The top 5 destinations for family vacations on a boat

What has become of family vacations? And what are the best destinations?

The days of playing board games and “I spy” seem long gone, replaced by hours of solitary Netflix binge-watching and staring at our smartphones. But we’ll show you that there’s another way with the most beautiful destinations for family vacations: namely, by getting closer on a boat.

Well, we have good news for you: a sailing vacation with the whole family can easily change that. A family vacation on a boat is one of the last types of vacation that combines true commitment, a feeling of togetherness, and an adventure for a memorable family vacations on a boat experience.

Sure, most boats these days can be chartered with optional Wi-Fi, but a sailing vacation also guarantees sunny skies, relaxing beaches, and secluded islands that your family will surely prefer to their cell phones. On a sailing trip, you’ll have the chance to see dolphins, go snorkeling, and cook together in the magnificent Mediterranean sunset, making it an ideal choice for family vacations on a boat.

Sometimes it’s hard to fit the words “family-friendly” and “relaxing vacation getaway” into the same sentence. But we’re going to prove you wrong.

Menorca, Spain

Hidden away from the tourist traps and party madness of Ibiza and Mallorca, Menorca is the perfect family vacation destination in Spain. Idyllic beaches with sparkling sand and crystal-clear water offer the perfect playground for the whole family.

For a relaxing beach getaway, go to Cala’n Bosch; a sheltered bay surrounded by pine forests can be found in Cala Macarella; and Pregonda offers fantastic snorkeling and diving trips. With local family businesses all over the island, you will always find the perfect dinner for the kids and yourself.

The interior of the island is crisscrossed by beautiful hiking trails and sleepy island villages, perfect for adventurous day trips. On the coast, you will find Mahon and Ciudadela, charming Spanish towns full of elegant yet cozy restaurants, beautiful harbors, and boutiques to explore.

Crete, Greece

The Greek island of Crete is known for its endless sandy beaches, beautiful ancient chapels, and excellent hiking trails. Compared to many of the surrounding islands, Crete exudes a relatively uncommercial atmosphere with its relaxed evenings and somewhat more laid-back restaurants.

Destinations such as Rethymno (on the north coast of Crete) and Chania (in the west) welcome families of all sizes. Particularly popular are the delicious homemade dishes of the so-called “taverns,” which cater to every palate, chestnut villages where you can enjoy freshly roasted nuts, and even glassblowers at work. Discover the incredible Greek cuisine by boat.

During the day, you can take a digestive stroll to visit historical landmarks such as the Sultan Ibrahim Han Mosque, or spend hours shopping for local handicrafts and leather goods.

While Greece has now achieved mainstream status, sailing vacations for families here are still an affordable alternative and extremely good for the local economy. So grab your family and charter a yacht in Greece now!

Split, Croatia

Split is one of the largest cities on the Adriatic coast and one of the most popular destinations for family sailing vacations in Croatia. And while its size ensures that all your family’s needs are met, the surrounding mountain landscapes, ancient ruins, and a mix of modern and ancient architecture will captivate you.

Split has an excellently equipped harbor and a wealth of resources, and children are very welcome here. Split’s beaches are perfect for building sandcastles, and the breathtaking national parks will keep any adventurous teenager busy for hours.

With many sports on offer, such as windsurfing, water parks, snorkeling, and whitewater rafting, Split is the perfect Croatian family vacation destination. One of our top tips is to visit Split in June and September, when it is less hot and the crowds are not too large.

Bodrum, Turkey

With picturesque seaside resorts, white sandy beaches, and affordable accommodation, Bodrum is a Turkish holiday destination that is extremely family-friendly. Travel costs in Turkey are relatively low, and the facilities in Bodrum—optimized for a dynamic tourist flow—will not disappoint.

Bodrum’s lively old town offers countless family-friendly restaurants and boutiques, and the surrounding beautiful nature will amaze your children as you explore the countryside with them. With many hidden coves and beaches, you can set sail with peace of mind and escape the crowds for some precious family time.

Sardinia, Italy

With nearly 2,000 km of coastline to explore, some of Italy’s most beautiful beaches, and an endless, crystal-clear ocean, Sardinia is an adventure paradise for the whole family. Check out this complete 6-day itinerary in Sardinia.

Drop anchor in turquoise waters, slide down the dunes of the Costa Verde, or relax in one of the picturesque coves of the Costa del Sud. The surrounding mountain landscapes are perfect for hiking and day trips, with coastal trails, limestone cliffs, and more than enough oak forests to explore. With excellent seafood, welcoming villages, and a vibrant history that will keep your children engaged, Sardinia is one of our favorite destinations for a family vacation.

Now that you know some of the best places for a family vacation in the Mediterranean, all you need is a boat!

Not sure which boat to charter for a family sailing vacation?

Catamarans between 12 and 15 meters are the perfect family sailboat for groups of 4 to 8 people. Catamarans have two hulls, which makes them more stable and easier to maneuver. In addition, catamarans travel at a speed of about 6 knots, which makes the trip easy and relaxed for the whole family (for comparison, motorboats travel at about 25 to 50 knots and cruise ships at about 20 to 30 knots).

A particular advantage of a family sailing vacation on a catamaran is the relative comfort inside the catamaran. Multiple decks, sun decks, and a cabin optimized for comfortable sleeping mean that even when you’re out on the water, you’re still traveling in the cozy comfort of an environment similar to your own home.

If you would like a specific recommendation, take a look at the Lagoon 450 catamaran. Lagoon is a trusted brand for seaside vacations, and this particular model is loved for its spacious cockpit, which has been optimized for sunbathing, its luxurious interior, and its ability to guarantee a dynamic and smooth journey.

Even if family sailing vacations require different speeds or sizes, there is always a gulet or motorboat that can meet your needs. Remember, the boat should serve your family, not the other way around!

Take a look at our current discounted boats that are perfect for your next family vacation and start packing your bags!