A record number of people are discovering the delights of a private yacht charter, with the charter market experiencing an incredible bounce back post-pandemic. According to Mordor Intelligence, the yacht charter market was valued at US$16.9 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to rise to $26.5billion by 2027.
A private yacht charter offers a self-sufficient sanctuary at sea, one that is private, exclusive, and boasts onboard luxuries akin to a luxury resort. Onboard a crewed private yacht charter, guests can set their own itinerary and are free to explore some of the world’s best cruising grounds, from popular port of calls to lesser-known anchorages far from the madding crowds.
If you’re considering a luxury getaway aboard a private charter yacht, keep reading. Here we answer some of the most common questions about chartering a boat.
How do I charter a private yacht?
If you want to charter a private yacht, your first port of call should be a luxury yacht brokerage. The world’s best yacht brokerages will have access to a global fleet of charter yachts, including elegant sailboats, explorer yachts, and extravagant superyachts. A yacht broker will listen to your needs and the type of getaway you wish to enjoy and then handpick a selection of charter yachts that meet your needs.
Make sure you work with a yacht brokerage that is a member of key industry bodies, such as the Yacht Brokers Association in America, the Certified Professional Yacht Broker, and the International Yacht Brokers Association. Yacht brokers that are members of these governing bodies must adhere to the highest standards of competence and professionalism.
How many guests can I take on a private yacht charter?
The number of guests you can take on a private yacht charter will be based on the size of the vessel. Smaller boats may only have a couple of staterooms that can be configured to sleep up to four. The world’s largest superyacht charters can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests, enabling yacht charterers to enjoy intimate family getaways with loved ones. A luxury yacht broker will be able to select a yacht that comfortably accommodates the number of guests while ensuring everyone still enjoys high degrees of privacy.
Where can I travel to on a yacht charter?
When you charter a yacht, the world is at your fingertips. Bluewater havens such as the Mediterranean and the Caribbean remain the world’s most popular cruising grounds. Destinations such as the French Riviera, the Greek Islands, and the Balearics are firm Mediterranean favorites, while popular ports of call in the Caribbean include St Barts, the Bahamas, and the British Virgin Islands.
Adventure yachts now enable intrepid travelers to explore far-flung destinations such as Antarctica and the Arctic Circle, while new emerging yacht charter destinations include Costa Rica, which recently reformed its marine law to allow foreign charter vessels over 24-meters to charter for up to a year.
A luxury yacht broker will be able to offer advice on destinations and then craft an incredible itinerary that perfectly matches your desired vacation experience.
What amenities will my yacht charter offer?
The amenities onboard a yacht will depend on the size of the vessel; however, almost all luxury yacht charters will boast sumptuous onboard interiors, spacious saloons with entertainment systems, sundecks, and a selection of water toys.
The world’s largest superyachts boast extravagant amenities, including swimming pools, beach clubs with bars, Jacuzzi, fully equipped fitness centers, spas, tenders, helicopters, submarines, dive centers, and more! Yacht charters are fully crewed, ensuring you can make the most of your time on your water and the onboard amenities while enjoying exceptional service levels.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht?
The cost of a yacht charter will depend on several factors, including the size of the vessel, the time of year, and your chosen destination. Smaller boats for rent typically start at around US$25,000 per week, plus expenses, with the world’s finest superyachts costing up to a million per week plus expenses. Additional fees include food, fuel, anchorage charges, crew gratuity, and transport to and from the boat.
Contact a reputable luxury yacht broker to learn more about chartering a yacht.
