This luxury motor boat is the choice of wealthy tourists who want to take a special weekend trip. Today, the most modern schooner boasts the most opulent amenities such as Jacuzzi whirlpool baths, spa clinics, helipads, sports gyms and home theaters. This makes chartering a yacht very expensive fun. If you have decided to rent this type of sailboat, there are a number of factors to take into account.
- The first aspect is the size of the yacht. Small boats typically have two cabins and each can accommodate a couple for a total of four guests. Standard dimensions for luxury boats range from approximately 75 to 200 feet in length. However, there are small yachts that can be used for a maximum of two days and measure from 40 to almost 75 feet.
- The daily fee for yacht charter services for a 24-meter boat can go up to $15,000. This rate depends on the availability of boats and the current season. These boats are more expensive to rent during the summer. Therefore, it is important to establish a budget before speaking with any charter company. It is important to determine your rental capacity before entering into a contract with any reservation agent.
- Make reservations in advance and give exact dates when chartering a yacht. The minimum rental date is usually three days, but most companies charge a premium when the trip lasts less than a week. It is advisable to book well in advance, such as six months before an actual trip.
- You must provide the number of guests and indicate the number of children joining the cruise. Several charter companies prescribe a minimum age for children. Crew members will not act as babysitters and these children must be under the care of adult passengers.
- It is essential to know your destination and the weather forecast for the area. The main charter areas are the Australian and Mediterranean region, New England and Greece during the summer season. On the other hand, the Caribbean, Bahamas and Florida are ideal for winter.
- Clients are asked to put down at least 50 percent when deals are made. Meanwhile, the balance must be settled 30-45 days before the actual charter dates. Deposits for superyachts are made via electronic transfers, while companies that offer small yacht cruises do not accept credit card payments for down payments.
- There are also fees for the Advanced Provisioning Allowance, or APA, which includes the cost of fuel, communications systems, docking fees, food, and alcoholic beverages. This is generally 35 percent of the cost of the lease and must be paid in full between one month and 45 days before the date of incorporation. Any overpayment for the APA is refunded to the customer.
- You should also expect additional costs, such as tips for crew members, which can be as much as 20 percent of the rental price. Tipping is rarely practiced in Europe, but a bonus of five to ten percent is suggested.