CYOTW

Charter Yacht of the Week: Galileo

By Georgia Tindale | June 10, 2026

Each week, we spotlight one yacht worth knowing. Not just for how it looks or the amenities it offers, but for how it changes the experience of where you are. This week, our chosen charter yacht is the ever-adventure-ready 55.7-metre Galileo, currently available for charter with IYC.

Galileo Charter Yacht

At 55.7 metres, the Picchiotti-built explorer is a yacht that feels equally comfortable crossing oceans as it does cruising between tropical islands. Available through IYC, Galileo charter yacht marries the comfort of a luxury superyacht with the capability of a true expedition vessel, making it one of the most compelling options out there for travellers seeking an explorer yacht charter.

Having already circumnavigated the globe twice and sporting a range of 9,000 nautical miles, Galileo charter yacht is built for guests who see travel as more than simply arriving at a destination.

Instead, it offers the opportunity to experience some of the world’s most remote cruising grounds, from the islands of French Polynesia to the reefs of Fiji and the dramatic coastlines of New Zealand.

Built for Exploration

Designed by Philippe Briand and built by Italian shipyard Picchiotti, Galileo has been conceived as a genuine expedition yacht charter platform. Its steel ice-class hull, exceptional range and proven seakeeping capabilities allow it to venture far beyond the bread-and-butter routes typically associated with luxury yacht charter itineraries.

While many yachts spend their seasons moving between familiar Mediterranean hotspots, Galileo has built its reputation on exploration. Its long-range capabilities enable guests to access destinations where crowded marinas are replaced by deserted beaches, coral atolls and anchorages shared only with marine wildlife.

Indeed, its explorer pedigree is more than marketing. Few yachts available today can claim two complete circumnavigations of the globe, giving Galileo a level of cruising experience that reinforces its credentials as a true explorer yacht charter option.

South Pacific Yacht Charter Adventures

The South Pacific remains one of the most rewarding regions for adventurous travellers, and it is here that Galileo charter yacht truly comes into its own.

French Polynesia is among the highlights of any South Pacific yacht charter itinerary. Spread across an area larger than Europe, the region encompasses hundreds of islands, many of which remain accessible only by sea. Cruising aboard Galileo allows travellers to move effortlessly between turquoise lagoons, volcanic peaks and pristine coral reefs while avoiding the crowds often associated with land-based travel.

In destinations such as Bora Bora, Moorea and the Tuamotu Archipelago, those on board can spend their days diving with manta rays, snorkelling vibrant reef systems or exploring secluded anchorages that feel untouched by time. The ability to wake up each morning in a completely different location is one of the defining advantages of a French Polynesia yacht charter.

Further west, Fiji presents another exceptional cruising destination. Comprising more than 300 islands, Fiji combines extraordinary natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage.

A Fiji yacht charter aboard Galileo provides access to remote islands, traditional villages and some of the finest diving sites in the Pacific.

For many travellers, the appeal lies in the diversity of experiences available within a single itinerary. One day might involve diving among colourful coral gardens, while the next could be spent paddleboarding through calm lagoons or enjoying a beach barbecue on an uninhabited island.

Australia and New Zealand by Yacht

Galileo charter yacht is also available for itineraries throughout Australia and New Zealand, where exploration can be relished at a slower pace.

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef remains one of the world’s most celebrated cruising grounds. Stretching for more than 2,300 kilometres, the reef offers countless opportunities for diving, snorkelling and wildlife encounters.

Travelling aboard an explorer yacht charter vessel such as Galileo allows travellers to reach more remote sections of the reef, away from day-trip boats and popular tourist centres.

The Whitsundays provide a different perspective, combining sheltered anchorages, white-sand beaches and excellent watersports opportunities. Whitehaven Beach, frequently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, is a particular highlight.

Across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand offers dramatic scenery and remarkable biodiversity. The Bay of Islands is known for its secluded coves and maritime heritage, while more remote areas provide opportunities to encounter dolphins, seals and native birdlife in pristine surroundings.

Exploring these regions by yacht offers a level of flexibility that traditional travel cannot match. Rather than following fixed schedules, travellers can adapt their itinerary according to weather, wildlife sightings and personal interests.

A Yacht for Active Travellers

What distinguishes Galileo charter yacht from many traditional luxury yachts is its emphasis on participation and exploration. The yacht has become particularly well known for dive and surf-focused charters. Supported by specialist crew and an extensive collection of equipment, those on board can immerse themselves in the destinations they visit rather than simply observing them from afar.

Surfboards, hydrofoils, fishing equipment, dive gear and expedition tenders create opportunities to explore both above and below the waterline. Whether diving on remote reefs in Fiji, surfing uncrowded breaks in French Polynesia or fishing in the South Pacific, Galileo is designed to help guests engage directly with their surroundings.

For travellers seeking an adventure yacht charter experience, few vessels offer the same combination of capability and comfort.

Comfort Without Excess

While exploration is central to its identity, Galileo charter yacht remains a welcoming and comfortable place to spend time.

Accommodation for up to 12 guests is arranged across five ensuite cabins, creating a layout well suited to families and groups of friends. Interiors combine contemporary styling with Indonesian influences, while large windows ensure a constant connection with the surrounding landscape.

The atmosphere is relaxed and understated. Rather than competing with the destinations themselves, the interiors provide a comfortable retreat after a day spent diving, exploring or cruising between islands.

Outside, expansive deck areas offer ample space for dining, reading or watching the scenery unfold. Whether anchored off a remote Pacific island or enjoying a sunset passage, life aboard Galileo revolves around the experience of being at sea.

Why charter Galileo?

Proven expedition yacht charter credentials, including two circumnavigations
9,000-nautical-mile range
Steel ice-class hull
Extensive diving, surfing and watersports equipment
Accommodation for 12 guests
Crew of 11
Ideal for South Pacific yacht charter itineraries
Available in French Polynesia, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand

For travellers looking beyond conventional luxury yacht charter experiences, Galileo charter yacht offers the ability to explore remote destinations without compromising on comfort.