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The Best Moorings Destinations for Holiday Festivities and Local Christmas Events
The holiday season is one of the most rewarding and memorable times to be a Moorings yacht owner. While traditional holiday travel means crowds, waitlists, and rigid schedules, Moorings yacht ownership gives you the freedom to step aboard your private yacht and sail directly into some of the world’s most magical seasonal experiences.
Across our global Moorings bases, December brings a vibrant tapestry of festivities: Christmas flotillas gliding through the British Virgin Islands, the sound of parang echoing through Grenada’s bays, glowing lantern festivals in Thailand, beachfront feasts in Belize, and cultural celebrations in Tahiti.
And with The Moorings Yacht Ownership Program, every detail is designed to make the season seamless and stress-free. Arrive at a perfectly prepared and professionally maintained yacht, provisioned to your preferences, and ready for immediate departure. Cruise between lively harbors and serene anchorages, celebrate Christmas morning in total tranquility, or ring in the New Year amongst hundreds of yachts at Foxy’s. Your itinerary is as flexible as the wind.
Here’s a look at our top Moorings bases that shine brightest during the festive season, perfect for short-notice, spontaneous bookings to turn your December from crowded chaos into a luxurious, unforgettable holiday spent on the water.
1. British Virgin Islands – A Caribbean Christmas Like No Other
The British Virgin Islands remain one of the most extraordinary places to spend the holidays as a Moorings yacht owner. In December, the BVI blends its signature laid-back charm with vibrant island festivities, creating a holiday atmosphere you simply can’t experience anywhere else. Christmas parades, waterfront markets, festive regattas, and community celebrations unfold across Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Cooper Island, and Jost Van Dyke, all easily accessible from the comfort of your private yacht.
Whether you’re exploring Road Town’s decorated waterfront or preparing to ring in the New Year from legendary White Bay, the BVI delivers a refined, relaxed, and unforgettable holiday cruising experience.
Must-See BVI Holiday Events & Experiences
• Christmas on Main Street – Road Town, Tortola
Road Town’s waterfront becomes a hub of holiday cheer, complete with artisan stalls, Caribbean street food, steel pan bands, and festive décor. Within easy walking distance of The Moorings base, it’s the perfect place for Moorings owners to stroll, shop, and soak in the island’s warm holiday spirit.
• Carols by the Sea & Trellis Bay Fire Sculptures – Beef Island
One of the BVI’s most iconic holiday traditions, Trellis Bay hosts evenings filled with caroling, live music, and Moko Jumbie stilt dancers. The famous massive, handcrafted fire sculptures that ignite over the bay create an unforgettable spectacle on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Anchor early for the best views!
• BVI Christmas Regattas
Seasonal regattas dot the December calendar, with friendly races around Tortola and Virgin Gorda. After the finish line, sailors gather for rum tastings, beach barbecues, and local celebrations—an excellent way to connect with the BVI’s passionate sailing community.
• White Bay, Jost Van Dyke – The Caribbean’s Most Famous New Year’s Eve Party
From Foxy’s legendary Old Year’s Night celebration to beachside parties all along White Bay, this is one of the world’s top New Year’s Eve destinations. The best part? As a Moorings Owner, you can dinghy back to your yacht under the stars when the festivities wind down.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Arrive at Trellis Bay or White Bay well ahead of Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve—mooring balls and anchorages fill fast during the holiday peak! For a seamless experience, arrange a provisioning package through The Moorings before you travel so your yacht is fully stocked and celebration-ready the moment you step aboard.
2. Grenada – Parang Music, Spice Markets, and Authentic Island Cheer
Grenada — affectionately known as the Spice Isle—offers one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant and culturally rich holiday atmospheres. In December, the island bursts to life with traditional music, festive lights, bustling spice markets, and genuine community celebrations. For Moorings yacht owners, it’s an unforgettable way to blend world-class cruising with an authentic Caribbean Christmas.
Whether you’re anchored in a quiet bay or stepping ashore for evening celebrations, Grenada delivers a warm, authentic holiday experience infused with calypso rhythms, Caribbean flavors, and true island hospitality.
Must-See Grenada Holiday Events & Experiences
• Christmas at the Point – Quarantine Point, St. George’s
Grenada’s signature holiday festival runs from late November through early January. Expect dazzling lighting displays, live parang and steel pan performances, outdoor holiday movies, artisan stalls, and children’s activities like Santa’s Grotto. Ideal for Owners wanting a joyful, family-friendly celebration close to the water.
• Parang Festival – Carriacou
A beloved island tradition, this December festival showcases soulful parang bands performing a mix of Christmas carols and Caribbean folk songs. Street performances, traditional instruments, and vibrant community energy make this one of the Caribbean’s most authentic cultural celebrations.
• St. George’s Christmas & Holiday Markets
Wander through stalls selling locally crafted gifts, spice blends, rum cakes, and festive décor. With the harbor lit up for the season, these markets offer a charming shopping experience for those last-minute Christmas presents.
• Grand Anse Beach Holiday Dining
Upscale beachfront restaurants offer seasonal menus featuring fresh seafood, sorrel punch, ginger beer, and Grenadian holiday specialties. It’s the perfect place for a festive holiday dinner after a day of sailing.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Add Gouyave’s Fish Friday Christmas Edition to your itinerary. This lively street festival blends holiday cheer with fresh seafood, live music, and authentic island culture. Arriving by yacht means you skip the busy holiday roads and enjoy an effortless and authentic Caribbean evening.
3. Thailand – Lanterns, Lights, and Cultural Festivities
If you’re dreaming of a Christmas that feels truly different, Thailand offers one of the most magical holiday atmospheres you can experience by yacht. Although Christmas isn’t traditionally celebrated here, December transforms the Andaman Sea into a tapestry of lanterns, beachfront lights, and warm Thai hospitality. Coastal towns from Phuket to Krabi embrace the season with gourmet seaside dining, festive markets, fire-dancing shows, and resort-style celebrations that feel both elevated and effortlessly welcoming.
For sailors, Thailand is where holiday serenity meets exotic adventure. Mornings bring quiet anchorages tucked beneath towering limestone cliffs. Days are spent snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons, paddling through hidden caves, or exploring postcard-perfect beaches accessible only by yacht. As evening sets in, step ashore for lantern-lit dinners, live music, fireworks, and cultural festivities that blend Thai tradition with festive cheer.
A holiday sailing trip here isn’t about familiar customs; it’s about discovering a new way to celebrate. Peaceful, vibrant, and beautifully unconventional, Thailand offers a truly unforgettable Christmas experience.
Must-See Thailand Holiday Events & Experiences
• Christmas & New Year’s Eve Dining & Fireworks on Phuket’s Beaches
Phuket’s premier resorts and beach venues, especially along Patong, Kamala, and Surin, offer elegant Christmas Eve dinners, seasonal buffets, and celebratory New Year’s Eve galas. Expect gourmet seafood, live entertainment, fire shows, and some of Southeast Asia’s most impressive fireworks displays illuminating the bay at midnight.
• Festive Markets, Lantern Displays & Old Town Holiday Lights
Phuket Old Town becomes especially charming in December, with softly lit lanterns, holiday décor, and bustling walking streets. Stroll through craft vendors, street food stalls, and cultural performances while enjoying a festive yet distinctly Thai ambiance.
• Beach Club Celebrations in Bang Tao, Kata, Karon & Rawai
For Owners craving a more relaxed holiday vibe, the beach clubs and resort areas around Bang Tao, Kata, Karon, and Rawai deliver chic, coastal celebrations. Think sunset cocktails, DJ sets, seasonal menus, and a refined, laid-back atmosphere—ideal for a stylish but low-key holiday evening.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Plan at least one sunrise sail through Phang Nga Bay or between Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands. Early morning light paints the limestone cliffs in gold, the water is glass-calm, and anchorages are blissfully quiet. Enjoy breakfast onboard or a leisurely swim before returning to the evening celebrations ashore, giving you the best of Thailand’s serene seascapes and its festive, coastal nightlife.
4. Seychelles – Seafood, Sunsets, and Festive Island Cheer
Seychelles is one of the world’s most sought-after winter sailing destinations, and December is an exceptional time to explore it. Calm seas, warm weather, and a relaxed festive atmosphere create ideal conditions for holiday cruising.
The Seychelles offers a holiday experience that feels tailor-made for yacht owners: refined, unhurried, and steeped in natural beauty. While the islands welcome seasonal cheer throughout December, the atmosphere stays blissfully calm, with more private sunsets and quiet anchorages than crowded beaches or resort-packed events. Luxury here is defined not by excess, but by space, serenity, and the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace.
Must-See Seychelles Holiday Events & Seasonal Experiences
• Victoria Christmas Market – Mahé
The capital transforms into a festive hub of local spices, artisanal crafts, and live island music. It’s an ideal stop for Owners who want to pick up authentic gifts or explore the flavors and traditions of a Seychelles Christmas.
• Creole Holiday Feasts
Seaside restaurants and boutique island venues serve special holiday menus featuring grilled lobster, red snapper, octopus curry, and traditional Creole dishes. Many spots accommodate yacht tenders, making it easy to dine ashore and return to your private floating retreat.
• Carols by the Beach
Throughout December, local choirs perform along the shoreline on Mahé and Praslin. Anchor nearby for an unforgettable evening where the sound of carols blends with gentle surf and sunset colors.
• Praslin Island Festivities
Praslin offers smaller community gatherings, holiday pop-up markets, and live music at intimate island venues. Perfect for Owners looking to experience local culture without the crowds.
• Sunset Sailing & Holiday Cocktails
Mahé’s west coast and St. Anne Marine National Park deliver some of the region’s most breathtaking December sunsets. A slow, late-afternoon sail or a holiday cocktail on deck is the quintessential Seychelles luxury experience.
• New Year’s Fireworks – Victoria Harbor
Ring in the New Year with a waterfront fireworks display over Victoria Harbor, best viewed from your yacht for a private, front-row celebration.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: For a Christmas morning you’ll never forget, anchor off Anse Lazio on Praslin. Its powder-white beaches, granite boulders, and luminous turquoise water create one of the most stunning holiday backdrops in the Indian Ocean, a serene, luxurious start to the day that truly defines a Seychelles Christmas aboard your Moorings yacht.
5. La Paz – The Most Peaceful Holiday Sailing on Earth
If your perfect holiday is more “silent nights” than “busy boardwalks,” La Paz delivers. This is one of the most remote sailing regions in the Moorings portfolio—a place where the Sea of Cortez stretches out untouched, anchorages are quiet, and the nearest beach bar is often a hundred miles away. Outside of La Paz and Cabo, it’s just you, your yacht, and Baja’s wild desert-meets-ocean landscape.
Along the desolated coastline, festive energy exists, mostly surrounding La Paz or in nearby Cabo, but the real magic of this region lies in its isolation, its wildlife, and the chance to enjoy the season immersed in one of the world’s most peaceful cruising grounds.
December brings clear skies, calm seas, and vibrant marine life, making it one of the best months to explore Baja by yacht. Spend the day anchored in a quiet bay surrounded by red cliffs and turquoise water, then return to La Paz for traditional posadas, seasonal treats, and warm Mexican hospitality.
Must-See La Paz Holiday Events & Experiences
• La Paz Christmas Lights & Night Markets
The city’s waterfront shines with festive lights, craft stalls, and seasonal street foods like churros, buñuelos, and champurrado. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed evening ashore after days spent in secluded anchorages.
• Traditional Posadas
Throughout December, town squares host processions, music, and community celebrations. These cultural experiences offer a deeper, more local view of holiday tradition. A refreshing contrast to typical resort-style festivities.
• Espíritu Santo & Balandra Bay Holiday Sailing
These iconic anchorages are ideal for Moorings owners seeking peace and privacy. Expect glassy water, dramatic cliffs, and unforgettable sunsets. A complete escape from the seasonal hustle.
• Wildlife Encounters
December is prime whale shark season, giving owners the chance to pair holiday cruising with once-in-a-lifetime marine experiences.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Anchor overnight at Ensenada Grande or Balandra during Christmas week. These bays remain blissfully untouched — no beach bars, no crowds, just turquoise water, golden morning light, and total silence. Enjoy a slow breakfast onboard before sailing back toward La Paz for festive lights, local markets, or a Nochebuena dinner, striking the perfect balance between solitude and celebration.
6. St. Lucia – Caribbean Festivals, Coastal Dining & Holiday Island Magic
St. Lucia stands out as one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant yet sophisticated holiday destinations for Moorings Yacht Owners. December brings a lively mix of Christmas lights, steel-pan bands, and waterfront celebrations, but the island still preserves plenty of space for quiet, scenic cruising between the Pitons, Soufrière, and Rodney Bay.
This is holiday sailing at its best: mornings spent exploring colorful Creole markets, afternoons cruising along volcanic peaks and lush coastline, and evenings enjoying elevated beachfront dining or a quiet night aboard in one of the Caribbean’s most unforgettable settings.
Must-See St. Lucia Holiday Events & Experiences
• Rodney Bay Christmas Village
The marina and waterfront come alive with festive stalls, Lucian crafts, steel-pan musicians, and local entertainers. Perfect for owners moored nearby who want to immerse themselves in island culture.
• St. Lucia Holiday Music Festivals & Caribbean Concerts
Throughout December, local choirs, steel-pan bands, and street performers bring music to waterfront towns, creating a lively and joyful holiday atmosphere.
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Rodney Bay Marina
Celebrate with live music, beachside parties, and a dazzling fireworks display, best enjoyed from your yacht for a front-row view.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Anchor beneath the Pitons on Christmas morning. Few holiday moments compare to sipping coffee on deck as the twin peaks glow at sunrise—a truly iconic St. Lucian memory.
7. Tahiti – Discover a Holiday Season Made for Sailors, Not Crowds
Tahiti delivers a holiday experience defined by natural beauty, cultural warmth, and unmistakable Polynesian hospitality. Sailing between the islands of Papeete, Bora Bora, and Moorea, Owners can enjoy December at a pace that feels both festive and deeply serene.
Papeete offers holiday markets, illuminated waterfront promenades, and seasonal concerts, while Bora Bora and Moorea embrace the season with traditional dance performances, local community gatherings, and lagoon-side celebrations that showcase the spirit of the islands.
December brings calm seas, clear conditions, and some of the most inviting snorkel and swimming waters anywhere in the world. Spend your days exploring coral gardens, drifting over turquoise lagoons, or anchoring in quiet coves framed by volcanic peaks.
The Society Islands create a holiday atmosphere that feels luxurious in its simplicity: authentic, tranquil, and effortlessly memorable. A festive escape here isn’t defined by crowds or noise, but by culture, connection, and the unmatched beauty of the South Pacific.
Must-See Tahiti Holiday Events & Experiences
• Papeete Christmas Market
The capital comes alive with handmade crafts, Tahitian pearls, local foods, and festive lights. Perfect for those looking for some last-minute, unique gifts.
• Christmas Mass at Papeete Cathedral
Enjoy Polynesian hymns, floral decorations, and a uniquely local take on the holiday tradition, ideal for a serene and meaningful festive experience ashore.
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Papeete Harbor
Celebrate the season with waterfront fireworks, best enjoyed from your yacht for unobstructed reflections over the lagoon. Beach parties and resort events also add to the festive magic.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Choose Bora Bora for New Year’s Eve. Watching fireworks reflect on the turquoise lagoon from your yacht creates one of the most spectacular and serene celebrations in the Pacific.
8. Belize – Caribbean Culture with a Warm, Coastal Holiday Spirit
Sailing in Belize during the holidays offers a rare blend of cultural richness and effortless relaxation. Along the coast, December brings a lively rhythm of Garifuna drumming, festive street parades, artisan markets, and waterfront celebrations that showcase the country’s warm Caribbean-meets-Central-America personality. Step ashore for seasonal events in Placencia or San Pedro, then return to the comfort of your yacht for quiet moments at anchor beneath wide-open tropical skies.
Out on the water in Belize, the holidays take on a slower, more intimate feel. Wake to a private Christmas sunrise over tranquil turquoise shallows, snorkel pristine reef systems before lunch, and enjoy sunset cocktails on deck with only the sound of the sea for company. With calm waters, steady breezes, and sunshine-filled days, December is one of the best times to explore Belize’s island chain, blending effortless luxury, family time, and immersive cultural experiences into a holiday you simply can’t recreate on land.
Must-See Belize Holiday Events & Experiences
• Placencia Christmas Parade & Boat Lighting Festival
The village comes alive with colorful floats, costumes, and live music. Owners can decorate their yachts for the harbor display and enjoy the festive lights from the comfort of their own vessel.
• Garifuna Christmas Drumming Nights
A unique Belizean tradition featuring Garifuna music, dance, and storytelling. An unforgettable cultural highlight for those visiting local villages and waterfront towns.
• Placencia & Ambergris Caye Holiday Markets
Find handcrafted gifts, local foods, and seasonal treats while strolling through festive waterfront markets. Perfect for picking up souvenirs or sampling traditional Belizean holiday cuisine.
• Secluded Anchorages
Anchor at Laughing Bird Caye, Sapodilla Cayes, or other hidden spots for serene Christmas mornings, quiet snorkeling, or sunset cocktails away from the crowds.
• Beachfront New Year’s Eve Celebrations – San Pedro
Music, fireworks, and waterfront festivities create a lively end-of-year celebration best enjoyed with front-row access from your yacht.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Sail early to Placencia for the Boat Lighting Festival. Owners love decorating their yachts, and viewing the illuminated harbor from your deck offers a magical, unforgettable holiday experience in Belize.
9. St. Maarten & St. Barth’s –The Caribbean’s Holiday Capital of Luxury
No festive season sailing list would be complete without mentioning the unmatched glamour of St. Maarten and St. Barth’s.
These leeward islands are the pinnacle of festive Caribbean glamour, and an annual winter playground for the rich, the famous, and European royalty. These French- and Dutch-influenced islands combine refined European elegance with warm Caribbean energy, making them two of the most iconic holiday destinations for Moorings Yacht Owners seeking a truly elevated December escape.
In St. Maarten, you’ll find cosmopolitan parades, waterfront markets, and gourmet holiday treats that blend Caribbean charm with European flair. Cross over to St. Barth’s, and the atmosphere shifts to pure French-Caribbean luxury: designer boutiques, champagne-soaked beach clubs, chic waterfront dining, and the world’s most legendary New Year’s Eve yacht parties, where superyachts gather in Gustavia Harbor, and the island becomes the epicenter of global holiday celebrations for the rich and famous.
For Owners, these islands deliver the perfect balance of high-energy festivities and elegant cruising. Spend your days exploring French bakeries, colorful markets, and boutique-lined streets, then retreat to your private yacht for sunset cocktails, alfresco dinners, and unmatched views of fireworks reflected across calm Caribbean waters.
Must-See St. Maarten & St. Barth’s Holiday Events & Experiences
• Marigot Christmas Market – French St. Martin
A European-style holiday market filled with pastries, decorations, handmade gifts, and gourmet treats, perfect for seasonal shopping with a sophisticated French touch.
• Great Bay Fireworks – St. Maarten
Watch dazzling waterfront fireworks displays from the comfort of your yacht, with uninterrupted views of the harbor celebrations.
• St. Barth’s Luxury Holiday Dining
From beachfront bistros to Michelin-inspired tasting menus, St. Barth’s delivers world-class cuisine and holiday feasts infused with French-Caribbean flavors.
• Gustavia Harbor New Year’s Eve
St. Barth’s hosts the most iconic New Year’s Eve yacht celebrations on the planet. With superyachts lining the harbor, the night becomes a glittering, unforgettable experience of luxury and festivity.
Owner’s Holiday Tip: Anchor just outside Gustavia Harbor on New Year’s Eve for panoramic views of the fireworks and the world-famous superyacht celebrations—without the congestion of the marina. It’s one of the most exclusive and breathtaking ways to welcome the New Year in true Moorings style.
Make This Holiday Season Unforgettable with Short-Notice Bookings
The best holiday moments are often the spontaneous ones—and with Moorings Short Notice Bookings, your next unforgettable December is only a click away. Whether you’re dreaming of Caribbean celebrations, Tahitian cultural nights, or peaceful, remote anchorages in Baja or the Seychelles, your Moorings Yacht Owner privileges unlock exclusive last-minute access to the world’s most inspiring destinations.
Your yacht gives you something few holiday travelers ever experience: complete freedom. Celebrate Christmas or New Year exactly the way you want—surrounded by nature, immersed in local festivities, or anchored in total tranquility.
This season, choose the holiday you actually want. Ready to secure your next Short Notice week? Reach out to The Moorings Ownership Team and start planning your holiday escape today.
Hanrie Bosch
Guest blogger, Hanrie Bosch, is a professional yacht chef. Based in the Caribbean and Bahamas, since 2013, she has worked on boats ranging from 48 ft Leopards to 160 ft superyachts.
