Dreaming of an island escape — perhaps to the Greek Islands, Spanish coast or turquoise waters of the Caribbean?
But why limit yourself to just one? Unlike commercial flights or ferry schedules that eat into your precious holiday time, private jet charter lets you hop effortlessly between islands with complete ease and flexibility. No long waits, no rigid itineraries — just a seamless travel experience shaped entirely around you.
Private jet travel makes island hopping not only possible, but enjoyable. You can set your own schedule, travel spontaneously and truly make the most of every destination.
So, which island clusters are best suited to private jet travel? When should you book, and how does it all work? In this blog, we break it down.
Top European Islands to Explore by Private Jet
First things first: you need to pick where you’re heading. If it’s a European getaway you’re after, the choices are abundant — but not every island is easily reachable by private jet. Some remote gems lack airports altogether, requiring ferry or yacht transfers. However, by selecting an itinerary that naturally suits private aviation, you can enjoy a slick island-hopping experience, where the next stop is just a short flight away.
Here are our top three island groups in Europe that pair perfectly with private jet travel:
The Greek Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Paros
The sun-drenched Greek Islands are a perennial favourite for travellers seeking a mix of dramatic landscapes, culture and sophistication. Santorini and Mykonos are two of the most iconic — known for their postcard-worthy views, luxury resorts and vibrant nightlife.
But with private jet access, you can also discover lesser-known gems like Paros, Samos, Karpathos and Lefkada, many of which have their own regional airports or are a quick helicopter or speedboat ride from nearby runways.
The Balearics: Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca
The Balearic Islands off Spain’s eastern coast are effortlessly accessible via private jet, with dedicated VIP terminals in Ibiza and Mallorca in particular. Each island has its own distinct identity: Ibiza is renowned for its beach clubs and buzzing nightlife, Mallorca blends upscale marinas with mountain villages and Menorca is a quieter alternative with unspoiled beaches and a slower pace of life. Their close proximity makes them ideal for quick island-hops without the hassle of ferry schedules or commercial flight delays.
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast: Hvar, Brač, Korčula
Croatia’s glittering Dalmatian Coast has become a rising star among Mediterranean destinations, and private aviation is the perfect way to explore it. While the islands of Hvar, Brač, and Korčula don’t all have commercial airports, nearby Split and Dubrovnik do — both equipped for private jet arrivals. From there, you can reach the islands via a short helicopter transfer or luxury yacht charter. It’s a spectacular way to experience Croatia’s historic towns, crystal-clear waters, and lively coastal culture.
Caribbean Island Hopping Made Effortless
With its turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches and laid-back luxury, the Caribbean is made for island hopping — and private jet charter makes it smoother, faster and infinitely more enjoyable. Many Caribbean islands are well equipped for private aviation, offering dedicated FBOs (Fixed Base Operators) for swift arrivals, VIP treatment and minimal waiting times.
One thing to keep in mind: while distances between islands are short, customs and immigration regulations can vary between nations. A good charter provider will help streamline border crossings and ensure all paperwork is handled ahead of time — so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
The Bahamas: Nassau, Harbour Island, Exumas
With over 700 islands and cays, the Bahamas is a dream destination for flexible, multi-stop travel. Start in Nassau — home to Lynden Pindling International Airport with excellent private jet facilities — then hop to the pink-sand shores of Harbour Island or the jaw-dropping beauty of the Exumas. Many of the smaller islands feature airstrips suited for light jets and turboprops, giving you access to remote hideaways that commercial airlines can’t reach.
The Virgin Islands: BVI & USVI
Split between British and U.S. territories, the Virgin Islands are easily navigated by private jet and offer a perfect blend of adventure and luxury. Fly into St. Thomas or Tortola, and from there enjoy quick hops to islands like Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke or St. John. While you’ll be crossing international borders between the USVI and BVI, private travel simplifies the process with expedited customs procedures and pre-clearance options available through your charter provider.
St. Barts, St. Maarten, Anguilla
This glamorous trio in the northeastern Caribbean is ideal for travellers looking to pair luxury with convenience. Arrive into Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten, a hub for private jets, then take short flights to Anguilla or the iconic St. Barts, known for its chic boutiques and world-class dining. Each island has its own entry requirements, but your charter operator can coordinate customs clearance so you can move seamlessly between French, Dutch and British territories.
Benefits of Choosing a Private Jet Charter for Island Hopping
Island hopping is all about freedom and exploration — and nothing complements that better than private jet travel. Here’s why chartering a private jet makes all the difference when discovering island chains in Europe or the Caribbean:
Skip Layovers with Direct Routes
Commercial airlines rarely offer direct flights between smaller islands. With private aviation, you fly point-to-point — no layovers, no backtracking and no wasted time.
Tailored Schedules to Suit You
You set the itinerary. Leave when you’re ready, spend more time on the islands you love, and change plans on the fly if you wish. Private jet charter allows your holiday to flow around your preferences.
Effortless Group Travel & Luggage Handling
Whether you’re travelling as a couple or a group of friends or family, private jets simplify logistics. No checked bag queues, lost luggage or weight concerns — just smooth boarding and the ability to bring everything you need, including sporting equipment or extra outfits for every occasion.
VIP Experience at Every Terminal
Private jet passengers use exclusive terminals (FBOs), meaning you avoid busy commercial airports and enjoy a faster, more discreet experience. Think private lounges, dedicated customs checks, and minimal security lines — even in busy island hubs.
What to Know Before You Book
Before you begin planning your island-hopping adventure, here are a few key considerations to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience:
Aircraft Types for Short Island Hops
Most island-hopping flights are short, making light jets or turboprops (like the Pilatus PC-12 or Cessna Citation Mustang) a practical and comfortable choice. These aircraft are efficient, agile and ideal for landing on shorter runways often found on smaller islands.
When to Book
While private jets offer flexibility, it’s best to book at least a few weeks in advance — especially during peak travel seasons like summer in Europe or winter in the Caribbean. Early booking ensures a wider choice of aircraft and more competitive rates.
Weather and Seasonal Factors
Weather can impact flight plans, especially in tropical regions where afternoon storms or hurricane season (June–November) may affect operations. Your charter provider will plan around this and offer real-time updates and contingencies as needed.
Customs and Immigration Considerations
Island hopping across borders — especially in the Caribbean — means dealing with varying customs requirements. Fortunately, private jet operators streamline this process with pre-clearance options, handling all documentation behind the scenes so you can focus on the experience.
A Smarter Way to Island Hop
Island hopping by private jet is more than just a luxury — it’s a smarter, more efficient way to travel. You avoid delays, eliminate stress, and unlock access to destinations that might otherwise be time-consuming to reach. Whether you’re exploring Europe’s storied coastlines or the barefoot luxury of the Caribbean, private jet charter allows you to move on your terms, with style and ease.
Ready to take off? Get in touch to explore available routes, receive tailored itinerary suggestions or start planning your own unforgettable island-hopping adventure.
