savvy clients, as always, secured their 2024 bookings back in 2023, allowing them to lock in 2023 rates and select their ideal yacht from a tailored shortlist,” explains William Molloy, head of retail charter at Moravia.
“The second quarter of 2024 was quiet for a couple of months, but fortunately, last-minute bookings picked up in June and July, possibly due to poor European weather,” charter broker Roy Posthuma notes. But despite the slow start to the season, Molloy noted a significant surge in activity following the yacht shows at the start of the season, leading to what has become Moravia's “best year yet” so far.
An Indian summer charter
There's still time to experience the Mediterranean's beauty this summer with Moravia's exceptional fleet. Highlights include the 85.6-metre, five-deck HBC and the 85.3-metre explorer yacht Bold. For art enthusiasts, the 78.4-metre Amaryllis, available in the South of France and Corsica, features award-winning interior décor by Reymond Langton. Alternatively, the 47.4-metre sloop Hyperion is perfect for those looking to fulfil their summer sailing fantasies.
But west isn’t always best when it comes to yachting in the Mediterranean. Brimming with untouched hidden gems, the eastern Mediterranean has rapidly gained popularity in recent years, with its picture-perfect beaches, sparkling turquoise waters and abundant yachting amenities. Moravia boasts a rare gem available to charter across the region that can accommodate 36 guests, the 106.5-metre Dream. Alternatively, the 42.6-metre tri-deck Lady I excels, with availability in Greece, Turkey and the undiscovered bays of Albania and a crew of nine comprising a masseuse, manicurist, fisherman and singer, all of whom collectively speak five languages.
Chasing the sun
As the Mediterranean season draws to a close, Moravia presents a wealth of autumn options in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with thousands of kilometres of stunning coastline. “I already have clients discussing winter charters in the Caribbean, as well as those planning for next year in the familiar Mediterranean spots,” says Posthuma. “Some clients seek something new or more remote, like French Polynesia.”
In the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Moravia offers the 65-metre Codecasa, Eternity, ideal for active charter guests with its sundeck gym and extensive selection of water toys. For a more intimate experience, Nauta Yachts’ 23.9-metre sailing yacht Mindfulness is perfect for island-hopping and provides a cosy getaway for a party of six.
While Moravia anticipates a busy autumn and winter season, some brokers have noticed a shift in client behaviour. “Interest remains strong, but many clients are taking more time to commit,” notes charter broker Lea Tintaud-Abbas. “This trend reflects the careful consideration clients are giving to their plans, as they focus on securing the perfect experience that aligns with their desires and offers the best value.”
Moravia has expanded its offerings to meet these evolving preferences, including exclusive itineraries catering to a wide range of interests - from gourmet culinary experiences with onboard chefs to exciting water sports and island-hopping adventures. “We have also invested in sustainability initiatives,” Tintaud-Abbas adds, “ensuring that our charters not only deliver luxury but also minimise environmental impact, in line with the growing demand for eco-conscious travel.”
Moravia works closely with each client to create a bespoke charter itinerary tailored to their every need. Whether it's fulfilling a lifelong dream of exploring a wreck 200 metres below the surface in a submersible or diving with whale sharks off the coast of Tanzania, Moravia goes above and beyond to ensure that each yacht charter is everything the client envisioned. The team of brokers, who come from backgrounds in yachting and high-end corporate hospitality, are driven by their passion to deliver exceptional service.
“With the support of the Hill Robinson Group, which operates in 12 locations worldwide, there’s truly no challenge in the yachting world that we can't overcome,” says Molloy.
To find out more about the yachts in this article, or Moravia Yachting’s charter brokerage services, contact the team today.
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