Inside the Billionaire’s playground: the ultimate guide to yacht charters in Porto Cervo

By Oliver Pearson 21 February 2018

Located along the glittering Emerald Coast at the north of Sardinia, Porto Cervo is one of the hottest places to see and be seen in around the Mediterranean. Taking a closer look at the key features of this remarkable Italian destination, we identify what makes it perfect for your next yacht charter vacation.

The preserve of the superyachtset, Porto Cervo has become the getaway of choice amongst charter guests who enjoy combining their cruising time with boutique shopping and fine dining in a distinctly Mediterranean setting.

As youthful and stylish as the discerning guests which descend on its shores each summer, Porto Cervo was designed by Prince karim Aga Khan as recently as the 1960s. Capturing the Bohemian spirit of the decade, the esteemed business magnate brought in landscape designers and architects to create a world unlike any other.

Easily accessible from the water, Porto Cervo boasts both a state of the art marina for larger superyachts, and an older marina which offers a more traditional experience. What’s more, the new marina is home to the prestigious Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, an exclusive hangout for owners and charter guests.

Away from the fantastic cruising grounds and marinas, visitors also have the opportunity to:

A Louis Vuitton store built into traditional Mediterranean architecture in Porto Cervo

A Cartier store built into an old-timey building in Porto Cervo

A shopfront window displaying jewelry in Porto Cervo

Situated along the sea-facing ‘Walk of Porto Cervo’, a range of exclusive jewelers, designer outlets, and a Harrods form a veritable paradise for in-the-know shoppers to get lost in.

Indeed, with everything from Dolce & Gabbana to Versace and Valentino, visitors have the rare chance to browse the latest collections whilst at the same time enjoying traditional Mediterranean surroundings.

Further along the walk, visitors will come across the Red Square, a section which is occupied by many native designers. Known locally as ‘the Piazza Rossa’, this area is the place to go for fascinating and one-of-a-kind pieces.

In-keeping with the quaint styling of Porto Cervo, the boutiques are housed by locally inspired architecture, making each one truly unique

As the walk reaches its end, the cotto tiled streets open up to reveal a promenade populated with an altogether series of exciting stores.

Renowned as the more artistic side of Porto Cervo, the promenade is lined with stores which promote emerging designers as well as galleries exhibiting works by local talents.

Accented by an air of vintage, the promenade echoes the era in which it was conceived, with classic Vespas and Lambrettas transporting visitors around the village-like streets.