How To Charter A Luxury Yacht – Advice From The Experts

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Luxury Sailing Yacht for Charter

A yacht charter, as you know, is an investment — in your own relaxation, your own pleasure abroad. Like any discerning investor, you want to make sure your return justifies the expense. If this is your first time to charter a luxury yacht, there are several considerations that can make or break your experience. Ready for the good news? We’ve compiled information from the experts to help unveil how to charter a luxury yacht, as well as details about several different styles of yachts for your convenience. charter a luxury yacht

Only Deal with Reputable Brokers

Chartering a yacht typically happens through a yacht broker — an agent that is dedicated to you and your experience, who is available for your entire journey, and who communicates on your behalf to move your plans forward.

Your yacht broker should be familiar with yacht models, location-specific amenities, and details about captains and crews. They should be willing to work with you at length to determine what options best serve your needs. They will also help you understand the contract and any stipulations; clauses detailing incident handling, safe waters and any restricted areas, as well as when, where, and if you will come to land.

Be wary of a broker who won’t allow you to tour a yacht before chartering. The minute details of a luxury vehicle of any kind is a large part of what makes it luxury to begin with, and seeing the yacht in person will allow you to judge its value. A good broker will encourage you to get all of the information you can; they will want to ensure that you are as satisfied as you can possibly be, with no strings attached.

Another method a good broker will use is to start off small. Don’t feel insulted by this — a good broker won’t pressure you into chartering up simply because you can. Looking at smaller models first also helps give you the confidence that you’re paying for true luxury and class, not simply spaciousness and prow length.

Captain and Crew are as Crucial as Location

When chartering a yacht for any period of time, it’s important to consider the captain and crew of the boat you choose — they’re key to ensuring the experience you’re looking to cultivate. Because captains are people, too, they each will have preferences and experiences. Some captains are smooth sailing sightseers who can take you to the perfect romantic coastline or island chain. Others still love getting people set up in waters, perfect for toys like jet skis.

Talk to your broker about your goals for the trip, whether or not you have children, or if you’ll be looking for a formal outing with five-star meals prepared on a schedule. Some yachts have a permanent crew that includes a chef, while others are laid back and minimal.

The Finer Points

With the big things right up front, let’s move to some of the more tedious (but no less important!) aspects of yacht chartering.

Deposit Percent

The Mediterranean Yacht Broker Association determines much of a chartering contract’s financial details. One of the most notable and more common sections is the up-front deposit required. Oftentimes, a contract requires 50 percent at time of signing.

Another detail is the Advance Provisioning Allowance that most contracts include. This covers expenses like the food, the fuel, and much of the rest of supplies. Also crew gratuity at your discretion. Any difference is refundable.

Scheduling

Prepare yourself before embarking by studying the schedule. Most chartered yachts will operate on a schedule that is predetermined and locked in. Don’t let yourself get caught off guard by an unexpected stop or an inability to stop. Take time to read the details and to take notes. After all, it’s your vacation — you should choose a yacht tour that fits your interests and desires.

Yacht Style Rundown

Understanding what kind of yacht you want before moving on to chartering can help make the overall process smoother. It can also mean the difference in an enjoyable and relaxing vacation and a nerve-wracking nightmare.

Sailing Super Yacht

Motor Yachts

The most popular style of luxury yacht, motor yachts are spacious and comfortable. This is a great style for first-time yacht charterers due to the viability and variability of options, from simple getaways to full-blown parties.

Sailing Super Yacht

Sailing

Similar to a sailboat, a sailing yacht is mainly wind-powered. Most have some simple engine for careful maneuvers around ports and in calm waters. The sailing yacht has changed much over the past decades, and now many include a level of luxury similar to the highest class motor yacht.

Wood Color Super Yacht

Gulet

Similar in style to a sailing yacht, a gulet features a specific arrangement and offers very big volumes. They are almost always beautiful wooden vessels with shining hulls and sweeping sails. Gullets originated in Turkey as shipping yachts for the Turkish coastline.

charter a luxury yacht

Catamaran

This style is unique in that is is a multi-hulled vessel. Similar to a pontoon boat, a catamaran has two hulls spanned by the deck or decks. A catamaran is a perfect yacht for shallow waters such as the Bahamas. Another benefit is the smoothness of the sail. If you experience seasickness, this is a good option for you

From selecting the best broker, captain, and crew, to managing your deposit, scheduling, and choosing a type of yacht, a yacht charter can become complex somewhat quickly. However, with your new know-how on these six essential steps, you’re on your way to an unforgettable luxury experience at sea.

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About World Yacht Group

World Yacht Group is a global yacht consultancy that specializes in yacht charters, yacht sales, and yacht management. We have offices in Los Angeles, Cannes, Ibiza, and Madrid. If you are interested in chartering a yacht or any of our other services, please visit us at worldyachtgroup.com

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