Crewed Yacht Charter Pricing Explained

What Does a Crewed Yacht Charter Cost

The cost of a crewed yacht charter varies depending on the size of the yacht, the destination, and the level of service. Most Caribbean charters are all-inclusive, offering a complete vacation package with meals, drinks, and activities included. Some charters, especially larger motor yachts or select options in the Bahamas, operate on a plus expenses basis, where specific costs are billed separately.

Here is a general cost range, including the Caribbean, Virgin Islands, and Bahamas:

• All-Inclusive Charters: From $25,000 to $100,000 per week for sailing catamarans and power catamarans.
• Plus Expenses Charters: Most motor yachts use plus expenses pricing and start around $50,000+. Some catamarans also utilize plus expenses pricing

Our team will work with you to find the right yacht to suit your preferences and budget.

What’s Included in an All-Inclusive Charter?

For most Caribbean destinations, an all-inclusive charter covers everything you need for a worry-free vacation:

• Crew Services: A professional captain and chef, and for larger yachts, additional crew like stewards or deckhands.
• Meals and Drinks: All meals, snacks, and beverages, including a standard selection of wines, beers, liquors, and soft drinks.
• Fuel and Basic Running Costs: Fuel for both the yacht and tender is included.
• Water Sports Equipment: Use of onboard equipment like snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards. In some cases scuba diving will also be included onboard.
• Permits and Fees: Cruising permits and entry fees for destinations like the British Virgin Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands.

What’s Not Included

Even with an all-inclusive package, there are some to consider that may fall outside the base charter rate:

• Crew Gratuities: Typically 15-20% of the charter fee, provided at the end of the trip to thank the crew for their exceptional service.
• Docking or Marina Fees: If you choose to spend a night at a marina instead of anchoring.
• Special Requests: Premium wines, spirits, or specialty provisions may come at an additional cost.
• Excursions or Onshore Dining: Activities or meals enjoyed ashore are at your expense.
• Transportation: Transfers to and from the yacht at the start and end of your trip.

Plus Expenses Charters: How it Works

For some yachts, especially larger motor yachts or select charters in the Bahamas, the pricing model is plus expenses. This means:

• The yacht’s base rate covers the charter itself, including the crew.
• Additional costs are managed through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), typically 25-40% of the base rate, which covers everything else such as food, beverages, fuel, dockage, taxes, and other incidental expenses.

The captain keeps an itemized account of APA usage, and any unused funds are returned at the end of the trip. If expenses exceed the APA during the charter, you’ll need to settle the balance before disembarking.

Gratuities for the Crew

The crew is a vital part of your experience, ensuring every aspect of your trip exceeds expectations. A gratuity of 15-20% of the charter cost is customary, recognizing their dedication to providing an exceptional vacation. Gratuities are expected at the end of the trip before debarking, paid directly to the captain. Electronic transfer, paypal, or venmo are popular ways to pay.

Payment Terms

Charter payments are typically split into the following milestones:

• 25% Deposit: Due at the time of booking for charters more than six months away.
• Second Payment (25%): Due six months before your charter begins.
• Final Payment (50%): Due 45-60 days before the start of your trip.

For plus expenses charters, APA funds are collected with the final payment to ensure the yacht is fully prepared for your arrival.

Transparent Pricing for an Exceptional Experience

We’re here to make every aspect of your charter seamless, including understanding the costs involved. Whether you prefer an all-inclusive package or the flexibility of a plus-expenses charter, our team will guide you through the options to create a vacation that’s perfect for you.