One of the best parts of a yacht holiday isn’t just the sailing - it’s what happens once you’ve dropped anchor. Imagine slipping into turquoise water, paddling across a glassy bay at sunrise, or teaching your kids to cast a fishing line straight from the stern. A yacht puts you right in the middle of nature’s playground, where the ocean itself becomes your entertainment.

Whether you’re chartering in the Seychelles, Greece, Croatia, or the Caribbean, here are some of the top yacht holiday activities to try on your next adventure.

Snorkelling - Reefs, Caves, and Marine Life

Snorkelling is often the first water sport people try on a yacht charter - and it never disappoints. With fins, a mask, and a snorkel, you’re ready to discover a whole new world beneath the surface.

Seychelles highlights: Snorkelling in the Seychelles feels like swimming in a giant aquarium. Think granite boulders, colourful coral reefs, and fish darting in every direction. Around Praslin and La Digue, keep an eye out for parrotfish, angelfish, and the occasional hawksbill turtle. Snorkelling is always on the must-do list for yacht travellers here.
Mediterranean gems: In Greece and Croatia, snorkelling means exploring sea caves and rocky coves. The Ionian islands are full of little bays where sunlight filters through the water, lighting up schools of silver fish.
Caribbean colour: From the British Virgin Islands to Antigua, expect vibrant coral gardens and the chance to spot rays gliding gracefully across the sandy seabed.

Pro tip: Our suppliers will often include masks and fins onboard, but if you have your own gear, we suggest bringing it along for the perfect fit.

Paddleboarding and Kayaking - Calm Bays, Endless Fun

Early morning, when the sea is flat as glass, is the perfect time to grab a paddleboard or kayak and explore the shoreline. Both are fantastic ways to get close to nature at your own pace.

Paddleboarding: Calm bays and seas are tailor-made for paddleboarding. Glide past olive groves in Greece, Tropical untouched beaches in Seychelles or ancient fortresses in Croatia. Plop down into the water when it gets too hot, or use your board as a floating yoga mat. Paddleboards are fast becoming one of the trendiest charter activities.
Kayaking adventures: A kayak is perfect for slipping into little coves or caves that bigger boats can’t reach. Kids love them, and they’re great for a bit of exercise after a long lunch onboard.
Why it works on a yacht: Paddleboards and kayaks are easy to launch straight from the swim platform of a catamaran or monohull. They also pack away neatly when not in use and give you the freedom to explore your surroundings without using the dinghy. Kids will love having something to float around on as well.

Pro tip: Paddleboards and kayaks are light, versatile, and available as an add-on when booking your yacht - just let us know which you would like.

Scuba Diving - Plan Your Route Around Dive Centres

For those who want to go deeper, scuba diving is an unforgettable way to explore beneath the surface. While yachts don’t typically carry full diving setups onboard, many of the world’s best charter destinations are dotted with dive centres where you can arrange guided trips.

Seychelles: Known for granite reefs and wrecks, the islands are home to reef sharks, eagle rays, and an incredible variety of tropical fish. Diving here feels like stepping into a natural aquarium.
Turkey & Croatia: Expect underwater caves, canyons, and ancient shipwrecks. Some sites even have amphorae and other relics resting on the seabed.
Caribbean favourites: Warm waters, easy conditions, and colourful reefs make it one of the best beginner-friendly regions for diving.

Pro tip: If diving is a priority, let us know in advance. We can help you plan your sailing route to include stops near the best local dive shops.

Fishing Adventures on Charter

Few things feel more satisfying than catching your own dinner straight from the back of your yacht. Fishing isn’t just an activity - it’s an event the whole group can enjoy.

Trolling while you sail: Many crews throw a line in while under sail, hoping to catch dorado, tuna, or even barracuda.
Drop a line at anchor: In calm bays, this can be a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon, especially for kids.
Seychelles speciality: The waters are teeming with game fish. With the right gear, you can try for sailfish or marlin - though plenty of guests are just as happy grilling a simple snapper.

Pro tip: Regulations differ by country, so check whether you need a licence or permit for fishing before you set off and make sure to always stick to the size guidelines.

Family-Friendly Fun Onboard

Not every activity needs to be high-energy. Some of the best yacht holiday activities are the ones that kids and adults can enjoy together - often with nothing more than the boat itself and the water around you.

Jumping contests: Who can make the biggest splash off the swim platform?
Floating toys: Inflatables are a hit - from lilos to donuts.
Treasure hunts: Create a snorkel “treasure map” for the kids to find shells, spot certain species of fishes (without touching), or even spot types of coral.
Starlit movies: With a tablet or portable projector, you can set up a family cinema on deck while anchored in a quiet bay.

Family charters often blend a little adventure with lots of downtime, and having simple activities onboard keeps everyone happy between swims and sails.

Making the Most of Water Sports on Your Yacht Holiday

The beauty of a yacht holiday is choice. One day you might be snorkelling reefs, the next paddleboarding a calm bay, and the next teaching your children to fish off the back of the boat. You don’t need a rigid plan - the yacht gives you the flexibility to try whatever feels right that day.

The sea is your playground, and with a little imagination, it never gets old.

At The Charter Lounge, we’re here to make sure your yacht charter is about more than just the boat. From recommending destinations that are perfect for snorkelling to helping you add paddleboards, kayaks, or fishing gear to your booking, we’ll help you tailor your trip to match your style of adventure.

So, what’s calling you on your next yacht holiday?

Top water sports & activities to try on your yacht holiday