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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