Once you’ve decided that a luxury yacht charter is the vacation of your dreams, how do you choose from the selection of yachts available in destinations around the world? Charter experiences can vary, so knowing your options before you book will ensure you enjoy the trip of a lifetime.
Where in the world to go?
If you don’t have a specific location in mind, it might be helpful to think about what you like to do on vacation and what time of year you want to travel. The Mediterranean offers the opportunity to visit beautiful harbor towns and cities, learn about local history and culture or see and be seen in some of the best resorts, restaurants and nightclubs. Established Western Mediterranean locations like Southern France, the Amalfi Coast and Corsica will differ from Eastern Mediterranean hotspots such as Croatia, Albania and Turkey. The Caribbean offers crystal clear waters and pristine white sand beaches that renters dream of, plus food, culture and water sports draw visitors to the various island groups scattered across the region. Further afield, travelers may want to consider expeditions to Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands or the Great Barrier Reef.
Each location will have a peak season when the weather and conditions are perfect but popular destinations will be busier. Consider the shoulder season in the Mediterranean in May and October or places where the weather is not the most important consideration, perhaps the Norwegian Fjords or Southeast Asia where every day can feel like summer.
Do your research before contacting a professional charter broker who should be well traveled and have first-hand knowledge of the best charter areas around the world.
How much should I spend?
Work with a charter broker who will help you navigate the best yachts in your price range. Be honest with them about your budget, so they can recommend options that meet your expectations of ‘value’ – which varies between charter groups.
Charter prices can vary depending on the size of the yacht, onboard facilities, destination and number of crew. If there is a popular event – for example, the Monaco Grand Prix – at the place you choose at the time of your charter, this can also affect the price.
If you are traveling with your family, children or a group of friends, the configuration of the cabin will be an important consideration and splitting the costs will make your vacation more affordable than you think. Luxury yacht charter costs including expenses (APA and gratuity) compare favorably with holidays in a first-class hotel or luxury villa, where dining out, excursions and other experiences can be expensive. In a crewed yacht charter, there are other unique advantages: the freedom to explore more areas at your own pace; the convenience of not packing and unpacking when you change location; the luxury of service and cuisine made for your own taste; and total privacy.
There are yachts to suit all budgets, with the Caribbean and Greece offering a wide range of catamarans and Turkey being home to the traditional wooden gulet – an option that can be more affordable. Large yachts, which can accommodate 12 or more people, should be considered for special family celebrations, corporate events or weddings.
What types of yachts are available?
Motor or sailing, traditional or modern, intimate or opulent … like a house, yachts come in all shapes and sizes, so it is important to consider the style of yacht you are most comfortable with and what defines ‘luxury’ for you and your guests.
Motor yachts can be sleek and sporty with top speed or superyachts with premium al fresco lifestyle amenities, such as hot tubs and water sports. Most offer faster sailings, making them ideal for itineraries that cover more territory and have generous accommodation with flexible cabin arrangements.
Sailing yachts are perfect for those looking to experience a unique feeling of freedom and explore more quietly – you can even charter a sailing yacht to enter regattas if you like the thrill of competition. The traditional sailing yacht is a beauty with classic and timeless decor, while the contemporary version is more spacious than ever and is in a sustainable yacht design.
Motor or sailing catamarans have the added advantage of stability, affordability and maneuverability – with a low draft, they can navigate to shallow bays away from the crowd. If your sense of adventure draws you to wild or exotic locations, then an explorer yacht can host you in comfort and luxury as far south as Antarctica or as far north as the Norwegian Fjords.
What are the facilities on board?
Yachts come with all kinds of facilities on board, so your choice when it comes to water toys, wine and dining, cinema and sound system, spa and gym facilities and layout.
The opportunity to try water sports, play and dive is an integral part of the charter experience for many, especially if you are traveling with children. Most yachts will carry stand-up paddle boards, kayaks and snorkelling gear, while larger superyachts may have a full list including jet skis, seabobs, water slides and this season’s favourite, e-foils and inflatable water parks. Chase boats, towable tenders or rib tenders are great additions that can pull water skis and inflatables as well as escort guests to the beach.
An on-board personal chef is the ultimate luxury for food and wine connoisseurs or just those looking to take a break from cooking while on vacation! The crew will often be experts in local wines and beers, to ensure the best selection is available on board. Experienced charter brokers will know captains, chefs and crews with good reputations, so they can make the best recommendations. You will be asked to complete a preference sheet prior to boarding so that your special requirements can be catered for by the chef and crew.
With the family on board having a TV is important to keep the little ones entertained while the adults enjoy dinner, or for a family movie night. Most yachts are equipped with state-of-the-art TVs and sound systems, and some even have outdoor cinemas and indoor screen rooms. A Bluetooth speaker system throughout allows guests to access their own playlists and the crew can arrange live music on board to accompany special celebrations.
Exercising and indulging in sauna and spa treatments are becoming increasingly popular with charter guests, so if you have a favorite routine or want to be pampered with a massage or facial, ask your charter broker for details of the amenities and services available on your chosen yacht.
No choice of yacht, facility or destination is possible, so working with a professional charter broker is essential to making your dream charter vacation come to life.
Trina Howes
Trina Howes is the Director of CharterWorld America. CharterWorld America is a luxury private yacht charter company that makes outstanding holidays with excellent yachts at amazing prices – worldwide. If you would like to be a guest blogger on the Luxury Travel Blog to enhance your profile, please contact us.
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