Escaping to Winter Sun Destinations by Superyacht

Turks & Caicos Islands, The Bahamas

For superyacht owners seeking aquatic adventures in winter sun destinations, the Turks & Caicos Islands in the Bahamas have an array of delights to explore. Situated in the southeast of The Bahamas, the Caicos Islands and smaller Turks Islands are known for their biodiversity, sitting between a rich, colourful coral reef teaming with tropical fish. The islands offer year-round temperatures of 27-32 oC with exceptional diving opportunities just offshore. A deep passageway between the islands is a common migration route for many fish, rays, turtles, dolphins and humpback whales from January to March, making this a must-visit winter sun destination for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts who can hop from island to island with ease to enjoy the warm waters of up to 40 coastlines.

Many passageways between the islands make perfect spots for viewing the local wildlife – Romello Williams ©

Bioluminescent phytoplankton light up the waters around the island when disturbed

Vaadhoo Island, The Maldives

The transparent waters, white powder sands and secluded nature of the Maldives have always made them an ideal winter sun destination with average temperatures of 27 oC. But the lesser-known worldly phenomenon of Vaadhoo Island brings a whole new wonder to a vacation in the Indian Ocean. As the sun sets and the sky turns dark, the shoreline glows a vibrant blue as the waves lap the sands. Caused by a unique combination of bioluminescent phytoplankton, the waters around the islands will begin to glisten whenever disturbed, emitting a twinkling reminiscent of the night sky, which is where the phenomenon gets its name: The Sea of Stars. There are few destinations in the world where this natural light show occurs making it a truly magical experience.

St Kitts and Nevis, The Caribbean

For those superyacht owners looking for a peaceful getaway in nature, the perfectly manicured Islands of St Kitts and Nevis are a haven as a winter sun destination. Situated in the West Indies, the islands have a welcoming temperature of 23-27oC throughout the winter months. Both islands are of volcanic origin and are covered in tropical rainforest, a hike through which will reveal an array of beautiful flora from the national flower of Delonix Regia to palmetto, hibiscus, bougainvillea and tamarind. Nevis, the smaller of the islands, can be explored on foot in a single day, complete with breathtaking waterfalls and botanical gardens to unwind in. The islands are home to 176 species of bird, including the brown pelican, and explorers can also hope to spot green vervet monkeys.

The warm winter waters mean yachts are present all year round – Holger Woizick ©

A view of Eden Island from Mahé. Eden Island, an exclusive man-made island, provides a luxurious retreat or residence for those wanting privacy

Mahé Island, The Seychelles

The largest of the Seychelles’ islands, Mahé is located in the Indian Ocean off of the east coast of Africa, complete with white sand beaches, clear waters and temperatures of 24-30 oC. Mahé is the perfect location for those who enjoy the outdoors, with Morne Seychellois National Park offering an array of trails to explore through mangroves, lush tropical forests and the mountain range. Experienced hikers may wish to scale Morne Seychellois Mountain to enjoy views of the island from 3,000 feet. There are also a variety of trails that differ in difficulty and length to suit the explorer. The Morne Seychellois National Park is home to many birds including the rare Seychelles Scops-owl. Mahé Island is the perfect blend of a tropical island holiday with a taste of local culture, all entwined with the natural beauty of the biodiverse location – a wonderful winter sun destination.
If it’s pure seclusion you seek, Eden Island is just a few hundred metres from Mahé and offers a unique paradise known for its laid-back, luxurious atmosphere and welcoming nature. Choose from four secluded beaches to enjoy a day of relaxation without unwanted attention.

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

Situated to the northwest of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano has a range of activities for the adrenaline seeker looking for a winter sun destination with comfortable temperatures of mid-20s. Standing at 5,358 feet, the volcano protrudes proudly from the greenery surrounding and, while currently resting, remains the country’s most active volcano. Explore the rainforest canopy from above on the hanging bridges, the perfect position to spot many of the forest’s winged inhabitants, or explore the winding trails on the forest floor to absorb the tropical plants and trees. If you seek new heights, then the Sky Tram provides aerial gondola rides through the rainforest up to the Miguel Angel observatory where you can take in panoramic views of the Tilarán mountain range. Then strap in for an exhilarating descent via the 1,093-metre-long zip line system from platform to platform through the trees.

The Arenal Volcano is unmissable from the coast

Ke Ga beach at Mui Ne, a popular tourist destination in the South of Vietnam

Southern Vietnam

Visiting Vietnam in winter allows for exploration without the sweltering summer temperatures, with most days in the south of the region sitting between 10-20 oC. Southern Vietnam has a fantastic reputation for street food and is renowned for its beautiful mix of global architecture and natural beauty. Much of the south is ideal for cycling and hiking or visitors can take to the iconic white sand dunes of Mui Ne – one of the only deserts in southeast Asia – by 4X4 or quadbike. While visiting, you can also explore the Cu Chi Tunnels which stretch out for more than 155 miles, originally built for protection from French air raids in the 1940s, then later used for many purposes in the Vietnam War. Vietnam is culturally rich with many opportunities for sightseeing, making it an ideal winter sun destination for those who like to learn about different ways of life.