Why are some yachts more expensive than others? Charter fees range widely depending on many factors such as:

• Type of Yacht & Layout: Size for size, sailing yachts tend to charter for less than motor yachts. Rates for Catamarans tend to be higher because of their inherent stability, equally proportioned cabins (all double beds, etc.) and ability to carry far more "toys" and amenities for their length than traditional sailing yachts. High Performance yachts (sail or power) tend to require more crew and therefore will demand higher rates.

• Charter Area:  The Caribbean is the most highly chosen charter destination in the world. In the winter season there are hundreds of crewed yachts available for charter, as supply attempts to meet demand. This results in a very competitive market! In the Summer months, the majority of yachts move on to summer destinations leaving far fewer yachts available (almost no motor yachts!), so those that remain for the summer tend to book quickly. 
  
  Certain far-flung destinations (Seychelles or Fiji, for example) may only have a handful of professionally crewed yachts at any time of the year. Despite having a most enchanting cruising ground, a number of factors conspire to make it difficult (and therefore expensive) to charter in these regions. Government regulations can be restrictive, provisioning sources can be unreliable, fuel can be scarce, etc. Obviously if you choose to charter in an area with limited vessels to choose from, be prepared to be flexible with your dates and budget.  
  
• Seasonal Rate Variations: High season generally means higher rates. Caribbean High season is from December 15th through April while the Mediterranean High season is June through August.  Holidays and Events (New Year/Christmas, Cannes Film Festival, Antigua Race Week, etc.) typically require minimum booking periods at premium rates (usually 10% over High Season) . These dates usually book out 6 months to a year in advance, so we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment!
  
  Low Season rates can make chartering even more affordable than you thought. Add the benefit of fewer crowds and more flights available, and you can see this can be a great time to get the whole family together for a vacation! Just be sure to consult with us for the best times to sail during low-season so we can help you avoid sailing when local weather conditions may make your vacation a bit too memorable! For Trip Insurance & Hurricane coverage, see the Insurance link on our Home Page  
  
• Amenities & Equipment: Crewed yachts include a host of water sports equipment for your enjoyment. At a minimum there will be a Dinghy/Sport Tender for transportation & exploring, snorkeling gear, light fishing gear, entertainment center with a library of music, movies, games & books. Additional toys may include water skis, kayaks, knee boards, sail boards floating mattresses, sun-beds, Kites, Beach games & hammocks. Larger Motor yachts often come equipped with wave-runners, Scooters, Jacuzzi tubs, even Gyms, Saunas, Helicopters, Submersibles and Cars! Whatever your vessel does not have, can usually be arranged to be hired for your charter.
  
  SCUBA DIVING: Yachts equipped for this sport must have an onboard Dive-master or Dive Instructor in the crew to assure your safety and to comply with the vessel's insurance. While some yachts may include diving in their rate, many charge an extra fee in order to offset the rising cost of liability insurance and maintaining equipment in tip-top shape. Those yachts that do not offer Scuba can always arrange diving with local Rendezvous dive operators - perfect for those who only want a day or two of diving during their holiday!
  
  Obviously not every yacht can accommodate every toy, so make sure your charter specialist is aware of your "must have" list.
  
• SPECIAL RATES - Ask Us! A selection of yachts offer HONEYMOON Discounts, Family Discounts, Discounts for small children, and of course Last Minute Discounts! Specials change so frequently, it's best to give us a call at 1-800-479-9054

• Crew Gratuities: Tipping the crew is both customary and discretionary. The standard practice is to award 10% - 20% of the charter fee (can vary by destination), based on your level of satisfaction, at the close of the charter. It is customary for the charter party to give the gratuity to the captain who will distribute amongst the crew.
  

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