charter yacht pricing

Charter Yacht Pricing & What’s Included

One of the first questions many clients have when planning a yacht vacation is: “How does the pricing work?” The answer depends on the type of yacht and the cruising area. Here’s a straightforward guide so you know exactly what to expect.

Charter pricing varies by yacht type and destination. Use the links below to jump straight to the section that matters most:

All Inclusive
Plus Expenses
VAT & Taxes
Crew Gratuity

All Inclusive Pricing

 This means the weekly rate typically covers:

  • Yacht and crew

  • All meals and snacks – tailored to your preferences

  • Beverages (including open bar)

  • Fuel for the yacht and water toys

  • Cruising permits and mooring fees (varies by yacht)

Most Catamaran Charters in the Caribbean are offered on an all-inclusive basis.
See All Inclusive Yachts

'Plus Expenses' Pricing

Not all yachts are all-inclusive. Many—especially motor yachts and catamarans in Greece and Croatia—are offered on a plus expenses basis.

 

This means the charter rate you see covers the yacht and crew, but all running costs are charged separately. These costs are managed through something called an APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance), which is collected before your trip (typically 35–40% of the charter fee).

The APA is used for things like:

  • Food and beverages tailored to your preferences

  • Fuel for the yacht and water toys

  • Dockage, port fees, and local taxes

  • Shore power, communications, and incidentals

At the end of the charter, the captain provides a full accounting. If the yacht spent less than estimated, unused funds are returned to you; if more was spent (for example, covering longer cruising distances or premium requests), the difference is settled before disembarkation.

In short: “Plus expenses” gives you flexibility and control—you pay only for what you actually use, with complete transparency.
See Plus Expenses Yachts

VAT & Taxes

VAT (Value Added Tax) is a government tax applied to yacht charters in many destinations. It’s calculated as a percentage of the base charter fee and is paid in addition to the charter rate (and any APA if applicable).

The exact VAT amount depends on where your charter begins and cruises:

  • Greece: 5–7% (depending on itinerary)

  • Croatia: 13%

  • Bahamas: 14%

  • BVI, USVI, Grenada, St. Martin area: No VAT currently applies

VAT does not usually apply to your APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) or operating expenses—it’s only on the yacht’s base fee.

Crew Gratuity

Crew gratuity is a customary way to thank your yacht’s crew for their hard work and exceptional service. While always at your discretion, it is considered standard practice in the yachting industry.

 

Typical Gratuity Guidelines:

  • Caribbean (BVI, USVI, Bahamas, St. Martin, Grenada, Grenadines): 15–20% of the charter fee

  • Mediterranean (Greece, Croatia, Italy, France, Spain): 10–15% of the charter fee

How It Works:
At the end of your charter, gratuity is usually presented in cash (USD or EUR depending on location) or can be arranged in advance by bank transfer. It is always given to the captain, who will then distribute it evenly amongst the crew.


The crew works behind the scenes every day—navigating, preparing meals, keeping the yacht in perfect condition, and ensuring every detail of your trip is seamless. Gratuity is a personal way to recognize their efforts and show your appreciation.

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