Thanks to COVID-19, the face of travel has changed. Maybe forever.
Where once, a hotel suite in the middle of Manhattan or a meal at a perpetually sold-out L.A. restaurant might be the height of luxury; today, more secluded and remote destinations are in style.
And for those who are looking for the ultimate socially distanced escape, there is no option more luxurious than a yacht charter.
Your own, private travel bubble
When it comes to social distancing, there are few vacation options that can compete with a yacht. Most yachts carry a maximum of 12 passengers and they don’t book to multiple parties. So you and a handful of friends or family can relax together secure in the knowledge no strangers will be intruding on your vacation.
While the same might be said of a country villa, a yacht has the advantage of moving. It can take you from one destination to the next without you ever having to leave the confines of your personal travel bubble.
Social distancing in the extreme
A yacht charter can take you to some of the most remote and secluded destinations on Earth. You can spend your time exploring deserted islands in the Caribbean, diving untouched waters in the South Pacific, or simply anchored far off the Florida shoreline, drinking cocktails and soaking up sun.
Rigorous safety protocols to keep you healthy
Even before the pandemic, the highly trained and dedicated crews onboard private yachts kept everything immaculately clean and hygienic. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, however, health precautions have been stepped up even further. You can expect strict cleaning and disinfecting protocols, testing for the captain and crew, and use of PPE. You might also notice temperature checks for guests and limits on who can come aboard.
If you need medical attention while traveling
Charter yachts carry an impressive medical kit on board, with the majority carrying some serious lifesaving equipment. The captain will hold their Captain’s Medical license and other crew often know basic first aid.
That means the yacht crew can apply frontline care before transferring you by tender or helicopter to the closest medical facility for further evaluation and treatment.
How much does the ultimate socially distanced escape cost?
While yacht charters are hardly a “budget” travel option, Todd Beechey, CEO of OceanScape Yachts says they are actually more affordable than people realize.
“When you put a group of eight, ten, or twelve people together, the price is very comparable to other luxury travel options, and the experience is cleaner, safer, and beyond luxurious,” he says.
For about $7,000-$10,000 per person, you can enjoy an entire week exploring hidden shores on your yacht. You’ll have spectacular cabins, indoor and outdoor dining options, a comfortable salon to relax in, and a wide variety of water toys to play with. Not to mention a full crew at your beck and call and a private chef preparing your meals.
Most importantly, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you’re traveling in a safe, socially distanced environment.
