Steps to Booking a Yacht Charter

Booking a crewed yacht charter involves several steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. 

1. Determine Your Preferences and Budget: 
• Decide on your destination, charter dates, and the number of guests in your group. 
• Establish a budget for your charter, considering factors like yacht size, amenities, and the level of luxury you desire. 
2. Consult with Your Broker: 
• Contact your broker to communicate your specific requirements, including the number of guests, desired amenities, and any special requests. They will help you find the best available yachts. This is where we can help!
3. Choose Your Yacht: 
• Review the charter options presented by your broker. Consider factors such as yacht size, layout, amenities, number of crew, and budget. 
• Discuss any specific features or activities you want onboard, such as water toys, diving equipment, or special dietary requests. 
4. Confirm the Charter Agreement: 
• Once you have selected a yacht, your broker will provide you with a charter agreement to review. Carefully read and understand the charter contract and its terms, including payment schedules, cancellation policies, and what is included in the charter fee. 
5. Secure the Charter Dates: 
• Pay a deposit to secure your charter dates. The deposit amount is typically 50% of the total charter fee and varies depending on the yacht and destination. 
6. Provide Guest Information: 
   
• Share information about all the guests in your group, including any dietary restrictions or special needs.  
• Please complete your preference form with as much detail as possible. The more specific you are the more the trip will be tailored to your specifications. 
7. Discuss Itinerary and Preferences: 
   
• Work closely with your broker and the yacht's captain to plan your itinerary, including destinations, activities, and dining preferences. 
8. Finalize the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): 
   
• If your charter follows a "plus expenses" model, determine the APA amount needed to cover expenses like food, fuel, and other incidentals. Transfer this amount to an escrow account, which the captain will manage during the charter. 
• The captain will monitor and save all receipts for your review. 
9. Arrange Travel Logistics: 
   
• Plan your travel to the charter location, including flights, transportation to the marina, and any pre- or post-charter accommodations and transportation. 
• Providing your broker with your flight details they can help secure transportation to your yacht. Many might be able to assist with on-land private homes or hotels if requested.  
10. Board the Yacht: 
    
• On the day of your charter, meet the crew at the designated marina or embarkation point. 
• Receive a welcome briefing from the captain and crew, including safety protocols and a tour of the yacht. 
11. Enjoy Your Charter: 
    
• Relax and enjoy your crewed yacht charter. The crew will take care of all onboard services, including meals, activities, and navigation. 
• Communicate with the crew about any changes or preferences during the charter. 
• If there are ever any onboard concerns, please contact your broker right away. They are your advocates and will do their best to return everything to perfection.  
12. Settle Final Expenses: 
    
• At the end of the charter, review the APA account, if applicable, with the captain to ensure all expenses are accounted for. 
• Pay any outstanding charges, including the final crew gratuity. 
13. Feedback and Departure: 
    
• Provide feedback to your broker and the charter company about your experience. 

Remember that booking a charter yacht well in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, as popular yachts and destinations can get booked quickly. Booking a crewed yacht charter requires careful planning and communication with your chosen broker to ensure your charter aligns with your preferences and expectations.