How Much To Charter A Yacht 

How Much to Charter a Yacht for a Week

Average Costs and Pricing Guide

Written by Stephen Maitland
Marine Industry Editor & Yacht Enthusiast

Yacht charters provide an exclusive method of experiencing luxury travel experiences on aquatic journeys. While cruising you can visit breathtaking locations that provide high-end facilities and tailored experiences.

The cost of the yacht charter fluctuates according to the location you want to travel to, the specific time of year you choose to charter, and the unique features of the yacht.

The charter fee covers both the boat and crew but separate arrangements must be made for fuel expenses as well as food and drink costs along with docking fees.

How Much Does It Cost To Charter A Yacht For A Week?

The cost of a seven-day yacht charter can range from $10,000 to more than $1,000,000 due to various important elements.

The weekly charter rates for small sailing yachts and catamarans range from $10,000 to $30,000. These vessels provide a comfortable experience for groups with fewer members.

Mid-size motor yachts measuring between 60 to 90 feet cost between $30,000 and $150,000 for a weekly rental. These vessels provide greater luxury features and more space.

The weekly charter cost for superyachts that measure over 100 feet starts at $150,000 and goes beyond $1,000,000. These high-end vessels feature complete staff teams and premium service options.

Key factors affecting your charter cost:

• Yacht size and type
• Travel season
• Location
• Age of the vessel
• Number of crew members

 Additional expenses beyond the base fee will require budgeting when you charter a yacht.

• Fuel
• Food and drinks
• Port fees
• Crew gratuity
• Insurance

The Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) which ranges from 30-35% of the charter fee pays for these extra costs. Your charter broker will assist you in planning this budget amount according to your unique requirements.

Yacht charter companies provide multiple packages that accommodate different financial capacities. Bareboat charters offer no crew options while fully crewed charters provide complete staffing.

Yacht Charter Price Structure

Yacht charters operate under two primary pricing models which determine both your total expenses and what services are included in the initial base cost.

 All-Inclusive Charters
Most expenses for yacht charters are included within one fixed price under the all-inclusive charter model. The charter fee includes costs for yacht rental and crew payment plus fuel and food expenses together with beverages and water toys.

The packages provide straightforward budgeting because you know how much everything will cost before you book. The majority of yachts that fall within the small to medium size category under 100 feet follow this charter model.

Sailing yachts and catamarans typically begin with a base price in the range of $10,000 to $20,000 weekly. The cost of luxury motor yachts starts at $50,000 per week which reflects their higher price range.

 Plus Expenses Charters
Charters with additional expenses include a base fee and added operating costs. Fuel, food, drinks, dock fees along with other costs are separately charged through the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA).

The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) raises the base charter price by approximately 30-55%. Your captain monitors these costs and delivers detailed expense reports.

Larger luxury yachts over 100 feet commonly operate under this business model. The weekly base rate begins at approximately $100,000 while total expenses typically increase to between $150,000 and $200,000.

This structure allows you to exert better control over your spending. Your payment matches your actual usage and any remaining APA funds will be refunded to you.

Evaluate these main points when you book a luxury yacht charter.

Checking company reviews should be your top priority when booking a luxury yacht charter. A website's content alone should not be your only source of information. Even though reputable websites provide quality content, there is still a risk of encountering inaccurate or deceptive information.

You can make the best choice by checking trusted review sites such as TripAdvisor. By checking out company reviews you’ll gain a better understanding of the business you plan to work with.

Based on my personal experience the best strategy involves employing the services of a professional yacht broker. Hiring professional yacht brokers provides both a seamless experience and protects you from scams and disappointments.

Hiring A Luxury Yacht Broker

A Luxury yacht charter broker assists you in discovering and securing the luxury yacht vacation of your dreams. Throughout the entire process you receive personal guidance from them without any additional fees.

Yacht brokers receive their payment from yacht owners or management companies instead of the client who books the charter. The standard commission fee is included in the charter fee you pay.

A broker helps you gain entry to their extensive network of yachts and crews. They help you find vessels that match your budget alongside your group size and travel destinations.

 To find a qualified broker:

• Ask for recommendations from friends who charter
• Research brokers' experience and credentials
• Check their company's reputation
• Request references from past clients
• Checkout my recommended Broker

Prepare to talk about your target budget, preferred dates, the number of guests you anticipate, your desired location and any special requirements or preferences when making contact with a broker.

• Your target budget
• Preferred dates
• Number of guests
• Desired location
• Special requirements or preferences

Effective brokers provide several yacht choices that fit within your financial limitations. The broker will manage contract negotiations and payments while arranging logistics and offering advice about destinations and itineraries.

Professional brokers are present throughout your charter to help resolve any concerns that arise. Your luxury yachting experience receives substantial enhancement through this support.

Yachts For Charter

Average Yacht Charter Costs

 Average Yacht Charter Costs
Recap: Charter pricing for yachts on a weekly basis varies between $10,000 and $150,000 based on your selection of the vessel type and dimensions. The full cost calculation will be made up of the base rate along with additional expenses that amount to about 55% for fuel, crew payments, and provisions.

 Sailing Yachts
The least expensive charter options are sailing yachts which begin at $10,000 weekly for small vessels. Mid-size sailing yachts measuring 60 to 80 feet typically have rental prices between $15,000 and $30,000 weekly.

The weekly charter cost for luxury sailing yachts between 80 and 120 feet ranges between $30,000 to $60,000. Professional crew members operate on these vessels that typically have between 3 to 4 cabins.

The true costs for each yacht will depend on its age as well as its condition and available amenities. Latest yacht models equipped with modern features attract higher rental prices.

 Catamarans
Catamarans charters begin at $15,000 weekly for 40 to 50 foot lengths. These boats provide spacious and stable interior designs that make them ideal for family use.

The weekly charter rates for mid-range catamarans measuring between 50 and 60 feet fall between $20,000 and $35,000. Luxury models can reach $50,000 per week.

Charter catamarans typically provide accommodations for 6-8 people across 3-4 cabins. The shallow draft enables access to hidden beaches and coves.

 Motor Yachts
Motor yacht rentals begin at a minimum of $25,000 each week for boats smaller than 80 feet. The rental price for mid-size motor yachts measuring 80 to 120 feet spans $50,000 to $100,000 every week.

The weekly charters for superyachts larger than 120 feet range between $100,000 and $150,000. Megayachts at the highest end cost more than $200,000 weekly.

Your rate includes the captain and crew. Cruising distance and speed result in significant fluctuations in fuel costs.

Motor yachts feature the most extravagant amenities that consist of multiple decks as well as water toys and entertainment systems.

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Top Picks for 2025 

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Key factors affecting your charter cost:

Charter yacht prices change based on three main things: The price of a charter yacht depends on the vessel you choose to travel with and your destination.

 Yacht Specifications
The yacht's size determines its price the most. A 60-foot sailboat rents for about $13,000 weekly while the same size motor yacht can go up to $32,000 per week.

Week-long charters of luxury yachts that exceed 100 feet start at $150,000. Motor yachts generally have higher prices compared to sailboats.

  Key features that affect price:

• Number of cabins and guests
• Crew size and service level
• Onboard amenities (water toys, gym, spa)
• Age and condition of the vessel
  

During peak season demand leads to price increases that range from 20% to 30% above off-peak rates. The tourist season in the Mediterranean reaches its peak between June and September but the Caribbean sees its busiest months from December through April.

  Low season benefits:

• Better availability
• Lower rates
• Less crowded ports
• More flexible booking options
• Destination

1. Due to high demand and operating costs the French Riviera and other Mediterranean hotspots usually require premium pricing.
2. The British Virgin Islands and Bahamas provide affordable charter options particularly for sailboats and catamarans
3. Popular destinations and price ranges:

  Locations

• Mediterranean: $15,000-$200,000/week
• Caribbean: $10,000-$150,000/week
• British Virgin Islands: $12,000-$100,000/week

Your charter expenses will increase due to the variations in local permits, taxes, and marina fees at different locations.

Additional Costs To Consider

You should consider the base charter fee as just the beginning step in organizing your yacht vacation. The total cost of your yacht vacation can increase by 50% or more due to various unexpected additional expenses.

APA

While you charter your yacht the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) will take care of your daily operating costs. The Advance Provisioning Allowance typically represents 30-35% of the base charter fee which must be paid upfront.

 The APA pays for:

1. Fuel for the yacht and water toys
2. Food and beverages
3. Dockage fees
4. Harbor fees

 Communications

The unused portion of your Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) will be returned to you after your charter ends. Additional funding is necessary when expenses go beyond the original amount.

 Taxes and VAT

Charter destinations typically collect Value Added Tax (VAT) from clients based on their total charter fee.

 Tax rates vary significantly by location:

1. Mediterranean: 20-22%
2. Caribbean: 4-15%
3. Bahamas: 4%

Certain regions provide lower VAT rates for travel through international waters. Your charter broker will provide details about local tax requirements.

 Insurance

The basic yacht insurance comes as part of the standard charter fee you pay. You'll need additional coverage for:

1. Personal belongings
2. Trip cancellation
3. Medical evacuation
4. Liability protection

The insurance costs for a charter typically amount to 1-3% of its total value.

Crew Gratuity

1. Crew tips are a significant extra expense. Charterers typically pay crew gratuities that amount to 15-20% of the base charter price.
2. Your crew puts in hard work to deliver outstanding service. The allocation of tips to crew members varies according to their roles and duties.

Delivery Fees

1. Different starting and ending locations for your charter may require you to cover delivery fees. These fees cover:

• Fuel costs
• Crew wages
• Marina fees
• Transit permits

The delivery charges fall between $1,000 and $5,000 based on how far the distance is.

How To Save On Yacht Charters

 Smart planning and timing enable you to decrease yacht charter costs by 30-50%. Your yacht charter costs will decrease when you   strategically select both the timing and location as well as the yacht type.

Book Off-Season

 Charter prices reach their maximum during the June-August summer season. If you charter during the shoulder season between April- May or September-October you will save 20-40% on yacht rentals.

A yacht charter broker assists you in discovering exclusive deals throughout periods when yacht bookings are less frequent. Numerous  brokers provide last-minute price reductions up to 25% to book vacant yacht weeks.

During off-peak periods you can save money by choosing yacht charters that last 3-5 days rather than a full week. You can enjoy high- end yachting while reducing your expenditure.

Choose Less Popular Destinations

 The French Riviera and Greek Islands are premium destinations that require higher charter rates. Consider new charter locations such as Croatia, Turkey, and Thailand which maintain prices up to 40% lower.

The British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean present reduced travel costs during summer compared to their winter high season. Rates fall significantly even though the weather remains excellent.

A yacht broker can recommend exceptional experiences at less popular destinations that provide outstanding value along with stunning views and activities.

Opt For Smaller Yachts

 A yacht measuring 45 to 50 feet in length generally sells for half the price of a boat longer than 60 feet. A yacht designed for 4-6  passengers offers full guest comfort with much lower charter expenses.

Compared to motor yachts of equal size sailing yachts and catamarans generally cost 30-40% less. Active groups will benefit from  their more hands-on experience.

Select an older yacht that's in good shape over the latest models to maximize your value. You have the option to spend 20-25% less   money while accessing the same amenities and features.

Frequently Asked Questions

The weekly cost for yacht charters varies between $15,000 and over $1,000,000 based on the size of the boat, its location, and provided amenities. The total cost for your yacht charter consists of the base charter fee with extra expenses for fuel, food, drinks, and crew gratuities.

How much money do I need to charter a yacht for a week-long trip?

A basic luxury yacht charter costs $15,000 for each week.

1. The weekly rental price for mid-range yachts generally falls between $30,000 and $80,000.
2. Larger superyachts equipped with high-end features generally have rental costs between $150,000 and $500,000 per week.

How much does it cost to rent a yacht in the United States for seven days?

Smaller vessels in Florida and New England begin their weekly charter rates at approximately $20,000.

1. Mid-size motor yachts available for charter in top US locations cost between $35,000 and $75,000 per week.
2. Large motor yacht premium charters in the US market can surpass $200,000 per week.

What price range does Below Deck yacht charters fall into when compared to other charters?

The yachts seen on Below Deck usually run between $150,000 and $275,000 each week. The pricing structure matches luxury boats that measure between 150 and 180 feet.

1. Comparable pricing applies to similar yachts that are not showcased on Below Deck.

When booking a week-long yacht charter including crew services you should expect to pay for the yacht hire itself as well as for fuel, docking fees and provisions.

The base charter fee includes both the cost of the yacht and crew salaries. Additional costs include fuel charges as well as docking fees together with provisions.

1. Your operating expenses for the trip are covered when you include a standard Advance Provisioning Allowance between 30% and 35%.
2. Crew members usually receive gratuities between 15-20% although this is not mandatory.

Does the week-long yacht charter package include meals and drinks?

Your APA covers all meals and beverages.

1. During the booking process you can indicate any specific food requirements and dietary restrictions.
2. The chef will prepare personalized menus following your specific requests.
3. When planning a week-long yacht rental you should account for possible delivery fees between starting and ending locations as well as varying insurance costs and local taxes.
4. Additional delivery fees are possible when your journey begins and finishes at separate locations. Insurance and local taxes vary by destination.
5. The costs for tender rentals together with water sports equipment and special activities will incur additional fees.
6. Transport to your yacht requires your own planning and arrangements.