Vietnam may not be the first place that springs to mind when you are planning your luxury superyacht travels, but it is for this very reason that it is one of the most spectacular and special countries in which to start your water bound adventure.
Sweeping along the east coast of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam stretches for over 1,600 kilometres and encompasses breathtaking beaches, rolling hills and bustling street life within its diverse coastline. There’s a fabulous mix of waterfront cities bounding on rural countryside retreats and the endless paddy fields, where the conical hats of farmers mark tiny dots of colour in the green expanse, are the sights that dreams are made of.
To begin your journey, head South and spend a few days cruising down the Mekong Delta, taking in one sleepy village after another, before heading to Mui Ne and its majestic sand dunes.
Those seeking a tropical paradise should set sail for Phu Quoc with its stunning white sand beaches and azure waters. It is the perfect place for romantic cruising and champagne sipping on the aft deck under a blanket of shining stars.
Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) is the modern heart of this mostly rural country, where high-rise buildings and glitzy shop fronts outshine the traditional markets at their feet.
H? Long Bay, in northeast Vietnam, is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering iconic limestone islands topped by rainforests. Junk boats and sea kayaks explore the islands named for their shapes, including the islets of Stone Dog and Teapot! The region is renowned for scuba diving, rock climbing and hiking, particularly in the mountainous Cát Bà National Park.
Nha Trang boasts sublime sailing conditions and is surrounded by gorgeous off lying islands that make for amazing day trips. Filled with enthralling markets and ancient monuments, it is easy to spend a day strolling the streets before casting off on your superyacht to explore the Khanh Hoa province; a stretch of spectacular coastline dotted with smooth beaches and deep lagoons.
Vietnam and its wonderful people is one of the most special places on the planet to explore by luxury superyacht, and should be high on any charter itinerary bucket list.