Why yachts are best for summer Mediterranean cruises

One thing strikes you when you visit the small bays and coves of the French Riviera in summer: the number of sailing and motor yachts anchored off the coastline. Families, couples or groups of friends, enjoy a crisp glass of rosé or some grilled sardines on deck. Some merrily swim around the vessels, others have rigged a windsurf and plane over the waves.

That’s the yachting way of life. For many, this is how to experience the Mediterranean in summer. The hidden creeks, sleepy towns and intimate harbours of the Mediterranean coastline on the other hand, provide a heavenly refuge. These are the places out of reach of the large megaships that increasingly define the cruising experience.

At anchor, the soft breeze keeps you cool – and if that isn’t enough, you can freshen up in the deep-blue Mediterranean water. On land, smaller ports are delightfully quiet – no endless queues under a scorching sun, just shaded piazzas, traditional buildings with thick stone walls keeping the heat out and seafront promenades swept by the cooling wind.

Yachting without the downsides

And if you want to experience the yachting lifestyle without the drawbacks of yacht ownership – from mooring to maintenance – Windstar Cruises is the ideal starting point. The line has done things differently since the 1980s. Its fleet of elegant motor and sailing ships offer an experience that feels like a private yacht with itineraries that go deeper into destinations.

Of course, Windstar Cruises’ yachts are larger than the small vessels you see bobbing along the Mediterranean coastline. But don’t be mistaken, this is a true yachting experience. Capacity ranges from 148 to 342 guests, many itineraries call at smaller, off-the-beaten-track ports and the onboard experience is personalised with a crew that truly knows your name.

Then, there’s the marina, giving guests direct access to the water. You can dive straight in for a swim or use some of Windstar Cruises' equipment: kayaks, sailboats, stand-up paddle boards, snorkelling gear, brand new Aquabanas, floating cabanas featuring bar seats, plunge pools and more. If you’ve never cruised before, being able to be at sea level and get in the water straight from an onboard platform revolutionises the cruising experience. And if you prefer a traditional swimming pool, there is one on board too.

Itineraries that make a difference

Take the Treasure Troves of Corsica & Sardinia voyage, departing on 20 August. While many sailings will feature a port call in either the French or the Italian island, Windstar Cruises built the cruise purely around both. Over seven nights, you stop in five phenomenal ports, including Corsica’s Bonifacio where you can take in the impressive views of the clifftop citadel town from the sea. It's a favourite with yachters from France and Italy – and a place large ships can’t access.

The cruise also includes an overnight stay in Sardinia’s Alghero, giving you plenty of time to explore the Old Town, with its ancient walls and cobbled streets. On the Italian island, Golfo Aranci is another highlight. From this charming former fishing village, you can go on dolphin watching tours, hike Capo Figari with its World War II fortification, enjoy a drink at one of the cafes of the vibrant waterfront or the stunning Costa Smeralda which lies nearby.

Best of all on this Treasure Troves of Corsica & Sardinia cruise, the marina will be in operation at three of the stops, meaning you have plenty of opportunities for water sports and fun in the water.

Other highlights of the Windstar Cruises summer Mediterranean season include:

Adriatic Icons & Venetian Treasures, which combines some iconic ports (Venice, Dubrovnik and Kotor) with hidden gems like Piran in Slovenia and Rovinj, Zadar and Hvar in Croatia

Jewels of the Italian & French Rivieras, another sailing offering a mix of old favourites like Cannes and Genoa, with more intimate, harder to reach stops such as Monte Carlo, Portofino and Porto Ercole

Sicilian Splendors which – as its name suggests – focuses on the southern Italian island (stopping in Trapani, Porto Empedocle and Siracusa), while also taking you to Sorrento, Amalfi, Lipari and Malta (where the ship calls at Gozo and Valletta)

Life on board with Windstar Cruises

The Windstar Cruises experience is as much about life on board as it is about the destinations. The sailings have a feeling of easy-going luxury: sophisticated, but never pompous. These cruises attract well-travelled guests who prioritise relaxation, exploration and cultural immersion.

Don’t expect casinos or high-octane shows. A sailing with Windstar Cruises is about connection. Think al-fresco dinners, live music, engaging talks with experts and excursions focused on local culture.

Dining is also a highlight, with freshly prepared dishes made – where possible – with local and sustainable ingredients. And on every sailing, you can look forward to a deck barbecue – a signature event – followed by an evening of entertainment under the stars.

If you’re looking to experience the true essence of the Mediterranean this summer, sailing with Windstar Cruises is an absolute must.

For more information and to find your ideal Mediterranean summer escape, visit the Windstar Cruises website.