How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht?

The cost to charter a yacht can range widely depending on the size, amenities, and location of the rental. But what is the average price to charter a private luxury yacht for a day or week?

In this comprehensive guide updated for August 2023, we break down the key factors that impact yacht rental pricing so you can budget and plan the cruise of a lifetime.

You should also check out our article: How long is Yachting Season?

Yacht Charter Price Factors

The cost of chartering a yacht depends on several factors, including:

• Type of yacht (sailing yacht, catamaran, motor yacht)
• Charter destination
• Length of the trip
• Time of the year (high or low season)
• Additional expenses (food, fuel, taxes, insurance, gratuity)

Yacht Types and Average Costs Quick Reference Chart:

Yacht Type	Average Weekly Charter Cost
	Small (30-80 feet)	Mid-Sized (80-150 feet)	Large (150 feet and above)
Motor Yacht	$10,000 – $40,000	$40,000 – $150,000	$150,000+
Sailing Yacht	$7,000 – $30,000	$30,000 – $100,000	$100,000+
Catamaran	$8,000 – $35,000	$35,000 – $120,000	$120,000+

Yacht Types and Average Costs

Below is a little bit more detailed overview of average weekly base prices for common yacht types:

• Sailing Yachts: $10,000 – $200,000
  • Under 80ft: $10,000 – $20,000
  • 80ft – 120ft: $20,000 – $50,000
  • 120ft – 150ft: $50,000 – $100,000
  • Over 150ft: $100,000 – $200,000
• Catamarans: $10,000 – $100,000
  • Under 50ft: $10,000 – $20,000
  • 50ft – 65ft: $20,000 – $35,000
  • 65ft – 80ft: $25,000 – $50,000
  • Over 80ft: $40,000 – $100,000
• Motor Yachts: $20,000 – $500,000
  • Under 80ft: $20,000 – $25,000
  • 80ft – 120ft: $35,000 – $80,000
  • 120ft – 150ft: $80,000 – $150,000
  • Over 150ft: $150,000 – $500,000

Remember that these base prices are for illustrative purposes only and do not include additional expenses such as food, fuel, taxes, insurance, and gratuity.

Charter Destinations and Seasonality

The charter destination and seasonality also impact the cost of your yacht charter.

Prices typically increase during high seasons, such as summer in the Mediterranean or winter in the Caribbean, and decrease during low seasons.

Remote destinations, like the Galapagos, tend to have higher prices due to limited availability of charter fleets, while more popular destinations like the Bahamas, BVI, or Mediterranean offer competitive pricing.

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

There are two main types of crewed yacht charter experiences: “All-Inclusive” and “Plus Expenses.” Here’s a quick comparison:

• All-Inclusive Yacht Charters: Mainly offered for catamaran and monohull charters in the Virgin Islands, all-inclusive rates are based on the number of guests and include food, drinks, water sports, and fuel costs. Dockage fees and taxes are usually charged separately.
• Plus Expenses Charters: Typically for larger motor yachts, the base price covers the yacht only. Additional expenses like food, drinks, fuel, dockage, port taxes, and other costs are charged separately. An Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), usually 35% of the base price, is paid before the charter to cover these expenses.

Advanced Provisioning

Allowance (APA) Explained

The APA is a deposit paid by the charterer to cover anticipated expenses during the charter. It typically ranges from 20% to 35% of the base price, depending on the size and type of yacht.

The captain and crew use this amount to cover the costs of fuel, food, drinks, port fees, and other expenses.

At the end of the trip, any unused portion of the APA is refunded to the charterer, while any additional expenses are settled by the charterer.

Additional Expenses to Consider

When budgeting for a yacht charter, it’s crucial to account for additional expenses. Some of the most common ones include:

• Food and Drinks: On a “Plus Expenses” charter, you’ll need to cover the cost of provisioning, including food and drinks for you and your guests. Some charters offer a pre-set menu, while others allow customization based on your preferences.
• Fuel: Fuel consumption varies depending on the yacht type and size, cruising speed, and distance traveled. Yachts with larger engines or high-speed performance consume more fuel, resulting in higher costs.
• Dockage and Port Fees: Dockage fees are charged when your yacht is moored in a marina or harbor, while port fees are paid for using local facilities and services. These fees vary based on the location and size of the yacht.
• Taxes: Some destinations charge Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST) on yacht charters. The rate depends on the charter location and, in some cases, the yacht’s size and type.
• Insurance: Charter companies require charterers to have liability insurance, often included in the base price. However, it’s essential to verify the coverage and consider additional insurance for personal belongings, cancellation, and medical expenses.
• Gratuity: It’s customary to tip the crew at the end of the charter. Gratuity typically ranges from 10% to 20% of the base price, depending on the level of service.

Tips for Saving on Yacht Charter Costs

Here are some tips for reducing your yacht charter expenses:

• Book Early: Planning your yacht charter in advance can help you secure better deals and a wider selection of yachts.
• Off-Season Charters: Consider chartering during low season to take advantage of lower prices and less crowded destinations.
• Last-Minute Deals: Keep an eye on special offers and discounts on yacht charter websites for last-minute bookings.
• Smaller Groups: If you have a flexible guest list, consider a smaller yacht, as prices are generally lower for smaller vessels.
• Negotiate: While not always possible, some yacht owners and brokers may be open to negotiation, especially during low seasons or for long-term charters.

Key Takeaways

The cost of chartering a yacht depends on several factors, including the type of yacht, destination, trip length, seasonality, and additional expenses. A solid understanding of the pricing structures, such as “All-Inclusive” and “Plus Expenses,” and factoring in additional costs like food, fuel, taxes, and gratuity, can help you make an informed decision. By following the tips provided, you can find ways to save on your yacht charter and make it a memorable experience within your budget.

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