SEA CHANGE

Vacations on yachts are gaining in popularity as more travelers crave LUXURY EXPERIENCES they can share with friends and family

- - by EILEEN FALKENBERG-HULL

A GROUP TRIP TO A MEDIOCRE RESORT with the same old offerings can set you back thousands of dollars. New trends suggest there is a way to get a more unique, upscale bang for your buck: yacht travel. And more people than ever are taking advantage.

A 2024 report by Mastercard found that travelers were spending more time away from home than they did pre-COVID. The company also said that spending on experiences and nightlife accounts for 12 percent of tourism sales, its highest point in a half-decade.

“We're seeing the same mindset that draws people to quality-first brands like Loro Piana and The Row shaping how they travel: with discernment, intention and an appreciation for value,” Eric Monkaba, the founder of TripScaper, told Newsweek. “Whether it’s gaining after-hours access to the Giza pyramids or renting a private ski chalet in Lech, bringing together friends or family isn’t just smart economics—it also transforms these once-in-a-lifetime moments into meaningful, shared experiences.”

DECKED OUT Yachts like Ella can sleep multiple guests, allowing the cost to be split. "That's the beauty of group travel," said Whitney Haldeman.

Luxury travel, especially by boat, has emerged as an increasingly popular way for families and friends to enjoy a tailored, highly experiential and unique getaway. The cost of living the yacht life is around the same as resort travel these days, but the experience is more customizable.

Yacht travel dipped due to COVID-19 but has been steadily recovering in the years since. According to Yachtfolio.com, bookings were up 70 percent from 2021 to 2024. Last year saw further market stability with bookings up 3.7 percent on the previous year.