Yacht Charter FAQs | Moving Oceans
- How do I book a yacht charter?
- You will collaborate with a yacht broker, such as Jeni at Moving Oceans, to book your yacht. They will work with you to understand your charter preferences, travel distances, preferred destinations, and vessel style. With your input and their expertise, a proposal tailored to your needs will be crafted for your review.
- What are my choices for the length of the yacht charter?
- Charter rates are weekly, with most yachts accepting a minimum of seven days. The duration can vary based on the specific yacht and its availability, accommodating both shorter and longer charters.
- What are the arrival and departure times of yacht charters?
- Most charters commence from noon onwards on the first day and terminate by noon on the last day. Some yachts might have a later boarding time, so it is best to coordinate your travel plans with your broker.
- When are high season rates for yacht charters?
- High season in the Caribbean is Thanksgiving week through New Year's week. Please note that the charter rates quoted are believed to be correct but may be subject to change.
- What are the best times to travel to the Caribbean?
- The best time to visit the BVI and USVI is from Thanksgiving through June. Hurricane season in the area is June 1 - November 30th with the most activity occurring between mid-August and mid-October. Our broker Jeni can help you choose the best time for your group to travel.
- What is a charter agreement?
- All charters are subject to a fully executed contract. After the availability of your chosen yacht has been verified, you will receive a standard CYBA Charter Agreement for signature. If your chosen cruising itinerary necessitates embarking or disembarking from a point other than your yacht’s home port, positioning charges (delivery/ redelivery fees) may be required. These charges, if applicable, will be confirmed in advance and affirmed in the Charter Agreement, together with any taxes that may apply.
- What are the payment terms for a yacht charter?
- A deposit of 50 percent of the total charter fee is payable by bank transfer immediately upon signature of the Charter Agreement. This confirms your booking. The remaining 50 percent, plus an Advance Provisioning Allowance, together with any taxes, delivery/redelivery fees, and any additionally agreed charges, is payable by bank transfer 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks) before the commencement of the charter. Payment time limits will be noted on your contract. Your broker will provide you with a statement of account so that all payments are met on time.
- What are the expense options on a yacht charter? Can I do all-inclusive?
- Operating expenses on charters come in two standard options: All-Inclusive and Plus Expenses.
- All-inclusive means the charter fee covers the captain and crew services, meals, standard ship's bar, fuel, and all vessel-related costs, excluding crew gratuities, scuba diving, premium beverages, off-yacht excursions, and more.
- In contrast, Plus Expenses charters require an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) to cover fuel, food, drinks, port fees, and incidentals. The APA is provided before the charter, ensuring a fully provisioned yacht. During the charter, if expenses exceed the APA, additional funds will be required. Before disembarkation, all accounts will be settled, and any remaining funds will be returned in full.
- How do I plan my itinerary?
- Jeni, our Oceans broker, will eliminate the guesswork for you when it comes to planning the itinerary for your private crewed yacht charter. They will consider your requirements down to the finest detail, and together with your captain prepare a charter plan that meets your requests. This includes your food and beverage preferences, both the onboard and onshore activities you like to enjoy, and when and where you want to go. Once on board, your itinerary is yours to change if wanted, under the guidance of your captain.