Do you dream of sailing across the seas on a luxury yacht?
Chartering a boat is a bucket list travel experience you’ll never forget, so if you’re keen to put your dreams into action, you’ll want to make sure you plan it right.
After all, a luxury charter yacht is expensive, and you’ll want your experience to be perfect. Like booking any vacation, yacht charter trips are unique and there are many kinds of experiences you can have.
If you’ve never organized a yacht trip before, I’m here to spill my tips and tricks to consider before deciding on a trip. Here’s what to mull over when you charter a boat.
1. What Type of Vessel Do You Want?
Your first decision is the type and size of the yacht you choose for your trip. Generally, there are four types of charter boats: the mega yacht, motor yacht, the catamaran, and the sailboat. You’ll need to make sure that you and the rest of the guests you’ve invited can all fit on board.
The size and type of the charter boat will also have a huge impact on how much your trip will cost, which we’ll get to next.
The types of fun features will also differ depending on the size or type of your yacht. Perhaps a water slide is a must-have for the kids, or maybe you plan to head out scuba diving with a group and you require the equipment?
2. What’s Your Budget?
As mentioned, the type and size of your yacht will highly determine the cost of your trip. But on top of that, you need to consider other factors, such as food, alcohol, fuel, communications, port charges, and any extra activities.
Usually, this costs around 25% of the price, but it can differ depending on your needs.
3. Where Do You Want to Go?
Of course, one of the most exciting parts of chartering a boat is deciding on the destination. The world is your oyster.
Perhaps you picture yourself sailing off the coast of Italy’s Sicily, or maybe you’d love a Caribbean getaway?
If you’re in a group where everyone is paying their fair share, then there probably needs to be a discussion. When selecting a destination, remember that every spot’s season will have its peak.
If your team prefers a quieter and more remote trip on the water, consider booking close to the end or the beginning of the season. If they aren’t bothered by the crowds, then dates can be more open.
4. What Kind of Experience Do You Want?
What kind of charter experience are you after? If you want to fill your days with on-land sightseeing, then you may want to pick a destination that offers plenty of tours and events. Or perhaps all you dream of is sunbathing in the middle of the ocean with a refreshing margarita in hand?
What kind of experience you’re after will also affect the type of charter you hire. Each yacht offers different facilities and amenities from water toys to spas to cinemas. Some yachts offer a masseuse, which will help make a relaxing holiday on the water even more blissful.
When it comes to activities, for many yacht companies, anything is possible with the right budget. You just need to communicate your ideas to the team to make sure everything is planned in advice.
5. What Food Would You Like to Eat?
Most yachts also include a personal chef. That’s unless you’ve organized food for a shorter trip.
Your broker will provide you information on the available menu offered on board, and you can discuss any dietary considerations for you and your guests.
Depending on the company and the yacht, you may also request special dishes you’d like to eat on board. If you decide to go fishing as part of your adventure too, most chefs are more than happy to prepare and cook your catches for you.
6. What Should You Pack?
Another question on your lips may be ‘what do I pack for a yacht trip, and how much should I bring?’
Yachts are very efficient vessels. Usually, everything on a yacht has a place and purpose.
The same should apply to what you pack. Of course, you should pack clothing that’s suitable for your destination’s average expected temperatures for the time you’re cruising.
If the nights are cool and balmy, be sure to bring long pants and sleeves. Warmer days will require less – and don’t forget to bring that bathing suit for swimming!
Nate Sinisgalli from Triton yacht rental in San Diego told us it’s also very important to always pack extra sunscreen when getting ready for your yacht rental experience. Hours of sun while unprotected by a high SPF sunscreen can ruin your entire trip if you’re not careful. It’s easy to forget how long you’ve been in direct sunlight on your trip, so good sunscreen is essential.
Whatever you need to pack, remember that practicality is the goal as there isn’t always tons of space on a yacht.
7. What Type of Crew Do You Want?
Choosing your crew can be just as important as choosing your yacht. Why? Because you’re going to be spending every day with them for however long you’re sailing.
You can choose the best charter boat in the world, but if you don’t gel with the crew, it’s going to affect your experience. Likewise, you can have a yacht that isn’t the most dazzling in the port but can have a crew that make the trip for you.
That means you need to decide on the type of service you’re looking for. Do you want relaxed and informal in casual clothing, or highly professional in smart uniforms?
Always have a chat with your broker and ask plenty of questions. If you’re not sure what exactly to ask, check out this article.
Are You Ready to Charter a Boat?
Armed with our advice, you should be ready to charter a boat for the first time. As mentioned, ask plenty of questions and if you’re confused about any of the answers, be sure to have your broker clear them up. Enjoy your trip of a lifetime!
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