Plan your summer charter in one of the top five U.S. yachting destinations. Were you hoping to travel aboard for a yacht charter this summer but your travel plans got disrupted by COVID-19? Before you put your charter plans on hold, consider a yacht charter in the U.S.

The U.S. is home to some of the most amazing summer cruising grounds in the world. From the sandy, dune-lined beaches of New England (think: Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard), to the lush and rugged Inside Passage in Alaska, the top U.S. yacht charter destinations provide a wide range of exciting experiences. Plus, you can enjoy your charter without the jet lag or exhausting transoceanic flights.

Where might you consider a yacht charter in the U.S. this summer? These five American destinations are known for offering charter guests adventure-packed itineraries, amazing food and drink, and gorgeous scenery.

1. New England Yacht Charters

New England – which spans from Newport, RI to northern Maine – is a yachting destination that offers it all. History, incredible scenery, ideal cruising conditions, amazing food and wine, arts festivals… You name, and you’ll find it in New England

Up north, Maine’s rugged coast serves as backdrop for adventurous sailing; the northern region is known for Acadia National Park, the exclusive artist colony in Bar Harbor, and island hopping in the Gulf of Maine. Outside of Boston, you’ll find excellent sailing on Cape Cod, where Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and Provincetown offer dune-backed beaches, lighthouses and art galleries to explore.

Or head to Newport, America’s premier sailing destination. Known for its beautiful Gilded Age mansions and jam-packed regatta calendar, Newport is the place to be and be seen during the summer yacht charter season.

2. Alaska Yacht Charters

Few sailing destinations in the world are as rugged and wild as Alaska’s Inside Passage. The protected passage – which runs from Ketchikan in the south to Glacier Bay – puts on a display of breathtaking scenery and wildlife.

Many yacht charter guests choose Alaska for summer whale watching. Humpbacks, killer whales and even blue whale flock to the chilly waters near Glacier Bay in June, and they put on a show for charter guests. Another once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure: Tour Tongass National Forest, a 16-million-acre temperate rain forest, that’s lush and offers world-class hiking.

Alaska yacht charters also tend to explore the glaciers and fjords. Massive glaciers line the rim of Glacier Bay. Watch as sedan-sized bergs crash into the sea; it’s a sight to behold.

3. South Florida and Florida Keys Yacht Charters

You don’t have to leave the U.S. to find those tropical Pirates of the Caribbean vibes. Just head to South Florida. From the bustling nightlife in Miami, to sandy beaches of Fort Lauderdale, to the turquoise waters of Key West, the region is a yachtsman’s dream. Excellent sailing conditions, beautiful weather, and some of the best fishing in the U.S.

Cruising in the Miami area offers plenty to do and see. You will have access to the best of the best in shopping, dining and amenities. Go boutique shopping in South Beach, pamper yourself at the spa, or explore Miami’s vibrant culinary scene.

Further south, the Keys stretch for more than 100 miles between the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Explore the waters; Florida Keys yacht charters offer excellent diving and snorkeling. Bahia Honda State Park is a must-go snorkeling destination. Plus, you’ll find lively beach bars and seafood shacks on nearly every island, amazing sailing conditions, and a laid-back feel wherever you go.

4. Chesapeake Bay Yacht Charters

Chesapeake is one of America’s largest bays. Along its nearly 12,000 miles of shoreline, you’ll find plenty to explore and discover, from the historic harbor in Baltimore to rugged islands and quaint towns.

Rock Hall is a favorite stop on Chesapeake yacht charter itineraries. The historic fishing town is known for its oysters and crab shacks, and the hamlet offers plenty of changes for shoreside hiking, biking, and relaxing. Guests also love the history of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor; take a break from the yacht to take a ghost tour, catch live music, or visit the National Aquarium.

There’s also plenty to explore via the water. Wye Island is a protected island that’s only reachable by boat, and that’s great for hiking and relaxing picnics. And Solomons Island is another secluded island. Take a stroll along the island’s Riverwalk and take in the harbor views.

5. The Great Lakes Yacht Charters

The Great Lakes offer yacht charter guests a little bit of everything. Whether you want the explore Chicago or Toronto’s waterfront, or you prefer to explore secluded forests and beaches, you’ll find plenty to do and see in the Great Lakes.

Each lake offers its own sights. Lake Superior is known for its islands. Cruise The Apostles, a rugged archipelago of uninhabited islands that are home to sandy beaches, lighthouses, great fishing, and excellent kayaking. On Lake Michigan, explore the tiny villages to dot the shoreline.

Lake Huron is known for its rocky anchorages, that provide isolated islands and coastal forests to explore. It’s one of the most rugged of the Great Lakes and is perfect if you’re after solitude.  Check out Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie, and Endymion Island and Canada’s Thousand Islands National Park is a must-see on Lake Ontario.