HOW TO CHARTER A YACHT
The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Yacht Charters
Dreaming of a bespoke luxury escape on the open sea? Chartering a yacht is the epitome of exclusivity, freedom, and five-star service. Whether you're planning a private getaway in the Mediterranean, a family adventure in the Caribbean, or a corporate charter in the French Riviera, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to charter a luxury yacht with confidence.
What Is a Luxury Yacht Charter?
A luxury yacht charter is the private rental of a professionally crewed superyacht or megayacht for a fixed period. Tailored to your preferences, a yacht charter offers the ultimate in privacy, personalized service, gourmet cuisine, and access to the world's most iconic cruising destinations.
Step-by-Step: How to Charter a Yacht
1. Define Your Charter Goals
Start by asking:
Where do you want to cruise? (Mediterranean, Caribbean, Maldives, etc.)
What kind of experience do you envision? (Relaxation, watersports, island hopping, parties)
How many guests will join you?
What is your charter budget?
This helps your yacht charter broker match you with the perfect vessel and crew.
2. Choose the Right Yacht
Yachts come in many types:
Motor Yachts – Sleek and powerful, ideal for long-range cruising.
Sailing Yachts – For a romantic, wind-powered adventure.
Catamarans – Spacious and stable, ideal for island hopping.
Explorer Yachts – Built for adventure in remote destinations.
Each yacht offers unique amenities: sundecks, Jacuzzis, beach clubs, jet skis, onboard spas, cinemas, and more.
3. Select a Charter Destination
Top luxury yacht charter destinations include:
Mediterranean – French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, Greek Islands, Balearics
Caribbean – St. Barts, Virgin Islands, Bahamas
South Pacific – Fiji, Tahiti, Great Barrier Reef
Indian Ocean – Seychelles, Maldives
Northern Europe – Norway, Scotland, Scandinavia
Each destination offers a unique charter season, cultural highlights, and cruising conditions.
4. Work with an Independent Yacht Charter Broker
A professional charter broker:
Recommends yachts based on your profile
Ensures contracts are industry-standard (e.g., MYBA terms)
Coordinates itineraries, onboard requests, and legal formalities
Manages the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) for food, fuel, and mooring fees
An independent yacht charter broker, like ourself, works 100% in your interest, offering access to every top-tier charter yacht on the global market — without ties to specific fleets or shipyards.
5. Customize Your Itinerary
Luxury yacht charters are tailor-made. Your broker and captain will create a day-by-day plan based on your preferences.
Example experiences:
Lunch at Club 55 in St. Tropez
Sunset over the Caldera in Santorini
Diving with manta rays in the Maldives
Private beach BBQ in the Bahamas
Superyacht toys and tenders fun in Ibiza
6. Sign the Charter Agreement
The MYBA Charter Agreement is the standard in luxury yachting. It outlines:
Booking dates and yacht specs
Cancellation terms
Crew details
Charter fee and payment schedule
APA (usually 25–35% of charter fee)
Once signed, a deposit is made to secure your booking.
7. Enjoy 7-Star Service Onboard
From Michelin-level dining and wellness treatments to water toys and private excursions, your crew ensures an unforgettable experience. Expect:
A dedicated captain and professional crew
24/7 service and itinerary flexibility
Tailored menus from a private chef
Seamless luxury from boarding to disembarkation
Frequently Asked Questions About Chartering a Yacht
How much does it cost to charter a luxury yacht?
Weekly rates range from €30,000 to over €1 million, depending on yacht size, location, and season.
What’s included in the price?
The base charter fee includes the yacht and crew. Extra costs like fuel, food, and berthing are covered by the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance).
Do I need a license to charter a yacht?
No license is needed for crewed yacht charters — your captain and crew are fully certified.
When is the best time to charter a yacht?
Mediterranean: May–October
Caribbean: December–April
South Pacific & Maldives: April–October
Start Planning Your Luxury Yacht Charter
With years of hands-on experience, insider knowledge of the world’s finest yachts, and a passion for excellence, I’m here to help you charter the perfect yacht — discreetly, professionally, and 100% tailored to you.
🧭 Get in touch today for a personalized consultation and let’s design your luxury charter experience from the waterline up.