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Summer travel to Europe attracts visitors from all over the world who want to immerse themselves in the continent's rich history and culture. When it comes to creating the perfect travel itinerary, no trip is complete without a boat day, regardless of which countries you’re headed to. From the Mediterranean coasts to inland rivers, there are endless opportunities for on-water excursions.

The boating industry of Europe is a significant economic contributor to the GDP of multiple countries, and the continent hosts over 6 million boats and 10,000 marinas. The majority of boating businesses across europe are small and medium-sized enterprises accounting for over 30,000 companies. This takes into account boatbuilding, charter companies, and the support businesses that keep the boating industry afloat.

In this report, we explore the 10 cities in Europe with the highest demand for private boat rentals and charters.

About This Report

This report analyzes booking and demand data from Getmyboat, the world’s largest boat rental marketplace, examining the top boating cities in Europe. By examining the demand and number of completed rentals, we ranked the cities based on their frequency and included data regarding pricing, the most popular style of vessel, and information about the local boating culture.

It contains proprietary booking data for each city, including the most desired vessel style for renters and average pricing. It discusses the distinct features that make each of these destinations boating hotspots and the overall boating experience they offer.

The Top 10 Boating Destinations in Europe

Europe Data Map 2025

1. Lake Como, Italy

Most Popular Style of Boat: Powerboats

Number of Vessels Available: 37

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most iconic freshwater boating destinations, known for its tranquil waters, elegant villas, and dramatic Alpine backdrop. Boating on the lake offers a iconic experience, with routes passing picturesque villages such as Bellagio and Varenna. The area’s popularity stems from its accessibility, luxury appeal, and suitability for small motorboats and private yacht charters. Here you’ll see many stunning, classic yachts with impeccable wood detailing, creating a feeling of nostalgia coupled with the fun activity of boating. With rental options starting around $40 per hour, Lake Como attracts both local and international visitors seeking a refined, scenic cruise.

2. Istanbul, Turkey

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 224

Straddling two continents, Istanbul offers a unique maritime experience along the Bosphorus Strait, where Europe meets Asia. Boating in Istanbul provides access to a rich cultural and historical panorama, including palaces, mosques, and waterfront mansions. The city’s vibrant maritime scene includes both casual boat tours and luxury yacht experiences. Istanbul’s strategic location and centuries-old naval history make it one of the most fascinating destinations for chartering vessels in Europe.

3. Ibiza, Spain

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 432

Beyond its famed nightlife, Ibiza is a world-class boating destination in the Balearic Islands. The island offers turquoise waters, secluded coves, and access to nearby islands such as Formentera. Yacht parties, sunset cruises, and snorkeling charters are especially popular. With a rental price range typically starting from $130 per hour, Ibiza attracts a high volume of charter activity from young travelers and luxury seekers alike, cementing its place as one of the Mediterranean's most dynamic boating hubs.

4. Sorrento, Italy

Most Popular Style of Boat: Powerboats

Number of Vessels Available: 170

Sorrento’s coastal charm and proximity to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Naples make it a premier spot for boat rentals in Southern Italy. The town’s dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and rich maritime culture provide the ideal backdrop for sailing excursions and motor yacht cruises. Boaters can explore historic ruins, hidden grottos, and bustling port towns, with average charter prices beginning at $105 per hour. Sorrento is a key embarkation point for those exploring the Tyrrhenian Sea.

5. Bodrum, Turkey

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 579

The Muğla province encompasses some of Turkey’s most famous coastal towns, including Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye. Known for its “Blue Voyage” tradition, Bodrum is a leading destination for multi-day gulet charters and sailing holidays. Its expansive coastline, warm waters, and secluded anchorages appeal to both seasoned sailors and leisure boaters. The region’s historical ports and turquoise bays make it a staple of the Eastern Mediterranean boating circuit.

6. Palma, Spain

Most Popular Style of Boat: Powerboats

Number of Vessels Available: 76

Palma de Mallorca is a cornerstone of Mediterranean yachting, offering a sophisticated mix of modern marinas, historic charm, and access to the Balearic archipelago. As a major charter base, Palma supports a wide variety of vessels, from catamarans to mega yachts. Its strategic location and year-round sailing season make it one of Europe’s most active boating cities. Palma also hosts international boat shows and regattas, contributing to its maritime prominence.

7. Barcelona, Spain

Most Popular Style of Boat: Sailboats

Number of Vessels Available: 72

Barcelona blends urban vibrancy with a thriving maritime culture. The city’s waterfront infrastructure includes world-class marinas such as Port Vell and Port Olímpic. Boating here allows for coastal sightseeing, with views of iconic landmarks like Sagrada Familia from the sea, as well as excursions to nearby beaches and Costa Brava. The combination of cultural richness and boating accessibility has helped position Barcelona as a top city for day charters and corporate sailing events.

8. Ornos, Greece

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 56

Located on the southwest coast of Mykonos, Ornos is a popular launch point for boat charters exploring the Cyclades. Known for its clear waters, protected bay, and upscale beach clubs, Ornos attracts travelers seeking both luxury and adventure. From here, charters often head to Delos, Rhenia, and other neighboring islands. Traditional wooden boats, catamarans, and modern yachts are common, with rates starting around $128 per hour. The Aegean setting provides consistent wind and calm seas ideal for sailing.

9. Split, Croatia

Most Popular Style of Boat: Powerboats

Number of Vessels Available: 213

Split serves as a gateway to the Dalmatian Coast and the surrounding islands, such as Hvar, Brač, and Vis. Its combination of Roman heritage and natural beauty makes it a premier destination for yacht charters. Croatia’s extensive Adriatic coastline offers over 1,000 islands, and Split is at the heart of this nautical network. Charter options range from bareboat sailing yachts to crewed luxury vessels, supporting a booming marine tourism economy that has become central to the region.

10. Cannes, France

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 25

Famous for its film festival and luxury appeal, Cannes is also one of the most glamorous yacht charter hubs on the French Riviera. Its harbor is lined with superyachts, and the surrounding coastline provides access to scenic spots like the Lérins Islands and Saint-Tropez. Charter activity peaks during major events, but year-round boating remains popular thanks to the mild climate and high-end service offerings. Cannes exemplifies the blend of prestige and Mediterranean cruising.

In Summary

The Summer months of May through September are some of the busiest times to visit any city on the European continent, thanks to hot weather and travelers taking their annual leave. During this season, boating activities stand out in high demand, from the waters of Lake Como at the top of the list, to the stunning coastlines fo the French Riviera in Cannes. While boating is beloved in all countries, the Mediterranean coastal locations experience the highest demand for private yacht charters and boat rentals in all of Europe, with Spain hosting the most cities in the top 10.

About Getmyboat

Getmyboat is the biggest and best marketplace for boat charters and rentals worldwide.

Launched in 2013 with the vision of making the joy of boating accessible to everyone, the company has since grown into the largest boat rental and charter marketplace globally, with over 150,000 listings in 184 countries covering 9,300 destinations.

By giving a platform to both individual boat owners and professional charter businesses, Getmyboat makes the experience of getting out on the water more accessible to everyone — from a weekend jet ski rental in the local lake to a vacation yacht charter to a bachelor party pontoon, and everything in between.

Citing this Report

Media professionals are welcome to utilize this data for journalistic reporting purposes, with a citation and link to Getmyboat. If you have any questions or need any other data not found in the report below, reach out to pr@getmyboat.com. Our data and press team can provide further analysis, press quotes, and any other information needed.