Join us at the Southampton Boat Show 2026, from 18th – 27th September. 

We are delighted to announce that SETAG will be exhibiting at the Southampton International Boat Show for the sixth year running. The show will feature everything the leisure marine industry has to offer, including our beautifully transformed 2014, Princess 72.

Come along to visit our team at Stand M153 to explore an inspiring project that truly encapsulates the SETAG way – bespoke design, personalised service and new boat quality… all at untouchable value for money. Be sure to book an appointment with Chris Gates, CEO of SETAG Yachts, to discuss your bespoke refit journey.

After our refurbishment on the left. Before on the right hand side.

Unmistakably SETAG

SETAG is thrilled to unveil a flagship transformation that exemplifies the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and lasting quality that define every SETAG transformation, demonstrating what’s possible as an alternative to buying new.

Schedule an appointment

During the show Chris Gates, the CEO of SETAG Yachts and our expert team are available for dedicated appointments to discuss your bespoke Design & Refit journey. This is your chance to collaborate with a leading experts in the field and discover how SETAG can elevate your yacht to new heights of luxury.

 

Book An Appointment
Chris Gates 1

Experience everything you would usually expect to see at this international boat show, plus the opportunity to explore The Third Way in purchasing your yacht – a sustainably conscious entry into boating through our expert Design & Refit service.

SETAG guests can enjoy a special discounted rate on general admission tickets – just £19.99 (FROM £29.99 face value) for any One Day of the show. Use the unique code SETAGYACHTS to purchase your tickets.

Find out more and book your tickets to the show by clicking the button below.

Europe at its best from the water

Sailing Europe offers an unrivalled way to experience its most iconic coastlines, from the glamour of the Mediterranean to the raw beauty of Northern waters. Each region brings its own character, whether you’re drawn to vibrant ports, secluded anchorages or rich cultural destinations.

As we look ahead to the 2026 season, many yacht owners are planning extended cruising and exploring new waters. Choosing where and when to sail is only part of the journey – ensuring your boat is prepared for the demands of European cruising is what truly elevates the experience.

In this guide, we explore the six best places to sail in Europe, the ideal times to visit and how careful preparation can help you make the most of every moment on the water.


Where is the best place to sail in Europe?

There is no single “best” place to sail in Europe. The ideal destination depends on when you travel, the type of yacht you own and the experience you’re seeking. Some regions shine during peak summer, while others are best enjoyed in shoulder seasons.

Whether you’re drawn to glamorous marinas, beautiful scenery, island-hopping itineraries or quiet anchorages, Europe offers something for every style of yachting.

The French Riviera – Riviera Chic & Glamour

Highlights

  • Iconic cruising grounds from Cannes to Monaco
  • Glamorous marinas, beach clubs and Michelin-starred dining 
  • Calm anchorages at the Lérins Islands 
  • Easy access to Corsica’s pristine waters 

What to expect
The French Riviera offers polished luxury, vibrant social scenes and impeccable facilities. Days can be spent moored in world-renowned ports or anchored just offshore in serene natural surroundings. Corsica adds a rugged, unspoiled contrast, often described as the “Maldives of Europe.” This is classic yachting in the Mediterranean – stylish, lively and effortlessly impressive. 

When to sail

  • For peak atmosphere and events: June to September
  • For fewer crowds and comfortable cruising: May or September
An image of the clear ocean with small boats in the distance (Corsica).

Amalfi Coast & Sardinia – Mediterranean Drama

Highlights

  • Dramatic cliffs and pastel villages along the Amalfi Coast
  • World-class Italian cuisine and culture
  • Crystal-clear waters around Sardinia and La Maddalena
  • Exceptional anchorages popular with superyachts

What to expect
Cruising Italy is a sensory experience. From anchoring beneath towering cliffs near Positano to exploring Sardinia’s protected marine parks, this region blends luxury with adventure. Expect unforgettable scenery, refined dining and some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful waters.

When to sail

  • For ideal conditions: May to June & September
  • For vibrant ports and summer energy: July and August
The Amalfi Coast with some boats and buildings

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia – Island-Hopping Paradise

Highlights

  • Nearly 1,000 islands to explore
  • UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik and historic Split
  • National parks with sheltered anchorages
  • Excellent marinas and provisioning

What to expect
Croatia offers remarkable variety within short cruising distances. One day might be spent exploring ancient walled cities, the next anchored in a quiet bay surrounded by pine forests. The region is ideal for extended itineraries and suits both motor and sailing yachts.

When to sail

  • For warm waters and lively ports: June to September
  • For peaceful cruising and fewer boats: May and October

Greek Isles – Endless Archipelagos & Sun-Kissed Waters

Highlights

  • Hundreds of islands across multiple archipelagos
  • Calm Ionian waters for relaxed cruising
  • Iconic Cycladic destinations such as Mykonos and Santorini
  • Traditional tavernas and clear Aegean seas

What to expect
Greece offers short passages, consistent winds and striking scenery. The Ionian is perfect for laid-back cruising, while the Cyclades bring dramatic landscapes and energetic nightlife. Expect welcoming harbours, authentic culture and exceptional light on the water. 

When to sail

  • For comfortable conditions: May to June and September
  • For peak atmosphere and events: July and August
A boat on clear waters

Balearic Islands & Barcelona – Spanish Sun & Sea

Highlights

  • Ibiza’s mix of lively energy and hidden calas
  • Family-friendly cruising around Mallorca and Formentera
  • Clear waters and excellent snorkelling
  • Cultural cruising from Barcelona along the Costa Brava

What to expect
This region combines vibrant city life with relaxed island cruising. Evenings can be spent ashore enjoying Spanish cuisine and nightlife, while days offer peaceful anchorages and scenic coastal passages. It’s a versatile destination that suits a wide range of cruising styles.

When to sail

  • May to October, with June and September offering the best balance
  • For lively summer cruising: July and August
A yacht sailing in the ocean with a city behind it

Northern Europe – Fjords, Archipelagos & Hidden Harbours

Highlights

  • Dramatic Norwegian fjords
  • The intricate Stockholm Archipelago
  • Baltic cruising routes from Sweden to Denmark
  • Rugged Scottish and Irish coastlines

What to expect
Northern Europe rewards those seeking raw beauty and quieter waters. Expect longer passages, cooler temperatures and breathtaking scenery. These routes appeal to experienced cruisers and those looking to escape busy Mediterranean hotspots.

When to sail

  • For favourable weather: June to August
  • For extended daylight and calmer conditions: Late summer
A river running through Geiranger, Norway

Preparing your yacht for the European sailing season

The European sailing season places increased demands on every aspect of your yacht. Extended cruising, warmer temperatures and higher usage mean that systems, interiors and finishes must perform flawlessly when it matters most.

Careful preparation ahead of the season is essential. From navigation upgrades and engine checks to interior updates and cosmetic enhancements, a well-planned refit ensures reliability, comfort and peace of mind throughout the summer months. It also helps future-proof the long-term value of your vessel, keeping her competitive in both enjoyment and resale terms.

At SETAG, we specialise in bespoke design and refit solutions tailored to how and where you cruise. Whether you require technical upgrades, subtle interior refinements or a complete transformation, our expert team ensures your boat is fully prepared for the season ahead – delivering exceptional quality, wherever your yacht is based.

Explore Our Services

Reflecting on the year – and where we’re headed next…

As we draw 2025 to a close, it’s incredible to look back at just how far SETAG has come. Each year builds on the last, but this one has been exceptional – marked by international expansion, major milestones, and continued trust from our growing community of SETAG’s yacht owners.

Launching in the Med

This year saw our long-anticipated expansion into the Mediterranean, with Denia becoming our first foothold in the region. Our presence overseas has opened the door to even more international projects, and we’re thrilled to see the SETAG service successfully penetrating the global market.

Discover SETAG Europe

First International Boat Show

Another major step: exhibiting at our first international boat show in Palma. This was a proud moment for the whole team and further embedded SETAG in the international yachting landscape.

25 Beautiful Projects Delivered

In 2025, we completed 25 beautiful projects, spanning a wide range of sizes and styles. This takes us to well over 100 completed yachts since our inception in 2021 – a milestone that reflects the dedication, craftsmanship, and pride our team puts into every refurbishment.

View our 2025 projects

Supporting Clients Around the Globe

We’ve continued to support our clients with their yachts and yacht movements to get ready for the season – throughout the Mediterranean and Middle East, ensuring a seamless, enjoyable ownership experience no matter the distance. A complete service from start to finish with SETAG.

A Growing Team & Purpose-Built Facilities

Our team has grown to 20 talented people, and with it, our capabilities. To support demand, we expanded our QAB (UK) facilities, which we designed ourselves specifically to help our team work efficiently, collaboratively, and productively. This investment in people and environment remains core to our philosophy and our success.

*Unfortunately several team members missing from the 2025 Christmas Do!

Becoming the Established Alternative

SETAG continues to be recognised as the established alternative in people’s thinking when it comes to boat ownership. This shift in thinking – choosing a pre-owned yacht, refurbished to an exceptional standard – is a testament to the value and trust we’ve worked hard to build.

The drivers for our success remain unchanged:

Value for money. Trust. And second-to-none Quality.

Quite simply, a new-boat experience at pre-owned prices.

Looking Ahead

With a strong forward order book for 2026 and limited availability to have your yacht refurbished for next season, we encourage early enquiries, but we are continuing to grow – so are confident we can return your boat in time for your enjoyment.

2025 has been extraordinary in every sense, and we couldn’t have achieved any of it without our clients, partners, and the SETAG team.

Thank you.

Book your 2026 refit

Here’s to an even brighter future as we look forward to 2026.

Do Yachts Increase in Value?

It’s a question we hear often – and one that challenges a common misconception. Yachts are extraordinary, complex assets, yet it’s widely assumed their value inevitably declines over time. Engines age, systems evolve and even the finest interiors can lose their edge. But with the right refit, that story can look very different.

A refit isn’t simply about renewal – it’s about reinvestment. Enhancing performance, elevating comfort and refining design can transform a pre-owned yacht into something more desirable, distinctive and competitive in today’s market.

At SETAG, we focus on maximising that potential. By starting with a quality pre-owned yacht, much of the initial depreciation has already occurred – allowing owners to channel investment into meaningful transformation rather than unavoidable loss. The result is a vessel that not only feels elevated but also holds its own, both in market value and in the experience she delivers.

The Misconception:
Yachts Always Lose Value

It’s true that new yachts depreciate as soon as they leave the shipyard. However, this overlooks an important reality: value isn’t defined by age alone. When design, craftsmanship and engineering are reimagined with purpose, a yacht’s worth can be revitalised – not just financially, but in the way she’s enjoyed and admired.

Why Yachts Are A Good Investment

A vessel that’s meticulously maintained and intelligently upgraded stands apart in the marketplace, offering far more than her original specification.

Many owners assume a refit is purely cosmetic – a refresh of finishes or fabrics. In reality, it’s a strategic investment that enhances engineering integrity, elevates onboard experience and strengthens a yachts position whether for private enjoyment or future resale.

Guided by SETAG’s philosophy, every refit is an opportunity to unlock that hidden potential. To transform perception, performance and long-term value through expert yacht refit management.

Measurable Returns from a Quality Refit

A well-executed refit can deliver tangible results, both economically and in terms of lifestyle. When carefully planned and precisely managed by a specialist team, like SETAG Yachts, the benefits extend far beyond aesthetics. We shape how a yacht performs, feels and is perceived within the market.

Resale Value and Market Confidence

A professionally managed refit inspires confidence in prospective buyers. Modernised systems, upgraded interiors, and a documented refit history can significantly enhance a yacht’s standing. A vessel that feels current in both design and technology attracts stronger offers and shorter listing times.

Charter Appeal and Revenue Potential

In the charter market, presentation and experience are everything. A yacht offering contemporary styling, advanced entertainment systems and optimised comfort instantly appeals to discerning guests. These enhancements often translate into higher charter rates and greater demand, delivering measurable returns over time.

Longevity and Cost Efficiency

Beyond market performance, a refit is also an investment in reliability. Upgrading engines, stabilisers and onboard systems reduces maintenance costs and extends operational life. A yacht that runs efficiently and looks exceptional remains a pleasure to own – and a more attractive proposition for future buyers.

The Power of Balance: Engineering Meets Styling

True value lies in balance. A yacht’s beauty is inseparable from her capability, and the most successful refits strengthen both in harmony. Engineering precision ensures reliability and efficiency; while design refinement shapes the atmosphere, flow and comfort on board. When these disciplines work together, the result is a vessel that feels as effortless to experience as she is to operate.

At SETAG, this balance defines our approach. Technical upgrades – from stabilisation systems and propulsion improvements to noise reduction and power efficiency – are seamlessly integrated with design enhancements such as reimagined layouts, contemporary materials and sophisticated lighting. Each element is considered in relation to the whole, creating a yacht that performs beautifully and feels timeless.

Discover Our Refit Projects

Insight from the Experts

“A bespoke refit allows the owner to tailor every aspect of the yacht to their individual needs and preferences. The level of customisation we offer significantly enhances the owner’s enjoyment and useability – a form of value that isn’t strictly financial but is deeply important to many yacht owners. We create a luxury environment that feels personal and new, without the price tag associated with a brand-new yacht.

In the more traditional investment terms, – several SETAG’d yachts have sold and the clients have experienced a premium…they have not only recouped their refit investment but often exceeded it.”
– Chris Gates, CEO

A Smart Refit is a Smart Investment

At SETAG, we believe that a yacht’s true value lies in her potential – and a refit, when guided by precision and innovation, is the key to unlocking it. Our design-led process combines technical excellence with aesthetic vision, ensuring every project enhances efficiency, onboard enjoyment and long-term desirability.

From full yacht refits with bespoke interior transformations to smaller individual upgrades – each project is entirely personal, reflecting the individuality of each owner. The result is a yacht renewed in character and strengthened in value, ready for the next chapter on the water.

Get in touch with the SETAG team to begin your refit journey.

Contact Us
With SETAG, you can make a huge difference when you buy something secondhand, maybe a bit tired and then you put all of this beauty in it and you create what effectively is a brand new boat. Completely to your own liking, your own standard...creating the perfect boat for us.
Delighted SETAG customer - Squadron 42 owner
Brilliant concept...new boat look and feel at pre-owned prices - by the industry experts. Recycling at its best!
Briony Newington - Founding Partner, Fairline Yachts.
The great thing is, none of this is off the shelf - I love this boat and now she’s got her frock on...this is the best money I've spent.
Delighted SETAG customer - Princess 61 owner
If you want to redefine, refit and remaster your boat who better to do it than the people who designed it in the first place? "What a fantastic idea!"
Miles Morehouse – Marketing Director, Fairline
We cannot recommend the SETAG team highly enough. If you love your current boat, then for a fraction of the cost to change it, have it SETAG’d. The SY branding certainly helped us obtain a premium price. We got what we paid for her in 2017 plus what we spent with you!
Delighted SETAG customer - Targa 50GT owner
I have worked with Chris for over 30 years and I’m pleased to see him develop his own brand - along with likeminded people with industry-leading expertise. The future is bright for SETAG Yachts and pre-owned yacht owners, who can now refurbish their vessels to today’s - or even tomorrow's standards.
David King - Founder, Princess Yachts.
That has been one of the key selling points for us – having that personalised service and having a boat that is unique to us – is standout in its own right. We are pretty blown away…very very pleased. I think it’s fabulous…it has transformed the boat.
Delighted SETAG customer - Targa 47 owner
The perfect way to open up a new market: the "true reflection of luxury". SETAG gets it: simplicity and personalisation are key – with the depth of knowledge to deliver.
James Barke – Managing Director of Boats.co.uk
SETAG are probably the only company who can carry out all the tasks as a ‘one stop shop’. Other yards were reluctant to price work and needed to subcontract many tasks meaning higher costs and longer lead times. If you are in any doubt speak to Chris and his team, they know boats like no one else.
Delighted SETAG customer - Princess 460 Owner
We have been waiting for this quality of service: a comprehensive, professional refit that we can rely on – because of the pedigree of its staff, with over 200 years' experience in our market.
Christopher Head – Group Sales Director for Sunseeker London Group
You have put Princess magic into our beloved Broom.
Delighted SETAG customer - Broom 370 owner
Never have I come across a more able collection of professionals in this market. We have complete trust in SETAG, since its team has been in the business for as long as we can remember. We're very excited to welcome this specialist refit company into our portfolio.
Colin Capewell - Managing Director of Princess Motor Yacht Sales

Testimonials

Don't just take our word for it...