I am currently staring out at Porto Montenegro, with Come Sail Away playing in my head. Awestruck, I cannot help but envy the owners of these spectacular superyachts. We, the Borderless Pair, have yet to achieve that level of wealth. But if you have, here are some places to dock your superyacht.
Whether you are a land or sea traveler, we recommend visiting a few of the gorgeous marinas around the world. At the very least, you can ogle yachts. Moreover, you can enjoy the high-end shops and restaurants that typically surround them.
Port Hercule, Monaco
Photo Credit: Ports De Monaco
The small principality of Monaco is one of the most luxurious settings on the planet. It is famous for its opulent Belle Époque Casino in Monte Carlo, the thrilling Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the ever-popular Monaco Yacht Show.
Port Hercule (or The Hercules Port in English) is one of the most impressive deep-water ports in the French Riviera. It has 760 berths, including 20 that can accommodate superyachts up to 135 meters long. The harbor is one of the most prestigious places to moor a boat, and the docking fees can be high. The average daily mooring fee for a superyacht is €1,200. However, in May during the Monaco Grand Prix, yacht owners often shell out more than €3,000/day to get close to the action.
For more details about Hercules Port, please visit the Ports De Monaco website.
Marina Grande, Capri
Photo Credit: Marina Di Capri
The port on the Italian island of Capri is often referred to as the most expensive marina in the world. You must be prepared to pay around €3,000/day. The marina has 300 berths available (60 for superyachts), and due to its popularity, you will need to reserve a spot well in advance. The port can accommodate yachts up to 60 meters (197 feet).
The former fishing village is now a hub for tourists and locals alike. Once you arrive (by private vessel or ferry), you can access the center of Capri town via a funicular. It transports passengers from the marina to the Piazzetta in less than five minutes. Capri is a beautiful island full of upscale hotels, award-winning restaurants, and quaint medieval villages perched on dramatic cliffs.
If you want more information about Marina Grande, go to the Marina Di Capri homepage.
Porto Montenegro, Montenegro
Photo Credit: Porto Montenegro
If you have an enormous yacht, head to Porto Montenegro in the picturesque Bay of Kotor. The facility can accommodate even the largest mega yachts — up to 250 meters (820 feet) long! As a relative newcomer to the yacht scene, the fees for its 480 berths are quite reasonable, even in high season. Depending on the length of your vessel, you may get away with paying less than €250/day.
With its majestic mountains and recently renovated marina, Porto Montenegro is known as one of Europe’s prettiest ports. When you get ashore you will find designer boutiques, elegant restaurants, and luxury accommodations such as the five-star Regent Hotel.
For more information, visit the Porto Montenegro website.
Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi
Photo Credit: Yas Marina
Yaz Marina is the premier Middle-Eastern destination for yacht owners. The port itself is a vibrant dining and entertainment hub that hosts sporting events such as the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. However, once you get off Yaz island, you can visit the cosmopolitan cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
The 227-berth marina has set aside 40 berths for superyachts up to 175m (574ft). Charges vary depending on the size of your vessel, but annual fees for wet berthing start at AED 14,399 ($3,920 USD). The average daily mooring fee for a superyacht is AED 1,684 ($458 USD).
For exact mooring rates and packages, visit the Yas Marina site.
Marina di Porto Cervo, Sardinia
Photo Credit: Marina di Porto Cervo
Another pricey port lies on the dazzling Costa Smeralda in northern Sardinia. Berthing fees can reach €3,000/day during the high season, especially during events such as the Deluxe Fair and the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup Regatta.
This Italian port has two parts: the East Dock AKA Old Port, and the chic modern New Marina. Marina di Porto Cervo can hold 100 luxury yachts alongside 600 smaller boats. The maximum vessel length is 120 meters (393 feet).
Onshore offerings include designer shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, and lavish parties. If you can afford the entry, you may bump into a celebrity at the Billionaire nightclub.
To learn more, click the link for Marina di Porto Cervo.
Port de Gustavia, St. Barts
Photo Credit: Port de Gustavia
Looking to moor a superyacht in the Caribbean? Port de Gustavia is the place. With its scenic views, tropical climate, and modern facilities, it attracts an elite clientele. You can tan on white-sand beaches, spend money at luxury boutiques, and dance to the wee hours at one of the island’s hip nightclubs.
Port de Gustavia can accommodate vessels up to 60m (196 ft), but It only has 152 berths (15 for superyachts). Cost-wise, you should expect daily berthing fees of approximately €500.
Be sure to book a space well in advance. The coveted berths are in especially high demand around New Year’s Eve, thanks to Saint Barthélemy’s famous firework display.
Go to the Port de Gustavia webpage for more details.
Miami Beach Marina, Florida
Photo Credit: Miami Beach Marina
Another way to explore the Caribbean Sea is to leave from Florida. The ultra-modern Miami Beach Marina is located on Biscayne Bay. It has 400 slips for vessels up to 76 meters (250 feet), including 45 berths for superyachts. The average daily mooring fee for superyachts is around $1,000.
The marina itself has perks such as 24-hour concierge services, a dive center, water taxis, and even an Olympic-sized swimming pool. You will have easy access to the Port of Miami via the Government Cut shipping channel between Miami Beach and Fisher Island. You can also enjoy the great beaches, dining, and nightlife that South Beach has to offer.
For more details, visit the Miami Beach Marina website.
Grand Harbour Marina, Valletta
Photo Credit: Grand Harbour Marina
The island of Malta has a top-tier marina that takes boats up to 135 meters (443 feet) in length. The marina has 26 berths designated for superyachts, and offers annual, seasonal and visitor pricing packages. If you own a yacht over 60 meters (197 feet), you should expect to pay at least €2,250/day in high season.
The city of Valletta is a UNESCO-world heritage site full of historic waterfront buildings. You will find top restaurants, classy hotels, and of course the famous Casino di Venezia. The city is also home to one of the world’s oldest golf courses.
With Malta as your Mediterranean base, you can explore the French, Spanish, and Italian Rivieras, or cruise over to nearby countries such as Greece and Turkey.
Visit the Grand Harbour Marina website for additional information.
The above are just a few glamorous options for marine enthusiasts. Feel free to mention your favorite port in the comments. Happy sailing!
If you are looking for more travel content, we suggest reading Our Dream Trip To Dubai, Pearl of the Gulf and Popular Party Places & Unique Alternatives.