In this article, we bring you our Top 10 list of luxury amenities that you can have on your next charter. Many of the examples shown come from our own inspections of the featured yachts at the recent EMMYS and MEDYS Yach Shows in Poros and Nafplion 2024. Note, that many high-end vessels have lots more than one of these amenities onboard. 

Beach Decks

Luxury yachts are designed not only for adventure but also for ultimate relaxation and enjoyment. A prime example of this is the 95-meter luxury motor yacht O’Pari, as seen in the picture, which epitomizes the ultimate lounging experience with its lower aft deck. Here, guests can step directly out onto a deck that sits at water level, offering easy accessibility to the water and an immersive experience just inches from the sea. This design is ideal for those who wish to combine the comfort of luxurious sunbathing with the thrill of easy water access.

Hydraulic Systems and Swim Decks

Many motor yachts cleverly transform their “garage” spaces into lounging areas. These areas, essentially garage doors, are commonly referred to as “swim platforms” or “teak beaches” and can be hydraulically lowered to the water level, transforming them into a convenient launch pad for water toys or a luxurious lounging area. It essentially serves as a versatile extension of the yacht, enhancing accessibility to the water and providing extra space for relaxation and activities.

Even smaller yachts incorporate similar features. For instance, some yachts and catamarans adapt the area typically used for storing tenders into a dedicated sunbathing zone when anchored. This versatility ensures that even more compact models provide spacious and comfortable lounging areas.

The Bow Area and Trampolines

On catamarans, the main sunbathing area is typically found on the bow. This area is perfect for sunbathing or even for yoga sessions, cocktail parties, or simply enjoying the panoramic views. A notable feature of many catamarans is the trampolines on the foredeck, offering a thrilling spot to lounge while underway, feeling the rush of water beneath and the warmth of the sun above. This feature is particularly popular with children and adds a playful element to the luxury yacht experience.

The Favored Sundeck/Flybridge

The top Sundeck or Flybridge is another area for lounging and often ends up being the guests’ favorite spot to hang out. Being at the very top of the yacht, the flybridge provides the best views and a superb vantage point that can be enjoyed even while the yacht is underway.

9. A Wide Selection of Water Toys—Jet Skis, Seabobs, Wind Surfers, Wakeboards, you name it!

When chartering a yacht, the sea becomes your personal playground, and to truly make the most of your time on the water, opting for a yacht equipped with a diverse range of water toys is key. Whether you’re an adult or a child, a seasoned water sports enthusiast, or a beginner eager to try something new, the variety of water toys available can cater to every preference and skill level.

A Toy for Everyone…

From exhilarating windsurfing and kite surfing to wakeboarding, water skiing, foiling, and jet skiing, there’s no shortage of activities to fuel your adrenaline. For those looking for a bit more fun without the intense effort, toys like donuts and bananas provide thrilling experiences. Scuba diving equipment is also commonly found on yachts, especially in regions like the Caribbean, which are renowned for their underwater beauty.

The Most Popular Water Toy

Did you know that the Seabob is currently the most sought-after water toy? Its popularity stems from the unparalleled freedom it offers while cruising underwater or skimming the surface. Nearly all luxury yachts are equipped with them, but for those few that aren’t, they can be rented for an additional fee. Keep in mind, though, that renting a Seabob can be quite expensive if it’s not already included in the charter fee.

Jet skis and Licenses – make sure to inquire!

Many motor yachts now include jet skis; however, it’s important to check if a license is required to operate them in your chosen destination. For those interested in learning or improving their skills in any water sport, many yachts offer the option of having an instructor onboard. This is an excellent way to safely try new activities under expert supervision.

See All Yacht Charters with Jet Skis ➧

Scuba Gear – less common in Greece

While dive equipment is less common in places like Greece, it is available and can be included upon request. For guests without a diving license, yachts can facilitate rendezvous diving or provide an onboard instructor to guide you through the process.

8. Onboard Gym – Option for Personal Trainers & Yoga Instructors

Gyms onboard charter yachts are becoming increasingly common as guests look to maintain their fitness routines even while indulging in the luxury and relaxation of a yacht vacation. These fitness areas are meticulously designed to maximize the use of space and typically offer a range of equipment that rivals high-end land-based facilities.

One of the standout features of onboard gyms is their location. Many are situated with large windows or on upper decks, providing panoramic views of the ocean and surroundings. Exercising as you gaze out at the sea can be a uniquely serene and invigorating experience.

In addition to traditional indoor gyms, some yachts expand the fitness experience outdoors. Yoga mats, weights, and even temporary setups for group fitness classes can be found on the deck, allowing guests to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while working out.

Equipment Variety

Most yacht gyms are equipped with essential cardio equipment like treadmills and stationary bikes, along with resistance machines and free weights for strength training. You might also find specialized equipment such as rowing machines, ellipticals, and sometimes even Pilates reformers.

To keep workouts engaging, many yacht gyms are equipped with advanced technology. This includes integrated sound systems for music, air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature, and sometimes even virtual reality fitness programs.

Personal Trainers & Yoga Instructors

It is not uncommon to find yachts that provide the services of a certified personal trainer. These trainers offer customized workout programs designed to meet your individual fitness objectives, enhancing the personalization of your experience. Additionally, it’s possible to have a yoga instructor on board who can organize sessions not only on the yacht but also on picturesque beach settings, adding a serene and scenic element to your wellness routine.

Equipment Customization for Charters

For charter guests with specific fitness needs or preferences, yachts can often customize the gym’s setup. This might mean bringing aboard additional equipment for the duration of the charter or ensuring that dietary preferences to support fitness goals are catered for by the onboard chef.

7. Onboard Cinemas

Movie theaters or cinemas onboard luxury yachts provide an exceptional entertainment experience, merging the comforts of private screening rooms with cutting-edge technology. These onboard cinemas are outfitted with the latest in audio-visual technology, including 4K and 3D projectors, surround sound systems, and sometimes even IMAX setups to create an incredibly immersive viewing experience.

The seating in these theaters is crafted for utmost comfort and luxury, often featuring plush leather recliners with personal space and integrated controls for lighting, audio, and personalized climate settings. Some seats may even include motion effects to enhance the cinematic experience further.

Attention to detail extends to the environment within the cinema, with controlled lighting options that can be dimmed to suit the mood and acoustic treatments to optimize sound quality, ensuring that every scene is as impactful as intended. These private cinemas also offer a range of programming choices, from the latest blockbuster releases to classic films, tailored to the preferences of guests onboard, making each viewing a unique and luxurious experience.

Watch Movies Under the Stars

Where indoor cinemas are good for hideaway movie screenings and gaming sessions, on-deck cinemas provide a unique and memorable experience, allowing guests to watch films under the stars. This outdoor cinema setup takes advantage of a yacht’s spacious deck areas, transforming them into a magical movie-going venue with a backdrop of either the open sea or a scenic anchorage.

Movie Projected Onto the Cliffs

At the East Med Yacht Show 2024 in Poros, Captain Giannis Gartzonikas of Motor Yacht Nineteen revealed one of his favorite ways to treat clients. He loves taking them along the west coast of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea, one of his absolute favorite charter destinations in Greece. There, he anchors the yacht stern-to, tied to the rocks, turning the towering white cliffs into a natural movie screen. Guests can kick back and enjoy films projected onto this spectacular backdrop from the comfort of the yacht’s back deck, perfectly merging top-notch entertainment with the incredible scenery of Kefalonia.

6. Bar & Professional Bartender

Onboard yachts, the bar is where the party’s at, especially if you’re cruising with friends or colleagues. It’s essential to have a fully equipped bar, complete with a professional bartender who’s ready to shake up some magic and whip out drinks to match everyone’s tastes. Whether it’s crafting the perfect martini or mixing a cocktail tailored just for you, having a pro behind the bar turns every sip into a celebration.

And let’s not forget the bar itself, often set in the yacht’s prime spot with killer views, making it the perfect place to lounge, chat, and toast to the good life.

Themed Nights & Cocktail Parties

Some yachts offer themed nights or cocktail hours, where the bar becomes the centerpiece of entertainment. These can range from sophisticated wine tastings to lively tropical nights, each designed to enhance the cruise experience and create unforgettable memories. Consider chartering a yacht with a good bar for events and celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, or even company parties!

Bars on Catamarans

Bars on “smaller” yachts, particularly catamarans, are brilliantly designed to make the most of the vessel’s layout, especially given the wider saloon space that catamarans typically offer. This design advantage is crucial in creating an inviting and functional bar area that acts as a social hub, whether you’re sailing with a close-knit group or hosting a larger gathering.

In many catamarans, the bar area is smartly integrated as part of the galley, or positioned as a transitional space between the saloon and the aft deck. This setup not only maximizes the use of space but also enhances the flow between indoor and outdoor areas, making it perfect for socializing and entertaining. For instance, the Catamaran Tiamo, shown in the picture below, showcases this concept beautifully with a bar that serves both the saloon and opens up to the aft deck. This allows guests to easily mingle between the cozy interior and the open-air deck, enjoying a seamless interaction with both environments.

5. Onboard Spa with Masseuse

Onboard spas on luxury yachts are like having your own personal retreat at sea. These spaces are designed with tranquility in mind, decked out with comfy massage tables, soothing lighting, and calming music that all harmonize with the gentle sway of the ocean. Plus, you have more than one masseuse on board so that you can enjoy a Couple Massage or just to avoid waiting.

Different styles of Massages to suit your Needs

Masseuses on yachts are typically highly skilled professionals capable of performing a wide range of massage styles, from Swedish massage and deep tissue to more exotic modalities like hot stone therapy or reflexology.

Massage in the Moonlight

But just because you have a dedicated spa onboard your private yacht does not mean that you’re confined to just one spot. Imagine getting a massage on the top deck under the moonlight or right at the water’s edge on the beach deck. There’s something magical about getting a back rub while listening to the real sounds of waves lapping against the yacht. These unique spots not only enhance the relaxation experience but also connect you deeply with the serene marine environment around you. Whether you want to feel the sun on your skin or the cool evening breeze, you can have your spa moment just the way you like it—anywhere on the yacht.

4. Onboard Saunas – A Rare Luxury!

Onboard saunas are a bit of a rarity, typically found only on the larger, more opulent yachts. These saunas turn any sea voyage into a floating spa experience, offering a cozy retreat where guests can relax, detox, and enjoy the many benefits of spending a bit of relaxing time in the heat.

Using a sauna while surrounded by the ocean adds a unique and soothing element. Imagine sitting in the warm, comforting embrace of a sauna, then stepping out to cool off with a dip in the ocean under the stars or during a beautiful sunset.

Health Benefits of Saunas

Enjoying a sauna has numerous health benefits, including improved circulation, muscle relaxation, pain reduction, and a significant detox effect as it induces sweating. It’s also a great way to unwind after a day filled with activities, whether hiking or zooming around on various water toys, or simply taking a break and relaxing.

3. Open-Air Jacuzzi

Jacuzzis on yachts offer a splendid blend of relaxation and luxury, ranging from compact hot tubs on smaller vessels to expansive setups akin to full-sized swimming pools on larger yachts. These features not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a yacht but also provide therapeutic benefits. The warm, bubbling waters of a jacuzzi are perfect for relaxing muscles, alleviating stress, and providing a serene environment to enjoy the surrounding seascape.

Jacuzzis on Smaller Yachts

Even on smaller luxury vessels, Jacuzzis are becoming more common. Many Catamarans incorporate jacuzzis on the foredeck lounge areas. This placement maximizes the available space and allows guests to enjoy panoramic views while soaking.

Usage Considerations

When considering a jacuzzi on a yacht, it’s important to understand the operational limitations that might affect when and where the jacuzzi can be used. On smaller yachts, the jacuzzi might need to be emptied while the yacht is underway to prevent water from spilling due to the movement of the yacht or the waves. Additionally, the yacht’s water-making capacity might restrict the frequent refilling of a jacuzzi, making it more practical to use only while in port and water is unlimited. This is less of an issue on larger yachts, where advanced systems can manage larger volumes of water and stabilize the vessel against the waves more effectively.

2. Full Sized Swimming Pools

Swimming pools on large luxury motor yachts are a hallmark of opulence and design innovation, offering guests a spectacular leisure and resort-like experience while cruising.

Sate-of-the-Art-Design and Features

The pools on large luxury yachts often feature advanced design elements such as infinity edges, glass walls, or even floors that rise to become a helipad or extra deck space when the pool is not in use. Designers may incorporate underwater lighting, heating systems, and counter-current machines, which allow for swimming in place, making the pool both a relaxing and exercise-friendly amenity.

A Centerpiece of Social Gatherings

Beyond swimming, these pools often serve as the centerpiece for social gatherings. Surrounding the pool, you might find expansive sun decks, outdoor lounges, bars, and other entertainment features that make the pool area a hub of activity on the yacht.

1. Heli-Pads

Helipads on luxury yachts epitomize the ultimate in convenience, luxury and exclusivity for yacht charters. These features allow guests to swiftly and stylishly access their yacht from anywhere, bypassing typical travel routes and the constraints of traditional maritime itineraries.

Having a helipad onboard provides guests with exceptional flexibility, enabling spontaneous excursions, quick trips to remote locations, and an efficient way to handle business commitments or emergencies. The inclusion of a helipad significantly elevates the luxury experience, adding an unparalleled level of freedom and access to yachting adventures.

Popular Itineraries

Looking for the perfect yacht charter destination but not quite sure where to set sail? Check out our curated itinerary suggestions to spark your imagination.