Half-Board vs Full-Board Yacht Charter Guide
Planning your trip and comparing half board vs full board yacht charter options? This guide explains exactly what each dining plan includes, how they differ, cost implications, and tips to help you choose the best meal plan for your private yacht vacation.
What Is a Half Board Yacht Charter?
A half board yacht charter (sometimes called “HB”) includes a mix of onboard meals and time ashore to enjoy local restaurants. Guests usually have:
- All breakfasts on board
- Four lunches provided by the yacht chef
- Three dinners provided on board
- Crew service for included meals
- Beverages with onboard meals
- The remaining lunches and dinners are at your discretion and expense, giving you flexibility to explore authentic restaurants, beach bars, and fine dining experiences at your charter destinations.
Benefits of Half Board
- Lower base charter fee compared to full board
- Flexibility to enjoy local dining ashore
- Balance of onboard cuisine and cultural food experiences
- Easier scheduling for excursions and island-hopping days
- Great option for guests who prefer lighter dining packages
What Is a Full Board Yacht Charter?
A full board yacht charter (sometimes called “FB”) is more like an all-inclusive yacht meal plan. All meals are prepared and served on board by the yacht’s professional chef. Guests enjoy:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day
- Snacks and hors d’oeuvres between meals
- All beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, depending on yacht provisions
- Customized menus and dietary accommodations
This option provides maximum convenience and is especially popular for families, larger groups, and itineraries where dining ashore isn’t a priority.
Benefits of Full Board
- Every meal included in your base rate
- No need to plan or budget for restaurants ashore
- Complete culinary customization for dietary preferences
- More time onboard to relax and enjoy water sports
- A seamless, all-inclusive yacht vacation experience
Cost Considerations
When comparing half board vs full board yacht charter pricing, keep in mind:
Half Board:
- Lower upfront cost- but overall the cost of the meals onshore will add additional cost compared to the full board
- Guests should budget for 4–7 restaurant meals ashore
- Factor in transport costs to/from restaurants
- Opportunity to explore authentic local dining
Full Board:
- Higher upfront cost, but no surprise restaurant expenses
- Alcoholic beverages may be included depending on yacht contract
- Ideal for guests who prefer convenience and private dining
Which Meal Plan Is Right for You?
When choosing between half board and full board yacht charters, consider your group’s style:
Choose Half Board If…
- You love dining out and want to try island restaurants
- Your itinerary includes stops in culinary hotspots
- You prefer a lower base rate and don’t mind paying separately for meals ashore. You understand this method allows you to try local meals ashore, but overall the cost will be higher.
Choose Full Board If…
- You prefer the convenience of having everything onboard
- You’re traveling with children or a large group
- Your itinerary includes remote anchorages with limited dining options
- You want a completely all-inclusive yacht charter experience
Sample Day: Half Board vs Full Board
Half Board Sample Day
- Breakfast on board with fresh fruit and pastries
- Morning sail to a new island
- Lunch provided on board by the yacht chef
- Afternoon beach stop
- Dinner ashore at a local restaurant
Full Board Sample Day
- Breakfast on board with eggs and fresh smoothies
- Morning snorkeling excursion
- Lunch on deck overlooking turquoise waters
- Afternoon water sports session
- Sunset cocktails and chef-prepared dinner on board
Planning Tips for Guests
- Discuss preferred dining style with your broker before booking
- Plan shore dinners in advance during high season (reservations often required)
- Factor in travel time and transportation when dining ashore
- Share dietary needs and allergies with your yacht chef early
- Consider a special celebratory dinner ashore for a birthday or anniversary
- Frequently Asked Questions
Is half board cheaper than full board?
Yes. Half board yacht charters usually carry a lower base rate because some meals are at your own expense ashore. But, once you factor in the cost of the meals on shore, it will turn out to be more costly.
Can we switch from half board to full board during the trip?
No, meal plans are chosen at booking and factored into your charter contract.
What’s the most popular choice?
Most guests on Caribbean yacht charters prefer full board for convenience. Half board is more common in the Mediterranean, where island dining culture is part of the experience.
Final Thoughts
Both half board and full board yacht charters offer excellent dining experiences tailored to your preferences. Half board is perfect for food lovers who want to explore local restaurants, while full board ensures a seamless, all-inclusive onboard experience.
Your Epic Yacht Charters broker will guide you through the options, review your itinerary, and help you select the dining plan that fits your style of travel.
