Welcome aboard! If you're just beginning to explore the world of yacht charters, you might be wondering what exactly you'll find onboard.
While yachts come in many shapes, sizes, and styles—with different builders offering unique layouts and designs—there are some key areas and features you'll typically encounter on most charter yachts.
In this blog, we're giving you a general overview of these spaces to help you better understand how life unfolds on board. As you browse through each section, try to imagine yourself there—lounging in the salon, dining on the aft deck, or soaking up the sun on the flybridge—and think about what layout and amenities would suit your vacation style best. The more you know, the more confidently you can step into planning your dream yacht getaway.
- What is it? The front of the yacht, often with sun pads or seating.
- Where is it? The forward-most part of the yacht.
- Why does it matter? It's a prime spot for sunbathing, relaxing, taking in the views, and enjoying moments of privacy.
- When would I spend time here? Mainly when the yacht is stationary or in the evenings stargazing.
- What is it? The main indoor living space that has seating, dining, and entertainment. May have a galley up or galley down design.
- Where is it? Typically, in the middle of the ship on the main deck.
- Why does it matter? It’s the social hub for lounging, dining, escaping the sun, or enjoying game play, outside of the elements.
- What is it? The yacht’s kitchen, where meals are prepared.
- Where is it? "Galley up" is in the salon; "galley down" is on a lower deck away from the guest’s direct interaction.
- Why does it matter? A "galley up" keeps the chef part of the action allowing guests to try some samples, watch and learn tips and tricks, or just interact with them. While a "galley down" separates meal prep from guest areas allowing for a more spacious salon space for guest usage.
- What is it? The outdoor lounging and alfresco dining area at the aft (rear) of the yacht.
- Where is it? Just outside the salon, towards the aft (rear) of the yacht
- Why does it matter? It’s a go-to spot for alfresco dining and enjoying ocean breezes while lounging as it is generally fully shaded by the roof of the floor above.
- What is it? The rear platform that provides water access.
- Where is it? At the stern (furthest back point), just above the waterline.
- Why does it matter? It’s the launching point for swimming, watersports, and tender access.
- What is it? Generally, the top-level deck with seating, a helm (driving) station, and sometimes a bar or hot tub.
- Where is it? Above the main deck, accessed via stairs from the aft deck or salon.
- Why does it matter? It offers panoramic views, additional lounging space, and where most guests spend their travel times or enjoy sundowner cocktails.
- What is it? The command center where the captain navigates and drives the yacht.
- Where is it? Forward on the main deck or flybridge.
- Why does it matter? It’s the operational heart of the yacht, ensuring smooth sailing.
- *Only the larger boats have this
- What is it? An enclosed upper deck lounge, often with a bar and entertainment.
- Where is it? On the upper deck, typically behind the bridge.
- *Only the larger boats have this
- Port - Port is the left side of the yacht when facing forward.
- Starboard - Starboard is the right side of the yacht when facing forward.
- Aft - Aft is the rear section of the yacht. It could also mean the back section within a location. The aft section of the yacht is the back area of the yacht, opposite of the bow.
What is it? The smaller boat that comes with your yacht that will take you out on the toys or to shore.
1 - Bow
2 - Salon
3 - Aft Deck
4 - Swim Platform
5 - Flybridge
6 - Tender
Whether you're dreaming of sun-soaked days on the flybridge or cozy evenings in the salon, understanding the layout of a yacht can help you choose the perfect fit for your charter experience. Every yacht is unique, but now that you know the key spaces onboard, you're one step closer to finding your ideal floating retreat. We can’t wait to help you step aboard.
