Use our Yacht Charter Search to discover exceptional crewed yachts, compare options, and find the ideal yacht and crew for your yacht vacation.
Yacht Charters
Experience the freedom of a private crewed yacht charter in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and beyond, where every day is tailored to you. Cruise the turquoise waters and tropical islands of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), and Caribbean, or explore the spectacular coastlines, historic ports, and hidden coves of the Mediterranean aboard your own private yacht. With a professional captain and crew taking care of every detail, you can relax, explore, and enjoy a personalized itinerary at your own pace whether you’re planning a family yacht vacation, a getaway with friends, a romantic honeymoon, or an unforgettable luxury escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a private crewed yacht charter?
An all-inclusive private crewed yacht charter gives you exclusive use of a yacht along with a professional crew dedicated to your group. Depending on the yacht, your crew may include a captain, chef, stewardess, deckhands, and other specialists who handle navigation, meals, service, and day-to-day operations throughout your vacation.
What can I expect on a typical day during a yacht vacation?
Every day on a private yacht vacation can be different and tailored to your interests. Wake up in a beautiful anchorage, enjoy breakfast prepared by your crew, then spend the day swimming, snorkeling, exploring beaches, trying water sports, or visiting nearby islands and coastal towns. Evenings might include cocktails at sunset, dinner prepared onboard, dining ashore, or relaxing under the stars. Whether you’re chartering in the Caribbean or Mediterranean, your itinerary offers the flexibility to be as adventurous or relaxing as you choose.
What types of yachts are available on Luxury Yacht Vacation for an all-inclusive yacht charter?
Private yacht charters are available aboard sailing and motor catamarans, monohull sailing yachts, motor yachts, motorsailers and luxury superyachts. Each offers a different experience, from the spaciousness and stability of a catamaran to the speed and amenities of a motor yacht or the traditional sailing experience of a monohull.
What is included in a crewed yacht charter?
Inclusions vary by yacht and destination. Some crewed yacht charters include meals, beverages, fuel, water toys, and other onboard expenses, while others operate on a base charter rate plus expenses. Your Luxury Yacht Vacation specialist can explain exactly what is included before you book.
Are meals and drinks included on a private yacht charter?
Many crewed Caribbean yacht charters include meals and standard beverages, while other yachts use an APA or plus-expenses arrangement. Before your trip, you’ll typically provide your food, beverage, dietary, and allergy preferences so the crew can provision the yacht and personalize your onboard dining experience.
How early should a yacht charter be booked during peak travel seasons?
Booking early provides the best selection of yachts, particularly for Christmas, New Year’s, and peak Mediterranean summer dates. For highly sought-after periods, booking six to ten months in advance is commonly recommended, while more flexibility may be available during other times of the year.
What is an APA on a luxury yacht charter?
An Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a fund used to cover charter expenses such as food, beverages, fuel, dockage, and other operating costs. APA is common on luxury motor yachts and Mediterranean charters. The captain keeps an accounting of expenses, and any unused funds are typically returned at the end of the charter.
What is the difference between a monohull and a catamaran for chartering?
A catamaran charter generally provides more living space, a wider deck, shallower draft, and greater stability at anchor. A monohull sailing yacht offers a more traditional sailing experience and the feeling of performance under sail. The right choice depends on your group size, comfort preferences, and desired yacht vacation experience.
What is the difference between a motor yacht and a sailing yacht charter?
Motor yachts offer greater speed and can make it easier to visit more destinations during your charter, while sailing yachts provide a quieter, more traditional experience powered partly or primarily by the wind. Both are available with professional crews and a wide range of luxury amenities.
Can a yacht charter itinerary be customized?
Yes. One of the biggest advantages of a private yacht vacation is the ability to create an itinerary around your interests. Your route can include secluded beaches, snorkeling and diving spots, waterfront restaurants, historic towns, nightlife, quiet anchorages, and other destinations throughout the Caribbean or Mediterranean.
What are the best destinations for a Caribbean yacht charter?
Popular Caribbean yacht charter destinations include the British Virgin Islands (BVI), U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), St. Martin and St. Barts, Antigua, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and other islands throughout the Leeward and Windward Islands. The best destination depends on your preferred activities, travel dates, and style of vacation.
What are the best destinations for a Mediterranean yacht charter?
Popular Mediterranean yacht charter destinations include Greece, Croatia, Italy, the French Riviera, Spain, and other spectacular cruising areas throughout the Mediterranean. Each region offers its own combination of beaches, historic towns, cuisine, nightlife, culture, and scenic coastlines.
Does Luxury Yacht Vacation offer motor yacht rental options in Croatia?
Yes, travelers can request both standard motor yacht rentals and luxury motor yacht charter options in Croatia through Luxury Yacht Vacation, perfect for exploring the Adriatic coastline.
Are private yacht charters good for families and groups?
Yes. Private yacht charters are ideal for families and groups because the experience can be personalized around your guests. Depending on the yacht, families can enjoy spacious accommodations, water toys, swimming and snorkeling, customized meals, and itineraries designed for different ages and interests.
Are yacht charters good for honeymoons and couples?
A private yacht charter is an excellent choice for a honeymoon or romantic getaway, offering privacy, personalized service, beautiful destinations, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Couples can enjoy secluded anchorages, private dining, swimming, beaches, and customized itineraries throughout the Caribbean or Mediterranean.
Are crewed yachts available in both catamaran and monohull options?
Yes. Travelers can choose from crewed catamarans for spacious, stable cruising or crewed monohulls for a more traditional sailing experience. Both offer personalized service from an onboard crew.
How do I choose the right yacht for my vacation?
Consider your destination, group size, budget, preferred yacht type, cabin requirements, amenities, activities, and desired level of service. A yacht charter specialist can compare available crewed catamarans, sailing yachts, and motor yachts and help match you with the yacht, crew, and itinerary that best fit your vacation.
How much does a private yacht charter cost?
The cost of a private yacht charter varies considerably based on the yacht’s size and type, destination, season, number of guests, charter duration, and whether expenses are included. Additional costs can include APA, local taxes or VAT, dockage, gratuity, and special requests depending on the yacht and cruising area. Feel free to inquire and we’ll match the perfect yacht and crew to your preferences and budget.
How much should I tip the crew on a private yacht charter?
Crew gratuity varies by destination and is generally based on the level of service you receive. In the Caribbean, a gratuity of approximately 15–20% of the charter fee is customary, while Mediterranean yacht charters often follow different tipping guidelines. Gratuity is typically given to the captain at the end of your yacht vacation and distributed among the crew. Your Luxury Yacht Vacation specialist can advise you on the customary gratuity for your specific yacht and destination.