The Best Time of Year to Sail with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
The Best Time of Year to Sail with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Luxury travelers considering a voyage with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection often ask a simple but important question: When is the best time of year to sail? Since itineraries span the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and even transatlantic crossings, the “best time” depends on your preferences—weather, pricing, destinations, and onboard experience.
In this guide, we’ll break down seasonality, compare different regions, and share insider booking tips to help you plan your Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection sailing at the perfect time.
Why Timing Matters in Yacht Cruising
Unlike large-ship cruises, Ritz-Carlton yachts—Evrima, and her sisters Ilma and Luminara—carry fewer than 300 guests. With fewer suites, availability sells out faster during high-demand periods. Choosing the right season ensures not only favorable weather but also better suite selection and promotional offers.
Booking at the right time can mean:
Lower fares for early planners
Exclusive suite upgrades and value-added benefits (through STARS partners like Stars Desk)
Tailored itineraries depending on whether you want culture, sunshine, or adventure
Caribbean Sailings: December to April
Why Sail the Caribbean with Ritz-Carlton Yachts
The Caribbean season typically runs from December through April, when yachts reposition from Europe. Guests enjoy warm, sunny weather, perfect for beach excursions, snorkeling, and private-island visits.
Best Months: January and February (less humid, calmer seas)
Festive Season: December holidays are popular, but expect higher fares and limited suite availability
Spring Advantage: March and April still offer great weather but with slightly less crowding
Caribbean Itinerary Highlights:
St. Barts, known for its French Riviera atmosphere in the tropics
St. Lucia’s Pitons and lush rainforests
Private beaches and water sports directly from the yacht’s marina platform
Mediterranean Sailings: May to October
The Most Popular Season
From May through October, Ritz-Carlton yachts explore the Mediterranean’s most glamorous ports. Whether it’s the French Riviera, Greek islands, or Italian coast, this is the region’s peak season.
May–June: Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, ideal for cultural travelers
July–August: High season, best for nightlife and beach destinations, but expect warmer weather and busier ports
September–October: Shoulder season with pleasant weather, wine harvest festivals, and fewer crowds
Mediterranean Itinerary Highlights:
Amalfi Coast and Capri in Italy
Mykonos and Santorini in Greece
Balearic Islands, including Ibiza and Mallorca
French Riviera ports like Monte Carlo and Cannes
Northern Europe & Baltic: June to September
Ritz-Carlton Yachts also sail Northern Europe itineraries during the summer months.
Best Months: June through early September, with long daylight hours and temperate weather
Cultural Draw: Visit historic cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, and St. Petersburg alternatives (as routes shift based on geopolitics)
Unique Experiences: Midnight sun in Scandinavia and fjord cruising in Norway
Transatlantic Crossings: April & November
For adventurous travelers, repositioning voyages across the Atlantic offer unique opportunities.
April: Yachts reposition from the Caribbean to Europe
November: Yachts reposition from Europe to the Caribbean
These crossings are longer (10–14 nights), with fewer port calls but more time at sea—perfect for those who love the onboard experience. They often represent some of the best values in luxury cruising, with lower per-night fares compared to peak-season itineraries.
| Region | Best Months | Why Sail Then? | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caribbean | Dec – Apr | Sunny, warm, ideal for beaches & water sports | Holiday season is busiest & most expensive |
| Mediterranean | May – Oct | Cultural ports, nightlife, summer beaches | July & Aug busiest, Sept is quieter with great weather |
| Northern Europe | Jun – Sept | Midnight sun, fjords, historic cities | Shorter season, book early for best suites |
| Transatlantic | Apr & Nov | Longer voyages, best per-night value | Few port calls, focus on onboard experience |
Insider Tips for Choosing the Best Time
Book Early (12–18 months out): The most desirable suites sell out first, especially during summer in the Mediterranean and festive Caribbean sailings.
Consider Shoulder Seasons: May, early June, September, and October offer excellent weather with fewer crowds and competitive pricing.
Holiday Sailings: Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter are in highest demand—expect premium pricing.
Leverage STARS Benefits: Booking through a Ritz-Carlton STARS partner like Stars Desk ensures added perks—such as complimentary credits, suite upgrades, and personalized recognition.
Conclusion: Timing is Everything
So, when is the best time of year to sail with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection?
Caribbean: December–April for sunny escapes
Mediterranean: May–October for culture and glamour
Northern Europe: June–September for unique summer experiences
Transatlantic: April & November for value seekers
Ultimately, the best time depends on your travel goals—whether that’s celebrating the holidays at sea, chasing sunshine in the Caribbean, or enjoying the romance of Europe’s summer season.
👉 Ready to plan your voyage? At Stars Desk, we are a top producer with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and extend exclusive STARS benefits to our clients. Contact us today to secure the best sailing, suite, and season for your dream journey.
