The Italian island of Sardinia is surrounded by crystalline shades of turquoise blue water. 80 secluded bays with pink sandy beaches make up the spectacular coastline. A luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean will give you insight into what enticed the Aga Khan to this beautiful island in the 1960s, which he transformed into the glittering enclave of the Costa Smeralda, which remains today. Rugged is a fitting description for the French island of Corsica, where mountains loom over the beaches, impressive waterfalls and meandering rivers sculpt the landscape. The mountain villages are filled with unembellished stone houses and since this is France, you will also discover essential shops selling exquisite charcuterie.

Why Go: Sparkling surroundings, with equally sparkling visitors in Sardinia, and nature at its most dramatic along the coastline of Corsica.

When to Go: June-September. The Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta in June kicks off Sardinia’s yachting season, this ends in early September with the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup.

Essential Ports: St. Florent, Calvi, Girolata, Porto, Bonifacio, Maddalena Archipelago, Porto Vecchio, and The Costa Smeralda including Porto Cervo.

Essential Experiences: Lunch at Cala di Volpe, dinner at Gianni Pedrinello, nightclubbing at Billionaire in Sardinia, or entering the magical port of Bonifacio.

Local Favorite: In Sardinia, the rustic restaurant Lu Stazzu set in a grove of olive and juniper trees and showcasing the simple, earthy local dishes. In Corsica, homemade charcuterie produced as it has been by the family for five generations at U Stazzu in Ajaccio.