According to BOATPro, there are over 100 explorer yachts currently under construction. This year's Explorer Yachts Summit discussed this stratospheric rise, which signals a shift in owners' tastes from languid, Caribbean cruising to more demanding, remote and rugged terrain.
As shifting regulatory and political landscapes align with this growing sense of adventure, BOAT discovers the destinations most likely to be visited by intrepid owners...
1. Saudi Arabia
This year saw a surge of superyachts striking out for the Red Sea, with the official unveiling of NEOM Sindalah Island a pivotal moment for yachting in the region. This luxury development coincided with the Suez Canal Authority's reduction in transit and berthing fees, signalling a welcome invitation to the superyacht sector. This was further bolstered at the end of 2024 with the first yacht chartering license issued in Saudi Arabia. Beyond logistics and infrastructure, the Red Sea is beckoning yachts such as the 123.2-metre Golden Odyssey with unique cultural offerings that were once inaccessible, such as its internationally acclaimed scuba diving opportunities and five UNESCO World Heritage sites (including the world's largest oasis).
Read More/Saudi Red Sea Authority issues first yacht chartering licenses in Saudi Arabia2. Portugal
Portugal is creeping into the limelight following decades resigned to the periphery of Mediterranean yachting routes. Where nearby destinations have been extensively cruised, this Atlantic coastal destination of Europe remains relatively off the superyacht radar. But things are changing, with Vilamoura Marina opening its doors earlier this year as Portugal’s first dedicated superyacht facility. And it isn’t just the beaches, bays, and surfing spots that Portugal has on offer – but also several world-class cosmopolitan centres. Further north, Lisbon recently made various must-travel lists thanks to its vibrant pace and areas brimming with high-quality eateries. As a place to cruise in 2025, Portugal also offers multiple attractive outposts, such as the Azores and Madeira; beyond the mainland, these archipelagos present more adventure for those wanting to continue far from the crowds.
Read More/Vilamoura announces new superyacht marina in Portugal3. Japan
Spanning over 7,000 islands and stretching 30,000 kilometres of coastline, Japan hasn’t had many superyachts grace its waters; however, that is anticipated to change. Offering year-round cruising thanks to its temperate northern and sub-tropical southern climates, Japan is home to vibrant cities as well as secluded, peaceful bays. Previous yacht activity here has been limited due to challenging logistics, but recently relaxed regulations on immigration, customs and quarantine for foreign-flagged yachts are likely to give rise to curious cruisers. As one of Asia-Pacific’s exciting emerging superyacht destinations, Japan is poised to welcome more yachts that want to combine natural wonders, top-tier food scenes and cultural adventures on a cruising itinerary.
Read More/How Osaka’s sophisticated food scene and intoxicating culture is a feast for the senses4. Greenland
In recent years, Greenland has increased in popularity thanks to the ever-growing appetite for untouched adventure away from the typical yachting hubs. Cruising here offers a wealth of activities, from the fjord-lined coastline and the helicopter-accessible ski slopes to the icy waters brimming with Arctic wildlife. And due to Greenland’s challenging landscapes, the best route is to explore is always via the water.
5. Cocos Islands
The Cocos Islands, flung 340 miles off Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, will undoubtedly feature in several cruising itineraries in 2025. Only inhabited by park rangers, surrounded by waters packed full of marine life, the mountainous, lush landscapes and intriguing cloud forests make this destination perfect for nature-themed activities, especially under the water. An example is Chatham Bay, which is a marine reserve hailed as one of best diving spots in the world. Yachts anchoring here can enjoy plenty of scuba diving, bird watching, hiking and nature spotting.
6. Chilean Patagonia
With over 6,000 kilometres of coastline and its intricate fjord system, Chilean Patagonia presents an exciting playground for those yachts seeking an adventure. Each year, the region attracts more and more owners, offering a dramatic landscape to cruise, combined with the allure of the gateway to some of the world’s most challenging sailing conditions onward to Antarctica. From exploring the iconic national parks such as Torres del Paine to fishing, horse riding and heli-skiing opportunities, there is plenty to keep adventurous yacht guests entertained.
Read More/Patagonia itinerary: 81m sail yacht Sea Eagle and her epic world tour7. Belize
Belize offers an alternative to the usual crowded Caribbean destinations. The region is becoming increasingly popular and boasts over 400 islands and coral atolls for island-hopping itineraries. Home to the UNESCO-protected Mesoamerican Reef – the second largest reef system globally – Belize offers world-class diving experiences, including the famous Blue Hole. Over 40 per cent of the region is protected as a national park or marine reserve, giving rise to more environmentally conscious cruising. Along with exploring the waters here, there are plenty of rich cultural landscapes, including well-preserved Mayan ruins accessible from the coastline. Relatively undiscovered by the mainstream yachting community, Belize is expected to appear in more cruising plans for 2025 and beyond.
Read More/BOAT Roundtable: How to unleash the potential of Belize as a superyacht destination8. Norway
The northerly latitudes of Norway continue to gain popularity in the yachting scene. With its dramatic, mythical landscapes and Arctic coastlines, Norway is set to feature on various yachting agendas for 2025. From soaring peaks to deep fjords, the midnight sun and northern lights, the country offers plenty of raw natural beauty to soak up from a superyacht. The off-the-beaten-track adventure and opportunities for nature immersion are vast. Most begin an itinerary from the gateway to the fjords: Bergen, continuing up to the Lofoten Islands until they reach Svalbard, populated by polar bears.
9. Indonesia
South East Asia is increasingly featured on superyacht cruising itineraries, with Indonesia standing out as the favourite for next year. Boasting over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers endless opportunities for expeditions. Over the years, more yachts have been gracing these waters in popular locations such as Komodo National Park and the islands of Raja Ampat, gaining significant traction. This destination trend will continue into 2025, with more yachts flocking to enjoy some of the world’s most remote and biodiverse marine ecosystems. Additionally, a new marina in Bali is scheduled to launch in the summer of 2025, capable of accommodating 50 superyachts with berths up to 90 metres.
10. Antarctica
The world’s final frontier, Antarctica is sure to be on many bucket lists going into 2025. This extraordinary and once-in-a-lifetime yachting experience, accessible only to true explorers (and ice-classed hulls), has seen a surge in visits over recent years, with yachts such as the 47.8-metre Hanse Explorer embarking on adventures in the 2024 season and returning for the 2025/2026 season. These expeditions have been key in putting this uncharted region on the yachting map. An itinerary here is flexible, with routes expected to adapt dependent on weather and ice conditions. However, expected activities can include kayaking alongside penguin colonies and whale spotting from the bow to the famous polar plunge, all under the guidance of onboard experts.
Read More/Antarctica by superyacht: The only way to travel to the bottom of the world