Whether sailing the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean, the arctic reaches of the North Sea or the deep blue expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, there is nothing quite like the serene sense of freedom that comes over you when gliding across the open water in a luxurious yacht. Marvelous destinations certainly await you, but for now you need simply savor the scenic horizon as you relax in an outdoor lounge or on your private terrace. Perhaps visit the spa or fitness center or take a dip in the pool, all with a view of the sea.

The busiest artificial waterway in the world, Kiel Canal was opened by Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1895. It runs a length of 61 miles from the locks in Kiel Holtenau to the locks in Brunsbüttel. Some 43,000 commercial ships and 20,00 private yachts pass this way between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea yearly. The volume and diversity of the shipping is extraordinary, with masts flying flags from around the world. The canal passes under numerous bridges, including the Levensau High Bridge dating from 1893.