Everything You Need to Know

Get answers to the most common questions about luxury yacht charters, from
booking process to onboard experiences.

How do I choose the right yacht?

Your charter specialist will guide you based on your preferences, group size, budget, and destination.

How does booking work?

Simply share your details, including when and where you want to go, the size of your group, and your budget, and your yacht concierge will help you every step of the way.

What’s included in the price?

Most Charters in the Caribbean and Bahamas are “All-inclusive”

All-inclusive charter rates include the yacht, cruising taxes and fees, captain and chef/crew, unlimited drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), exquisite meals onboard, and unlimited use of the yacht’s water toys. The price does not include air travel and transfers to and from the boat, onshore meals and activities, or tips for the crew. If you had a good experience, please tip the crew 15-20% of the charter cost. You can always tip more if they go above and beyond.

In other locations you might find yachts that are “Plus Expenses” or “APA”

What is Usually Included in a “Plus Expenses” Charter

  • The Yacht & Equipment: Exclusive use of the vessel, cabin accommodations, and standard water toys (like paddleboards or snorkeling gear).

  • The Crew: Salaries, meals, and professional service from the captain, chef, deckhands, and stewardesses.

  • Insurance: Marine insurance for the hull and equipment. 

What is Billed Separately (Paid via APA or Extra Fees)

For high-end or larger yacht rentals, running costs are paid separately, usually through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA)—a prepaid fund managed by the captain that typically adds 20% to 40% to the base rate. It covers: 

  • Fuel: For the yacht, tenders, and jet skis.

  • Food and Beverages: All provisioning, gourmet meals prepared by the onboard chef, and bar/alcohol stocks.

  • Dockage & Port Fees: Marina fees, harbor dues, and pilotage costs.

  • Taxes & VAT: Local government or regional value-added taxes (which can range from 5% to 24% depending on the cruising grounds).

  • Crew Gratuity: Standard tipping is expected and generally ranges from 10% to 20% of the base charter fee depending on the destination.

Which destinations are available?

Although we specialize in the Bahamas and Caribbean, the world is our playground. Ask your charter specialist for extraordinary experiences worldwide.

What group sizes can you accommodate?

Normal charter size is 6-10 guests in 3-5 cabins. We can accommodate any size group, including multi-boat flotillas for corporate events or other large groups.

Will I need a Passport?

Yes, unless your itinerary stays within the US. Some charters departing from the US Virgin Islands and sailing the USVI and Spanish Virgin Islands (Puerto Rico) will not need a passport, but those leaving the USVI for the British Virgin Islands will.

Let's Design Your Charter

Call us: +1 (713) 659-9685

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