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How much does it cost to charter a yacht?

There are many things to consider and first time charterers can be left confused, that's why we've created a comprehensive guide to yacht charter prices (with a checklist).

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The good news: It’s easy to grasp the basics of yacht charter pricing. And with one of our experts in your corner, we can help you more accurately estimate the cost of your next once-in-a-lifetime vacation.

The cost of a yacht charter is dependent on a number of factors, including the type of yacht, the charter destination, local taxes, and the base cost. (If the yacht has a celebrity owner, well that too, can add to the cost.)

Therefore, yacht charters have a wide range of base prices. That’s why charters can cost from $10,000 per week on smaller sailing yachts and catamarans, up to $150,000+ per week on the most luxurious motor superyachts.

What else can you expect to pay? This overview – a part of our planning resource, the Charter Advice Guide – offers an in-depth look at charter yacht costs.

Yacht Charter Price Structure: “All-Inclusive” vs “Plus Expenses”

In the world of yachting, two types of crewed yacht charters are available to you – “All-Inclusive” and “Plus Expenses” charter experiences. What do these terms mean exactly? Here’s a quick look:

  • All-Inclusive Yacht Charters – Some charters (mainly catamaran and monohull charters in the Virgin Islands) offer all-inclusive rates. That means rates are based on the number of guests, and they include all food and drink, water sports, and fuel costs. Dockage and taxes, though, are usually charged separately.
  • Plus Expenses Charters – Rates for larger motor yachts do not include running expenses, which must be paid separately. For these luxury charters, the base price is for the yacht only. Additional expenses, i.e. food, bar, fuel, dockage, port taxes, and other expenses, are charged separately. Most frequently, the running expenses are paid by an Advance Provisioning Allowance, or APA, which is typically 35% of the base price; this is an amount that’s paid prior to the charter.

Our chart below offers a quick overview of what’s included in both of these types of charters.

charter cost comparison chart

Average Yacht Charter Cost: Base Prices

What can you expect to pay for a catamaran, a sailing vessel, or motored yacht? Here’s a quick overview of the average cost to rent a yacht (not including extra expenses) for the most common types available:

Factors that Affect Yacht Charter Prices

Since charter yachts are privately owned, prices are set by the owner. This can explain, in part, the wide range of differences in price between boats of similar lengths. Yet, several other factors can significantly impact price, including:

  • The Yacht – The year the boat was built, the builder, previous owners, and the boat’s selection of water toys can also increase the cost of a yacht. Boats can also develop a reputation, i.e. the largest or most luxurious, or having a famous builder or previous owner. Reputation can also affect pricing.
  • Season – Prices typically increase in the high season – i.e. high summer in the Mediterranean or winter in the Caribbean – and decrease in low seasons.
  • Destination – Your charter destination also plays a role in charter cost. For example, prices increase in areas without large charter fleets (i.e. the Galapagos), whereas Bahamas yacht charters,   BVI charters , or Mediterranean yacht charter are priced more competitively.

Additional Costs Considerations on Yacht Charter

In addition to the cost associated with running the yacht and provisioning, there are a number of other costs that must be considered. These are the most significant:

Advanced Provisioning Allowance

The APA on Plus Expenses charters equals roughly 35% of the yacht’s base price. This is a fee that’s collected prior to charter, and it’s similar to an expense account the captain can access during the charter. At the end of the charter, you will receive a detailed accounting of your APA account, plus any unused APA funds in cash.

In the case of overages, you may be required to replenish the APA account during the charter. This can be done with cash, although many choose to set up accounts with their charter brokers , which can be accessed if requested by the captain.

Taxes and Value Added Tax (VAT)

Most boats – whether all-inclusive or Plus Expenses – will not include local taxes or a Value Added Tax into their charter rate. The charterer will be responsible for paying those taxes. Taxes range significantly by destination; here’s a look at some of yachting’s most popular destinations:

  • The Bahamas – Tax: 4% plus 10% VAT
  • BVI – Tax: between $6 and $16 per person per day, depending on the flag of the boat
  • Croatia – VAT: 13%
  • Florida – Tax: 6% for Broward County, 7% for Miami-Dade County
  • France – VAT: 20%, however, 10% can be applied when an itinerary includes International Waters
  • Greece – VAT: 12%
  • Italy – VAT: 22%, however 6.6% (over 24m) and 8.8% (under 24m) can be applied when an itinerary includes International Waters
  • Montenegro – NO VAT
  • New England – NO TAX
  • Spain – VAT: 21%
  • Turkey – NO VAT

Charterers can purchase cancellation and curtailment insurance – which is similar to traveler’s insurance. This insurance can help cover costs if a charterer must cancel or shorten the charter. Charter brokers can help you weigh insurance options, and often offer several different options.

Crew Gratuity

While crew gratuity is certainly not mandatory, it is recommended, particularly if you were truly impressed with your charter experience. In general, crew gratuity is roughly 15-20% of the base charter rate, which is handed to the captain at the conclusion of your charter.

Delivery Fees

While these fees do not apply on most charters, you may be asked to pay delivery costs if you are not chartering in the yacht’s normal cruising ground. In most cases, you will only be required to cover the fuel for the trip.

Call Worldwide Boat today to learn more. Our Charter Specialists are here to assist you with every detail and explain all charter costs. Or read our Charter Advice guide for more information and tips for planning your charter vacation.

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Additional Charter Cost FAQs

What are standard private charter yacht prices?

There are a number of factors that affect charter yacht pricing. However, on average, a week-long private yacht charter costs anywhere from $10,000 on luxurious sailing yachts and catamarans, and up to $150,000 for superyachts.

What affects charter yacht prices?

There are several things that influence how much your yacht charter will cost. The type of vessel, charter destination, length of trip, base cost, time of year, and local taxes all make a difference.

How much does it cost for a crewed vessel?

Charter yacht prices do increase when hiring a crew along with the boat. At Worldwide Boat, we offer two types of crewed charter experiences: all-inclusive and plus expenses. An all-inclusive charter yacht includes accommodation for all guests, food and drink, water sport activities, and fuel costs – dockage fees and taxes are charged separately. A plus expenses experience accounts for just the yacht’s base price. Things like food, drinks, fuel, dockages, taxes, and other expenses are charged separately and are usually estimated to be about 35% of the base price.

What’s included in all-inclusive boat charters?

At Worldwide Boat, your all-inclusive charter experience includes a diligent and friendly crew, water toys, food, drinks, fuel, water and electric services, and occasionally diving experiences.

What are some additional charter boat costs to consider?

After finding a base price you’re comfortable with and evaluating your package, you’ll also want to consider delivery fees, crew gratuity, insurance fees, taxes, and Advanced Provisioning Allowance rates. If you are responsible for these fees, your crew will handle the necessary transactions on your behalf.

What does it cost to rent a 100- foot yacht charter?

This depends on what type of vessel you’re looking at and how long you’ll need it for. The average weekly cost of a 100-foot sailing yacht is between $50,000-100,000. A weekly 80-foot catamaran charter runs around $40,000-100,000, and a week-long 100-foot motor yacht rental is anywhere between $50,000-80,000.

Does the price to rent a yacht change depending on what type of boat it is?

Yes. Worldwide Boat offers sailing yachts, catamarans, and motor yachts. All of these vessels have different capabilities, but there are other factors that determine the price beyond what type of boat you choose. The year the boat was built, owner, availability of water toys, onboard amenities, and the ship’s reputation can all change how much the ship is priced at.

When is the high season for yacht charters?

The price of a yacht fluctuates depending on the season. A Mediterranean yacht charter cost rises in the summer and drops in the winter, whereas Caribbean boat charter prices are high during the winter and lower in the summer months.

How does my destination affect charter yacht cost?

The more remote an area is, the more expensive it will be to charter a yacht there. That’s because prices go up in areas that have fewer boats. If you were to travel somewhere like the Galapagos, which isn’t a typical yacht destination, you’d pay more than you would if you were traveling to the Caribbean.

How much do I tip the crew when reviewing my yacht charter expenses?

It’s not required that you tip your crew, but it is recommended and appreciated. If you had an enjoyable experience it’s considered polite to tip your crew anywhere from 15-20% at the end of your charter.

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A Mediterranean yacht charter which makes for the ultimate vacation with it’s fine culture, finer boats and beautiful azure waterways. The Med’ is an extremely varied location with many beautiful countries to visit, such as France, Italy, Sardinia, Monaco, Greece, Croatia and more.

Caribbean yacht charters are all about exotic natural islands, beautiful tropical beaches and of course luxury charter yachts. St Barts, St Martin, The Virgin Islands and Antigua draw some superb mega yachts to the Caribbean for your vacation. You can see the full list of destinations here .

We offer all the mega yachts and superyacht charters worldwide , as well as in the Mediterranean including Italy , France , Greece , Spain, Croatia , & Turkey.  Additionally, we have great discounted luxury yachts , sailing and motor yachts in the Caribbean , including the Bahamas , British & US Virgin Islands, St Lucia, St Barts, Grenadines, Antigua, as well as the Pacific Northwest, the South Pacific , Asia and Australia & New Zealand and elsewhere.

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How much does it really cost to charter a luxury yacht?

Booking your first charter can be a tricky stretch of water to navigate, especially when you're confronted with provisioning allowances and price variations before even stepping on board. To make things a little easier, we have put together the ultimate guide to all the costs you might encounter when booking your dream yacht charter vacation...

If you want to charter a luxury superyacht , understanding the costs involved can seem a little daunting first time around. The two important things to understand are your base price, referred to as a "charter fee" or "charter rate", together with what you will be expected to pay on top of it. All-inclusive charter rates are not industry practice, so guests should expect to be paying more than just the basic fees listed on broker’s websites or in their brochures.

The best analogy for determining the cost of your charter is with buying a car. It’s never quite as easy as just walking into a showroom and saying, “I’ll take the blue one.” Immediately the salesman will whip out his order pad and start asking questions. “Do you want a radio?” “How about the fancy wheels?” “Did you want the two-tone paint?”

Yacht brokers will be able to provide you with an accurate estimation of all the costs involved in advance, but here is a breakdown of what to expect.

What is a yacht “charter”?

At a basic level, chartering a yacht means paying a fee to rent out an owner’s superyacht for an agreed period of time with a pre-arranged itinerary of where you will be cruising on board. During a charter vacation you will have access to all of the superyacht’s amenities which could include a swimming pool, beach club or cinema, as well as the toybox, which often provides equipment for water sports like wakeboarding, snorkelling or water skiing. During charters, guests will be looked after by the yacht’s crew, who will take care of your every need, including ferrying you to and from shore, washing laundry and providing meals cooked by the yacht’s chef.

How much does it cost to charter a superyacht?

Across BOAT International's listings, a charter vacation can range from a minimum of €14,000 per week (20 metre yacht George V ) to a maximum of €2,200,000 per week (126.2 Octopus ). Generally speaking, the bigger the yacht the bigger the cost of the charter, but this isn't always the case. There are actually many more factors that can influence the basic charter fee – not to mention the add-on expenses that are involved.

According to averages taken from BOAT International’s listings, smaller superyachts measuring under 30 metres LOA will have a weekly charter rate somewhere around €40,000 while yachts between 30 and 40 metres will weigh in at an average of €70,895 per week. 

Over 40 metres is when the charter rate will move into the €100,000 per week range, with yachts between 50 and 60 metres costing on average €219,826 per week while yachts in the 60 to 70 metre range average €444,521. Mega yachts measuring 80 metres and over will, on average, set charterers back by around €1.7 million a week. This is just an average price, however, and each yacht’s charter rate will be affected by a number of aspects from how many cabins and amenities there are on board to the dates and locations of where the charter takes place.

What factors can influence the base price of a yacht charter?

High season vs. low season.

In general, you’ll find two basic rates: high season and low season, usually with specific dates set for each. In addition, you’ll find chartering around special events that are more expensive: New Year’s Eve , Monaco during the Grand Prix , Cannes during the Film Festival , an Olympic destination or on the sidelines of the America’s Cup .

The key is to choose your times carefully. A difference of one week (from high season into low season) can significantly alter the cost, while still providing the same weather as the more expensive period. For yachts measuring between 30 and 40 metres, the high season price could result in an increased cost of around €6,000 per week. The highest increase in an average charter rate between low and high seasons can be seen in BOAT's listings of yachts measuring between 60 and 80 metres, with high season rates potentially costing around €33,000 extra.

The yacht itself

The yacht itself is a major factor in determining the charter cost, but it’s not just about size. A recently launched charter yacht from a famed builder with an experienced and popular charter crew is going to command top prices for its size range. Yachts with a legendary name or a history of celebrity ownership (for example Malcolm Forbes's iconic charter yacht Highlander , which has hosted everyone from Elizabeth Taylor to HRH Prince Charles) can also ask higher rates just for the “fame” value. And yachts with special features, such as cinemas or exceptional water toys like a submarine are also pricier.

Three different 30 metre charter yachts may vary in cost by as much as €75,000. Ask your broker to explain the differences. One yacht may have a larger and more experienced crew or a big-name chef, another yacht may be a little tired, another may not be in a prime location. It’s important to understand why the prices are higher or lower.

If a yacht has a gap in its charter calendar to fill, for example following an unexpected cancellation, some brokers will occasionally offer a time-limited charter fee discount offer .

What is included in a charter contract?

Knowing the base price of your charter is just the starting point. Depending on the location, which often governs the terms of the contract , more or less may be included in the inital fee, such as insurance or cancellation policies. Bear in mind that every charter yacht, because they are privately owned and the owner sets the rules, is slightly different. One yacht may include a “standard” selection of wines with every meal and charge only to upgrade the vintages, while on another yacht the wines are a la carte. Below we look at the different types of charter contracts you may come across when booking your yacht.

Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association (MYBA)

Under Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association (MYBA) charter contracts, which are arguably the most common, the charterer is charged for the hire of the yacht, fuel, marina fees, crew wages, guests' personal laundry, insurance, water toys, food and drink as well as engine room maintenance and miscellaneous expenses. As a round number, which depends on how much fuel the yacht uses and how fancy the meals and drinks, you can expect to add 25% to 50% of your charter cost.

Caribbean Terms Inclusive (CTI)

The Caribbean Terms Inclusive (CTI), which is sometimes called Standard Caribbean Terms (SCT), is another type of charter contract which is more inclusive. It accounts for three meals per day and fuel for four hours of cruising a day. Some yachts under CTI terms include basic beverages (not vintage wines or champagnes), but this is mainly in the Virgin Islands.

Greek Terms (GT)

For yachts being chartered around the Greek Islands and mainland, another common phrase you may come across is "Greek Terms" or a GT contract. This will similarly include the cost of the yacht and its equipment, crew wages and laundry as well as any specific berthing fees required for Greek waters. 

What is an Advance Provisioning Allowance?

Part of your yacht charter contract will include an Advance Provisioning Allowance or APA. This is an amount of about 30-35 per cent of the charter fee for a “plus all expenses” charter and about five per cent for an “all-inclusive” charter. It is sent to the yacht before the charter to provision the yacht according to your preferences.

During the charter, the captain will provide a running account of the usage of the funds and, at the end of the charter, will present a detailed accounting along with any unused funds in cash. If the APA balance runs low during the charter, the client is expected to provide the captain with a sufficient amount in cash to cover the needs for the remainder of their stay. Since many charterers prefer not to carry quantities of cash, the charter broker can hold an amount and release it to the captain as needed. Here is what is covered by an APA...

Food and drink

Before you book a charter, your charter broker can provide you with a good estimate of the additional costs that will be incurred. Food is one of the largest and it is directly proportional to how exuberantly you plan to dine. If you expect several bottles of Champagne with every meal, then you can assume that your costs will be higher.

Fuel can be another cost and, again, it depends on how much the yacht cruises and how fast, too. Time spent at anchor will include the fuel for the generators, while shore-side electricity when at a dock is also an extra. Don’t forget that fuel is also charged for the tenders and water toys , so you’ll pay for the fuel used while zipping around on the jetskis.

Harbour fees and dockage

Harbour fees and dockage are a variable that can range from exorbitant (a front-row dock at the Monaco Grand Prix) to little or nothing in some areas.

Communications

Communications are another cost and, with the options for satellite communications and Internet, an important one for most charterers.

Delivery fee

A delivery fee is usually charged if a charterer requests to board (or depart) a yacht at a distance from where the yacht is normally based.

All the yacht laundry, including towels, sheets and table linens, is included in the charter fee, but some yachts charge to launder personal items of the charterer. Most, however, will do small quantities of personal laundry as a service but they usually won’t be responsible for delicate items.

At the end of each yacht charter, a cash tip is given by the primary guest to the captain to divide amongst the crew. Standards for a crew tip can range from five to 20 per cent of the base charter rate. This is not a cost included in the APA but some brokers will advise that any APA funds leftover at the end of the charter can be used to make up part for the tip. To learn more, read our handy charter tipping guide .

One cost not directly related to the operation of the charter yacht is insurance for the charterer. Cancellation and curtailment insurance is the charter version of travel insurance on airlines and cruise ships: It covers the charterer for the costs if unforeseen circumstances force a cancellation or shortening of the charter. Your charter broker can provide this insurance, which is a wise investment.

Charterers may be charged VAT, or “value added tax”, on the charter fees. Many European countries and a few Caribbean islands add VAT, but it is a complex issue that depends on where you board and debark the yacht, so rely on your charter broker for advice.

Made to measure

While it may seem at first glance that the extras or "hidden costs" on many charters are just a way to pad your bill, they are actually a benefit to the charterer. Food and drink, for example, is custom-ordered to meet the client’s requests, so the level of expense is entirely up to the charterer. Fuel is only charged if it is used and other fees are also at the discretion of the charterer. So you do have a way to control your costs and still savour a luxurious charter. What is important to remember is that each charter is unique depending on the needs and desires of the guests, and brokers and crew will always work to satisfy those demands. Ready to get started? Browse our charter listings to pick the perfect charter yacht for your next vacation.

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How Much Does it Actually Cost to Charter a Yacht?

From tips to APAs, we steer you through all the costs associated with private yacht charters.

By Emma Al-Mousawi

Deck on Yacht, Octopus

Not many things can match the glamour of yacht travel. The endless opportunities for exploration in the most luxurious of settings, as the wind blows through your hair, sounds even more alluring after a year spent indoors with feet firmly on solid ground. As we emerge from the grips of the pandemic, a private yacht charter could offer adventure seekers the perfect escape away from the crowds. And one of the most common questions amongst novice charterers is ‘how much does it actually cost to charter a yacht?’

Here at Elite Traveler, we are answering this question and more as we round up the key costs that anyone planning their first yacht charter needs to take into consideration.

[See also: The World’s Most Expensive Yachts for Charter]

What will my yacht charter rate include? 

Most importantly, there are generally two types of yacht charter: an all-inclusive charter and the more common ‘plus expenses’ charter. As suggested by the name, the cost of an all-inclusive yacht charter will include (almost) everything such as crew, food, drinks, fuel and water sports equipment (though always check as this does vary between charter companies). However, s ome all-inclusive charters won’t include dockage or mooring fees, which can soon add up – but more on that later. 

A ‘plus expenses’ or ‘separated charges’ charter is where a base price is charged for the ship and its crew, while everything else is paid for through an ‘Advance Provisioning Allowance’ (APA) before you step onboard. Prior to a voyage, guests will complete a preference sheet with their likes and dislikes, enabling the chef and service team to stock up on the guest’s favorite items. This tends to be the norm on superyacht charters as it allows for a much more tailored experience.

As well as covering food and beverages, an APA will also cover things like fuel and possibly dockage. It is usually charged at around 30% of the yacht’s base rate. According to luxury yacht brokers Northorp and Johnson , the average price paid by its customers for a week’s ‘plus expenses’ charter was around $152,000 in 2020, which would mean an APA of around $45,600 – not a small sum, so it’s definitely something to be aware of when selecting your vessel. 

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A third, less common charter is a ‘bareboat’ charter. This is a charter without a crew or provisions and only generally favored amongst experienced yachtsmen and women or those who can supply their own crew. 

[See also: How to Charter a Superyacht]

Hot tub and daybed on deck of superyacht

There are generally two types of charter: all-inclusive and ‘plus expenses’ / ©Burgess

Does size impact how much it will cost to charter a yacht?

The reputation of the crew, the age of the yacht and its design will all influence the price of your charter; however, the single biggest factor that will impact cost is likely to be the size: the bigger the yacht, the more you’re likely to pay. 

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For example, with leading yacht brokerage Burgess , a week’s charter in the Caribbean aboard the 163.3 ft Home starts at $245,000 . If you opt for the larger Laurentia , at 180.5 ft, the price starts at $450,000. Both yachts were built in 2017 by leading Dutch shipyard Heesen and have capacity for 12 guests, but there is over $200,000 difference in the price. Naturally, you can also expect a higher APA for a bigger ship. 

N ovice charterers might be surprised to learn that a larger yacht doesn’t automatically translate into a larger guest capacity. Most superyachts are capped at a 12 guest limit due to International Maritime Organization safety regulations.

Home Superyacht for charter

Home is available for charter from Burgess from $245,000 per week /©Burgess

Laurentia Yacht for charter with burgess

A week’s charter on board Laurentia starts at $450,000 / ©Burgess

Does the type of yacht impact the price?

The answer is yes, but to a lesser extent than size. There’s something for everyone when it comes to yachts: classic yachts (built between the 1920s and 1970s) allow you to experience old school glamour of a bygone era, whereas sportfishing yachts are nimble and offer a long-range to get you to the best fishing (or diving) spots.

Sailing yachts are a popular choice amongst boating enthusiasts, but by a long shot, the most popular charter yachts are motor yachts. These are typically what spring to mind when you picture a superyacht and (size-dependent) tend to be the most expensive type of yacht to charter, often being pricier to purchase, maintain and fuel. Explorer yachts are motor yachts designed to cope with the most extreme conditions – if you’re planning a luxury superyacht charter to Antarctica, for example, it’s likely to be aboard one of these.

Over the past decade, explorer yachts have skyrocketed in popularity amongst intrepid travelers looking for opulent adventure on the seven seas. A week onboard the world’s fastest explorer yacht, the 311.68 ft Bold , costs approximately $964,300. This also makes it one of the world’s most expensive yachts to charter, in line with what you’ll pay for chartering the crème de la crème of the more ‘conventional’ superyachts typically seen on the French Riviera, like the ultra-glamorous O’Pari . A week’s charter onboard the 312 ft O’Pari comes complete with custom artwork and DJ booth costs from $1.1m.

[See also: The Best Luxury Yacht Builders in the World]

bold yacht

Charter Bold from Burgess for approximately $964,300 per week / ©Guillaume Plisson

Is chartering during certain months more expensive than others?

The time of year will impact your charter price. In yachting, there are two main seasons – summer and winter – and chartering during these peak times will push up the cost. The summer season runs from May to October, with peak rates in July and August. The winter season runs from November to April, with peak rates over the Christmas holidays and into New Year. Location also dictates the price of a charter; for example, Caribbean charters are costlier from December to March whereas Mediterranean charters are at their priciest during the summer months. 

What about expenses, gratuities and other unexpected costs?

Not even a Mediterranean jellyfish has the power to sting an unassuming first-time sailor like end-of-trip expenses. 

As mentioned previously, with ‘plus expenses’ charters your APA is paid before you set sail. However, a detailed list of outgoings will be kept by the ship and if your expenses surpass the amount of your APA, you will be asked to cover the amount for the remaining charter. Saying this, it does work both ways – any unspent APA will be refunded to you. 

On both all-inclusive and ‘plus expenses’ charters, crew gratuities are not included in the yacht charter price. If you were happy with the service, the going rate is around 15 to 20% of the charter cost, so do keep this in mind. 

Depending on your charter agreement, docking fees, a charge you pay to keep your yacht in a marina or harbor overnight, may or may not be included in the cost. These can vary greatly depending on the location, time of year and the size of your yacht. Expect to pay the highest docking fees on the Mediterranean during high season with Capri and St Tropez commanding some of the steepest premiums.

Your itinerary can also affect the price, as traveling to places like Antarctica and the Arctic Circle require expensive permits. Certain destinations will also charge tax and VAT, so it is sensible to check with your broker if you’re keen on getting a cost breakdown before your trip. 

[See also: The Best Superyachts to Charter This Summer]

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Windward Yachts

Yacht Charter: How Much Does it Cost? All Rental Costs Explained

Mooring a yacht

How much it costs to rent a yacht isn’t always a very clear cut answer. There are numerous ways to charter a yacht and different factors can significantly increase or lower the cost of a yacht rental.

Here are the main costs to consider to estimate the total yacht rental price of your next yacht charter.

Yacht Rental Costs in a Nutshell

To calculate the price of a yacht charter, you need to sum the base fee of the yacht charter (the price you see displayed on websites), taxes (varies depending on destination), APA , crew gratuity and insurance cost . 

Depending on the details of your yacht charter, you will need to add between 30% and 100% on top of the base fee to have the total cost of your rental.

Here is an idea of the ranges you can expect for the yacht charter base fees :

  • Motor Yachts – Sailing Yachts under 50ft: €4 000 – €15 000 / week
  • Motor Yacht – Sailing Yachts between 50ft and 65ft: €15 000 – €40 000 / week
  • Motor Yachts – Sailing Yachts between 65ft and 80ft: €40 000 – €70 000 / week
  • Motor Yachts – Sailing Yachts between 80ft and 100ft: €70 000 – €100 000 / week
  • Motor Yachts – Sailing Yachts over 100ft: €100 000 – up to 1,000,000 / week

To know the estimation of your total yacht rental cost based on your situation, use our free calculator below , or read the next paragraphs to make the calculations on your own.

What is the (true) cost of chartering the yacht you've seen? 💰⛵

The advertised prices of all charter companies do not include APA, VAT & other variable costs. 

Use our calculator to get a 100% FREE estimate of the REAL total cost of your next yacht charter! ⬇

How is the total price of a yacht rental calculated?

There are two main categories of yacht charters: all-inclusive or separated charges. 

The all-inclusive yacht rentals option (rare)

The all-inclusive option isn’t very common in yacht charters, and tends to be for smaller yachts and cruise where it’s easier to package a standardized offer.

As the name implies, all-inclusive yacht charter offers a price that includes everything: fuel, food, beverages, and entertainment (diving and fishing equipment).

The “usual” option: base charter rates and separated variable charges to add on top

In most yachting websites, the price of a yacht charter only refers to the  base price  of a boat at its lowest possible charter time.

It doesn’t include many variable costs such as food and beverage, fuel, taxes, insurance and so on.

To understand the total cost of chartering a yacht when it’s not all-inclusive (which is almost always the case), it’s therefore important to split the costs that are included in the base rate of the yacht (the price you’ll see displayed on a website) from the costs that are not included in that base rate , that you will therefore need to add yourself if you want a precise estimation.

Don’t worry, the math isn’t rocket science.

The formula goes like this:

Total yacht charter price = Base charter fee + APA + Taxes + Insurance

We’ll detail each costs in the following paragraphs.

yacht hire price

The base charter fee of a yacht rental: Costs and factors included in the calculation

The base charter fee of the yacht rental is essential in calculating the total cost of your charter. Most variable costs are calculated as a percentage of that base fee and are simply summed up together along with the base fee to get the total cost.

Here is what you should know about the base charter fee.

The base charter fee follows a simple rule: the longer the yacht, the higher the charter cost

The boat’s size affects the base charter fee considerably. It determines the number of cabins and guest capacity , the number of staff on board, along with a lot of amenities that tend to get more spacious and more luxurious the longer the yacht gets. 

Everything that comes with the yacht (including the staff!) is included in the base charter fee.

The more reputable and in-demand the yacht is, the higher the base fee gets

A yacht reputation and popularity can also affect the base fee, even for boats within the same size range.

Boats are by definition limited in stock and follow supply and demand laws . When a particular yacht is in high demand, whether it’s thanks to its reputation, its features, the season or its recent appearance in a movie, series or TV shows the price of the charter can shoot up.

For instance, chartering a yacht featured in a James Bond movie such as  luxury yacht Regina  won’t cost the same as a regular model. Likewise for most yachts that are a part of the popular Below Deck TV show .

It can also be true for some classic yachts that had famous builders or previous celebrity owners.

The season does influence the yacht rental prices at the base fee level

Your yacht charter base fee depends to some extent on your date of departure. 

If you take your vacation during the busiest weeks of the year (high season) of a destination, you’ll pay a higher base price than someone who charters a yacht on low season dates.

In the Mediterranean, the high season is in summer while it’s in winter for the Caribbean. The yacht charter base fees will be at their highest during these months. 

Sometimes just a week or two can make a big difference to the price. Chartering a yacht in shoulder seasons can be a good idea when you are looking for good deals.

Likewise, since some destinations have very short seasons , it has increased demands and makes it more expensive.

International events will also increase the cost of a yacht charter. Expect to pay more if you want to attend the Monte-Carlo Masters (April), the Cannes Film Festival (May), or the Monaco Grand Prix (May) during your yachting vacations in the Mediterranean.

The destination you pick can affect the base charter fee of your yacht rental

Your vacation destination is an essential factor in the yacht charter charge that is included in the base fee. 

As the supply and demand law dictates, the more competition there is, the less you have to spend. It is why locations with large charter fleets are less expensive.

The Bahamas, BVI and the Mediterranean are for example more affordable than remote islands without established yachting industries.

yacht destination

The water toys are usually included in your base yacht charter fee and influence its amount

On a yacht, water toys don’t refer to your average backyard inflatable unicorns. Think instead of big equipment for marine activities: jet skis, kite-surf, kayaks, paddleboards, submarines, and expensive high-powered yacht tenders.

Some vessels come with sea pools or a giant slide to glide from the top of the boat straight into the ocean.

Most of these items, especially when they are in high numbers, can come at a cost that will be on the bottom line of your yacht charter invoice.

All the water toys specified in the yacht brochure when you make the reservation are generally included in the base fee . But it’s up to you if you want to rent others or even buy them. Make sure you ask your broker for advice about the cost of these extra if your budget is limited.

Yacht water toys

The base fee of your yacht charter is fixed and proportional to its duration

Most yacht charter companies only work ‘per week,’ and yacht owners rarely accept a shorter duration. Many companies have minimum stays of ten days, however some boats accept day charter or short periods, you can always ask your broker for an appropriate selection.

You can rent a vessel for two weeks or more, but the price won’t go down for longer holidays.

Yacht rental costs that are NOT included in yacht charter base fee

Now that we’ve seen what is usually included in the charter base fee, let’s find more about all these costs that you’ll have to add to the base fee to estimate your total yacht rental cost.

APA: the main variable cost of your yacht charter (add 20%-40% to your base fee)

The charter fee usually covers the cost of renting the yacht and the crew’s salary. But you still need to pay for fuel, provisions, and other extras for your trip. 

A fee covers all these additional costs : APA or Advanced Provisioning Allowance.  Find out more about the APA here.

APA is the standard system to pay your expenses on a luxury yacht charter, and it is generally a percentage of the charter fee. You’ll usually end up paying between 20% and 40% more than the base cost of the yacht charter in APA.

The amount varies a lot, depending on the ship and your activities. It will increase if the yacht has a higher fuel consumption, if you plan on cruising more than 4 hours a day, if you want to have onboard particular expensive brands, etc.

What does the APA cover?

APA covers all the day-to-day operating expenses. It also includes any special requests you might have while you’re on board. 

Here are the main costs of your yacht rental the APA covers: 

Food and drink

On your yacht charter, the chef can prepare all the dishes you want, whether you are vegan or low carb, whether you have allergies or require kosher meals. Make sure that you explain your food preferences to your broker.

Fuel Charges

Your fuel costs will depend on your boat, your itinerary, and whether you choose to cruise or stay at anchor. A sailing yacht charter can cost 10% less than a motor yacht charter because the fuel consumption is smaller.

This amount also includes the fuel expenditure of any water toys and tenders you use during your charter.

Harbor fees and dockage

The harbor fees and dockage will be more or less high-priced depending on your destination and season. All these costs will be included in your APA.

yacht Harbor

Communications Costs

For most people, yachting is about enjoying life outside of the daily routine. If you can’t survive without the Internet or satellite communications, you don’t have to worry. Your yacht charter will provide you all the digital connections needed. They won’t add much to the APA, but it’s still something that comes at a price.

Delivery fee

If you board or disembark the ship outside its usual harbor, you’ll have to pay a transportation fee to cover the fuel required to get your yacht to your requested destination.

Interiors and Laundry

The APA fee includes interiors and laundry costs to keep the yacht immaculate. But if you request unique decoration, it may add an extra charge.

Personal laundry services may not be covered depending on the yacht.

Taxes: a cost that varies a lot from country to country (add between 0% and 35% on top of base charter fee)

Taxes do have an impact on the total cost of your yacht charter, especially in some destinations.

For example, in Europe, chartering a commercial vessel is subject to VAT . But fees vary significantly according to your destination and itinerary. Some countries have a 0-tax rate (Montenegro, New England), while in others a passage in the international waters can lower the VAT rate.

The taxes can vary from VAT, national parks entrance (la Maddalena in Sardinia for example), countries taxes etc. the VAT and taxes will be based on the charter fee, so make sure you discuss this with your advisor to anticipate the cost.

Here are some VAT rate applied on luxury yacht charter in 2022 :

–  Charter in France  will be at 20 % VAT based on charter fee

–  Charter in Italy  will charge 22 % VAT based on charter fee

–  Charter in Spain  will charge 21 % VAT based on charter fee

–  Charter in Croatia  will charge 13 % VAT based on charter fee

–  Charter in Greece  will charge 24 % VAT based on charter fee with a discount of 60% on charter of more than 48h ending usually at 12% VAT, this is subject to change in 2022.

Moreover some countries such as Spain or Greece charge a licence for a yacht to be able to embark passengers for a paid charter in their waters, this explains why not every yacht can cruise in all countries.

Crew gratuity: a good practice to include in the cost of your yacht charter (add 15-20% to the base charter fee)

The crew on a yacht work even if you don’t notice it. 

Serving, cleaning, preparing, fixing, they are the key elements that make your charter a success. 

Even if tipping is not strictly mandatory, it is common practice to include a tip to the team when you are satisfied by their services. 

The suggested amount is around 15-20% of your base charter rate . It is therefore important to include this amount in your yacht rental price beforehand.

Yacht crew

Yacht charter cancellation insurance: a small cost that can save you a lot (add 15% of your base fee)

Cancelling or shortening a yacht charter can be very expensive if you don’t have cancellation insurance.

It is a small price to pay to ensure that all the money spent on your yacht charter will not go to waste if some unfortunate event leads you to miss your yacht rental.

As a charter company, we will help you select the best insurance options among several different offers.

In most cases, your cancellation insurance will cost around 15% of your charter base fee.

A typical yacht rental total cost isn’t as hard to determine as it seems when you know all the variable costs and your base fee.

Once you have your base charter fee in hands, add the following costs to estimate the final amount you’ll see on your yacht rental invoice:

  • 20% – 40% on top of your base fee for APA (low end for sailing vessels, higher end for motoryachts)
  • 0% – 30% of taxes and VAT on top of your base price. Highly dependant on your destination.
  • 10% – 15% on top of your base fee for crew gratuity
  • 15% on top of your base fee for cancellation insurance

Get in touch with our team to estimate more precisely the cost of your yacht charter project.

FAQ about cost of yacht charter and APA

Small motoryachts and sailing yachts under 50 ft (15m) can be chartered from 4,000€ to 15,000€ weekly.

Chartering motoryachts and sailing yachts between 50ft and 65ft costs between 15,000€ and 40,000€ weekly.

Between 65ft (20m) and 80ft (24m), you can expect motoryachts and sailing boats charters between 40,000€ and 70,000€ weekly. Between 80ft (24m) and 100ft (30m), the cost of chartering a yacht ranges between 70,000€ and 100,000€ weekly.

For yachts over 100ft (30m), the cost of charter ranges between 100,000€ and 1,000,000€ weekly.

APA stands for Advance Provisionning Allowance. You pay this fee in advance to cover food and drinks, fuel charges, harbors fees and dockage, communication, delivery fee various fees such as cleaning or interior design.

Advance Provisionning Allowance varies depending on your travel plans. Usually, it represents a surcharge of 20% to 40% on top of the yacht charter base price.

The APA is due one month before you set sail when dispensing your final charter payment. The captain directly receives the money and will supervise all the purchases made before and during your journey. He will be responsible for ensuring the crew stays within budget and will provide receipts upon request.

APA estimations are usually accurate. The captain will keep you updated during your trip. If you decide to go over the initial payment, you can top up the APA in cash or pay the balance during your trip.

With transparent communication, realistic budgets, and advanced provisioning, you may spend less than the APA and have the difference returned to you at the end of the cruise.

Get the base charter fee of your yacht rental, add taxes, APA, crew gratuity and cancellation insurance and you will have a very close estimation of your yacht rental cost everything included.

The base charter rate includes everything that is on a yacht: cabins, amenities, water toys along with the crew. Everything else (fuel, food, taxes…) come at an extra cost.

Crew gratuity is usually comprised between 15% and 20% on top of the base charter fee for most yacht rentals.

For sailboats in tax free areas, you can get away with a total cost of 30% on top of the base rate. In extreme cases (motoryachts in high taxed countries with big tips for the crew and cancelation insurance), you can more than double the base price. Most charters should be in between within the 40-80% on top of base fee range.

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148  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in USA

USA Yacht Charter

The USA is one of the most diverse superyacht destinations in the world showcasing an array of spectacular sights from big blue-bird skies and majestic snow-capped mountains to charming picturesque harbors and historic colonial towns. Further south, vsiitors can also experience a warmer more vibrant atmosphere that belies its Caribbean and Latin heritage, interwoven with the alluring glamor of 5-star resorts and megayacht marinas. Whatever your desires, endless potential abounds for a  superyacht rental  vacation in this magical country. 

Bounded by vast oceans and seas: from the Arctic, Pacific and Atlantic oceans to the balmy Caribbean Sea, the USA is notable for its wildly diverse landscape. From the first pilgrim settlers who landed at Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts in 1620 to the present day, the USA has been transformed to become one of the most economically developed nations in the world. However, the draw card for yacht charters undoubtedly lies in its rich cultural history and the amazingly varied cruising grounds on offer.

USA YACHT BOOKING GUIDE:

USA: At a Glance

Where to rent a yacht in the usa, types of rental yachts in the usa, how much does it cost to rent a yacht in the usa, where should i begin my yacht charter in the usa, when is the best time to visit america by yacht, marinas for yacht charters in america, anchorages for yacht rentals in the usa, airports in the usa, booking advice from the experts, local insight, most popular superyacht hotspots in the usa:, don't miss:.

  • Diverse topography From huge glaciers, vast lakes, deep canyons, giant forests, craggy coastlines and miles upon miles of glittering golden beaches, this country has it all.
  • Rich maritime history America’s historic East Coast has deep connections with its sailing past; from the first settlers who founded the whaling and boat building communities to the glamorous yacht clubs and summer jazz festivals we know today, and it is widely acknowledged as the birthplace of yachting.
  • Wide variety of marinas and anchorages USA is eminently a yacht charter destination with a strong yacht infrastructure that caters to the thousands of vessels traversing its vast coastline and myriad islands each year.
  • National Parks and UNESCO World Heritage sites This country boasts an incredible collection of national parks and world heritage sites unrivaled anywhere in the world.
  • Popular neighboring destination s USA enjoys close proximity to Canada on its West Coast, as well as the Bahamas and the Caribbean in the south east, offering bountiful stunning additional cruising grounds from which to start or finish your yacht charter.

With a supreme raft of destinations to choose from, you may not be sure where to head to on your USA yacht charter . To make it a little bit easier, we have compiled a list of some of the best places to visit:

Glaciers in Alaska

Pacific Northwest (San Juans & Anacortes, Desolation Sound, Sunshine Coast, Alaska) Best for : visual drama, glaciers, majestic mountains, salmon fishing, diverse wildlife, endless miles of tranquil cruising, stunning anchorages, dramatic sunsets

California (San Francisco, Newport Beach, San Diego, Baja California) Best for: year-round cruising, natural harbors, whale watching, national parks, Hollywood heritage, characterful islands, iconic landmarks, laid-back beaches

New England (Maine, Newport, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Cape Cod, New York) Best for:  lighthouses, rocky coastline, lobster fishing, sailing yachts, colonial heritage, legendary summer festivals, charming architecture, art galleries, walking tours, vibrant autumn foliage

Florida (Daytona Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale) Best for:  everglades, fishing, snorkelling, water sports, scuba diving schools, secluded anchorages, excellent marina facilities, miles of pristine beaches, Hollywood royalty, luxury resorts, celebrated nightlife, short distance to the stunning Abacos Islands

Florida Keys (Key Largo, Key West, Bimini Islands) Best for: coral reefs, spectacular scuba diving and snorkelling, kayaking, eco-tours, dolphin watching, island hopping, fishing, gateway to the Bahamas

Neighbouring Regions (Bahamas and Caribbean) Best for: white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, marine parks, coral reefs, an abundance of marine life, stunning anchorages, water sports, pastel-hued villages, excellent dining, vibrant clubs and bars

As an enduring and highly popular yacht charter destination, there will always be a varied selection of charter yachts to choose from. If you are unsure of the type of yacht that would best suit your needs, there are a few things you should consider first: 

Motor Yacht Charter in the USA

Close up of a hoisted sail attached to a spreader

With their ability to cover vast distances over a short period, as well as offering comfortable and generous accommodation, not to mention a much wider variety of onboard facilities and water toys, a motor yacht charter could prove the perfect choice for your vacation. From high-performance open yachts, perfect for zipping around waterways and harbors, to larger displacements vessels offering luxurious cruising at a slightly more relaxed pace, the choices are endless. 

Sailing Yacht Charter in the USA

If you prefer a more adventurous style of cruising, then a sail yacht charter could be just the ticket. New England on America's East Coast is a renowned sailing mecca, where you can enjoy far-reaching views of the Appalachian mountains as you cruise this stretch of glorious rugged coastline. 

There promises to be plenty of favorable winds wherever your destination and a sailing yacht charter is a superb way to experience all the wonder this beautiful country has to offer.

With spacious accommodation and shorter drafts enabling access to shallow waters, catamarans can also prove a great choice for yacht charters, especially if you wish to incorporate the exquisite shallow turquoise waters of the   Bahamas i nto your itinerary.

With the wide variety of yachts available for charter across the country, there should be something to suit every type of budget. The average prices for motor and sailing yacht charters in the USA are as follows;

Motor Yacht Charter

* All prices are quoted per week plus expenses.

Sailing Yacht Charter

The possibilities of where to start your USA yacht charter are endless, so the answer really depends on your chosen destination. Whether you are looking to cruise around the warm blue waters of Florida and the Bahamas , or prefer the majestic scenery and incredible wildlife of Alaska , there is a destination to suit everyone's taste and desires around this spectacular country.

For Florida yacht charters on the southeast coast, Miami  is great place to kick start your charter, where you will find plenty of international transport links, plus well-equipped superyacht marinas and luxury resorts in which to indulge yourself. Relax with a heavenly massage or take advantage of the many fine-dining options available before heading south to explore the exquisite Florida Keys .  Nassau is another fantastic option for those wishing to include the beautiful cruising grounds of the Bahamas in their itinerary.

For East Coast charters, the quintessential all-American yachting ports of Newport , Rhode Island and  Maine further north are fantastic jumping-off points for New England yacht charters , offering picture-perfect bays, charming clapboard houses, boutique art galleries and chic yacht clubs.

Explore the beauty of New England

Sag Harbor to Nantucket (6 days)

A bright green lifeguard station perched on a beach in the USA

On the country's West Coast, San Francisco provides an ideal place to start your yacht vacation, with a number of international airports serving the region and reliable shuttle and fast-speed train services delivering you straight to the harbor. Don't forget to include a trip to downtown San Francisco where you can explore its fascinating curving streets and hidden alleys. Head north to visit Napa Valley 's famous wineries or south to explore this region's stunning golden-fringed coastline, including the eternally glamorous  Los Angeles , San Diego and Baja California .

Aerial view of Alaska

Up in the Pacific Northwest region, the San Juan and Gulf Islands are incredibly popular for yacht rental vacations where the pace of life is slower. This stunning archipelago of 450 or so islands offers relaxed and tranquil cruising, with short hops between islands. Accessible by road,  Anacortes is the ideal jumping-off point for your superyacht rental around this exquisite region. Head south to the breathtaking Desolation Sound ; world-class cruising grounds bursting with diverse wildlife from humpback whales to the emblematic Bald eagle.

For more information and advice on your preferred charter destination and itinerary, please speak with your yacht charter broker .

Superyacht with underwater lights in Florida Keys marina

As part of the third largest continent in the world, the best time to visit during your superyacht vacation will naturally depend on your destination;

  • Pacific Northwest – peak cruising times are during the months of June-September, however, the shoulder months of May and early October are also worth considering, offering a less crowded chartering experience, especially around the San Juans, and the weather is still usually quite settled.
  • West   Coast – for yacht rentals around San Francisco, Napa Valley, California and Baja California further south, the best time to visit is around May through to November, although these destinations can be enjoyed all year round.
  • Florida – the optimum times to visit the Sunshine State will be from November through to April, which are the driest months where temperatures rarely dip below 20 degrees in winter. You should note that Christmas and New Year are peak times and can get busy, so if you are looking to rent a yacht over this period we recommend booking early. Ideally, ensure your yacht charter is booked no later than late spring/early summer to avoid the hurricane season from July-October. 
  • New England – the ideal time to visit this charming location will be from May to September, although shoulder months are a great time to avoid the crowds, especially late September when the foliage on the leaves start to change to reveal the breathtaking canvas of golden hues and rich deep reds this destination is so famous for.

The USA has been a renowned destination for yacht lovers for years, spurring the construction of hundreds of excellent, well-equipped marinas up and down the East and West Coast, and throughout its vast labyrinth of waterways and lakes, which cater to yachts of all shapes and sizes. 

We have listed some of our favourite marinas at which to park up and take a breather whilst on your yacht charter, where you are sure to be welcomed with a wide smile and offered lots of helpful advice as you head off to explore your new surroundings.

Marina in Ft Lauderdale

New England

  • North Cove Marina , downtown New York: hosts yachts of up to 53m LOA, with a max draft of 4m. 
  • Montauk Yacht Club , Hamptons: this exclusive marina is located near the Hamptons, with pools and tennis courts as well as access to Gurney's Resort facilities. It has 232 berths catering to yachts of up to 67m / 220ft.
  • Saybrook Point Inn Marina & Spa , Connecticut: a fabulous location with great amenities on the Long Island Sound, comprising 123 berths for yachts up to 70m / 230ft in length.
  • Newport:  the spiritual home of yachting offers fantastic first-rate marinas including  Newport Marina , Bowen’s Wharf , a marina located on the waterfront, accommodating yachts of up to 56m / 185ft and the  Newport Yachting Centre  in the heart of town, boasting 4,500 feet of dockage for yachts of up to 55m / 180ft. Some further gorgeous marinas and luxury resorts can be found on Goat Island , a small island oasis nestled in Narragansett Bay close to Newport.
  • Boston Yacht Haven: located in Boston’s historic quarter of North End, comprising a fully serviced marina, restaurants and boutique hotel, and offers 100 berths for yachts up to 91m / 300ft in length.
  • Nantucket Boat Basin:  this pretty marina consists of 240 berths that can accommodate yachts of up to 90m / 300ft.
  • Dimillos Marina, Portland, Maine : close to the beautiful old-world town and extremely well run. It has 125 berths for yachts up to 75 meters in length.

Florida, Florida Keys and Bahamas

  • Palm Harbour Marina, Palm Beach: extremely well-equipped marina, boasting 200 berths that can cater to yachts of up to 76m / 250ft. 
  • Mia Marina, Miami:  centrally located next to some of the finest restaurants in the country, and a popular haunt of the rich and famous.
  • Key West:  a great stopover for yachts cruising the Keys and the Bahamas . There are several marinas here catering to larger yachts . Key West Marina  - offers 37 berths for yachts up to 60m / 200ft, although this marina gets very busy so we recommend booking ahead.  Conch Harbour  - has 43 berths for yachts up to 60m / 195ft and Stock Island Marina Village boasts an impressive 288 berths catering to yachts of up to 137m / 450ft.
  • Hawks Key Resort & Marina , Duck Key: is a delightful family-friendly marina, offering 85 berths for yachts up to 33m / 110ft LOA.
  • Ocean Reef Club , Key Largo: this friendly marina boasts 175 berths accommodating yachts up to 53m / 175ft.
  • Atlantis, Nassau, Bahamas:  a luxurious resort, with Michelin-star dining and luxury spas, and boasting 63 megayacht berths.

Marina in San Diego

  • Marina Del Rey , California: the king of all marinas. It’s the largest man-made harbor in North America and has the facilities to go with it.
  • Berkeley Marina , California: a vast marina with 1,000 berths and boasting an array of activities in the area, this marina also offers spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Kona Kai Marina , San Diego: located just minutes from San Diego International Airport, this marina is a great jumping-off point for yacht charters around America's stunning west coast. It has 500 berths that can accommodate yachts of up to 76m / 250ft.
  • IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas:  located right on the very tip of Baja California Sur, this marina boasts 380 berths, with 33 slips catering to superyachts of up to 115m / 375ft.

Pacific Northwest

  • Elliott Bay , Seattle: this marina offers wonderful views of the Seattle skyline plus restaurants and hosts year-round events, and is a great place to tie up for itineraries encompassing Desolation Sound and Alaska.
  • Salmon Bay Marina:  superyacht standard marina with excellent facilities catering to yachts up to 73m / 240ft.
  • Roche Harbor Marina,  San Juan Island: this picturesque harbor sits on the northwest side of the island and is a popular stop-off for yachts exploring the beautiful San Juan archipelago. If you're looking for something a little livelier, head to the nearby town of  Friday Harbor , which   has a marina with 377 berths catering for yachts of up to 45m / 150ft.

Sail yacht anchored in Maine bay at dusk

If we were to list all the great anchorages around this vast country we would be here all day, so we have condensed this list down to a few of our favorites for you to consider whilst cruising your chosen destination; whether that's in the shadows of the imposing Golden Gate Bridge , or the verdigris waters of Alaska as you watch orcas frolic over the bow, or anchored in the shallow turquoise bath-warm waters of the Bahamas , where you can swim and snorkel straight off the back of the yacht. The choices for spectacular anchorages in America are simply endless.

  • Block Island, Rhode Island:  just 13 miles from Newport this is a lovely area to drop anchor for anyone cruising the beautiful Long Island Sound, encompassing 17 miles of pale golden beaches and well-preserved Victorian architecture.
  • Port Washington, Long Island : situated in Massachusetts Bay, this is a charming anchorage with easy links to New York City, and regularly gets rave reviews.
  • Martha’s Vineyard, Edgartown:  located on the island's East Coast, hugely popular for its whaling history, smugglers and pirates! Martha's Vineyard is popular for its lovely beaches, boutique art galleries, sailing and laid-back culture, as well as being a well-known retreat for celebrities and politicians.
  • Seven Hundred Acre Island, Maine: drop anchor here and head ashore to experience the charming quintessence of this popular New England haunt, where lovely pastel timber homes vie with gilded-age colonial mansions and yacht marinas. 

Small motor yacht anchored in blue waters of Florida

Florida and Florida Keys

  • Cayo Costa State Park, Florida:  encompassing 9 miles of wild coastline, this is a superb stop for those who wish to explore the park’s trails and get acquainted with the local residents, including alligators, manatees, porpoises and sea turtles. 
  • Dry Tortugas National Park, Gulf of Mexico:  comprising seven islands – named for their lack of freshwater – located 63 miles west of Key West. This sheltered national park also boasts excellent snorkeling areas. Head ashore to Garden Key, the site of Civil War-era Fort Jefferson. 
  • Dinner Key Anchorage, Coconut Grove, Florida:  located on Biscayne Bay, this stunning anchorage is a perfect place to park up before heading down to the Bahamas or the Caribbean. 

Golden gate bridge, San Fransisco

  • Glorietta Bay, San Diego:  a lovely anchorage inside the main waterway close to the beautiful Hotel del Coronado, San Diego’s legendary beach resort.
  • Newport Beach, San Diego:  quiet and scenic.
  • Coronados Islands:  located 12 miles off the coast of San Diego. This small group of islands has some lovely anchorages around its clear blue waters and boasts some of the best diving on the west coast, where visibility often exceeds 80 feet.
  • Channel Islands National Park:  a stunning archipelago of 5 islands off the coast of Santa Barbara offering a heady mix of sea caves, kelp forests, scenic hikes and whale watching.
  • Monterey Bay, Big Sur:   located in a pretty scalloped bay south of Santa Cruz, with a bustling waterfront offering plenty of dining options where you can enjoy freshly caught squid, the local specialty. Don’t miss the Monterey Aquarium, one of the best on the west coast.
  • Turtle Bay (Bahia Tortugas), Baja California: a pretty sheltered bay with plenty of anchorages, perfect for yachts heading down to the southern end of Cabo San Lucas. 

Charming village in the San Juan Islands, USA

Pacific Northwest and Alaska

  • Gig Harbor, Washington:  this charming maritime village near Puget Sound is a great place to anchor up and head ashore to explore its unique history and culture. Don’t miss its legendary Maritime Gig Festival in June.
  • Princess Louisa Inlet, British Columbia:  often heralded as the “eighth wonder of the world” this area is located up a waterway inside the border of Canada opposite Vancouver Island. This breathtaking spot is famous for its waterfalls and tranquil emerald green mirrored lakes that perfectly reflect the surrounding snow-capped mountains and lush forests.
  • Sucia Island Marine State Park, San Juan Islands:  known as the “Crown Jewel” of Washington’s San Juan Islands, this beautiful area has an array of exquisite anchorages, offering sheltered coves, lovely beaches and forest trails.
  • Emerald Cove, Prince William Sound, Alaska:  watch icebergs float by as you picnic on one of the lovely pebble beaches around this sheltered cove. Prince William Sound offers incredible vistas and wonderfully diverse wildlife.
  • Inian Islands, Alaska:  located south of the popular Glacier Bay, these exceptionally lovely islands are perfect for anchoring. Take the tender and watch the whales feeding on the area's rich sources of plankton. The islands are also teeming with salmon and halibut, perfect for fishing, or watch the region's brown bears as they catch their evening meal. 

Your yacht crew and broker will know the most about the best marinas, bays and sheltered coves where you can find suitable docking and anchorage options throughout your charter.

Hand holding a toy plane over a map of USA

Newport, Rhode Island tends to be the favorite destination to kick start yacht charters in this beautiful region. The closest airport is Providence International, which is only half an hour's drive away.  For other destinations in New England, there are countless airports serving this region, including;  

  • Logan International, Boston – New England's largest and busiest airport, with nonstop flights to destinations across the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, and a domestic hub for Delta and Cape Air and JetBlue. 
  • Hartford's Bradley International Airport – New England's busiest airport in the south of the region, serving Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. 
  • Rhode Island's Green Airport (formerly T.F. Green) – a great alternative airport to Boston Logan.
  • Portland International Jetport – Maine's largest airport 

Bear in mind that perennial summer favorites such as Cape Cod , Nantucket , and Martha's Vineyard each have their own airports which may prove worthwhile, particularly if you have limited time.

Florida is extremely accessible by air with five international airports serving the area: 

  • Florida Keys/Marathon International Airport
  • Miami International Airport
  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
  • Palm Beach International Airport
  • Southwest Florida International Airport

Private jets and other aircrafts are also able to land at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, Boca Raton Airport, Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport and Naples Airport. 

For USA intineraries incorprating the Bahamas

The Bahamas archipelago has four major airports with countless smaller airports running services to and from the islands.

  • Lynden Pindling International Airport in the capital city Nassau. This is the region's busiest airport with three terminals serving international, charter and domestic flights.
  • Rocksound International Airport, South Eleuthera.
  • Exuma International Airport, Great Exuma
  • Grand Bahama International Airport, Freeport

California 

California boasts literally dozens of commercial airports, here are some of the main ones for yacht charters in this region;

  • Los Angeles LAX – the busiest and largest of all California airports, with major international flights from all over the world.
  • San Francisco International Airport – California's second busiest airport is located on the edge of the San Fransisco Bay and offers stunning views of the city as you land.
  • Oakland International Airport – located only 25 miles from San Francisco, just across the San Francisco Bay, and is served by a wide range of major airlines.
  • Sacramento Airport is located about 15 km north of the city and ideal for yacht charters heading to Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe or Yosemite National Park.
  • San Jose International Airport – located south of Silicon Valley, this airport offers direct flights to Europe, Asia Canada and Mexico and is perfect for itineraries incorporating San Fransisco, Monterey and Carmel.
  • San Diego International Airport - perfect for yacht charters encompassing the San Diego, the Coronados and Baja California.

Alaska with mountains and water

For yacht charters around the beautiful San Juan Islands, the following international airports offer flights  into the region;

  • Seattle Tacoma Airport, Washington – the largest and busiest airport serving the region.
  • Vancouver Airport – located on Vancouver Island, it is Canada's second-largest airport and serves destinations from across the globe. 
  • Victoria International Airport – More than 50 flights a day connect Victoria with Vancouver International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma Airport and several other major cities throughout Canada and the US. 
  • Bellingham International Airport, located 50 miles north of San Juans.

Popular San Juans airports include  Anacortes , Fidalgo Island , Friday Harbor , San Juan Island and Orcas Island. 

For Alaska-bound flights, many include a stop at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in Seattle.

Other airports in Alaska include:

  • Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport – located in Alaska's largest city, and serves both international and domestic flights into the region. This is the most popular destination for yacht charters around this stunning location.
  • Fairbanks International Airport – also serves flights from across several continents although is not conveniently located close to the water.
  • Juneau International Airport – located in Alaska’s capital city in the south of the region, and another popular starting off point for yacht charters. 

Flights from Seattle take about two-and-a-half hours to reach Juneau , and three-and-a-half to four hours to Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Attractive couple with a booking agent

With its incredibly diverse landscape offering a wide variety of spectacular destinations, the USA remains a hugely popular destination for yacht charters. 

As a major yachting hub, there should always be a wide variety of yachts and destinations to choose from, however we do recommend booking your rental yacht well in advance of your trip to secure your perfect yacht on your preferred dates.

This will ensure your yacht broker has plenty of time to tailor an itinerary to suit you and your guests, including any nights you wish to spend in marinas. We recommend booking up to 3 months in advance to give your broker the optimum time to organize everything down to the last detail. 

A purple car in florida, USA

For yacht charters in the Pacific Northwest;

  • Desolation Sound is very calm and sheltered so not always a good option for those who like to sail.
  • The San Juan islands are slightly protected from rain by the Olympic Mountains, but can still be showery at any time of the year.
  • Bring warm clothes for Alaska as temperatures get very chilly, especially near the glaciers.
  • Beware of large cruise ships as their wakes can be a nuisance.
  • Alaska is not an ideal destination for sailing, as winds are either non-existent or southwesterlies bring uncomfortable seas.
  • Some of the most beautiful anchorages around Alaska can be up to 100 ft deep.

For yacht charters on America's southwest coast;

  • If you are chartering a foreign-flagged vessel or returning from Mexico, you will be required to stop at Customs on Shelter Island, where they routinely confiscate chicken, eggs, and fruit.
  • It's also generally preferable to head south down the US West Coast rather than fight the winds and tides heading north.

For yacht charter itineraries that include the Bahamas

  • Insurance and taxes in the Bahamas are 4%.
  • Visa issues have been experienced clearing through the Bahamas.

Advice relating to all regions;

  • Tips on charters in the US are often expected to be at least 20%.
  • Whilst some yachts are legally permitted to charter in the US, others do not meet American fiscal requirements and so are not available for charter whilst in US waters. Please speak with a yacht broker for further advice on specific yachts that can charter in the USA.

Statue of Liberty and New York skyline at night

Steeped in maritime history, this beautiful region comprises six states: Maine , New Hampshire , Vermont , Massachusetts , Rhode Island and Connecticut . Located in America’s Northeast and stretching nearly 3,500 miles from top to bottom, this area has been a drawcard with sailing elites for centuries. Characterized by its craggy coastline, rocky peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, sand dunes, lighthouses, forested mountains and vibrant autumn foliage, New England is the perfect yacht charter destination for those who enjoy sailing, history and culture – where picture-perfect bays and charming portside towns adorned with beautiful architecture abound.

Lighthouse atop a rock in New England, USA

Most New England yacht charters start off in Newport Rhode Island , which enjoys convenient transport links and easy access to the marinas. Often heralded as the birthplace of yachting and home of America’s Cup challenger series, Newport is one of the most popular summer havens in the US, especially for the East Coast’s smartest families, who come to enjoy the gilded mansions, myriad mouthwatering seafood restaurants, glamorous yacht clubs and endless oceanside views that typifies this gloriously rich historic town. Head over to Block Island, known for its laid-back lifestyle, historic lighthouses and the beautiful Black Rock beach , perfectly suited for a hiking expedition.

Martha’s Vineyard is an absolute must for anyone who appreciates powdery beaches, boutique art galleries and quaint wooden plank homes. Anchor at the enchanting island of Cuttyhunk in Vineyard Sound, with its rich history and lovely beaches. Don’t miss Nantucket , located east of Martha’s Vineyard , home to the Whaling Museum where you can discover the island’s intriguing culture and history as a 19th-century global whaling hub. Another famous summer destination is Cape Cod , a rather apt hook-shaped promontory north of Nantucket, and a favorite residence of the Kennedy’s, known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle, as well as being the fictional location for Jaws!

And perhaps, no New England yacht charter would be complete without a trip to New York , where you can cruise past its illustrious towering skyline and take in the majestic  Statue of Liberty . Stop off at Greenwich village port renowned for its designer shops then head up Long Island Sound with its glorious miles of coastline, entertainment and some of the most expensive real estate in America. Anchor outside the Montauk Yacht Club , The Hamptons' most exclusive sailing hub.

Skyscrapers tower over beachfront in Florida

Affectionately known as the Sunshine State , this region is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Kick things off with a trip to the hedonistic city of Miami , where you may even find yourself moored up alongside Hollywood royalty as you step off your yacht to explore this spectacular location, renowned for its luxury resorts, designer shopping, golden bronzed beaches and exclusive marinas. A visit to South Beach is an absolute must, for all things art, fashion and film. For something a little quieter, head to Biscayne Bay , a national park located south of Miami with beautiful clear aquamarine waters and stunning marine life. For those who appreciate culture, take a stroll through the Art Deco district , and gaze at the exquisite early twentieth century hotels and architecture. 

Head south to experience the spectacular Florida Keys , a stunning archipelago of 800 or so islands protected by America’s only living coral reef, dotted like a “jade necklace” south towards the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. Key Largo , situated between the everglades and coral reef, is a bustling retreat from the mainland, offering diving, fishing, and great restaurants. Take a high-speed airboat trip around the Everglades , where you may spot an alligator or crocodile peeking out from the reeds. Don’t miss Key West , where history and tradition meet natural beauty and serenity. Key West is known for its year-round balmy temperatures, palm-lined streets and tropical gardens, as well as for its boutique shops, art galleries and delectable restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss a visit to the American writer Ernest Hemingway’s home , a short hop across from the Key West lighthouse . These islands provide a convenient jumping-off point for itineraries including the  Bahamas and the   Caribbean .  

Related:  The Coolest Neighbourhoods to Explore on Your Miami Yacht Charter

Neighboring Regions:

A pier over turquoise waters in Bahamas

Starting from Bimini island , just 45 miles south of Miami, and stretching all the way south to Turks and Caicos , Bahamas is an oasis island chain of 700 picturesque islands fringed by powder-white sands and see-through aquamarine waters, bordered by one of the world’s greatest barrier reefs. These glorious islands offer endless miles of relaxed cruising around shallow waters, where marine life surrounds you, tempting you into the clear warm waters to explore its fascinating kaleidoscopic underwater world.

We recommend a stop at the Abacos , a string of sandy keys to the west of Florida, offering a paradisical adventure of a lifetime. Treasure Cay is also home to one of National Geographic's top 10 beaches. Don't miss Fowl Cay for fantastic snorkeling, marine parks and near-perfect beaches. Harbour Island further south boasts fantastic dining options, beaches, as well as a tropical garden. For some amazing snorkeling and diving, head for Pelican Cays National Park , renowned for its spectacular coral and sea life where you will witness giant starfish dotted along the sandy bottom for miles.

Your trip around the Bahamas wouldn't be complete without a trip to the breathtaking Exumas , offering hundreds of exquisite anchorages and also home of the famous swimming pigs.

The Pacific Northwest can be characterised by its sublime mountainous scenery, spectacular wildlife and lush forested islands, so it's hardly surprising that it is one of the most sought-after yacht charter regions in the world.

A waterfall in the San Juan Islands, Washington

A hugely popular destination is the San Juans Islands : aptly nicknamed the “Virgin Islands of the North” and located south of the US/Canada border. Here the pace of life is slower, where friendly locals welcome you as you attempt to reconcile yourself with the mesmerizing scenery around you. Favorite areas in the region include the picturesque Orcas Island , the largest of the San Juans, where you can trek the tallest mountain in the archipelago – Mount Constitution – rising skyward for nearly half-a-mile. The 360º views at the top are well worth the effort! Another must-see is the delightful San Juan Island , with its delectable restaurants and bustling markets. Take a stroll through the exquisite Victorian gardens, or discover the island’s fascinating historical site of confrontation between British and American troops in 1859. 

Head north to the spectacular Desolation Sound , where intense serene tranquility awaits. This area is considered one of America’s finest cruising grounds, where calm, sheltered waters teem with fish; oyster, clams, prawns, salmon and cod. Enjoy a spot of fishing off the back of the yacht and afterward your chef can prepare your catch for dinner onboard! There are numerous marine parks in the area with plenty of stunning anchorages. Step ashore for a lovely walk in the woods, where you could encounter a herd of elk, soaring eagles or even a grizzly – so don't forget to pack your bear spray! 

Sunshine coast & Jervis Inlet is another breathtaking location comprising 13 marine parks offering total seclusion, majestic scenery, stunning anchorages, excellent dining options and fantastic yacht facilities. Don't miss the phenomenal Princess Louisa Inlet and Chatterbox Falls; a  scenic granite-walled gorge of cascading waterfalls that has to be seen to be believed. Gibson’s Landing is a quaint seaside village overlooked by the towering mountains where you will find a charming bustling town, art galleries, museums and restaurants, marina and mooring facilities. Further afield, be sure to visit Halfmoon bay , Sargeant Bay  and Thormanby Islands , characterized by their tiny coves and blissfully quiet anchorages.

America's largest state, lying on the Arctic Circle separated from its own country by Canada, is well-known for its unparalleled visually dramatic scenes, breaching whales, calving glaciers and majestic mountains, not to mention its undeniably breathtaking dramatic midnight sunsets. Anyone visiting the region will also be able to get up close to some of nature's most magnificent animals, such as humpback whales, orcas, caribou and majestic soaring eagles. There are endless beautiful spots to visit, and wherever you are you will not be disappointed during a yacht charter in Alaska .

Alaska with mountains and water

Glacier Bay is a particular favorite destination for yacht charters, where you can park up and witness thunderous icebergs births, as well as also enjoy skiing, whitewater rafting and spectacular helicopter picnics on top of a glacier.

Try your hand at King Salmon fishing outside of Sitka , fly over the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau or float through endlessly beautiful Frederick Sound spotting breaching humpback whales. Red Bluff Bay , known for its towering mountains, waterfalls and glistening ice fields, is also home to the region's brown bears who feast on salmon here every August.

Stretching from San Francisco down to Newport Beach , San Diego and into Baja California, this region is best characterized by its endless miles of beautiful beaches and wild rugged shoreline, where you can appreciate its spectacular beauty from the water as you witness breaching whales and dolphins darting across the wake of your yacht as they make their journey towards the warmer waters of Mexico . 

Golden gate bridge, San Fransisco

Start your yacht charter in San Francisco ’s natural vast harbor, and watch the dolphins and sea lions frolic in the surf. Unhampered views of the  Golden Gate Bridge are sure to make your charter already feel special. Take the tender ashore to experience the heady bustle of Fisherman’s Wharf , and don’t miss a spine-chilling trip around Alcatraz Prison . We also recommend a trip to Muir Woods , where you can take in the spectacular sight of hundreds of gigantic 1000-year-old redwoods, a truly unmissable event. 

Head north to Point Reyes National Seashore Reserve , and enjoy a hike around beautiful wind-swept rocky bluffs and secluded golden beaches. Due east of Point Reyes, you’ll find California’s world-class Napa Valley wine region , where you can spend the day tasting some of the world’s finest wines in the California sun against the stunning backdrop of the hillside vineyards.

Follow the wind and tides down past Santa Cruz and take shelter in the scalloped bay encircling the beautiful town of Monterey , a bustling waterfront offering plenty of dining options where you can enjoy the local specialty of freshly caught squid. Don’t miss the Monterey Aquarium , one of the best on the West Coast.

Beach along Baja Caifornia Sur

If you are intending to include the stunning Baja California in your itinerary, where better than to kick things off in the eternally glamorous city of Los Angeles , where convenient transport links, not to mention some of the finest restaurants and bars in America, will prove a great starting point for your yacht charter. Take a stroll along Redondo Beach , Los Angeles’ hidden gem, before heading back to your yacht. Cruise to Newport Beach just off the coast of Los Angeles, the renowned playground for mega yachts and Hollywood royalty. If you’ve booked ahead, moor up at Newport Beach Club, one of the oldest in the US, and take a stroll across the bridge to Balboa Island , where nostalgically charming cottages with white picket fences, saltwater taffy shops and wooden ice-cream parlors abound. 

Across the water you’ll find the beautiful Santa Catalina Island , where crystal clear waters make the perfect spot for a picnic, followed by a swim and some snorkeling around the reef, where you will find an abundance of fascinating marine life. 

Further south you'll be sure of a warm welcome in  San Diego , with gorgeous sandy beaches and a plethora of parkland. Visit Redwood National Park where you can discover the world’s tallest trees. Of course, a trip to San Diego wouldn’t be complete without stops at San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld , where you can get up close and personal with some of their friendly killer whales!

If you have time, cruise down into Baja California , the world’s second-longest peninsula, where you will find yourself transported to a world of wild untamed beauty and romantic sunsets, where condors swoop on thermals high up in vast washed out skies, and nights are spent under a wide canopy of twinkling stars. Simply heaven.

Statue of Liberty with American flag and fireworks at night

Acadia National Park, Maine : a stunning rocky headland with a rich cultural heritage, featuring some of the highest mountains along the Atlantic Coast.

Everglades National Park, Florida : a unique tropical wilderness with UNESCO Biosphere status, where you can explore its vast network of wetlands and forests.

Universal Orlando Resort, Florida : the ultimate theme park for kids, big and small!

Museum of Modern Art, New York : boasting some of the world's finest collections of contemporary art.

Bunker Hill Monument, Massachusetts : a 221-foot towering obelisk commemorating one of the first major battles between British and Patriot forces in the American Revolutionary War in 1775. 

San Diego Zoo, California : located in the beautiful Balboa Park, the zoo boasts over 12,000 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies. 

Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska : spectacular 13 miles long glacier located in southeast Alaska, in the Mendenhall Valley.

Lido Key Beach, Florida : exquisite white-sand beach lapped by turquoise waters, located on Barrier Island off the coast of Florida.

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USA Yacht Charter Q&A

Whilst some yachts are legally permitted to charter in the US, others do not meet American fiscal requirements and so are not available for charter whilst in US waters.  Many charter yachts are foreign flag vessels and don't qualify.

Please speak with a yacht charter broker  for further information on specific yachts that can charter in US Waters.

Where to begin your yacht charter depends on your chosen destination in this hugely diverse continent. For New England yacht charters, the popular option is Newport, Rhode Island, an all-American yachting hub boasting picturesque harbours, gilded-age mansions and chic yacht clubs. 

For Florida yacht charters, the glamorous city of Miami tends to be the preferred jumping off point. Alternatively, yacht charters can begin in Nassau, Bahamas before making their way up the Florida Keys to finish up in Florida. With a raft of international airports at your disposal, along with world-class cruising areas, the choice is really up to you.

For yacht charters on the southwest coast, a popular starting point is in the beautiful harbor of San Francisco, where views of the Golden Gate Bridge greet you as you fly in. For charters in the Pacific northwest region, most yacht charters incorporate either the breathtaking San Juan Islands or the scenic splendor of Alaska further north, with most international flights routing through the main hub Seattle for both destinations, with smaller charter flights operating out from here.

There are myriad yachts available for charter in America, which come in all shapes and sizes, from speedy planing models to luxury mega yachts and everything in between.

The costs will vary depending on your chosen destination and time of year, so be sure to contact your yacht broker well in advance who can help you secure your perfect yacht and itinerary, including any nights you wish to spend in marinas.

The best time to visit during your yacht charter really depends on your destination;

New England – May-September, although shoulder months are a great time to avoid the crowds. 

Florida – November-April. Be sure to avoid the hurricane season from July-October. 

Southwest – May-November, although this region can be enjoyed all year round.

Pacific Northwest – June-September, although shoulder months of May and early October are also worth considering.

To give you an idea of which yachts are available, you can browse the complete fleet of North American charter yachts on our site. If you make an enquiry, a yacht charter broker will be in touch to provide you with a custom charter proposal based on your requirements.

Alternatively, please speak with your preferred yacht charter broker , who can help you find the ideal yacht and itinerary for you and your charter party. 

Speak with your yacht broker who can arrange to secure your chosen yacht on your selected dates. Your broker will then draw up a legally binding agreement for you both to sign, along with the yacht owner and captain. 

Depending on the type of contract, usually a standard agreement with terms applicable to the destination, you will be required to pay 50% of the base charter fee, plus a further 25-30% to cover additional costs incurred whilst on charter, such as fuel, food and drink and marina fees. 

To find out more, read our guide on yacht charter costs , which details the costs involved when booking a yacht charter. For more information, please speak with a  yacht broker . 

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How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht? (Price Chart)

How Much Does It Cost To Charter A Yacht? (Price Chart)

Yachts are luxurious boats you can rent for the weekend for the required price. Typically, a yacht charter cost depends on its length and desired amenities. The advantage of this option is in absolute freedom, so rigid commercial cruise ship timings and crowd won’t restrict your enjoyment.

There are two possibilities with such a choice. You can enjoy privacy or pick out the yachts with the crew dedicated to your needs. In both cases, you will have an unforgettable sailing time but be prepared that such a pleasure will cost you a lot. Let’s see.

What Yacht Charter Is?

What Yacht Charter Is

Yacht charter is actually renting an owner’s yacht for an agreed period, typically a week. An average yacht charter can cost you about $12,500 per week in the high season, while prices are lower in the low season.

You can find a comfortable yacht for $10,000 per week in that period. You will have full access to all available amenities while sailing, like:

  • Swimming pool
  • Water toys, such as equipment for water skiing, wakeboarding , or snorkeling

You can charter a yacht anywhere worldwide. The only condition is to find the port and yacht type you want to rent. Most owners will provide an experienced captain and crew, and it is practically impossible renting a yacht longer than 50 feet (15 m) to sail on your own.

The yacht’s crew will care for all your needs during charters, including ferrying, providing meals, or washing laundry.

If you want to be a captain , you need to have the Yachtmaster Ocean license, but some countries require the equivalent license. In that case, you should find a smaller yacht or a possibly bigger one located in Croatia.

However, the first step is to determine the yacht type suitable for your needs that you want to rent.

Crewed Catamaran

Popular Catamaran is suitable for group sailing and offers enough space, comfort, luxury, and privacy. You can charter this boat type when looking for a family vacation at an affordable price.

You should take advantage of Catamarans convenience and discover beautiful bays while dining close to the water. Modern fittings and experienced crews will offer the feeling of being on a luxurious yacht, but with the freedom of a sailing yacht.

Crewed Sailing yacht

This yacht is a comfortable option to enjoy sailing surrounded by luxury. Sailing yachts excellently head upwind but are suitable only for experienced sailors.

Crewed Motor yacht

This option is for you when you know the exact location to visit and have a precise itinerary in advance. So, this boat will allow you to get there while spending relaxing time.

Crewed Superyacht

Superyacht offers the holiday like in a 5-star-hotel. The cabins are comfortable, often with hot tubs and an exercise room. Plus, you have internet access and luxury water toys at your disposal at any moment.

Such a charter vacation will cost you at least $15,500 per week for a 65.5 feet (20 m) long yacht. A maximum price can go to approximately $3,400,000 per week for 450 feet (135 m) long super luxury yacht.

Factors That Affect Yacht Charter Costs

Factors That Affect Yacht Charter Costs

Yachts are almost always privately owned, so yacht charter costs primarily depend on the owner’s demand. That is a reason for the wide price range in this field, but some general frameworks still exist and are related to several factors.

The yacht production year, design, brand, water toys, crew reputation, and the previous owner will significantly affect the yacht charter costs . Boats with a reputation as the most luxurious or largest and those whose former owners are celebrities will be more pricey.

For instance, the iconic charter yacht ‘Highlander’ has higher rates for so-called fame value since it hosted many celebrities, including Elizabeth Taylor and Prince Charles.

However, the yacht size will have the most significant impact on the renting price. Simply said, the bigger yachts will cost you more.

For instance, a week’s charter will cost you approximately $20,000 to $80,000 when you pick out a 65 to 80 feet (20 – 24.5 m) yacht. On the other hand, renting an 80 to 100 feet (24.5 – 30.5 m) long model is more expensive, and its price will be $80,000 and $120,000.

As you can expect, a weekly charter rate for over 100 feet (30.5 m) long superyacht is at least $100,000 and often more expensive. Renting a super-luxury mega yacht longer than 200 feet (61 m) goes from at least $300,000 to over $1,000,000.

In rare cases, you can find a charter fee discount offer. It is always time-limited, typically when a particular boat has a gap in the charter calendar due to an unexpected cancellation.

Destination

Destination

As you can expect, the charter destination plays a significant part in charter costs. For example, Mediterranean and Bahamas yacht charters prices are more competitive, while places without large charter fleets will be more costly.

Typically, all charters outside the USVI and BVI will be expensive since cruising permits and taxes for remote destinations are higher. Finally, sailing to Alaska can be pricey since renting is available only for half a year because of the harsh weather. You will probably need to make a reservation in advance.

Trip duration

Trip duration

In most cases, the yacht charter is for seven to ten days on average, but sometimes owners accept a shorter duration. In such rare cases, a minimum stay is five days.

The trip length directly affects the charter costs. If the primary price included two hours of sailing , you should count on a 50% higher rate when deciding to use the yacht for three hours.

Be aware that the yacht charter price won’t go down for longer holidays, so you won’t get a discount and pay less when renting the boat for a longer period. The price for a week is the same whether you rent a boat for a week, two weeks, or a month.

Season

Yacht charter prices vary depending on the season, like most other touristic services. Therefore, you can expect higher rental costs during the high season. However, you should be careful with dates since they are not the same for all destinations.

For instance, high seasons in the Caribbean are New Year’s Eve, Christmas, and all February. On the other hand, you should count on the highest prices in July and August when you plan to sail in the Mediterranean.

The yacht charter rates are often higher during famous festivals, carnivals, and shows. The most expensive destinations based on dates include:

  • Olympic destination
  • The Film Festival in Cannes
  • Grand Prix in Monaco
  • America’s Cup

If you only want to use a yacht during your vacation, you should plan sailing carefully. Sometimes, only a difference of one week can significantly affect the charter costs.

In other words, you can rent a boat the first low season week when the weather conditions are still the same as the previous high season week. However, it will cost you 15% to 30%, or approximately $6,000 to $30,000 less, depending on the yacht length.

The number of passengers

The number of passengers

The group size is a primary thing you should consider before renting a yacht since it will directly influence the yacht type you need.

For instance, a monohull boat is ideal for a small family, but a group of 8 to 10 will need at least a catamaran. Finally, you should pick out a large yacht when planning a big party for many people.

All-inclusive or plus expenses

1. all-inclusive.

It is a complete service you can get for your money. In this case, the rates include:

  • Accompanying crew
  • Meals and snacks
  • Open standard bar drinking
  • Onboard watersports equipment

Be aware that there are some limitations regarding excessive consumption as well as consuming champagnes, extraordinary brands, and vintage wines.

A standard crew gratuity of 15 to 20% of the charter rate is excluded from the all-inclusive charter. Finally, you will need to pay separately for the final cleaning, insurance , dockage, and necessary taxes.

All-inclusive is an excellent option for renting monohull charters, catamarans, and yachts under 80 feet (24.5 m).

2. Plus expenses

This service typically includes:

  • Yacht with the crew
  • Yacht insurance

In this case, you should pay for all operating expenses at cost, including:

  • Food and drink
  • Consumables
  • Communications
  • Dockage, cruising taxes, port fees, and port agent fees

Typically, the owner will charge these extra costs from an Advance Provisioning Allowance, increasing the yacht charter fee by 30 to 35%.

It is the most often option on motor yachts, higher-end sailing yachts, and superyachts since the overall costs significantly vary, depending on the number of passengers and their demands.

This term includes many different equipment and amenities, like:

  • Paddleboard
  • Underwater sea bob
  • High-powered smaller boat (yacht tender)
  • Personal submarine

Some super luxury yachts can also come with:

Since the primary price doesn’t include these toys, you need to pay for the required ones.

Other factors

The owner will always recommend you to consider paying for optional extras, like:

The outboard engine – It will cost you €80 (approximately $90) to the charter cost but save you from rowing ashore in case of an accident.

Safety net – It is necessary equipment if you sail with children, which will cost you €80 (approximately $90) for one.

Adding crew – Paying for a cook or hostess can be convenient for a private cruise if you can afford it. That satisfaction will cost you €100 (approximately $110) a day, but keep in mind that the chef’s daily allowance is slightly higher.

Skipper – A professional help is always welcome, so you should consider hiring a skipper to find the best routes and places worth visiting.

Food costs for the crew – You should need to include the food for the crew on the paying list.

Yacht chartering is an excellent way to vacation and discover exotic islands and beautiful waterfront towns. You should pick out a boat of the proper size and a reputable yacht broker to help you with the organization. It is an expensive but ultimate pleasure you will remember for life.

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Explore stunning coastlines, with yacht cloud, set sail on a voyage tailored to your dreams, where each day unfolds into a new chapter of spectacle, your perfect yacht charter in just 3 simple steps.

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Planning to completion, our team is with you every step of the way, ensuring a perfect charter experience., set sail to your dream destination.

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Our Key Ingredients that Make a Dream Yacht Charter!

Unbeatable Price Assurance

Unbeatable Price Assurance

Our Lowest Price Promise is simple - we guarantee to match any yacht charter offer on a like to like basis.

Protection for Your Funds

Protection for Your Funds

Our optional third-party insurance guarantees your financial safety against unforseen events, so you can plan with confidence.

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation

Enjoy the flexibility of free cancellations for forty-eight hours on every charter or longer when possible.

Thorough Inspection and Vetting

Thorough Inspection and Vetting

Each yacht is hand-picked and vetted to ensure compliance with strict regulations and safety requirements.

Unmatched Loyalty Program

Unmatched Loyalty Program

Our boundless loyalty & reward scheme appreciates every journey you embark upon, giving back more with each charter.

Tailored Services

Tailored Services

From personal chefs to massage therapists, a local team of professionals has you covered.

*The policy may not be available to residents of certain countries due to local regulations. Please contact us for more information.

Browse Our Popular Yacht Selection

Check out what our client’s have to say about yacht cloud.

The testimonials featured on our platform represent genuine feedback from our valued clients. To respect their privacy, we have substituted their real names and images. Should you need verification, we are happy to provide individual references, subject to obtaining consent from our clients.

Lucas P.

I was a bit unsure about my first yacht charter, but Yacht Cloud made everything a breeze. They took care of all the nitty-gritty details. All I had to do was relax and soak in the views. Best holiday decision I’ve made!

Lucas P. | Paris

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I wanted two things: a luxurious trip and the peace of mind that my family was safe. Yacht Cloud nailed both. Their team really knows their stuff, and they paired us up with the dreamiest yacht for our getaway.

Nina K. | Berlin

Laura G.

We had a fantastic family holiday. Thank you for organising it all. The yacht was immaculate, and the food was super delicious! We couldn’t have asked for more. :) Can’t wait for our next voyage.

Laura G. | London

Stephanie F.

I chartered my first boat through Yacht Cloud, and we opted for Croatia. It was very comfortable, and the fuel was included, which was a bonus. Thank you for all your help and advice.

Stephanie F. | Zurich

Miguel R.

I was initially hesitant, as it was our first time chartering a yacht. But from the first inquiry to disembarking, the Yacht Cloud team was supportive and transparent. It all worked out perfectly.

Miguel R. | Madrid

Frequently asked questions.

What sets Yacht Cloud apart from other yacht charter companies

Yacht Cloud takes a client-first approach, ensuring a bespoke experience tailored to individual needs. From our unmatched loyalty program to our stringent yacht vetting process and custom itineraries, we're committed to offering unparalleled yacht charter experience and peace of mind.

I've found a yacht elsewhere. Can Yacht Cloud still assist me

Absolutely! Even if you've found a yacht through another provider, you can still charter it through Yacht Cloud. Thanks to our Best Price Promise, we'll match the price. Moreover, every first-time client will receive an additional 5% cashback reward, up to a maximum of €500 per charter! So you have the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're getting the best deal possible without compromising on the luxury yacht charter experience.

How do I ensure my holiday is protected when chartering through Yacht Cloud

Your peace of mind is our top priority. As a distinguished subsidiary of Exclusive Gulets—a reputable corporate member of MYBA—Yacht Cloud inherits a legacy of trust and excellence in yacht chartering. While we employ industry-leading charter contracts that guarantee 100% legal protection for our clients, we also offer third-party insurance to further enhance your security. This safeguard covers any unlikely events, including the insolvency of yacht providers or even our own. With these precautions in place, you can rest easy, focusing solely on the luxury and tranquillity of your voyage. For a deeper understanding of how we prioritize your safety and satisfaction, please reach out to our dedicated and friendly team.

How does the Yacht Cloud loyalty program work

Our loyalty program rewards you every time you charter with us. Here's a rundown of the benefits you can expect:

1 . First-Time Charter Special

Guaranteed Best Price & Cashback Bonus. Are you new to Yacht Cloud? Get started on a luxurious note. Every first-time client who charters a yacht with us will receive a 5% cashback reward, up to a maximum of €500 per charter! Plus, we uphold our 'lowest price promise,' guaranteeing you the absolute best deal. Make your maiden voyage unforgettable and save while you sail, only with Yacht Cloud.

2 . Returning Sailors

Earn More as You Continue to Sail. Your loyalty matters to us. After the completion of each charter, we'll credit 5% of the base charter fee to your Yacht Cloud account. You can use this credit towards any future charters. It's our special way of saying, 'Welcome back aboard!

3 . Share the Love

€500 Referral Voucher. Good times become great when shared. As a valued member of our Yacht Cloud family, you're eligible for a €500 referral voucher. Share this voucher with friends and family, granting them a €500 discount on their first Yacht Cloud booking. And for each successful referral, we'll credit €500 back into your account as a thank-you. With no limit on the number of bookings or rewards, sharing truly is caring!

Can I customize my yacht itinerary

Definitely! At Yacht Cloud, we pride ourselves on crafting bespoke itineraries that cater to your unique desires and interests. Our team, with intimate knowledge of the seas and destinations, will work closely with you to create the perfect voyage.

For more insights read our blog posts

Ready to set sail on luxury, book your next yacht charter with us now every detail is crafted for your ultimate enjoyment and relaxation..

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COMMENTS

  1. YACHT CHARTER

    Project X 88m Golden Yachts from $1,194,000 p/week ♦︎. La Datcha 77m Damen Yachting from $740,000 p/week ♦︎. Andrea 74m CRN from $988,000 p/week ♦︎. Titania 73m Lurssen from $615,000 p/week ♦︎. Join Newsletter to receive the best deals. Deals & Offers You can benefit from some great savings on your next yacht charter if you book ...

  2. Yacht Charter Cost Guide 2024

    Prices can be lower than this, of course, and up to the $1 million a week mark for truly luxurious superyachts. In which case, you could be looking at an average cost to charter a yacht in Greece somewhere closer to $100,000 per week as a starting charter fee with all extras added on top of this.".

  3. Crewed Yacht Charter

    The Fraser Book of Luxury Yachting 2023/2024 showcases some of the most beautiful crewed superyachts available to charter around the world as well as sample sailing itineraries and information on the spectacular cruising destinations on offer.Browse the magnificent pages, read about the beautiful locations and select the perfect charter yacht for your dream holiday.

  4. Yacht Charter Cost: What Can You Expect to Pay?

    Here's a quick overview of the average cost to rent a yacht (not including extra expenses) for the most common types available: Average Weekly Sailing Charter Rates. Sailing Yacht. $10,000-$20,000. Sailing Boats Under 80ft. $20,000-$50,000. Sailing Boats Between 80ft - 120ft. $50,000-$100,000.

  5. Yacht Charter Costs Explained

    The base charter fee in essence refers to the hire cost of the yacht itself, with all equipment in working order in addition to the cost of food and wages for the crew during the entirety of the charter. This is essentially all the base charter fee covers with additional expenses often applicable on top. The base charter fee will vary from one ...

  6. Luxury Yacht Charter

    All The Boat Charters In One Place: 3000+ Motor Yacht Charters & Sailing Yachts For Hire - Latest: 2021/2022 Yacht Rental Special Prices - Private Yacht Charter Guides - Expert Luxury Yacht Charter Broker Itinerary - Mega Yacht Charter Pics & Video - Superyacht Charter News - The crewed luxury yacht charter company.

  7. How much does it cost to charter a yacht?

    Yacht charter costs vary based on several elements: the yacht type, destination, local taxes, dates and the age of the yacht. Yacht charter prices span a broad spectrum. For instance, smaller sailing yachts and catamarans may start at around $10,000 per week, whereas more luxurious motor superyachts can exceed $100,000 per week.

  8. How much does it cost to charter a yacht?

    Over 40 metres is when the charter rate will move into the €100,000 per week range, with yachts between 50 and 60 metres costing on average €219,826 per week while yachts in the 60 to 70 metre range average €444,521. Mega yachts measuring 80 metres and over will, on average, set charterers back by around €1.7 million a week.

  9. How Much Does it Actually Cost to Charter a Yacht?

    For example, with leading yacht brokerage Burgess, a week's charter in the Caribbean aboard the 163.3 ft Home starts at $245,000.If you opt for the larger Laurentia, at 180.5 ft, the price starts at $450,000.Both yachts were built in 2017 by leading Dutch shipyard Heesen and have capacity for 12 guests, but there is over $200,000 difference in the price.

  10. Yacht Charter: How Much Does it Truly Cost? Rental Prices Explained

    Depending on the details of your yacht charter, you will need to add between 30% and 100% on top of the base fee to have the total cost of your rental. Here is an idea of the ranges you can expect for the yacht charter base fees: Motor Yachts - Sailing Yachts under 50ft: €4 000 - €15 000 / week. Motor Yacht - Sailing Yachts between ...

  11. BEST Yacht Rentals

    The cost of renting a pontoon boat depends on the size, location, and rental time of the boat. Prices can range anywhere from $200 for a half-day rental or just under a $1,000 for longer rentals. How much does it cost to charter a yacht? The cost to charter a yacht varies depending on the boat size and the length of the charter. ...

  12. Crewed Yacht Charters

    A Moorings Crewed yacht charter blends the comfort of luxury vacations with the spirit of adventure travel. Wherever you are in the world, from the stunning Bay of Naples in Italy to the sensational Bora Bora near Tahiti ,your group of up to 10 guests will enjoy spacious accommodations and a premium, personalized yacht charter experience.

  13. Boat rental & Yacht Charter Price Comparison at Boatscribe.com

    Keep in mind: 99% of yachts are available for charter from Saturday to Saturday. Compare and Choose yacht charter offers from multiple boat rental websites in one place ⭐ Get the Best Price ️ Only Verified Yachts ⚡ Simple and Free.

  14. Luxury Yacht Charters & Sailing Vacations

    Why Charter a Yacht with The Moorings? For more than 50 years we've set the standard for Sail charters, Power charters and all-Inclusive Crewed yacht charters in over 20 destinations across the globe.. The Moorings is proud to have one of the newest fleets in the industry, and an array of incredible destinations to explore. Whether you set sail on one of our state-of-the-art catamarans in ...

  15. USA Yacht Charter

    View ALL private crewed luxury yachts for charter in the USA at the BEST rates. Choose from over 100 Superyachts and Check Availability. ... * All prices are quoted per week plus expenses. Sailing Yacht Charter. Average Length Average low Season* Average high Season* 30m - 40m: $36,714: $45,000: 40m - 50m: $65,000:

  16. How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht? (Price Chart)

    Yacht charter is actually renting an owner's yacht for an agreed period, typically a week. An average yacht charter can cost you about $12,500 per week in the high season, while prices are lower in the low season. You can find a comfortable yacht for $10,000 per week in that period. You will have full access to all available amenities while ...

  17. Boat Rentals, Charter Boats Near Me, Yacht Rentals & More

    Rent a boat today, with or without a boat captain, and get out on the water! Browse our huge selection of boat rentals near you including yachts, pontoons, sailboats, fishing boats, wakeboarding boats, Catamarans & more!

  18. Crewed Yacht Charter Holidays

    Every first-time client who charters a yacht with us will receive a 5% cashback reward, up to a maximum of €500 per charter! Plus, we uphold our 'lowest price promise,' guaranteeing you the absolute best deal. Make your maiden voyage unforgettable and save while you sail, only with Yacht Cloud.

  19. Yacht Charter & Boat Hire in Perm

    Perm offers 16 yachts for rent · Rental prices start from AU$285 per day. Mates' rates - over 2982 exclusive deals online Best prices - save on average 784 € on each booking Request an offer

  20. Sailing yacht Perm

    Rent a boat, sailing yacht or catamaran for the best prices online. We have only verified boats with real pictures. Full customer service. No booking fees.

  21. Sailing yacht charter Perm Krai

    Perm Krai offers 13 sailing yachts for rent · Rental prices start from 190 € per day. Flash Deals - over 2982 exclusive deals online Best prices - save on average 784 € on each booking. Contact Boataround Do you need help? We speak your language and are here for you 7 days a week.

  22. Yacht Charter Perm

    Charter a yacht in Perm's favourite sailing destinations. ⛵Explore Kabel'shchik Yacht Club & more. Prices from 913 €/day New Year's Deals 2024 Get discounts of up to 40% to kick off the new year