What is the cost of a crewed yacht charter?

The cost of a crewed yacht charter can vary depending on factors such as the size and type of yacht, the destination, the duration of the charter, the number of guests, and the time of year. Generally, crewed yacht charters are priced per week and can range from $20,000 to $100,000 per week.

What is included in the cost of a crewed yacht charter?

Most of the yachts are all-inclusive with a professional captain and private chef. Larger yachts may have additional crew such as deckhands and steward(ess). The cost of a crewed yacht charter typically includes the charter fee for the yacht, the services of a professional captain and crew, onboard accommodations, all meals, snacks and standard ship’s bar (liquor, wine, beer and soft drinks) served onboard, fuel for the yacht and tender, insurance for the vessel and crew, water toys and recreational equipment (such as snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards). Some of the vessels also include Scuba diving as part of your package. Some charters may also include taxes, port fees, and cruising permits.

Not included are crew gratuities, optional marina docking/berthing for an overnight stay, excursions and meals ashore, port fees in the BVI, special requests for top-shelf liquor, wine, or excessive alcohol consumption, and transfers to and from the airport.

What is not included in the cost of a crewed yacht charter?

While the cost of a crewed yacht charter covers many expenses, there are some additional costs that may not be included. These can include crew gratuities (typically 15-20% of the charter fee, depending on the level of service provided), meals ashore, special requests such as premium/top-shelf liquor, wine or excessive alcohol consumption, transportation to and from the yacht (such as airfare or ground transfers), off-boat excursions and activities, and any applicable customs or immigration fees for international charters. It's important to review the charter agreement carefully to understand what is included and what may incur additional charges.  

Luxury motor yachts can have an all-inclusive fee, or they may have a standard fee plus running expenses and APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance).  This APA is essentially an allowance given by you to the Captain of your charter yacht, just like a bank account. The APA payment is typically 20%-25% of the base charter rate for sailing yachts and 30%-35% for motor yachts. Your captain will purchase provisions, taxes, fuel etc. for the charter using the APA and will keep all receipts along with a running log of expenses. This can be viewed at any time during your charter.

What is the standard gratuity for the crew?

For Caribbean and Bahamas charters, the standard crew gratuity is typically 15-20% of the charter cost.  

Our crew members are dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure you have the vacation of your dreams. From meticulously preparing for your charter since they receive your preference form to providing exemplary service throughout your trip, they are committed to your satisfaction. Gratuities are typically given to the crew at the end of the charter in cash, check or via wire transfer. Please check with us what is your crew’s preferred method for the gratuity.  

How do I reserve a charter and what are the payment terms?

Once you've selected the yacht for your charter, Sail Play Dine Yacht Charters will place a complimentary reservation/hold on your chosen vessel’s calendar. Following this, a contract will be prepared, and the booking details will be finalized. At this stage, a deposit is required. If your charter dates are more than 6 months away, a 25% deposit is due. Another 25% is required at the 6-month mark, with the remaining 50% due 60 days before the charter. Rest assured, your funds are securely held in escrow until just before your charter, when the yacht is paid in full.

What are the cancellation terms?

In the unlikely event of you having to cancel your charter reservation, all payments are forfeited. However, if the yacht is able to secure a different charter for the same dates, there is a possibility of receiving a partial refund. Alternatively, in certain cases, it may be possible to select a future date and have the deposit held for that charter.

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