Fun Facts About the Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean is home to some of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world. From the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the pristine beaches of the Greek Islands, there is a diverse range of landscapes to explore. With a coastline of over 28,000 miles and sea that touches upon 22 different countries, it’s only natural there will be some fun facts about the Mediterranean Sea to uncover. Discover more of these facts now.

What is considered the Mediterranean? 

The Mediterranean is any country or area that the Mediterranean Sea touches. This encompasses countries across Europe, Africa and Asia, and a number of islands dotted around the Mediterranean Sea. 

How deep is the Mediterranean Sea?

The Mediterranean Sea has an average depth of roughly 4,900ft (1,500m). The deepest part of the Mediterranean Sea can be found in the Calypso Deep, located in the Ionian Sea with a recorded depth of 3.27miles (5,267m).

Are there sharks in the Mediterranean Sea? 

While many people don’t associate the Mediterranean with sharks as they might in the open ocean, there actually are a few species of shark that do call this region home. Here’s a hidden fact about the Mediterranean Sea – several species of shark live here including the shortfin mako, blue shark, thresher shark, blacktip shark, hammerhead shark and even the great white shark. In fact, a total of 49 shark species have been spotted in the Mediterranean Sea. 

Is the Mediterranean Sea salty? 

Here’s another fun fact about the Mediterranean Sea – it’s actually saltier than the Atlantic Ocean. So, next time you’re floating in the Mediterranean Sea, you may notice some added buoyancy since there is approximately 36 – 38 grams of salt per liter in the Mediterranean compared to 34.9 grams of salt per liter in the Atlantic. 

Is the Mediterranean Sea warm? 

The temperature of the Mediterranean Sea will vary depending on the area you are planning to swim in.

Generally, the water will get warmer the further east you move, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, these can dip as low as 30 degrees in the winter, and 80 degrees in the height of summer. 

How big is the Mediterranean Sea?

The Mediterranean Sea occupies a total area of roughly 970,000 square miles and has a coastline of 28,000 miles. 

Does the Mediterranean Sea have tides? 

A surprising fact about the Mediterranean Sea is that it does in fact have tides. While the tides here won’t vary as much as they do in the ocean, they still ebb and flow in a similar fashion. Unlike larger oceans, the Mediterranean Sea will only vary by a few centimeters during high and low tide. 

Is the Mediterranean Sea rough? 

While the Mediterranean Sea won’t be as rough as larger oceans like the Atlantic and the Pacific, it can definitely get rough from time to time. While the rough waters won’t be due to tidal changes, the Mediterranean can become rough due to weather and strong winds so it’s still a good idea to plan ahead of you’re prone to seasickness or to keep an eye on the weather before heading out on the water. 

When is the Mediterranean Sea the calmest? 

Similar to the weather, the Mediterranean Sea will be calmest and best visited during the summer months.

July and August in particular are the calmest months to be on the Mediterranean. 

What river flows into the Mediterranean Sea? 

A number of rivers flow into the Mediterranean Sea. With over 28,000 mile of coastline, there is ample opportunity for rivers to flow into the larger Mediterranean Sea.

The ten largest rivers that run into the Mediterranean include the Rhone, Po, Drin-Bojana, Nile, Neretva, Ebro, Tiber, Adige, Seyhan, and Ceyhan Rivers. 

The Role of the Mediterranean Sea for Superyacht Charter 

When it comes to superyacht charters, there are two main regions that stand out. The Caribbean and the Mediterranean are certainly the most popular, and also benefit from many yachts being able to spend their summers in the Mediterranean and then cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean for the winter.

The Eastern Mediterranean and Western Mediterranean charter destinations are so popular during the summer months thanks to ideal temperatures, a number of countries in close proximity to one another, ample architecture and plenty of history and culturally rich activities to see and partake in.

From the countries, cities and islands that call the Mediterranean home, to the best places to visit while in the area, the Mediterranean is the perfect amalgamation of culture, beaches, history and fine dining. 

Top 5 Mediterranean Charter Destinations

With so many countries and islands to choose from, you could spend a lifetime visiting the Mediterranean Sea and still not see it all. To help you narrow down your search, YATCO has compiled our top five Mediterranean countries to add to your bucket list. 

Charter Destination #1 Greece

No visit to the Mediterranean, especially one on a superyacht charter, would be complete without a stop in Greece and the Greek Islands. Known as the cradle of Western Civilization, Greece combines history, culture, breathtaking natural beauty, warm hospitality and effortlessly blends the old and the new, making it a captivating destination for superyacht charter guests. 

Charter Destination #2 Croatia

A once hidden gem on the Adriatic Sea, Croatia has exploded in recent years as one of the hottest superyacht destinations in the Mediterranean. With sun-soaked islands, architectural ruins, 1,000 miles of coastline and over 80 islands to visit, it’s no wonder the beauty and wonder of Croatia is best seen by the bow of your own luxury yacht. 

Charter Destination #3 Italy

The romance of Italy is unlike any other destination in the world. With a history that spans centuries, many architectural ruins still standing, world famous food and wine, Italy also boasts nearly 5,000 miles of coastline meaning you can reach just about every corner of the country by yacht.  

Charter Destination #4 Turkey

Known as the Turquoise Coast, Turkey has seen an influx of superyacht charters flock to the Turkish coast and enjoy stunning coastlines and a veritable tapestry of history, culture, natural beauty, and unique experiences. With some of the best weather in the Mediterranean, Turkey also offers yacht charters later into the year than some of the other destinations on our list. 

Charter Destination #5 Spain & the Balearics

Blending the buzz of city life, the laid-back vibe of beaches and sleepy fishing villages, Spain and the Balearics has a number of experiences for everyone in your group. For a taste of the Spanish life, from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza, each port will have a little something different to offer – yet another great reason to explore this region by yacht.

Yacht Charter Guides

• Mediterranean Sea Yachting & Charter Guide: We’ve only just begun to touch on the Mediterranean cities and sights you’ll discover. For a complete overview of the region, explore more in YATCO’s Mediterranean Sea Boating and Yachting Guide.
  • Part 1: Explore 22 Mediterranean countries on your next yacht charter, spanning Europe, Africa, and Asia
  • Part 2: Discover enchanting Mediterranean islands, from Spain to Greece’s Santorini
  • Part 3: Discover the diverse cities on the Mediterranean Sea, with influences from Europe, Africa, and Asia. Uncover the rich tapestry of cultures.
  • Part 4: Embark on an unforgettable yacht journey, exploring the finest Mediterranean destinations from East to West and beyond!
  • Part 5: Dive into Mediterranean history, shaped over six million years. Explore the intriguing cultures and traditions. Uncover its tales now!
  • Part 6: Embark on an enchanting journey through the wonders of the Mediterranean, from the rugged Amalfi Coast to the pristine Greek Islands – explore its diverse landscapes and uncover fascinating facts. Start your adventure today!
• Private Yacht Charter Guide: Learn more about what’s included in a private yacht charter with YATCO’s Private Yacht Charter Guide. From costs to destinations, we have you covered.  
• Charter Yacht Provisioning Guide: You’ll likely come across the term “provisioning” a lot when you are booking a private yacht charter. Advanced Food and Provisioning Allowance is the money you pay that goes toward your food and drinks while onboard. This is on top of the base price to rent the yacht that you might see advertised on yacht charter websites. Read more about it in YATCO’s Charter Yacht Provisioning Guide.   
• Luxury Yacht Charter Turkey Guide: Turkey began to emerge as a luxury yacht charter destination a few years ago and it only continues to grow in popularity. Thanks to an extensive coastline, excellent superyacht marinas and facilities, and many historical gems to discover, learn more in our Luxury Yacht Charter Turkey Guide.  
• Yacht Charter Management Guide: What is a yacht charter management company and why are they important? When you book a luxury yacht rental, you will likely work with a charter yacht broker, and then be introduced to the yacht charter management company. This is the team that makes sure the charter business of the yacht runs well and smoothly for all. Read more in YATCO’s Yacht Charter Management Guide.   
• Yacht Charter Vacations Guide: With access to remote locations, a private chef, your attentive crew, and more water toys than you ever dreamed of, a yacht charter vacation is unlike any other trip you’ve taken. Learn about the ins and outs of a Yacht Charter Vacation in our Guide.  
• Luxury Yacht Charter Guide: From what time of year is best to visit which destinations, to what costs are included, YATCO wants to make it easier than ever to book your private yacht charter. Explore our Luxury Yacht Charter guide for more information.  
• Yacht Charter Cost Guide: One of the biggest questions asked when it comes to yacht charters is – what’s included, and can I get an all-inclusive price? You will notice that yachts will always be listed with a “base price” for charter, with additional extras charged on top of this. However, your charter broker will work with you to get an all-inclusive price based on all of those extras before you sign a contract. We’ve explained everything in our Yacht Charter Cost Guide.   
• Yacht Tender & Toys Guide: For many, one of the big perks of booking a luxury yacht charter is the fact you get access to a number of fun water toys! Whether you are a thrill seeker looking to be towed behind the tender on waterskis, zipping around on the jetski, or prefer a quieter pastime like stand-up paddle boarding to an isolated beach, there are toys for everyone in group onboard. Learn more in YATCO’s Yacht Tender and Toys Guide.

Learning some of the facts about the Mediterranean Sea only helps to highlight what makes this region so unique. The Mediterranean is an excellent choice for the superyacht charter guest that wants to explore pristine beaches, historical landmarks, enjoy fine dining, and potentially visit a number of countries or islands all in close proximity to each other. 

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