What Can You Expect From a Luxury Charter?

Privacy & Personalised Service

From the moment you step aboard, everything revolves around your preferences. A dedicated crew is there to provide exceptional service, ensuring every detail meets your expectations. Whether you want a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled journey, the experience is shaped around what you enjoy most, from gourmet dining to customised excursions.

A Yacht Charter Guide to Travel on Your Terms

When you charter a yacht, there are no set schedules, crowded resorts, or restrictions. You decide where to go and when. Explore the most exclusive ports in the Mediterranean, drop anchor in the hidden coves of the Caribbean, or venture to remote destinations only accessible by sea. Every day brings a new horizon, entirely at your pace. Our detailed yacht charter guide will ensure you do so in style and complete peace of mind.

Luxury Without Limits

Super yachts offer a level of comfort and entertainment far beyond what any hotel or villa can provide. Relax in infinity pools, enjoy spa and wellness spaces, or unwind in private cinemas and entertainment lounges. For those seeking adventure, dive centres, game rooms, and high-tech water toys ensure there’s never a dull moment.

The Yachting Lifestyle Without Ownership Responsibilities

Owning a yacht comes with ongoing maintenance and management. A luxury yacht charter gives you access to the world’s finest vessels without the complexities of ownership. With SuperYachtsMonaco, you experience the prestige, privacy, and top-tier service of yachting without a long-term commitment.

Where in the World Do You Want to Be?

One of the greatest luxuries of a 2025 yacht charter experience is the freedom to explore the world at your own pace. Whether you’re drawn to sun-soaked beaches, cultural landmarks, or remote, untouched landscapes, there’s a luxury yacht charter destination to match your vision. The next section of our yacht charter guide divulges some of the most coveted destinations in the world.

Mediterranean: A Timeless Yachting Haven

Sail through history in the Mediterranean, where glamorous coastal cities and hidden island gems offer endless possibilities. Drop anchor in Monaco, experience the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, or explore the Greek Isles, all while enjoying world-class cuisine, exclusive beach clubs, and the unmatched elegance of Monaco yachts.

Caribbean & Bahamas: Island-Hopping Perfection

The Caribbean and the Bahamas are ideal for those who dream of pristine waters, white-sand beaches, and laid-back luxury. A yacht charter here means effortless access to secluded coves, marine life, and some of the world’s best diving spots. From St. Barts to the Exumas, each island offers its own slice of paradise.

Asia: Exotic Landscapes & Cultural Wonders

A luxury yacht charter in Asia unlocks access to breathtaking destinations like Thailand’s limestone cliffs, Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, and the tranquil waters of the Philippines. This region blends adventure, ancient traditions, and modern indulgence, making it a truly unique charter experience.

The Americas: From Tropical Shores to Untamed Wilderness

Cruise through Alaska’s awe-inspiring fjords, or take in the energy of Miami’s coastline. Whether you seek warm waters or dramatic landscapes, the Americas provide diverse charter opportunities for every taste.

Beyond the Ordinary: The Rest of the World

For those craving the extraordinary, a luxury superyacht can take you to places few ever reach. Discover the glaciers of Antarctica, the raw beauty of Greenland, or the untouched islands of the South Pacific. The Indian Ocean, with destinations like the Seychelles and the Maldives, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation in some of the most pristine environments on Earth.

Sindalah: The Future of Ultra-Luxury Yachting

Emerging as one of the most exclusive new charter destinations, Sindalah is set to redefine high-end yachting. Located in the Red Sea, specifically Saudi Arabia, this ultra-luxury island is designed for the elite, offering world-class marina facilities, fine dining, and unparalleled waterfront experiences.

If you would like more information than our yacht charter guide provides on these mesmerising destinations, contact us.

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Choosing Your Perfect Yacht

Selecting the right yacht is the key to an unforgettable journey at sea, so the next section of our yacht charter guide is dedicated to this.

With access to a fleet of over 3,000 yachts ranging from 24m to 100m+ (79’ to 328’), SuperYachtsMonaco ensures that every detail, from the yacht’s size and design to the crew’s expertise, matches your vision for the perfect experience.

Expert Guidance from SuperYachtsMonaco Charter Brokers

Our charter brokers, the authors of this yacht charter guide, do more than find a yacht. They shape an experience built around your expectations. Using their deep industry knowledge and your preferences, they search a global selection of vessels to find the best match for size, style, crew, facilities, location, and availability. Every yacht is thoroughly reviewed to ensure your charter is effortless, luxurious, and exactly what you have in mind.

Motor Yachts vs Sailing Yachts

Every yacht charter offers something different, whether it’s speed, spaciousness, or a more immersive way to explore the open water. Next in this yacht charter guide, we’ll break down key characteristics and considerations.

Motor Yachts

For those who value luxury, stability, and speed, motor yachts provide an exceptional level of comfort and advanced technology.

  • Planing Yachts: Built for speed, allowing for quick movement between destinations.
  • Displacement Yachts: Designed for smooth, long-range cruising with superior comfort.
  • Semi-Displacement Yachts: A balance between speed and stability, offering more flexibility.

Motor yachts offer large deck spaces, private lounges, swim platforms, and an impressive selection of water toys for entertainment on and off the yacht.

Sailing Yachts

For those who enjoy a deeper connection to the sea, sailing yachts provide a classic and eco-friendly way to travel.

  • Monohull Sailing Yachts: Sleek and elegant, delivering a traditional sailing experience.
  • Sailing Catamarans: More stable and spacious, making them ideal for families or those new to sailing.

Sailing yachts operate more quietly, consume less fuel when under sail, and allow guests to participate in sailing, making them perfect for those who appreciate a hands-on experience. Sailing yachts are equipped with engines in case of emergencies or unfavourable weather.

World-Class Facilities and Toys

Each yacht offers a different level of comfort and entertainment. Depending on your selection, your yacht may include:

  • Wellness & Spa Facilities: Featuring saunas, steam rooms, massage studios, hot tubs, and beauty salons.
  • Entertainment & Technology: Satellite TV, private cinemas, extensive film libraries, high-speed Starlink internet, gaming setups, and even musical instruments.
  • Water Toys & Activities: Jet skis, seabobs, flyboards, kitesurfing gear, paddleboards, inflatable slides, dive centres, and submarines.

Some yachts even offer floating golf greens, private nightclubs, and soundproof karaoke setups, ensuring a completely unique experience at sea. As outlined in our yacht charter guide, the options for onboard entertainment are endless!

The Captain & Crew: The People Who Make the Difference

In this yacht charter guide, we would like to emphasise that a yacht is more than just a luxury vessel. It’s the crew that defines the experience. At SuperYachtsMonaco, every yacht is crewed with a team trained to provide world-class hospitality and service.

The captain is responsible for your safety and enjoyment, guiding the yacht to the best locations and using their deep regional knowledge to unlock exclusive beach clubs, private excursions, and hidden anchorages. Many captains have concierge-level connections that allow access to experiences unavailable to most travellers.

The crew delivers exceptional 24/7 service, handling everything from wellness treatments and private training sessions to guided dives and themed onboard events. Many yachts include specialists such as massage therapists, fitness trainers, drone pilots, and Michelin-trained chefs, ensuring that every aspect of your journey is taken care of.

Onboard Dining: A Culinary Experience

A private chef crafts menus based on your tastes, offering everything from Michelin-star dining to relaxed, family-style meals. Whether you prefer freshly caught seafood, international cuisine, or custom meals based on dietary needs, every dish is prepared with the highest-quality ingredients and served whenever and wherever you choose.

At SuperYachtsMonaco, we do more than book a yacht. We bring your dream charter to life. Let us find the perfect yacht for your next adventure.

How Much Does a Charter Yacht Cost?

In this next section of our yacht charter guide, we will dive into costs. The cost of a luxury yacht charter depends on several factors, including the yacht’s size, destination, season, and additional expenses. Understanding these details ensures there are no surprises, allowing you to plan your charter with confidence.

Charter Rates: What to Expect

Charter rates are set by the yacht owner and typically cover the hire and insurance of the yacht, crew wages, standard onboard amenities, water toys, crew meals, yacht laundry, and basic sundry items. Rates vary significantly depending on the yacht’s features, location, and prestige, ranging from €35,000 to over €3,000,000 ($38,000–$3,260,000) per week.

Yacht Charter Guide to Seasonal Pricing: High vs. Low Season

Like luxury resorts, yacht charter prices fluctuate based on demand. Our yacht charter guide will now provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect:

  • High Season: The most sought-after weeks of the year when charter destinations are at their peak. Expect premium pricing, full marinas, and exclusive events. The high season includes July and August in the Mediterranean, as well as major events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival. In the Caribbean and the Bahamas, high season runs over Christmas and New Year when demand is highest.
  • Low Season: Outside of peak months, rates are lower, and availability is greater. This is ideal for those who prefer a quieter experience and added flexibility in itinerary planning while still enjoying the full luxury of a yacht charter.

Local Taxes and Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA)

Beyond the base charter fee, additional costs need to be considered, broken down below in our yacht charter guide:

  • Local Taxes: Depending on the cruising area, local taxes may apply, which can be up to 22%. VAT and regional levies can range from 5% to 25% of the charter fee. European Union (EU) tax laws state VAT will apply should you embark within their waters, for example, Italian territorial waters. The VAT rates for charters vary by country, for example, 22% for Italy, 20% for France, 21% for Spain, and 13% for Croatia.
  • Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): The APA is a fund set aside for variable expenses, typically between 35%–40% of the charter fee, though this can vary depending on the yacht and itinerary. The captain manages this allowance to cover costs such as food, beverages (including fine wines and spirits), fuel, dockage fees, communications, and any special requests.

Any unused APA funds are refunded at the end of the charter. If expenses exceed the allocated amount, the difference must be settled before disembarkation.

Additional Costs: Delivery and Re-Delivery Fees

If you choose to embark or disembark in a location outside the yacht’s normal cruising area, a delivery or re-delivery fee may apply. This cost is charged separately from the APA and is determined based on the distance and fuel required to position the yacht.

A yacht charter is a luxury investment, offering unparalleled freedom and world-class service. With SuperYachtsMonaco, every detail is handled with precision, ensuring that your journey is exceptional from start to finish.

Yacht Charter Guide to Booking Your Travels

Once you’ve selected your yacht, confirmed your destination, and set your dates, the next step is finalising your luxury yacht charter. Our yacht charter guide will now walk you through signing a contract, arranging payments, coordinating provisioning, and considering crew gratuities. Each step ensures a smooth experience from booking to embarkation.

Charter Contract: Drafting & Signing

Your SuperYachtsMonaco charter broker will issue a legally binding contract based on industry-approved standards. Depending on your chosen destination, the agreement will follow:

  • MYBA (Worldwide Yacht Brokers Association) Charter Agreement: Commonly used for Mediterranean and global charters, outlining terms, costs, and conditions.

Once the contract is reviewed and signed, your booking is officially secured.

Yacht Charter Guide to Payments

Payments for a yacht charter are structured in instalments and must be made via bank transfer before departure.

  • First Instalment: Due one week after signing the contract to secure the yacht.
  • Final Payment: The remaining balance, including APA and taxes, must be paid one month before departure.

All payments are held in a secure escrow account via SuperYachtsMonaco, ensuring funds remain protected until the start of your charter.

Crew Gratuities

Tipping is standard in yachting and reflects the level of service provided by the crew. Depending on the yacht and length of the charter, gratuities typically range from 10% to 15%, but are given entirely at the discretion of the Charterer — it may be worth highlighting this.

Provisioning: Preparing for Your Journey

Your SuperYachtsMonaco broker will coordinate with the captain to ensure your yacht is fully stocked before embarkation. Using the details provided on your Preference Sheet, the crew will source your favourite foods, wines, spirits, and any special requests to ensure every detail matches your expectations.

yacht charter guide

Yacht Charter Guide FAQs

Let us conclude this yacht charter guide with a few additional frequently asked questions.

When Should I Book my Charter?

We recommend booking 6 months in advance for the greatest choice of yachts with availability and up to 12 months for charters in remote destinations. Our Charter Brokers can work to find you a last-minute deal.

How Long can my Charter Last?

Most charters are 7 to 10 days long, but clients can book charters for as long as they wish. Longer or more extensive trips can include onboard tutoring for children and fully operational office set-ups. Additionally, in some circumstances, yachts can be booked for as little as 1 day.

How Many Guests Can I Invite?

The number of guests a yacht can accommodate depends on its size and the number of available cabins. Most commercially registered yachts can sleep up to 12 guests. However, some larger yachts may have special permits allowing for additional guests. The captain must specify the number of guests sleeping onboard. Different regulations apply to yachts moored during events, where a higher number of charter guests may be permitted while the yacht is in port. SYM Charter brokers can provide guidance on these rules.

Can I Bring my Dog on Board?

No yacht charter guide would be complete without answering this question! Dogs and pets are considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you have any other questions, the team at SuperYachtsMonaco is ready to assist in planning every detail of your journey.

The SuperYachtsMonaco Experience. Why Choose Us?

As creators of this yacht charter guide and industry experts since 2008, we know that a luxury yacht charter is more than just a getaway. It’s an experience designed entirely around you.

With years of expertise in Monaco yachts and global charters, our team provides expert guidance in selecting the perfect yacht, destination, and itinerary. From contract drafting to provisioning and special requests, we handle every detail, making your journey stress-free. Whether you’re exploring the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or remote destinations like Antarctica, we offer access to the world’s finest luxury super yachts and new locations like Sindalah.

If our yacht charter guide has whet your appetite, contact us today for more details on planning your perfect yacht charter, or visit our blog for industry insights and the latest in luxury yachting.