Below are some frequently asked questions about yacht charters. If you have more specific questions regarding destinations, yacht bookings, payment or anything else please feel free to contact us!
What is a crewed yacht charter?
A crewed yacht charter vacation is the ideal choice for those looking to enjoy the ultimate sailing vacation. Let your professional captain guide you safely to some of the most beautiful and exotic destinations in the world. The destination and pace is up to you. Spend your time at anchor enjoying meals prepared by your personal chef or set out on exciting open water passages under the guidance of your skipper.
What is the difference between a crewed yacht charter and a bareboat charter with crew?
Your fully crewed charter will come with a Captain and a chef on board, the boat will be provisioned for you and your only responsibility once you board the yacht is to relax. On board a bareboat charter, you will be responsible for provisioning the yacht for yourself as well as the crew members you’ve hired.
What is included?
What is included will vary depending on the type of charter you book. Caribbean crewed charters are usually all-inclusive and will include food, drink, the ships bar and all water activities available on the boat. Mediterranean Charters are a bit different and they operate on an APA system to cover expenses. The rate on a Med crewed charter will include the yacht price, yacht insurance and crew wages, and the APA will cover the other expenses.
What’s not included?
Crew Gratuities, Dockage, mooring ball fees, fine wines and premium liquors are not included. Taxes, re-location fees, cruising permits and licenses may be extra.
What is an APA and how much are expenses on Mediterranean charters?
Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): Fund board amounting to 20% - 30% of charter price serving to cover the costs of requested supplies, port and mooring charges, diesel and fuel, communications, crew gratuities, extras and depend on guest particular request for services, itinerary, food, beverages etc. The Captain will keep an accurate record of spending and at the end of guest charter you will be refunded or asked to pay the difference if additional operating costs are incurred.
Where can I go on a fully crewed yacht charter?
Fully crewed charters are available most anywhere that chartering is popular. However, yachts are always traveling between different islands and destinations, so we will check the availability of your preferred pick up location with the yacht prior to booking.
How much does it cost to charter a fully crewed yacht?
For a crewed charter the average price per person typically starts around $1,200-$1,300 per person. However, when it comes to crewed charters the sky is the limit in terms of luxury and price. Size, year of build, boat style and amenities will all factor into the price of the trip.
Who will my crew be? Where does the crew sleep?
Each fully crewed charter will come with an experienced crew. You will receive a crew profile prior to booking, so you can get a great idea of who you will be sailing with. On all fully crewed yachts, the crew members will have their own cabin and head, separate from the guest quarters.
Will the chef be able to accommodate special dietary requests?
After confirming your charter, you will receive a preference sheet to complete, with any dietary restrictions, allergies, and all your favorite things to eat. The chef will then tailor a menu to suit your tastes and requests.
Will I have a set itinerary on my charter?
The beauty of a fully crewed charter is the flexibility it provides. You can either sit back, relax and let the Captain take the reins and show you the best your charter destination has to offer, or, you can customize your experience with the Captain to tick off all the “must-sees” on your bucket list. What’s even better is that when you book with us, you will receive a free cruising guide on your charter destination, to help you plan the itinerary of your dreams!
We have young children, is a crewed charter safe?
Absolutely! A crewed charter is a great experience for children. With all the water toys and new places to explore, it will be the adventure of a life time. Some crewed yachts to have a minimum age requirement, so if there are kids in your group, just let us know and we will be sure to check.
What is the difference between a fully crewed and Captain only charter?
Fully crewed charters are typically all inclusive and will come with a Captain and Chef on board and all your meals will be prepared for you. Similar to a bareboat charter, Captain only will just have the Captain on board, and you will be responsible for provisioning and cooking yourself. But, you get the added bonus of access to all the yachts water toys, when available.
What is the cost for gratuities and how do we pay them?
Tipping is appreciated but at your discretion. Typically 10% to 20% of the total charter cost, if you’re unsure of the local customs regarding gratuity you can ask the staff at the marina before you leave. Sometimes local cash machines will have a limit on what you can withdraw so you should plan for gratuity in advance, or if you prefer we can wire it to the crew after the charter for you. It is a good idea to bring an envelope or thank you card with you.
