Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right yacht and date
Chartering a big yacht can feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, we are here to assist you. There are a few things to consider when chartering a luxury yacht:
1. Where do you want to go? Take a look at our charter destinations and itineraries for some inspiration.
2. What type of yacht fits your needs? See our guidance of available yacht types.
3. Narrow down your requirements, such as budget or number of guests. Is it going to be a business or a private charter? Adventurous or romantic?
The more information you can give us up front, the better we can use our expertise to design your perfect getaway. Our personalized offers are always free of charge and without obligation.
We have a broad and diverse selection of luxury yachts with access to almost every charter vessel worldwide. Therefore, we can always provide you with the best charter solution tailored to your specific requirements. We appreciate as much information as possible about your charter guests, such as their age, interests, or cabin requirements. This helps us to perfectly prepare the crew for the guests’ individual needs.
There are different types of yachts available for charter, differing in size, speed, price, and equipment. Motor yachts are faster and usually more spacious, which means they offer plenty of room for guests, water toys, and luxury. With top speeds up to 40 knots, you can explore more of your charter destination in a shorter period of time. Please be aware to plan the fuel consumption of this option into your budget. Motorsailers and sailing yachts are usually more slow-paced and charming. They combine finest luxury with the romantic and adventurous side of sailing. Feel free to learn sailing terminology, equipment, and maneuvers directly from our experienced crews.
Motor yachts provide comfort, style, and plenty of room to unwind, no matter the weather outside. Many motor yachts are equipped with gyms, pools, theaters, and more – some even have helipads for easier access to the most remote locations. Every yacht offers its own selection of water toys, often including tenders, Jet Skis, wakeboards, paddleboards, inflatables, and scuba equipment. Additionally, experienced guides can be requested for instructing and accompanying guests on water excursions.
Another deciding factor for motor yachts is their speed, which allows you to visit more destinations in a shorter period of time. With the power of up to 40+ knots, you are not reliant on the wind. Their sheer size and advanced stabilizers also allow smooth cruising and anchoring. Motor yachts often are the perfect choice for business events, large groups of family or friends, or even weddings and anniversaries.
Motorsailers offer a unique experience, as they combine both the luxury of a motor yacht with the adventurous side of sailing. Depending on weather conditions, they reach up to 14 knots by engine. This is an important factor to consider when choosing your ideal yacht type.
Those searching for relaxation or thrill will appreciate the calm pace combined with the impressive power of set sails. Feel like getting adventurous? Our crews will happily introduce you to the basic sailing techniques and let you be part of the action. Every yacht offers its own selection of water toys, often including tenders, Jet Skis, wakeboards, paddleboards, inflatables, and snorkel equipment. Motorsailers often are the perfect choice for private events and medium-sized groups of family or friends.
A sailing yacht charter offers guests a truly unique and exciting experience. Feel like learning some new skills? You have the great opportunity to learn sailing terminology, equipment, and maneuvers directly from our experienced crews. Gain expert knowledge while joining the crew in your sailing adventure.
Feeling the thrill and power of wind-powered yachts is an incredible experience, but large water toys like jet skis might not always be available. The build of sailing yachts does limit storage opportunities, which you will find plenty of on motor yachts.
Traditional sailing yachts can reach lengths of up to 67m / 220ft, allowing even large groups to charter in total comfort. They are often the perfect choice for an adventurous group of guests who enjoy being part of the sailing experience. Of course, you can also just lean back to enjoy the fresh breeze and stunning views.
The high season refers to the most popular weeks of the year for yacht charter and depends on the destination. Usually, the most popular charter weeks are also the warmest, meaning f.e. winter in the Caribbean or summer in the Mediterranean. Yacht charter in the high season requires early planning, booking, and determination. Please keep in mind that the best time of the year also comes with higher charter rates. This might also include higher rates for charters that coincide with major local events, as marinas are often booked up early.
The low season refers to the months before and after the high season. Guests who are looking for a relaxing vacation with fewer crowds in the ports might prefer to charter in the low season. Also, temperatures in the low season are usually more enjoyable for children and elderly people. When chartering on a budget, the low season is a great opportunity to make your luxury vacation happen.
Types of charter
Some, not many yachts, might have a minimum age limit. Every yacht provides age-appropriate life vests in case your kids are not water-safe. There are countless activities for kids both on board and ashore. All of our yachts are equipped with snorkeling gear, inflatables, or other water toys, and most yachts even offer Wi-Fi, video games, and satellite TV.
The crew is mainly needed to safely operate the boat, so bringing a nanny can help you and your kids to have a safe and pleasant trip. Multi-generation charter is a great opportunity to bond with your loved ones. Some of our superyachts are equipped with elevators and yacht crews are happy to assist guests with mobility difficulties. We will make sure that your stay on board will be as accessible and comfortable as possible.
Definitely. Weddings on the water are becoming increasingly popular since they are an absolute highlight for the bride, groom, and guests on board. A local registrar can perform the ceremony either on board or on one of the numerous local beaches. We will gladly assist you with organizing a wedding planner, flowers, and paperwork. Sometimes it’s not possible for all of your invited guests to join your wedding. Let them be a part of your big day by streaming the ceremony live, using state-of-the-art technology.
Do you want to renew your vows and don’t need the legal help of a registrar? The captain and crew can perform your ceremony with a romantic backdrop and lovely arrangements. We also have captains who are licensed to officiate at weddings. Let us help you arrange the happiest day of your life, one that neither you nor your guests will ever forget.
Of course, you can. We have specialized and experienced crews for groups who like to go out every night, drink, dance, and party the week away. There are some regions with a more vibrant nightlife than others.
Some, not many, superyacht owners tend to oppose excessive parties due to white carpets and designer interiors. Let us know in advance if you plan on partying a lot, so that we can find you the perfect yacht, crew, and bartenders.
Our doors are open for special groups of people who are in non-traditional relationships. We understand the importance of confidentiality and respect, as do most yacht owners and crews.
To have the best charter experience possible, selecting the right crew can even be more important than the yacht itself. We ensure that you will see nothing but friendly faces and the best service from our open-minded and LGBT-friendly crews.
Our team gladly assists you by creating a personalized and unique charter itinerary tailored to your tastes and preferences.
Booking and Paperwork
Booking a yacht with us is easy. Even if it looks complicated, don’t worry: we will guide you step-by-step through the process.
- Browse our website.
Gather information about all your yacht and destination preferences. - Get in contact with us.
Together we will proceed with the reservation once the ideal yacht for your favored dates is chosen. - Fill in the paperwork.
You will receive the contract between you and the charter yacht owner. Booking a yacht charter is different from reserving a plane ticket. A standardized contract will be drawn up, which we will simplify by explaining the details to you. The signed contract and a 50% deposit will prevent anyone else from booking the yacht for the same period. - Prepare to travel.
You will receive the preference sheets while the crew and we prepare the yacht for your vacation. The captain will plan a draft itinerary based on your ideas and wishes. You can already get inspired by browsing our travel itineraries. Let us know if we can be of any assistance. - Enjoy the vacation!
Your captain and crew are your primary contact points for questions about activities, meals, or any other charter aspects. We recommend planning ahead whenever possible.Overall, a yacht charter means there is no fixed itinerary, and typically, some plans change en route.
We remain available for you seven days a week should you have any other questions or concerns. Bon voyage!
Charter rates are usually quoted per week (crew included). Charters over seven days are calculated pro-rata against the weekly rate, divided by seven and multiplied by the number of charter days. Charters of less than seven days are often possible – mostly if you book at short notice and the yacht is still available. In that case, the weekly rate is divided by six and multiplied by the number of days.
High season rates apply to the most popular charter periods, i.e. July/August and Christmas/New Year’s. They usually also apply to all major events, such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival. Low season rates apply to all other periods. Please note: low and high season periods may vary for different destinations.
Please visit our website for the actual charter rate or contact us via e-mail or phone.
For charters in the high season, we advise you to book at least 10 to 12 months in advance. For charters in the low season, we advise you to book at least 6 to 8 months in advance. Last-minute deals on yachts are not very common. The risk of you missing out on your preferred yacht, port, or travel dates is high. However, if you are spontaneous and flexible, we can arrange to get you on one of our luxury yachts within a few days.
Do you prefer to charter a particular vessel, or are your dates not very flexible? We then advise you to book as early as possible. In case you need to change your plans, we will do our best to rearrange your vacation. Do you need to cancel your trip? You get a full refund of your payment if you cancel 6 months prior to your charter. Please keep in mind that bank or exchange fees may apply in this case.
After the availability of your chosen yacht has been verified, you will receive a standard MYBA charter agreement for signature. MYBA stands for Mediterranean Yacht Broker Association, a worldwide yachting association. Although a charter contract may seem daunting at first, it is there to protect both you and the yacht owner. The payment terms and charter conditions are precisely recorded in this agreement.
It is crucial that you speak up should you have any questions regarding the contract or are unsure as to how the payment structure is applied or how costs are calculated. We are experts in the field and will be able to explain every contract clause, so don’t hesitate to consult us. Once you fully understand everything and have signed the contract, we will take care of the rest. If your chosen itinerary necessitates embarking or disembarking from a port other than your yacht’s home port, positioning charges may be required. These charges, if applicable, will be confirmed in advance and affirmed in the charter agreement, together with any taxes that might apply.
We will be sending you a food and beverage preference sheet to fill in before your charter. Those preference sheets will allow the crew to provision the boat and make sure everything you wish is aboard. A yacht’s bar usually comes with basic spirits such as vodka, gin, rum or more. This also includes the yacht’s wines and beers. If you desire any special drinks, cocktails, or cigars, please note them on the preference sheet.
Our top-notch chefs on board accommodate any special diets. Children’s menus are always available. Furthermore, you can decide whether you wish for a prim and proper crew or an entertaining crew that mingles with the guests. Details like that set the tone for your whole trip.
The charter fee generally covers only the hire of the yacht and crew. All other expenses are in addition to the charter fee – that’s what the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) is for. The APA is meant to cover the operating expenses of a charter as explained in the charter terms, such as fuel, port fees, drinks, food, and ad hoc incidentals.
The APA will be given to the captain before you start your vacation. He will use the APA for said expenses and is obligated to keep all receipts and balance your account. There are no mark-ups on the APA, and you can review the expenditure level at any time.
The APA is due at the time of the final charter payment and is approximately 30 percent of the total charter fee. Any credit remaining at the end of your charter will be reimbursed to you in full in cash, and likewise, any overages are to be paid to the captain in cash prior to disembarkation. Your captain will notify you in advance if your expenses are about to exceed your APA. This prevents any unpleasant surprises.
Travel and cancellation insurance is always a good idea to protect your investment if unforeseen circumstances prevent or curtail your charter. We can help make sure you are covered. There are many reasons why you or one of your guests may not be able to make the trip or have to leave early. Not only are you insuring your time on board but also the arrival and departure.
Basic insurance starts at about 3,5% of your total vacation cost. Rates can rise up to 8% for full coverage deals. Additionally, all members of the charter party should be covered by personal accident and medical insurance, and their belongings should be insured against theft, loss, or damage. Don’t worry about coverage for the vessel. Insurance for yacht and crew are included with the charter rate.
Travelling
Your vacation should begin when leaving home. At least that’s our philosophy.
In most cases, you will arrive by plane. One of our limousines will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your yacht or to a hotel nearby, if you arrive the day before. Usually your embarkation is at 5 pm. That means you might have some time between your arrival and the boarding. You can use this time for a walk, a coffee at the promenade, or a cocktail in a quayside bar. In the meantime, the crew will bring your luggage on board. We recommend allocating the cabins upfront, so your luggage can already be brought there.
Of course, the most convenient form of arrival is with a private jet. Some of our larger yachts have a heliport so that you can board the yacht directly by helicopter. Let us be of assistance: We work with reliable partners who all have a common goal – to make your trip an unforgettable experience.
We recommend you arrive the day prior to your charter, just in case something goes wrong with your flight. Travel insurance may cover this case, but you might lose a day or more of your vacation. You’ll simply have an extra evening in a stunning destination when you arrive a day early. Ask us for a carefully compiled list of luxury hotels.
Depending on availability, it’s sometimes possible to reserve a “sleep aboard” option the night before embarkment. Board the yacht in the late evening for welcome cocktails, a delicious dinner, and freshly prepared breakfast in the morning. You came for a luxury charter experience, and this is the best way to start your vacation.
Seasickness is rarely a problem when choosing a destination that matches your seaworthiness. For example, in the Virgin Islands, Croatia, or Greece, you’ll be sailing on a large, stable yacht in calm, protected waters. We rarely sail out of sight of land, and our captains always anchor in sheltered bays where the yachts are virtually motionless.
Many of our yachts do have stabilizers, both underway and at anchor. We are happy to help you find a suitable yacht if you are susceptible to motion sickness. Additionally, you can consult your physician or pharmacist about preventive medications.
The majority of luxury yachts have satellite phones and Wi-Fi on board. Additionally, most charter destinations offer mobile phone service.
We can arrange a prepaid local phone card for you or your guests in advance if you wish. We also happily provide the contact details of your yacht for you to distribute to family or friends prior to your departure.
Activities on your vacation
The possibilities are endless. When you choose to plan a yacht charter vacation, you are not limited to any of our existing itineraries. Instead, you have the freedom to choose what you want to do and where you want to go. Whether you choose one of our existing itineraries or decide to change or customize the ports of call for your trip, however, our team eliminates the guesswork for you.
We can help develop an itinerary that fits your needs and desires. We will carefully consider your requirements, and together with the captain, prepare a perfectly tailored charter itinerary for you. This includes your food and beverage preferences, the onboard and onshore activities you’d like to enjoy, when and where you want to go, and so forth. Once you are on board, the itinerary is yours to change as the mood strikes, under the guidance of the captain.
Most of our yachts do have satellite TV and Wi-Fi onboard, even in every cabin. Also, video on demand, such as Netflix, is usually standard. Wherever TV and internet are provided, please note that service cannot always be guaranteed due to differing signal strengths across the world.
If satellite TV or video on demand is important for you, please contact us or make a note on your preference sheet to avoid any disappointment. The same applies if you anticipate regular internet use or require large bandwidths during your charter. Upgrades are subject to availability, and in that case, an additional charge based on your requirements might apply.
Water sports are adventurous, fun-filled, action-packed, and exciting.
Are you seeking the thrill? Then you should try out the Jet Ski, inflatables, waterski, wakeboard or flyboard.
Want to explore your surroundings? The kayak, seabob, snorkel, or scuba equipment should fulfill your wishes.
Need some relaxation? Fishing or stand-up paddling is perfect for a moment in peace.
Most yachts offer a combination of in, on, and underwater sports equipment. Let us know in advance what kind of equipment you wish for your charter vacation.
All the water toys are there for you to enjoy, but some may need special training or a license to use. There may also be some restrictions in certain cruising areas. It’s best to check with the captain first if you have any questions.
Are the water toys easy to use?
Most of the yacht toys are straightforward and self-explanatory. The crew will be happy to help you if there might be any equipment you need assistance with.
Do I need a life vest?
We recommend always wearing a life vest when using the toys. Safety first is definitely key, as tempting as it might be to jump straight onto the nearest Jet Ski. Most yachts offer life vests in various sizes to keep everyone safe and sound out in the water.
The availability of the listed equipment per yacht is always up to date but can’t be guaranteed since they are liable to change at short notice, f.e., due to a breakdown shortly before. Should changes become necessary, the yacht owner will make every effort possible to replace the equipment comparably and in time.
For safety reasons, smoking inside the yacht is usually prohibited, but specific areas on deck may be set aside for smokers. If you or your guests are smokers, make sure to mention it on the preference sheet. That way, we can also ensure that your favorite cigars are aboard.
If smoking is permitted on deck, a thoughtful guest will enjoy their guilty pleasure on the downwind side of the yacht, where the smoke blows away. We, or the crew, will be more than happy to explain any open questions.
There are plenty of opportunities to be explored and enjoyed when you venture ashore from your luxury yacht.
Some destinations offer vibrant coral reefs, which invite you to snorkel, scuba dive, or go fishing for the “big ones”. Stroll on a deserted, soft sand beach or indulge yourself in the serenity of a picnic in an isolated bay. Enjoy five-star dining in a bustling town, rub shoulders with the locals and enjoy their traditional delicacies. Shop in a brand-name store, purchase trinkets from a beachfront hut, or go on scenic excursions that leave you speechless.
We are happy to provide you with any additional recommendations to add to your itinerary. In addition, the captain is always an excellent source to ask for advice and guidance.
Respect the crew.
Each crew member is there to ensure your holiday exceeds expectations. Any crew member will attest that having a polite, thoughtful guest makes them work that extra bit harder to perfect your stay aboard.Listen to safety briefings.
Safety is the prime responsibility of the captain and crew, which they take very seriously. At the start of your journey, all of the guests will have a safety briefing about life jackets and life rafts. It is a requirement of both insurance and maritime laws.Treat the yacht as you would your own home.
The crew wants you to feel at home, and equally, the boat owner will appreciate the care taken of his property.Keep the crew informed.
One of the pleasures of a charter yacht is the ability to entertain in grand style, but try to plan ahead. If you want to invite extra guests aboard for cocktails or a meal, be sure to clear it with the captain first. This ensures there will be no embarrassing shortage of food or drinks, and the chef will be prepared for the event.Ask about pet policy.
Many yachts are perfect for bringing pets on board, but make sure to discuss the situation with the captain first. This ensures a good setup and pleasant stay for you and your pets.Respect the “no-shoes”-policy.
Stiletto heels can dent teak decks, and black soles can leave scuff marks. Many yachts have a barefoot-rule stating that shoes stay outside the cabin, and others might ask that no shoes be worn on deck either. In each case, the crew will provide a basket for you to deposit your shoes. If shoes are allowed on deck, keep in mind that they should be soft-soled boat shoes.Allow time for room keeping.
Give the crew a chance to refresh your cabins once per day. If you’re not spending any time ashore, let the crew do the room keeping while you sunbathe or swim.Assign cabins in advance if possible.
The main charterer usually decides cabin allocation for all guests in advance. This avoids tension upon arrival. We’re happy to provide you with deck plans and virtual tours.Bring suitable luggage.
As storage opportunities on yachts might be limited, soft-sided luggage is more practicable than hard-sided luggage. Steamer trunks might be trendy on ocean liners but not handy on yachts. Try to pack light.
Don’t expect the crew to look after your kids.
Most yachts welcome children of all ages aboard and offer a variety of water toys and video games for their entertainment. However, the crew is mainly needed to safely operate the boat. Bringing a nanny can help you and your kids to have a safe and pleasant trip. Many yachts offer special single cabins for your nanny or tour guide.Don’t do anything illegal.
The tolerance level on yachts for illegal or illicit activities is absolutely zero. In severe cases, authorities might seize the yacht, which results in the loss of the license or even jail.Don’t take matters into your own hands.
The captain is the correct person to approach when dealing with any problems aboard. He is also the right point of contact if there might be any issues with crew members.Don’t disrespect boundaries.
The galley (kitchen) is the chef’s kingdom, where they are busy planning and preparing your meals. Please be considerate and don’t invade private crew areas without a specific invitation.Don’t violate the smoking policy.
On most yachts, smoking is prohibited inside the vessel. Specific areas on deck may be set aside for smokers. If smoking is permitted on deck, a thoughtful guest will enjoy their guilty pleasure on the downwind side of the yacht, where the smoke blows away.Don’t expect the crew to come along on your sightseeing junkets.
The crew usually is busy preparing the yacht for your return while you’re not on board. Please discuss with the captain if you want specific crew members to join you ashore.
Crew and Service
Every crew member aboard a charter yacht is professionally certificated to ensure safety during your charter experience. They are also trained to provide a high level of service and hospitality for everything from fine dining to recreation and the safe use of water toys.
The captain will always try to accede to your wishes. Part of his job during the charter is doing paperwork and managing the crew. However, the captain is ultimately responsible for the safety of the guests, crew, and vessel. He always has the final call when circumstances demand it.
All guests will be asked to fill in a preference sheet that will clarify in detail any dietary requirements, food allergies, and medical conditions that the crew should be made aware of prior to departure. Be as detailed as you can be. Be completely honest and maybe even adventurous, and you will not be disappointed. Whether you prefer formal dining, alfresco lunches, or sundeck barbeques, your onboard chef can cater to your every gastronomic delight. Once the crew has reviewed the preference sheets, you can rest assured that the cuisine during your yacht charter will be nothing less than perfect.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, keto, or low calorie – don’t be afraid to be specific. Your chef will be familiar with special requests and has handled many extravagant preferences on previous yacht charters. Please keep in mind that last minute menu changes after debarking are dependent on whether the crew can source the desired ingredients locally.
Be sure to mention if you have a special occasion whilst on board, as yacht charter crews love to host you a party. From pirate-themed nights to anniversaries or decadent dinner parties – what better way to celebrate than with a feast of culinary delights alongside your favorite people and a personalized birthday cake for dessert. All that remains to be said is bon appétit!
On most yachts, the charter chef can work around dietary restrictions. Whether you or your guests prefer vegan, gluten-free, or anything in between, the crew will cater to your dietary specifications. We can also create special menus for any kids coming aboard. If you wish, we work closely with you before your charter vacation to build a menu that impresses your whole charter group.
Do you like to be surprised? The chef will gladly spoil you with local and international creations. While some changes can apply to the menu, the chef is unable to make different meals for each guest.
Please fill out the preference sheet as detailed as possible, so all of your guests can enjoy their favorite meals.
Financial
Of course. Actually, we tend to hear that fairly often. It’s an excellent approach to avoid any unpleasant surprises. The more details and information you can give us on your budget and expectations, the better we can arrange your desired vacation.
Your input will allow us to quickly and effectively offer you the most suitable yachts and itineraries that match the bounds of your charter plan.
Chartering a yacht with us gives you the choice between several safe and easy payment options. For payments in Euros (€) or Swiss Francs (CHF), you can use traditional wire transfer to our Swiss bank account. Our Wise and Stripe accounts accept any currency and come with the lowest fees. You can also pay with PayPal by either credit card or Giropay. PayPal is a safe, easy-to-use, and reliable option for quick payments. Accepted credit cards using PayPal are Visa, MasterCard, or American Express. Please note that all of these payment options may be accompanied by fees that have to be paid by the customer.
A deposit of 50% of the total charter fee is payable right after the signature of the charter agreement. The remaining 50% plus the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) is to be paid by bank transfer no later than five weeks before your charter begins. This also includes any taxes, delivery/redelivery fees, and additionally agreed on extras.
Do you prefer to pay with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple? No problem! As one of the first companies in the international charter business, we accept cryptocurrencies. We guarantee that your payment will always be handled with the highest security standards.
Yes, of course! As one of the first companies in the international charter business, we accept any cryptocurrency.
For clients who wish to pay with cryptocurrency for their charter, we will usually quote the payment in Euros and then use BitPay to process the payments in Bitcoin. BitPay is a leading payment technology provider, which acts as a secure gateway between the client and the retailer.
The client makes the payment from their secure BitPay payment wallet. We then convert the payment instantly to Euros to minimize currency fluctuation risks. The whole process is safe and easy. If you are interested, we will send you step-by-step instructions.
Yes. European Union tax laws state VAT will apply should you disembark within their waters – Croatian territorial waters, for example. Local taxes may also apply in other countries, and we will provide any prevailing rates according to your chosen cruising destination and itinerary.
No VAT needs to be added to the APA, the Advance Provisioning Allowance if VAT is paid at the time of the purchase of fuel, food, and other expenses. If you charter a yacht for business purposes, you may be able claim the VAT back. Ask your tax attorney for detailed information.
Charter rates published on our website are usually based on MYBA, the Mediterranean Yacht Broker Association terms. This means that the yacht will be provided in full commission and with all necessary equipment, properly insured for marine risks and managed by a crew, whose costs are for the owner’s account.
All other operating expenses are summarized under the term APA, which means Advance Provisioning Allowance, and are payable by the charterer. They contain, but are not restricted to, the following items:
- Fuel and lubricating oils for the yacht and her tenders
- Local taxes
- Pilotage
- Port, harbor, and marina dues
- Customs clearance
- Water and electricity
- Personal laundry
- All provisions
- Drinks and consumables
- Shoreside excursions
Please note that, occasionally, a yacht may offer a variation on the terms described above. We will provide full details of any charter terms that vary from standard MYBA terms when presenting the relevant yachts.
Also, Value Added Tax (VAT) may be added to the gross charter fee and delivery costs for charters taking place in European Union waters due to European Union tax legislation. In other countries outside the European Union, local taxes may also apply. We will provide any prevailing rates according to your chosen cruising destination and itinerary. It is often prudent to keep an escrow account with us onshore to control charter costs without having to carry cash on board.
Cash is king around most yachting hotspots. Your credit card will undoubtedly go a long way in many mainland restaurants and shops but will be less accepted in beach bars. Most places accept Mastercard, Visa, and American Express.
If you run out of cash, ask your captain to hand you some out of the APA, the Advance Provisioning Allowance, which you paid in advance. We recommend using cash for tips and taxi rides, as tips usually cannot be added to the card statement.
Tips are part of the salary each crew member receives at the end of the month. So it’s customary to tip the crew at the end of your luxury yacht charter. While it is at your discretion, it is customary to tip the captain and crew after a charter for excellent care and service. Consider they are at your call for 16-24 hours a day and do their absolute best to fulfill all of your wishes. Their work even starts long before your arrival. As a guide, a gratuity of 5-15% of the base charter fee is considered fair, while exceptional service and attention to detail can warrant even more, but this is always at your discretion.
Some of the crew members, such as engineers and chefs, may have worked just as hard as others but been less visible during your trip. The best way to ensure that all crew members receive equal recognition is to entrust the distribution of gratuities to the captain. Generally, tips are given in cash, but if sufficient APA funds remain after the charter, you can also leave these with the captain since he is already holding this money. Alternatively, you can wire the gratuity ahead for us to keep in escrow to avoid carrying a large amount of cash. After the charter is over, just let us know if and how much to release to the crew (based on any leftover APA), and we will wire the difference back to you.
