What it really costs to charter a yacht (and what's included)

Chartering a yacht is the ultimate way to experience luxury at sea: private destinations, bespoke itineraries, and dedicated service from a professional crew. But when planning a yacht charter, one of the first questions most people ask is: “How much will it really cost?”

The truth is, the advertised weekly rate only tells part of the story. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what goes into the cost of a crewed yacht charter and what you can expect to be included.

1. The Base Charter Fee: What You See Is Just the Start

The base charter fee is the price listed on yacht listings or quoted by brokers. It typically covers:
- The yacht itself
- A full professional crew
- Standard onboard equipment (water toys, linens, kitchen equipment)
- Planning and management services to ensure the yacht is ready for your week

Example ranges:
Small yachts (20–24m): $20,000–$80,000 per week
Mid-sized yachts (24–30m): $80,000–$120,000 per week
Superyachts (30m+): $100,000–$500,000+ per week

The key takeaway: you are renting the entire yacht privately, not per cabin, so costs are typically shared among your group.

2. Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): Your Onboard Lifestyle Budget

One of the most misunderstood elements of a yacht charter is the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA).
- APA is typically 25–35% of the base charter fee
- It covers the actual operating costs of the yacht during your charter, including:

3. Taxes and Local Fees

Depending on your destination, local taxes may apply.
- Mediterranean charters often include 10–22% VAT on the base fee
- Caribbean charters may have lower taxes, but other local fees might apply
- APA items like marina invoices or excursion bookings can also include taxes

4. Crew Gratuity: A Reward for Exceptional Service

Crew gratuity is always separate from the base fee.
- Standard tip: 15–20% of the base charter fee
- Paid at the end of the charter
- It acknowledges the exceptional service provided by your captain, chefs, stewards, and deck crew

5. Optional Extras and Personalisation

Many charters offer additional options for those seeking an elevated experience:
- Private jets or chauffeured transfers
- Onboard wellness specialists, personal trainers, or chefs
- Submarines, jetskis, or chase boats
- Security, childcare, or VIP experiences

These extras are priced separately and can significantly enhance your charter experience.

6. How to Estimate the Total Cost

A simple industry rule of thumb for Mediterranean charters is:

Total Charter Cost ≈ Base Fee × 1.4–1.7

This includes APA, VAT, and gratuity, giving you a realistic budget before you even step onboard.

7. What’s Included in Your Charter

While pricing may vary, most crewed yacht charters include:
- Private use of the yacht and all its amenities
- Professional crew providing concierge-level service
- Standard water toys and onboard equipment
- Daily itinerary planning and assistance from your captain
- Personalized culinary experience (chef-prepared meals and beverages)

The important distinction: not everything is included. Premium alcohol, special excursions, helicopter transfers, and other bespoke services are typically extra.

8. Why It’s Worth It

Chartering a yacht is more than just accommodation, it’s a fully tailored experience:
- Complete privacy and flexibility
- Destinations unreachable by hotels or resorts
- Activities curated to your preferences
- High-end service where your every need is anticipated

When you understand the cost structure, you can plan confidently and focus on the true luxury: a seamless, unforgettable experience at sea.

key takeways

The advertised weekly price is just the starting point. To budget accurately:
1. Start with the base charter fee
2. Add the APA for running expenses
3. Include local taxes and VAT
4. Don’t forget crew gratuity

With this knowledge, you can enjoy your yacht charter fully prepared, knowing exactly what to expect — and focus on making every moment on board truly extraordinary.