Imagine being at anchor in a secluded bay, surrounded by crystal clear water. The call of the sea is irresistible – a refreshing swim, exploring a vibrant tropical reef, or perhaps the thrill of something more exhilarating? On a luxury yacht charter, the possibilities are endless, with a dazzling array of water-sports toys at your fingertips.
Even the most modest yacht will typically offer essentials like snorkel gear, floating mats, and paddleboards or kayaks. But as you step up in size of yacht, the toy chest explodes with options.
Picture this: your yacht's tender zipping across the water, towing a happy group on an inflatable banana boat, or carving wakes for water-skiers and wakeboarders of all skill levels. From gentle rings to elaborate six-person creations, inflatable towables come in almost every shape and colour imaginable, promising endless laughter and unforgettable memories. And the inflatable water-sports fun doesn't stop there. Think floating islands, floating chairs with drink holders, netted sea pools for safe swimming, climbing walls, trampolines, sailing dinghies, water bikes and waterslides.
For those seeking the rush of the wind, kiteboarding remains a popular choice, especially if you bring your own gear. Wing foiling offers a more accessible entry point to riding the wind, while e-foils provide a futuristic, silent glide.
Fishing enthusiasts will find most yachts equipped with rods and reels, ready for you to try your luck (local regulations permitting). For dedicated anglers, some yachts even have specialised fishing tenders. Scuba diving, another popular yachting activity, deserves its own dedicated article.
Of the motorised water-sports, Jet Skis, WaveRunners, and Sea-Doos are more common on motor yachts. Quieter and more easily stowed sea scooters are increasingly present on yachts of all types, including catamarans.
Safety is paramount. A qualified and attentive crew is always on hand, supervising all water-sports activities, whether in the water with guests or keeping a watchful eye from the deck. Crew members are often qualified instructors.
The demand for these aquatic adventures has fueled a thriving industry of accessories: cables, pumps, personal flotation devices (PFDs), specialised clothing, storage solutions, and of course, the tenders themselves. "But where is it all stored?" you might ask.
The 208ft (63m) motor yacht SuRi, offers a unique solution. Tenders are secured on her aft deck while the vast interior “hanger” is meticulously organised with row after row of clothing, boards, tanks, and deflated equipment. SuRi, a luxury charter yacht accommodating up to 12 guests, is a floating water-sports and dive centre expedition yacht and all-around marvel - I don’t think I’ve ever seen more water-sport toys on any other yacht. Beyond the toys, she also features a cinema, spa, and gym. This summer, she'll be exploring Central America, followed by adventures in Chile and Antarctica, where her spacious observation room offers unparalleled views.
Perhaps the ultimate water-sports toy is the yacht itself. Imagine taking the helm (with your captain nearby) of a performance sailing yacht, slicing through the waves under full sail. The thrill of the open sea is an experience unlike any other.
And to capture these unforgettable moments, the crew may offer to record your fun, adventures and achievements with drone footage or underwater photography (with your permission), providing you with lasting memories to cherish and impress friends when home.
Whether your dream yacht charter is focused on sailing, relaxation, watersports or a blend of everything, a vast selection of yachts awaits, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. Please do get in touch with me, I’ll be happy to help.