Yacht Charter FAQ.

Once you’ve chosen your destination, dates, and preferred yacht, your charter broker will confirm availability and prepare a MYBA or IYBA charter agreement. A 50% deposit is typically due upon signing, with the balance due 30 days before embarkation. Your broker will assist with preferences, provisioning, and itinerary planning.

A yacht charter typically includes the vessel, professional crew, and standard equipment. Additional costs—such as fuel, food, beverages, dockage, and gratuity—are covered through an APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance), usually 30–35% of the base charter rate. For all-inclusive charters or day trips, these costs may be bundled.

For peak holiday weeks and larger yachts, three to six months in advance is recommended. Some itineraries and specific yachts book a year ahead. For last-minute or off-season charters, shorter lead times may be possible.

Yes. Many luxury motor yachts and catamarans in South Florida are available for single-day charters, ideal for private celebrations or short getaways. Day charters often include a full crew, open bar options, catering, and water toys. Minimum durations vary by yacht and season.

South Florida, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas are year-round favorites. In summer, many clients cruise the Mediterranean—Italy, the French Riviera, Greece, and Croatia—while winter brings yachts back to the Caribbean, St. Barts, and the Virgin Islands. Charter availability often follows these seasonal yacht migrations.

For clients seeking more adventurous itineraries, expedition and explorer yachts can reach less-traveled regions such as the Galápagos Islands, Patagonia, Alaska, the South Pacific, Raja Ampat, or the Norwegian fjords. These charters focus on diving, heli-skiing, wildlife encounters, and cultural exploration, often supported by specialist guides and equipment. They combine the luxury of a private yacht with the thrill of true discovery.

Luxury yacht charters in South Florida typically range from $10,000 to $40,000 per day, depending on size and season. A weeklong charter on a yacht between 80 and 120 feet generally costs between $60,000 and $250,000, plus expenses. Larger superyachts or peak-season charters in the Bahamas, Caribbean, or Mediterranean can exceed $500,000 per week.

Absolutely. Chartering is one of the best ways to experience different yacht styles before purchasing. Many clients begin with a charter and transition into ownership with the help of a broker who understands both markets.

Consider the number of guests, desired destinations, and onboard experience. Motor yachts offer speed and luxury, while catamarans and explorer yachts provide space and stability. Your broker will match your needs with a curated shortlist of yachts and negotiate directly with the central agency on your behalf.

Crew gratuity is customary but discretionary, typically 10–20% of the base charter rate based on service quality. It is usually given to the captain at the end of the charter for distribution among the crew.

Most yachts include a professional chef, and menus are customized to your tastes before departure. You may bring preferred wines or specialty items—just note any corkage or storage restrictions. For day charters, catering and beverage packages can be tailored in advance.

Policies vary. Some yachts are pet-friendly, especially for private family charters, while others restrict animals for safety or allergy reasons. Discuss this early with your broker to find the best fit.

Charter contracts specify cancellation policies and weather contingencies. In most cases, deposits are non-refundable, but alternative dates may be arranged. Travel insurance or charter cancellation coverage is strongly recommended.

Yes. Many owners offset ownership costs by placing their yacht in a charter program, managed by a central agency and marketed by charter brokers. This can generate significant income and maintain the yacht in crewed condition year-round.

Most luxury yacht charters are limited to 12 passengers, regardless of the yacht’s size, due to international safety regulations under the SOLAS Convention (Safety of Life at Sea). This limit applies to all charter guests—including children and infants—unless the yacht is certified as a Passenger Yacht (PYC) or a Commercial Passenger Ship, which are designed and crewed to carry more.
Smaller yachts and day-charter vessels may have lower limits depending on their flag state and license. Your charter broker will confirm the certified capacity for each yacht to ensure compliance and comfort.