Discover the Charm of the West Mediterranean Charter Business

By some estimates, three-quarters of the world’s charter business occurs every summer in the Mediterranean, with the West Med, including the French and Italian Rivieras, standing out as the most popular region within this sought-after destination.

The allure of the West Med lies in its unique blend of continuity and change. Many towns and buildings, standing for centuries, have transformed from family chateaus to public museums. Iconic events like the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix mark the season’s start each May, attracting ever more impressive superyachts and A-list celebrities.

One notable yacht in the Ocean Independence charter fleet is the 131-foot Tamsen, available this summer along the French and Italian Rivieras and in Spain’s Balearic Isles. Accommodating 10 to 12 guests in five staterooms, the yacht features a main-deck master suite with three walk-in closets, an office, and a bar. Skylights in the salon also serve as a design element on the sun deck’s “dance floor.”

Antibes, France, often serves as the starting point for charters due to its proximity to Nice airport and extensive yacht services. From Antibes, itineraries can follow the coastline or venture to islands like Corsica, Sardinia, and Sicily. Multiweek charters can combine the high-society elegance of St. Tropez with the breathtaking sunset views of distant mountains from Calvi.

The peak season in the West Med—July and August—comes with premium pricing, and some yacht owners require bookings of two weeks or more. To secure a notable yacht, it’s advisable to book six months to a year in advance. Experiencing the West Med on a new yacht offers a unique twist on this classic destination.