Motor boat cruises: your guide to over 45 stunning locations
Ready to embark on your first motor boat trip? Explore our guide for top recommendations on the best cruise destinations in Europe and the UK!
Cruise holidays have long enchanted tourists with their unique blend of leisure and exploration. The thrill of watching distant horizons drawing near while basking in luxurious comfort is truly unmatched. Yet, there exists another form of sea-bound adventure that has steadfastly held its appeal over the years – motor boating. This pastime (or, for some, lifestyle!) offers a unique sense of freedom, inviting travellers to chart their course, navigate into hidden bays, and build an intimate connection with the sea that traditional cruises may not provide.
In this article, we'll embark on a journey of discovery. We'll discuss why motor boating offers an alternative way of cruising that's every bit as enticing as a traditional voyage and perhaps even more so for those seeking a more personal and adventurous experience. We'll delve into planning considerations, reveal some of the most breathtaking cruises ideal for motor boats, and present tips and recommendations to ensure your trip is not just a holiday but an adventure of a lifetime.
Without revealing too much too soon, be prepared for a voyage through crystal-clear waters, picturesque towns, and exquisite cuisines with you at the helm of it all.
Best cruise destinations around the Greek Islands
Over 6,000 islands dot the Aegean and Ionian seas, each with its unique charm, making it a perfect playground for motor boat enthusiasts. Away from the mainland, Mykonos is globally famed for its vibrant nightlife. Moor in its picturesque harbour and stroll through the maze-like streets of Chora. Here, don't miss the iconic windmills and the lively Little Venice area, home to some of the best sunset views in the Aegean.
From there, set course to Santorini, the gem of the Cyclades. Its steep cliffs, topped with whitewashed buildings and blue domes, present a sight to behold. Try local dishes like fava me koukia (yellow split pea puree) and tomatokeftedes (fried tomato balls) in Amoudi Bay, right by the water's edge. Remember to visit the ancient city of Akrotiri, often referred to as the 'Greek Pompeii'.
Your trip won't be complete without visiting Crete, the largest Greek island. Explore the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos near Heraklion and savour local specialities such as dakos (Cretan rusk with tomato and mizithra cheese) and raki, a traditional spirit.
Keep an eye on the Meltemi wind that can be strong during summer, especially in the Cyclades. Plan your cruise accordingly to enjoy the serene beauty of the Greek Islands at your own pace.
Best boat trips in the UK
With its extensive coastline and myriad waterways, the UK provides a remarkable variety of motor boat cruises. If wildlife excites you, the Scottish Highlands promise encounters with dolphins, whales, and seals amidst challenging waters, catering more to seasoned sailors. For a more leisurely and scenic route, the Trent-Severn Waterway stretching between the River Trent and Severn is a perfect choice. Its navigable canals are ideal for motor boats due to their lower draught.
Motorboat leisure routes
In the search for a calming journey, the Norfolk Broads' protected inland waterways are among the best cruise destinations, punctuated by welcoming pubs and restaurants, perfect for families or novice boaters. The Bristol Channel, with its vast tidal range, offers an exciting challenge that a motor boat can navigate with ease.
A different perspective awaits along the rugged coastline of South West England, say Devon and Cornwall, where idyllic fishing villages and secluded coves coexist with famed attractions like the Eden Project. A visit here would be incomplete without savouring a traditional Cornish pasty.
Boating to historic & vibrant landscapes
Cultural enthusiasts can start from the Solent, taking in Portsmouth's historic dockyard or Brighton's bustling seafront along the south coast, with France's northern coast a tempting venture for the adventurous. The serene waters of the picturesque Lake District and the navigable stretches of the Thames, revealing London's iconic landmarks, are other must-see spots.
Away from the UK's geographical diversity and the richness of experiences on offer, it's essential to remember the unpredictable British weather and the ever-present need to keep an eye on the tides, particularly in shallower waters.
Cruising the Norwegian Fjords
If you're in the northern part of Europe and search "best boat trips near me," chances are you'll be directed towards the stunning Norwegian Fjords. This unique destination offers breathtaking scenery and wildlife (think sea eagles, puffins, whales, seals, and herds of reindeer grazing near the water's edge) and is perfect for exploration with motor boats.
The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is relatively mild and the days are long. A trip can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how much of the region you wish to explore. The ease of navigation and the ability to cover large distances make motor boating an ideal way to explore the fjords.
There are numerous stops to consider. Bergen, the gateway to the fjords, offers historic architecture and the bustling Fish Market. Ålesund is known for its Art Nouveau architecture and the Atlantic Sea Park, while both Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are globally renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
On land, hiking trails lead to jaw-dropping vistas, and you can explore charming villages nestled in the fjords. As for food, fresh seafood is a must-try. In particular, rakfisk, a traditional Norwegian fish dish, and klippfisk, dried and salted cod, are local delicacies. Just remember to watch the weather, as it can change quickly in this part of the world.
Best cruise destinations: Brad Pitt movie locations
For fans of Brad Pitt, a Mediterranean voyage offers an exciting opportunity to visit iconic film locations. Start in Malta, where "Troy" (2004) was filmed. The old fort of Mellieha and the Blue Lagoon of Comino Island doubled as the ancient city and its surrounding seas. From there, chart a course to Gozo, where Pitt and Angelina Jolie filmed "By the Sea" (2015). The picturesque bay of Mgarr ix-Xini was the film's primary location, and its clear blue waters are perfect for a motor boat excursion.
Afterwards, set sail to Italy. In "Ocean's Twelve" (2004), Pitt graces the scenic Lake Como, a gem of Northern Italy and surely a sight to behold. Continuing the journey, head to Spain, where Seville is featured in "Knight and Day" (2010). While not a Pitt movie, he made a cameo alongside Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise. Dock your boat in the vibrant Andalusian capital and visit the beautiful Alcazar Palace, a prominent filming site. The finale takes you to the French Riviera, where "By The Sea" was partly shot. Its picturesque coastal towns like Nice and Antibes encapsulate the glamour of Pitt's Hollywood career, making a fitting end to this unique journey.
Best boat trips in Germany
Germany's extensive waterways, lakes, and access to the North and Baltic Seas provide numerous launch points for varied excursions. For smaller motor boats, the country's maze-like network of rivers and canals is a paradise. Starting from Berlin, an intriguing route leads to the Masurian Lake District in neighbouring Poland. This grid of over 2000 interconnected lakes is a haven for nature lovers, offering idyllic settings for birdwatching and fishing. Each lake possesses its own charm, from bustling marinas and restaurants to isolated, untouched corners perfect for quiet reflection.
Cruising down the Rhine River
A voyage down the legendary Rhine River is another fantastic adventure suitable for motor boat cruises of all sizes. The river flows from Switzerland through Germany, with its romantic landscapes of vineyard-laden hills, ancient castles, and picturesque towns like Heidelberg. A highlight along this route is the Deutsches Eck (German Corner) in Koblenz, where the Moselle meets the Rhine.
Boating the open waters: North and Baltic Seas
Larger motor yachts find their element in the open waters of the North and Baltic Seas. Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are within reach of Germany's coast, each offering unique cultural experiences and natural beauty. The German island of Sylt, nestled between the North Sea and the Wadden Sea, is particularly enticing with its upscale marinas, unspoiled sandy beaches, and unique Frisian cuisine. Rügen, set in the Baltic Sea, provides another remarkable stopover with its dramatic chalk cliffs, charming resorts, and the UNESCO World Heritage town of Stralsund. Further east, you can explore Poland's historic cities, Gdańsk and Szczecin, and even venture into the intriguing Baltic States.
Understanding German waterway rules
Germany's waterways operate under specific regulations; some may require a special licence to navigate. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the legal requirements and equip your vessel with the appropriate navigational charts. Keep in mind that different locations may have varying peak seasons, and this could influence your travel schedule.
Motor boat cruises: The bottom line
Embarking on your motor boat cruises certainly introduces a wealth of possibilities, allowing for unique explorations distinct from traditional holidays. The magnificent advantage of easily changing course, complemented by the speed and ease of manoeuvrability inherent to motor boats, enables access to narrower waterways, accommodation of unpredictable tides, and efficient coverage of extensive distances. Whether you're attracted to the energy of bustling waterfront cities, the tranquillity of secluded wildlife spots, or the grandeur of sprawling coastlines, a motor boat equips you with the means to tap into these experiences.