Elite Traveler Spring 2019

elite traveler SPRING 2019 83

IMPROMPTUSAILING MEXICO The 164-ft, family-friendly Impromptu is based in the Sea of Cortez, where waters abound with sea life, including whales, dolphins, sea lions and rainbow-colored fish. The joy of chartering a superyacht is that every step of your itinerary can be customized, and we recommend jet skiing around Isla Carmen, or taking the yacht’s small sailboat if the wind is blowing in your favor. See if you can spot a brown pelican or scissor-tailed flycatcher as you circumnavigate this Unesco-protected island. Don your diving gear in Cabo San Pulmo; it is the only North American hard reef and home to over 6,000 species including elusive sea turtles and rays. Or surf the breaks off Costa Azul Beach — there are three to choose from that cater to all levels of expertise. There is a JetSurf board in the toy garage, too. Back on board, sun loungers surround the raised Jacuzzi on the upper sundeck during the day, and the deck offers a fantastic party centerpiece come evening. Charter Impromptu from $265,000 per week. Contact charter@iyc.com, +1 954 522 2323, iyc.com

DESERTED BEACHES HONG KONG

HIGHLAND FLING SCOTLAND

The bustling city might not spring to mind when you’re thinking of an escape to the wilderness, but don’t overlook Hong Kong— its verdant national parks make up 70 percent of the land. The flagshipMandarin Oriental is situated in the heart of the city, but you can reach and enjoy the remote islands, deserted sandy beaches, nature parks and mountain paths in no time. Accompanied by an expert guide, take an eight-hour hike through the rural Sai Kung Peninsula and explore challenging mountain paths and secluded beaches. If you’re more of a water baby, kayak through the Sai Kung Country Park with a guide and search for uninhabited islands and yet-to-be-discovered beaches. If you want to explore in a more traditional way, board a modern Chinese junk boat and head to Lamma Island: it is best known for its traditional fishing villages and relaxed seafood restaurants. Mandarin Suite from $9,945 per night. Contact Man Tak Cheung, reservations manager, mohkg-reservations@mohg.com, +852 2820 4202, mandarinoriental.com

Scotland is a startlingly beautiful country — full of historic relics, otherworldly landscapes, wildlife and the friendliest locals. Explore the West Coast and the Hebrides for a unique adventure. You’ll visit the isles of Mull, Skye and Uist and see jagged peaks, sleepy fishing villages and wild terrain. Spend a night on a private island and unleash your inner Bear Grylls as you forage and cook what you find — or dine out on oysters if you aren’t sure of your foraging skills. You’ll also have a whisky lesson from a master distiller (no trip to Scotland is complete without a dram or two), and fly fish for Atlantic salmon. The best time to visit is between May and September. From $29,500 for six nights. Contact Jimmy Carroll, co-founder, jimmy@pelorusx.com, +44 7782 382 022, pelorusx.com

Photo Alexis Andrews, Rolf Canal