An all-inclusive yacht charter In the Caribbean is one of the most relaxing experiences you will ever have. It is the ultimate luxurious and convenient way to experience a vacation on the water. With an all-inclusive charter, you can relax and enjoy your time on the yacht without having to worry about additional expenses. Whether you want to explore stunning coastlines, indulge in gourmet meals, or engage in water sports, an all-inclusive yacht charter provides a seamless and unforgettable experience. Enjoy the ultimate all-inclusive vacation aboard your own private catamaran. Complete with a professional captain and gourmet chef, your group will relish the spacious accommodations and a premium, personalized yacht charter experience.
ALL-INCLUSIVE includeS
Yacht
YachtThe cost of the yacht rental and insurance are included in your all-inclusive cost. As well as fuel for the yacht and tender, and in most cases (in the Caribbean), charter taxes are covered.
crew
Your crew is experienced and well trained and will not disappoint when showing you the charter area’s highlights for the best vacation ever! On a crewed yacht charter, the crew members have various responsibilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests. They are here to make sure you get the most out of your time onboard.
Our yachts have a professional Captain and Chef. Larger vessels may have additional crew such as deckhands and a steward(ess). Yachts that have 2 crew will cover all the roles listed below.
Captain
Captain has a professional license, and the boat is fully insured. He is responsible for all safety and wellbeing of all onboard. He plans the sailing route and makes sure the yacht is safe at anchor or on the dock. The Captain is responsible for safely navigating the yacht, following maritime regulations, and ensuring the overall safety of the guests and crew. They will plan the itinerary, taking into consideration weather conditions and the preferences of the guests.
Chef
Your Chef is eager to show off the best cuisine and other culinary delights produced in a tiny galley. He/She plans menus according to special diets or preferences. The chef is responsible for preparing delicious meals for the guests on board. They shop for the best ingredients and have them onboard ready for charter. The chef will create culinary experiences each day serving you breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as snacks as needed throughout the day.
Steward/Stewardess
This role ensures that the guests’s cabins and common areas are kept clean and tidy at all times. Providing a turn-down service at night time and bed-making service in the mornings. They will assist with serving meals and drinks and taking care of the guest’s needs throughout the day. The Stewardess will ensure your cabin looks like it did when you first stepped on board, and together the entire crew is willing to help each other to ensure that you enjoy a well-deserved fun in the sun vacation and a successful trip of a lifetime.
Deck Hand
The deckhand will help the captain with navigation and yacht handling. They are responsible for maintaining the exterior of the yacht as well as operating water toys and equipment. They will also assist with water sports tuition and transportation to and from the yacht to shore. If there are additional crew on larger vessels, the Deckhand will be ready to take you in the tender for water sports activities and to go ashore. He/She will ensure the cleanliness of the common areas.
Food
FoodAll your meals and snacks throughout the day are provided by your chef. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus snacks in between meals are all included.
Most reviews have shown us that the food aboard their trip was a highlight.
You fill out the preference forms prior to your arrival and the chef will prepare a menu for the week according. Traveling with a “picky-eater”? Does somebody in your group follow a gluten-free diet? With a personal gourmet chef on board to prepare meals from your preference forms, you can dine worry-free knowing that any food allergies, hard-to-please palates, and dietary restrictions in your private charter party have already been accounted for and accommodated. All meals and beverages are included with a crewed yacht, which means you can soak up the sun while sipping on your favorite happy hour cocktail and avoid the “what’s for dinner?” debate altogether. Just sit back and relax—reservations are not required.
Drinks
DrinksA standard bar is included on your all-inclusive yacht charter. Liquor brands stocked by the yachts are typically Titos, Captain Morgan, Patron, Jack Daniels, Bacardi, Grand Marnier, Baileys, Jameson, Johnnie Walker, Malibu, Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray.
If you have particular brands that you would like you can add these to your preference sheet, as well as what beers and wines you enjoy.
Soft drinks such as sodas, juices tea, and coffee are all included.
Special requests for top-shelf liquor, wine, or excessive alcohol consumption may incur an additional cost.
Water Toys
Water ToysUse of all water sports equipment is included for you. Most yachts will provide stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel gear, beach games, floating mats, and towable tubes.
Some yachts also have SeaBobs/SeaScooters. E-Foil boards, waterskis, and fishing gear, and some may offer SCUBA diving.
Each yacht is different so please inquire if a particular water toy is a priority for your group.
Included
- Use of the yacht with a professional captain and chef, and on larger yachts, additional crew to ensure the highest level of service
- Luxury accommodations with private bathrooms
- All onboard meals – breakfast, lunch, appetizer, dinner, and dessert
- Snacks – fresh fruit, popcorn, granola bars, chips, chocolates, and more
- Beverages – water, juices, sodas, coffee/tea, beer, wine, and a fully stocked bar
- Water sports activities – All motorized sports included
- WiFi Internet access in most areas
- Air conditioning throughout
- Fuel for the yacht and dinghy
Not Included
- Optional marina docking/berthing for an overnight stay
- Excursions and meals ashore
- Special requests for top-shelf liquor, wine, or excessive alcohol consumption
- Transfers to and from the airport to your crewed yacht
- Suggested crew gratuity: 15-20% of the charter fee
When you decide on a sailing vacation without limits, the next best thing is going on a crewed yacht charter in the Caribbean – with just you and your friends and family going island-hopping on a private yacht – you know that having a knowledgeable captain and personal gourmet chef on board is just one of the many things that make this tailor-made travel experience so unique.
A private crewed yacht charter offers several benefits that you simply won’t receive on a commercial cruise line or during a deluxe resort stay, ultimately delivering a one-of-a-kind vacation that is all-inclusive and all about YOU. Here are some of the things that will make your on-the-water sailing vacation extra special and unforgettable.
The cost for a six-person, all-inclusive crewed catamaran sailing vacation can be as little as $24,000.
All Caribbean charters are all-inclusive, so there is little to plan. Your crew takes care of your every need from the time you step aboard to saying farewell until the next time.
Does an all-inclusive yacht charter sound like your dream vacation? Let us help you make that dream a reality! Epic Yacht Charters offers access to the best sailing or motor catamarans for vacations in the Virgin Islands and other Caribbean destinations.
We will guide you and your group on the best way to spend your Caribbean/Bahamas paradise escape. The Mediterranean crewed yachts are not all-inclusive. Contact Michelle and Hannah for more information.
All yachts recommended by Epic Yacht Charters are hand-selected, and we look forward to working with you to make the right choice when you decide to book. Our trusted service comes at NO extra cost to you!
The captain manages the APA account like an operating budget, tracking every expense with receipts.
During Your Charter:
- The captain maintains detailed expense records
- All receipts are retained for documentation
- On longer charters (7+ days), mid-week accounting updates are common
- If APA runs low, captain will discuss with you before requesting additional funds
Final Day of Charter:
- Captain prepares comprehensive expense report
- Review shows all expenditures with supporting receipts
- Remaining APA balance is calculated
- You receive complete accounting documentation
What If APA Runs Out?
This is uncommon with proper planning, but if you’re exceptionally active, travel extensively, or make numerous premium requests, the APA may be insufficient. In these cases:
- Captain notifies you when APA reaches approximately 20% remaining
- You discuss options: reduce expenses or add funds
- Additional payment can be made via wire transfer or credit card
- Charter continues without interruption
Good communication with your captain about preferences and activities helps prevent APA shortfalls. An experienced charter broker helps you estimate appropriate APA amounts during booking.
Sample APA Accounting
Here’s an example of typical APA expenses for a $40,000/week charter with $12,000 APA:
Fuel and Dockage:$3,800
- Diesel fuel for yacht and tenders: $2,400
- Marina fees (3 nights): $900
- Mooring balls and harbor fees: $500
Provisions:$4,200
- Groceries and fresh provisions: $2,800
- Alcoholic beverages: $1,100
- Specialty items and dietary requirements: $300
Activities and Services:$2,100
- Scuba diving (2 tanks per person): $800
- Shore excursion to ruins with guide: $600
- Special dinner celebration setup: $400
- Water toy rentals (jet ski half-day): $300
Communications and Miscellaneous: $600
- Starlink internet usage: $350
- Laundry service: $150
- Special provision delivery: $100
Total Expenses: $10,700, APA Provided: $12,000, Refund to Guest: $1,300
This accounting is provided with all supporting receipts, showing complete transparency in how your APA was utilized.
Understanding the difference between these two pricing models helps you choose the right option for your vacation style.
Plus-Expenses Charter (APA Model)
How it works:
- Pay charter fee plus APA upfront
- Captain tracks actual expenses
- Receive accounting and any refund at charter end
Advantages:
- Complete transparency—see exactly where money goes
- Flexibility to adjust preferences during charter
- Pay only for what you actually consume
- Unused funds returned to you
- Premium provisions and experiences available
Considerations:
- Requires APA payment upfront (larger initial outlay)
- Final cost unknown until charter ends
- Need to discuss preferences and budget with captain
All-Inclusive Charter
How it works:
- Single price covers charter fee AND typical operating expenses
- Specific inclusions outlined in contract
- No additional charges unless you exceed package terms
Advantages:
- Know total cost upfront
- Simplified budgeting and planning
- No APA payment or final accounting
- Often includes standard bar and provisions
Considerations:
- Premium or special requests may incur extra charges
- Less flexibility for custom experiences
- Includes budget limitations on provisions
- Still need to pay crew gratuity separately
Typical All-Inclusive Coverage:
- Standard fuel allowance (limited cruising hours)
- House wine, beer, and basic spirits
- Three meals daily with standard provisions
- Standard water toys and equipment
- Local cruising within specified area
Common All-Inclusive Exclusions:
- Premium wines and all champagnes
- Top-shelf spirits or specialty cocktails
- Excessive fuel use (extended cruising or high speeds)
- Shore dining at restaurants
- Special activities (scuba diving, guided tours)
- Crew gratuity
Most luxury crewed charters in prime destinations like the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Bahamas operate on the APA model because it provides the flexibility and transparency that discerning charterers expect. All-inclusive options are more common for budget-friendly or charters in the Virgin Islands.
The Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a standard part of most luxury yacht charters, typically set at 25 to 40% of your base charter fee, the APA ensures your captain and crew have the funds needed to deliver a seamless experience—covering everything from fuel and food to docking fees and local taxes. Your APA covers all variable operational expenses during your charter like:
Fuel and Dockage:
- Diesel or gasoline for the yacht and tenders
- Marina fees and mooring costs
- Port charges and harbor dues
- Generator fuel for power at anchor
Food and Beverages:
- All groceries for meals prepared onboard
- Wine, spirits, beer, and specialty beverages
- Special dietary requirements or premium ingredients
- Snacks, coffee, and provisions for the crew
Activities and Entertainment:
- Water sports equipment rentals beyond standard toys
- Scuba diving arrangements and tank refills
- Shore excursions and guided tours
- Special event arrangements or decorations
- Transportation to restaurants or attractions
Communications and Services:
- Satellite phone or internet usage (if charged separately)
- Laundry and dry cleaning services
- Special delivery services for provisions
- National park fees or marine reserve charges
Additional Crew or Services:
- Massage therapists or yoga instructors
- Dive instructors or water sports coaches
- Additional crew for special events ( Musicians etc)
- Local guides or interpreters
The 25-40% range covers most standard charters, but consider these factors:
Higher APA (35-40%) recommended for:
- Motor yachts with high fuel consumption
- Extensive cruising itineraries covering long distances
- Frequent dining on board
- Active water sports programs with rentals
- Remote destinations with higher provisioning costs
- Large groups requiring abundant provisions
Lower APA (25-30%) may suffice for:
- Sailing catamarans with minimal fuel needs
- Shorter cruising distances in one area
- Primarily dining aboard with chef-prepared meals
- Standard water toys without rentals
- Well-provisioned charter bases with competitive prices
- Smaller groups with modest consumption
Lower APA (5-10%) works for:
- Larger All- inclusive catamarans often ask for an extra amount for fine wines, transfers and unexpected expenses
Your charter broker can help you estimate appropriate APA based on your specific itinerary and preferences. It’s always better to have excess APA (which is refunded) than to run short mid-charter. Any extra APA can be returned or given to the crew toward gratuity.
Understanding the payment schedule helps you budget properly for your yacht charter vacation.
Standard Payment Schedule
At Booking (Contract Signing):
- 50% of the charter fee as a deposit
- This secures your yacht and dates
- Payment typically due within 5-7 days of signed agreement
8 Weeks Before Charter:
- Remaining 50% of charter fee (covers yacht, crew, equipment, insurance).
- Full APA amount (typically 25 to 40% of the charter fee)
- Any VAT (Value Added Tax) of the charter fee
- Delivery Fees (if any)
During Charter:
- The captain manages the APA account and tracks expenses
- Mid-week update is standard on longer charters, daily if you request.
- Additional APA payment if original amount proves insufficient (rare with proper planning)
End of Charter:
- Captain presents detailed expense accounting
- Unused APA funds returned to you (typically via wire transfer within 2 weeks)
- Crew gratuity paid separately (typically 10 to 20% of the charter fee, depending on region)
Payment Methods Accepted
- Wire transfers (preferred for large amounts)
- Credit cards (may incur 3-5% processing fee)
- Certified checks (requires advance timing)
- Digital payment platforms for some brokerages
International charters may involve currency exchange considerations. Confirm the currency of payment with your broker—some Caribbean charters price in USD, while Mediterranean charters often use EUR. Your charter agreement will specify the currency and payment methods.
Security Deposits
Unlike the APA, most yacht charters do NOT require a separate security deposit. The charter fee and APA structure covers normal operational expenses, and yacht insurance protects against major damage. However, some charter yachts may require:
- Additional deposit for extremely high-value vessels or for special events
- Damage waiver fees as an alternative to deposits
- Always clarify deposit requirements with us during booking.
Yes—absolutely. The APA is YOUR money held in trust for operating expenses, not additional payment to the charter company or yacht. Any unused APA is returned at the end of your charter, typically by wire transfer within two weeks, or you can choose to put it toward the crew gratuity.
APA charters suit:
- Guests who value complete transparency in expenses
- Those with specific preferences or premium taste in provisions
- Groups planning diverse activities or extensive travel
- Charterers comfortable with variable final costs
- Anyone who appreciates detailed accounting
