Yacht Charter FAQ
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Yacht Charter FAQ -Your Yachting Questions Answered
Yes, we can answer that.
H2O Luxury Yachts has been around a long, long time. This means we’ve fielded just about every question imaginable about yachting anywhere in the world you’d like to go.
1. Booking a Yacht Charter
Do you offer 4-night charters?
Most of our yachts are available for 4-night charters, except during Christmas and New Year. Pricing is based on a 7-night rate: simply prorate 6 nights, and for 4 or 5 nights, divide the 7-night rate by 6, then multiply by your number of nights.
We can show you available yachts and price options within your budget.
For shorter trips, some yachts can accommodate 3-night charters, but often not less.
#YachtCharter #LuxuryTravel #SailingHoliday
How does yacht charter pricing in the Caribbean work?
Prices vary based on the type of charter (fully crewed/inclusive or partial board) and guest count. Rates are for seven nights; six nights are prorated, five nights incur a 15% surcharge. Expect higher costs for Christmas and New Year’s weeks.
Some yachts offer lower rates from May 15 to November 1. There are fewer yachts every year that offer a summer discount. You are more likely to find last-minute specials.
In higher priced yachts, we can additionally make offers, although it is rare to find much more than 5% off the price.
It’s standard to account for a 15-20% additional tip for the crew. ⚓️
#YachtCharter #HolidayPlanning #TravelTips
- Family Friendly
- Full Board
- Half Boat
- Captain Only
- Cabin Only Booking
- Multi-Generation
- Honeymoon
- Anniversaries
- Sailing Regattas
- Corporate Retreats
- Partying
- Luxury Yachts
- Fishing Charters
- SCUBA Charters
- Foodie Yachts
- History Tours
- Exploring Expeditions
The list can go on forever. If you dream it, we will plan it, and a yacht can do it!
We have a page full of these details.
Cash or Credit?
Cash or Credit? Either is fine in yachting hotspots in the Caribbean. Although your AMX works well in many mainland spots, it is less accepted in the Caribbean.
ATMs abound everywhere across Europe for good reason.
Always carry cash for tips, taxi rides, and small beach bars. Being prepared avoids stress and extra costs.
Credit cards can’t usually be used to pay for yacht charters. We accept any card up to 60 days in advance, with a 3% fee. Use another payment method closer to your trip. Occasionally, special deals may not accept credit cards. We require additional paperwork to accept Credit Cards.
Crew Gratuities are always appreciated in cash. If you are going on a European yacht charter, then bring Euros. If you are going to the Caribbean, then US Dollars are fine. It is generally possible to have your gratuity deposited for us to release to the crew after the charter on your say-so with your final payment.
Then, you avoid the entire cash or credit scenario.
#TravelTips #YachtingLife #BudgetPlanning
✨ How the Yacht Charter Industry Works ✨
Booking a luxury yacht charter in 2024
🛥️ Choose Destination
Pick stunning spots like the Caribbean or Mediterranean.
🌟 Select Your Yacht
Options include motor yachts, catamarans, and Scuba yachts.
👥 Personal Consultation
Consult with a company like H2O Luxury Yachts for personalized guidance.
💼 Itinerary Planning
Create an adventure plan with your yacht consultants.
🏝️ Unforgettable Experience
Enjoy the seas, explore new destinations, and soak in luxury.
Glad you asked since we have completed a series of blog entries to answer all your questions.
- It is located here. You can read about your relationship with a Yacht Charter Broker.
- Booking a Yacht Charter is located here.
- Yacht Charter Types is located here
- More Charter Types is located here
- Trivia, Water Sports, Honeymoon Charters, etc can be found here
Ready to explore? 🏖️
#LuxuryYachtCharters #Travel2024 #H2OLuxuryYachts
What should we pack for our yacht vacation?
It all depends on your getaway of choice! Most yachting hotspots are in warm climates, making packing lightly simple. If you’ve chosen a charter that embarks during cooler months of a specific locale, our list includes recommendations for you, too.
Certain items like sunglasses and your passport are necessary, regardless of the weather. We know how daunting it can be to pack for seven or more days aboard a luxury yacht. While our crew fully stocks the boat with essentials and luxe amenities, there are certain items you should plan to bring. Follow this no-fuss packing list to ensure a smooth yachting adventure wherever your destination may be.
Your Packing Guide for Yachting in Warm Climates
It’s all about the aquaculture in picture-perfect yachting destinations like the Mediterranean, South Pacific, and the Caribbean. Plan your wardrobe around spending half your time in a swimsuit. Does it get any better than that?
- Two swimsuits — we encourage around-the-clock snorkeling and sunbathing!
- You should bring 6 pieces of light clothing to throw over your swimsuit (e.g., T-shirts, beach coverups, sundresses).
- One or two outfits for an evening in the town- you know what kind of traveler you are. If high-end restaurants are on your itinerary, pack accordingly.
- Two or three pairs of shorts for exploring the sights and streets of your destination
- One or two pairs of sandals or flip-flops and a pair of water shoes — although barefoot is undoubtedly the dress code aboard your yacht! Whatever footwear you choose, please ensure it won’t leave black sole marks on the boat.
- A light rain jacket keeps you dry in squalls and cozy during chilly evenings.
Your Packing Guide for Yachting in Every Climate
- Two pairs of polarized sunglasses attached to sunglass straps
- Your favorite playlists — or rock out to ours!
- Books or podcasts for a relaxing day at sea
- Mask and snorkel if you have your own. Otherwise, our crew has you covered.
- Beach towel for days on the mainland. The yacht is fully stocked with plush bath towels.
- Insulated bottle or cup to keep your drinks cool all day long
- Hat and sunscreen lotion — the sunshine is always strong, no matter the temperature
- Cell phone with roaming data + chargers — expect complimentary WiFi at many restaurants onshore. Most crewed yachts have basic internet available onboard.
- Passport, money, credit card — you might not locate an ATM for many nautical miles! Come prepared with plenty of cash and let your bank know you may use credit cards offshore.
- Prescriptions and motion sickness medication, if necessary
Check our Blog Post on this very topic with a list of 25 items on what to pack for a Caribbean crewed sailing trip
Flight Lands the Day Before?
Spending an evening at your destination before embarking on your private yacht charter adds to the experience. It allows more time to unwind and get to know the local vibes. Reach out to H2O Luxury Yachts for a recommended list of top-tier hotels and tailored Airbnb stays.
Consider the “sleep aboard” option that many guests love. Settle in from 5 pm, enjoy a welcome cocktail, dinner onboard, and wake up to a delightful breakfast. It’s an impeccable way to start your luxurious journey on the water.
#LuxuryLife #YachtCharter #TravelInStyle ⛵✨
Flying into St Thomas
Reaching your luxury charter from St. Thomas airport is simple. Here’s how to get to Tortola:
The Easiest Ways to Reach Tortola from STT:
1. Take a one-hour ferry from Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas to Tortola. This is perfect for leisure travelers looking to experience the Virgin Islands. Ferries don’t run at night, so check the ferry schedule first. Roundtrip fare is around $100 per person, including taxi.
2. Hire a private water taxi. This option is convenient as it may take you straight to your yacht. The flexibility and ease make it worthwhile.
3. Charter a flight from St. Thomas to Tortola for 24/7 access. Though it’s the priciest, it adds a touch of luxury to your arrival.
🌊✈️🚤 #TravelTortola #CaribbeanJourneys #LuxuryTravel
Yacht Charter Contracts
🌊 Are you interested in learning about yacht charter contracts? Here’s everything crucial about contracts! ⚓️
✨ 1. Charter Agreement
– It clearly defines the terms and responsibilities for both parties involved, ensuring everyone knows their roles.
– This step ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience from start to finish, letting you focus on the fun parts.
✨ 2. Crew Agreement
This contract specifies the duties and expectations of the crew members, ensuring they know what is required of them.
– Doing so guarantees you receive top-notch service throughout your journey, contributing to an unforgettable trip.
✨ 3. Guest Agreement
– This covers guest actions and special requests, helping to manage what is expected from guests on board.
– It addresses behavior and caters to unique needs, making your stay more personalized and enjoyable.
Each contract is vital in crafting a seamless and unforgettable yacht journey! 🌅⚓️
Here is an additional blog post outlining the contracts used for yacht charters
#YachtLife #LuxuryYacht #H2OLuxuryYachts #BoatLife
Different Yacht Prices 🌊
When it comes to renting a yacht, you’ll find that all brokers have similar commission rates, meaning contacting multiple brokers hoping for a better deal often won’t be effective. Quality yachts and trustworthy brokers maintain their standards and integrity. The key is to partner with a yacht charter broker you genuinely trust and with whom you feel comfortable which is better than shopping around for different yacht prices..
Booking a yacht charter isn’t simply about hunting for the lowest price. Think of it as an investment. We only recommend yachts that we know very well. Each year, we meticulously inspect these yachts to ensure they meet our high standards and can handle any issues that might arise. There’s peace of mind in knowing you’ve chosen a well-supported, high-quality yacht for your adventures. 🚤🛥️
#YachtCharter #TravelSmart #LuxuryYachting
Commission Amount
The commission is paid by out of the yacht charter fee by the owner to the yacht charter broker. Sometimes the yacht will give a discount on a week they want to sell or for repeat guests. Same with a broker.
They may offer a bit off their commission back to repeat clients or add in extras that the yacht does not cover. The commission rate is fairly standard throughout the industry. The yacht pays 15% to the broker on average, sometimes a bit more or less, depending on the week. It could be a bit more if you have a Travel Agent you work with as well as the Yacht Charter Broker.
It will help you if you think of charter yacht brokers as travel agents who specialize in yacht vacations. Most charter brokers do not “own” any yachts, but specialize in viewing hundreds of boats every year in different locations, so you don’t have to. Yacht Charter Brokers are independent (such as H2O Luxury Yachts), where we have no loyalty to any make, model, or fleet, or they can work with particular yachts only.
Will I get Seasick aboard my luxury yacht charter?
Vessels under 100 feet may cause seasickness for some. If you’re prone, bring medication and take precautions. Opt for a multi-hulled catamaran or trimaran to avoid this.
Megayachts over 100 feet use stabilizers to reduce queasiness. We can book you on one for a smoother experience.
Many yachters use patches, ginger capsules, or bracelets to prevent seasickness.
We aim to fill your getaway with adventure and relaxation—no time for sickness! Your crew plans the first day’s voyage to be calm.
To avoid seasickness, avoid books, screens, and relaxing indoors. Fresh air and a view of the horizon work wonders.
Yacht charters are popular for their calm, beautiful destinations. Our captain and crew will anchor at relaxing spots each night so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about seasickness.
#YachtLife #TravelTips #Seasickness #AdventureAwaits
Same Yacht Search Engines?
🌊 Not all yacht search engines are the same. They vary in what they offer and cater to different yacht segments. Brokers and clearinghouses use them for up-to-date information on yachts and charter fees, making the process smoother for you.
💡 All yacht charter brokers offer similar yachts at the same prices. Thus, who you choose as your broker matters just as much as the yacht itself. Broker experience varies—some may lack solid knowledge of chartering and have unrealistic expectations of the crew.
📢 At H2O Luxury Yachts, we have no financial incentives to push any yacht over another. Our team’s extensive experience, with over 400 weeks of crewed charters, ensures we provide you with realistic expectations.
🔑 Note: Large superyachts aren’t typically listed in common yacht search engines. We also will NOT list every yacht on our site. We provide our expertise to our clients.
#LuxuryYachts #YachtCharter #H2OLuxuryYachts
Others may get extra commission from various yachts so that they will push those.
Some represent a specific fleet and therefore push those regardless of whether they are your perfect match or not.
Yachts that come into the market recently are unknown quantities and will offer specials or price themselves lower than comparable boats to get bookings. With bookings hopefully, come great reference letters that they can use to entice other brokers to book them
Some are genuinely professional and genuinely try to find out what you are looking for and then match you up with your perfect yacht.
Reserving a yacht vacation
If you are reserving a yacht vacation
Explore our carefully selected top yacht options for the ultimate getaway! 🛥️🌴 The dedicated H2O Team is here to check availability, review prices, special deals, and provide useful tips to ensure your vacation runs smoothly.
Once you’ve chosen a yacht, we will reserve it for you with a temporary two-week hold. This timeframe allows you to complete the necessary contracts, arrange your flights, and make your deposit with peace of mind. For fully crewed yachts in the Caribbean, the hold is highly secure—only customers with immediate funds can contest it, and you’ll have 48 business hours to confirm your booking.
Fully Crewed Catamarans elsewhere, will work on a first come first serve basis.
In Europe, where super yachts are in high demand and the season is short, a deposit is required within 72 hours to secure your reservation. Our team will guide you through each step, making the process efficient and stress-free.
#YachtCharter #LuxuryTravel #CaribbeanEscape
Whatever gratuity you give will be paid to the captain and distributed amongst the crew.
If the Captain Owns the Boat, Does He Really Need a Tip?
Short answer, absolutely! It’s easy to assume your captain and crew have plenty of money because they own a yacht. Normally, the yacht is actually owned by the bank. The captain looks at the boat as a large investment and will go above and beyond to make sure you have an amazing charter. Just like any yacht charter, gratuity is the best way to tell your crew thanks for a job well done.
What is APA
What is APA? It stands for Advanced Provisioning Allowance. When you charter a yacht, expenses like fuel, food, beverages, dockage, port fees, and more are added on top of the charter fee. You may also need to pay VAT or other local taxes in some destinations.
APA covers these additional costs and usually ranges between 25% and 40% of the charter fee. This depends on the location, your preferences, and the yacht type. The crew provides accounting updates throughout your trip. Any leftover money can be used for gratuity or refunded to you.
In the Caribbean, many sailing catamarans offer a fully inclusive fee structure with crewed services.
Travel Insurance for Yacht Charter
Heading on a yacht charter? 🛥️ Please consider travel insurance for your yacht charter.
Here’s why including travel insurance in your plans is a smart move for an unforgettable journey:
🌊 Smooth Sailing: It provides coverage against unforeseen weather changes and unexpected cancellations, ensuring that unpredictable elements don’t ruin your trip.
🚑 Health and Safety: In situations where medical emergencies or health issues arise, travel insurance handles the headaches so you can worry less and focus on recovery.
💸 Avoid Surprise Costs: By reducing unexpected expenses due to delays or damages, travel insurance helps you manage your budget and safeguards your finances.
Sail smoothly, stay secure, and cherish the moments on your luxurious adventure!
#LuxuryTravel #YachtCharter #TravelInsurance #SailingLife #H2OLuxuryYachts
What is a Fully Crewed and all Inclusive Yacht Charter?
- You pay the entire charter fee upfront.
- You cover your incidentals such as anything you chose to eat or drink inland.
- Perhaps SCUBA diving could be an extra charge.
- Any upgrades on the wine and liquor.
- Any dockage that YOU request during the week.
2. Charter Types
- Family Friendly
- Full Board
- Half Boat
- Captain Only
- Cabin Only Booking
- Multi-Generation
- Honeymoon
- Anniversaries
- Sailing Regattas
- Corporate Retreats
- Partying
- Luxury Yachts
- Fishing Charters
- SCUBA Charters
- Foodie Yachts
- History Tours
- Exploring Expeditions
The list can go on forever. If you dream it, we will plan it, and a yacht can do it!
We have a page full of these details.
Planning to fish while chartering in the British Virgin Islands? Here are some handy tips:
– Many professional crews will have bait and tackle ready on board.
– If you need gear, try Richardson’s Rigging. Located opposite the ferry dock in Tortola, it has a wide selection of frozen baits.
– BVI Watertoys also offers fishing pole rentals.
– For budget bait, visit large grocery stores—great spots for squid and ballyhoo.
Need live bait? Try these tips:
– Anchor and use raw chicken or steak to catch small baitfish.
– Silversides and needlefish can be scooped up at night with lights.
If you prefer personal gear, bring your equipment. Airlines allow fishing poles. Check if your yacht offers fishing equipment and if you can BBQ your fresh catch.
Don’t forget local advice on avoiding Ciguatera Poisoning, and we’ll ensure your yacht has all fishing permits ready.
#FishingTips #CharterFishing #BVI #FishingGear #YachtCharter
When is it ok to eat your fish in the Virgin Islands
All ocean fish that move around a lot and do not always eat from the same source are considered safe.
Do not ever eat jack or barracuda, no matter where they come from. They have the most significant risk of all fish species. Do not eat fish that you find on the bottom caught anywhere to the west of Virgin Gorda and within the Sir Francis Drake channel.
Can I troll on my yacht charter?
Complete the online course (preferably before you board the yacht)
Complete the pool portion
Receive a referral letter
Complete five open water SCUBA dives with the instructor
Good news! All this is easily completed in a week on your charter.
While most of our charters do offer SCUBA, there’s a slim possibility it isn’t available for charters in your desired destination. If that’s the case, you still have options! Many locations have SCUBA instructors that can teach you aboard their boat then bring you back to the yacht afterward, called Rendez Vous Diving. Rendezvous Diving is incredibly common in the Caribbean and other diving hotspots. The other guests aboard the ship can relax at the anchorage while you explore underwater. Win, win.
What is APA
What is APA? It stands for Advanced Provisioning Allowance. When you charter a yacht, expenses like fuel, food, beverages, dockage, port fees, and more are added on top of the charter fee. You may also need to pay VAT or other local taxes in some destinations.
APA covers these additional costs and usually ranges between 25% and 40% of the charter fee. This depends on the location, your preferences, and the yacht type. The crew provides accounting updates throughout your trip. Any leftover money can be used for gratuity or refunded to you.
In the Caribbean, many sailing catamarans offer a fully inclusive fee structure with crewed services.
What is a Fully Crewed and all Inclusive Yacht Charter?
- You pay the entire charter fee upfront.
- You cover your incidentals such as anything you chose to eat or drink inland.
- Perhaps SCUBA diving could be an extra charge.
- Any upgrades on the wine and liquor.
- Any dockage that YOU request during the week.
We have boats that love taking honeymoon couples. They plan all sorts of romantic activities, including candlelit dinners, nighttime walks on the beach, champagne and chocolates, and lobster dinners. We have yachts that specialize in Honeymoon Yacht Charters AND offer an incredible price value.
Yacht Charter with Children 🚤
Many yachts welcome children, so bring the whole family! It’s a great way to bond, with activities like fishing, games, and movies onboard. Some yachts also offer nanny services or special activities for kids. Remember, if a nanny service isn’t provided, you’ll need to keep an eye on the little ones yourself.
Multi-generational charters are also popular, providing a wonderful opportunity for grandparents, parents, and kids to enjoy time together. If mobility is a concern, let us know. We have selections of comfortable boats, including superyachts with elevators, to ensure a pleasant trip for everyone.
#YachtCharter #FamilyVacation #MultiGenTravel #LuxuryTravel #TravelWithKids
What does “plus expenses” mean?
When chartering larger motor yachts, the fee often excludes running costs like food, dockage, and fuel. Instead of an all-inclusive rate, you’re charged separately for these expenses.
You might find fully crewed, all-inclusive yacht charters in the Caribbean—a rarity worldwide. Elsewhere, expect to pay additional expenses on top of the charter fee.
In Europe, even the catamarans operate on a “plus expenses” basis.
The typical charter fee covers the yacht, crew, crew meals, and onboard amenities.
Just to let you know, you’ll need to budget an extra 25%-45% of the charter fee. This is called the APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance). The captain tracks expenditures and updates you on the total cost.
“Plus expenses” can be beneficial, as it’s challenging to predict costs for food, drinks, and other necessities on a mega yacht. For more guidance, contact the H2O Luxury Yachts team.
Read more on Plus All Expense Charters
#YachtCharter #TravelTips #LuxuryTravel #YachtingLife #CaribbeanCharter #LuxuryYachting
4. Cuisine & Beverage
Can we customize the yacht charter menu ?
Yes, you can customize your yacht charter menu! Start with our sample menus for inspiration, then use the preference sheet to create your custom menu tailored to your tastes and dietary needs.
For inclusive and fully crewed yachts, there is a flexible budget for provisions. For example, your budget might cover serving lobster once, with surcharges for additional servings. The chefs will design meals based on your preferences and what’s available locally.
Sample Plus All Expenses Preference Sheet
Sample All-Inclusive Preference Sheet
For larger yachts, there is no set limit. Food and drink budgets depend on your provision allowance. Our talented and hand-selected chefs ensure you’ll enjoy an exceptional dining experience on board. 🌊🦞🍽️
#yachtlife #luxuryvacation #gourmetfood #custommenu
If Your Yacht is Larger…
The sky is the limit If you charter one of the larger yachts. The cost of provisions is packed into the provision allowance, so the budget for food and drinks is up to you. Every chef aboard our private yacht charters is hand-selected because of their talent. We’re confident you’ll be impressed by the dining aboard your boat.
Catch fish and Lobster.
Catch fish and lobster on your next adventure. Contact the H2O Luxury Yachts team to discover the perfect yacht for an unforgettable fishing experience. We navigate varying fishing laws at different locations, covering all legal requirements. We coordinate everything for your convenience, from selecting the right yacht to providing all the necessary gear. Once you’re on board, our crew will ensure you have everything you need. Enjoy the thrill of fishing and savoring your chef’s freshly prepared catch of the day! 🦞🎣
#YachtLife #FishingAdventure #LuxuryTravel
The Charter Chef can work around dietary restrictions on MOST yachts.
Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or anything in between, the crew will cater to your dietary specifications. We can also create special menus for any kids coming aboard. We work closely with you before your yachting vacation to build a menu that works for your family and friends.
Please communicate with your group to make food choices that work for everyone. While small changes can generally apply to the menu, the chef is unable to make different meals for each person.
The amount of food and beverage options are often based on the size of the yacht and the charter.
If you have booked a superyacht, you are going to get just about anything you asked for in the menus.
We’ll do everything in our power so the crew can provide a menu everyone will love!
Of course! The menus you see on our website and brochures are there to give you an idea of what our chefs can prepare. Use the sample menus as inspiration for the custom menu we’ll build using your preference sheet.
No matter the yachting getaway you select, your private chef will design a custom menu around your taste preferences and dietary needs. Inclusive and fully-crewed yachts have a set budget for means. For example, your charter may have a budget to serve lobster once. Anything beyond the budget will result in a surcharge.
The chefs work around your tastes and preferences, so what’s served is completely up to you!
5. Scuba Diving
Many yacht charters are equipped and ready to go for divers! Although, there’s always a chance onboard diving isn’t available at your destination. No need to worry — you have choices!
Rendez Vous Diving is a Popular Choice for Yachters
Plenty of yachting destinations have SCUBA instructors in the area that provide instruction on their boat then bring you back to your charter. Rendez Vous Diving is a popular diving option in the Caribbean and other diving hotspots. Partnering with a local dive guide is excellent for a couple of reasons:
- Local guides know all the hotspots for eerie shipwrecks, bustling reefs, and active sea life
- Take comfort knowing you and your dive group are following all of the local rules and regulations
Sound intriguing? We agree. Chat with us today about SCUBA options during your yachting getaway.
We suggest somewhere between 3 and 5 to accompany a relaxed sailing or motoring vacation around the islands. This leaves plenty of opportunities to do other fun things.
If you are a keen diver you can do up to 3 dives a day.
- Float on shallow calm sand reefs that are perfect for doing your open water skills.
- Explore wreck dives like the famous wreck of the Rhône (opens in new tab) off Salt Island.
- See if you can find hundreds of shipwrecks that have been lost over the centuries to Horseshoe reef by Anegada.
- In the Caribbean, every island is an opportunity to get in the water with a snorkel and a camera!
- You can see cannons, look for glass bottles that are centuries old, see how many reef fish you can identify or help your captain hunt for lionfish.
- Explore our SCUBA diving pages for many more ideas
Hundreds, if not thousands.! Jim Scheiner’s Diving in the British Virgin Islands (opens in new tab) is practically the Bible of the dive sites here. An older book, but you will still find it on Amazon and just about every yacht that plies the waters.
Complete the online course (preferably before you board the yacht)
Complete the pool portion
Receive a referral letter
Complete five open water SCUBA dives with the instructor
Good news! All this is easily completed in a week on your charter.
While most of our charters do offer SCUBA, there’s a slim possibility it isn’t available for charters in your desired destination. If that’s the case, you still have options! Many locations have SCUBA instructors that can teach you aboard their boat then bring you back to the yacht afterward, called Rendez Vous Diving. Rendezvous Diving is incredibly common in the Caribbean and other diving hotspots. The other guests aboard the ship can relax at the anchorage while you explore underwater. Win, win.