Yacht Charter Vacation FAQs

APA in Yacht Charters Explained

APA yacht charter explained: The Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a standard part of most luxury yacht charters, typically set at 25–40% of the base fee 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.

What APA Covers

• Fuel for the yacht and tenders
• Food and beverages
• Harbor and marina fees
• Customs and immigration fees
• Communications
• Local taxes
• Special requests (e.g., premium wines or activities)
• Dockage fees

How APA Works

• Paid in advance with your charter fee
• Managed by the captain for transparency
• Detailed expense tracking and reporting
• Regular updates provided during your trip
• Unused APA refunded after the charter
• Additional funds requested if necessary

👉For a full overview of the booking process, including contracts and payments, see our Yacht Charter Booking Guide

Budgeting Tips

• Higher fuel use = higher APA (motor yachts usually > sailing yachts)
• Long cruising distances and island-hopping increase costs
• Menu choices (premium dining, fine wines) can raise the budget
• Special activities, water toys, and excursions add to expenses

👉 APA is one part of your overall charter expenses. To understand all costs, deposits, and inclusions, visit our Yacht Charter Costs Explained FAQ

Regional Variations

Mediterranean:

• Most charters operate on a “plus expenses” basis with APA
• Higher port fees, dockage, and fuel costs
• Expensive during high season

Caribbean:

Mix of all-inclusive and plus expenses charters

• APA common for larger yachts
• Lower port fees, more flexible anchoring options

💡At the end of your charter, any unused APA funds may be refunded to you or applied toward the crew. Learn more about gratuity guidelines in our Yacht Charter Gratuity Guide

On an APA yacht charter, you pay a separate allowance—typically 10–40% of the charter fee—to cover variable costs like fuel, food, and port fees. This makes expenses flexible but less predictable. An all-inclusive yacht charter bundles meals, beverages, and most expenses into one fixed rate, offering more cost certainty.

For a full explanation, see our APA in Yacht Charters Explained Guideand our Half-Board vs Full-Board Yacht Charter Guide
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No. The barefoot rule is there to keep the decks undamaged, carpets from getting stained and soles from marking the clean decks. If you need to have shoes on for medical reasons you can wear white soled shoes that have not been worn outside. Shoes specifically designed for yachts or soft sports sandals, with a good grip on the sole, would be an option. Here is more information on What to Pack

• Larger motor yachts will have a laundry service onboard.
• Large catamarans may have washing facilities for a few items of clothing throughout the charter.
• Smaller Catamarans will not have the space to have any facilities.

Virgin Islands Yacht Charter Travel Guide: Flights, Ferries & Early Arrival Tips

Planning your Virgin Islands yacht charter travel is more than just booking a flight—it’s about making the journey as seamless as your time on the water. From flights and ferry services to private water taxis and early arrival options, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth start to your charter.

1. Getting to Your Charter Destination

St Thomas Travel Options

• Daily flights from the U.S. mainland into St Thomas (STT)
• Ferry service from Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie to Tortola (approx. $200 roundtrip per person, taxi included)
• No overnight ferry service available

Private Water Taxi Benefits

• Direct transport from St Thomas to your yacht
• Flexible departure times on your schedule
• Door-to-dock convenience
• Maximum privacy and comfort
• Ideal for groups, families, or those seeking premium service

2. Benefits of Early Arrival

• Recover from flight fatigue before boarding
• Handle customs and immigration with ease
• Avoid delays with luggage or paperwork
• Explore St Thomas or Tortola before your charter
• Start your vacation refreshed and stress-free

3. “Sleep Aboard” the Night Before

Many yachts offer a sleep aboard option, allowing you to board from 5 PM the evening before departure.

• Welcome cocktail and crew introduction
• Settle into your stateroom overnight
• Wake up already at your charter dock
• Immediate departure the next morning

4. Alternative Accommodation Options

If you prefer to arrive earlier, consider:

• Luxury waterfront hotels
• Boutique island inns
• Beach resorts and private villas
• Properties located close to marinas for easy boarding
• 5. Pre-Charter Planning Tips

Pre-book all transfers in advance

• Monitor weather conditions before arrival
• Allow time for customs clearance and paperwork
• Meet your crew early in a relaxed setting
• Familiarize yourself with the yacht before departure
• Begin your charter vacation immediately, stress-free

💡 Expert Tip: Arriving early gives you a buffer against flight delays or travel disruptions that could impact your charter schedule. Whether you choose a sleep aboard, luxury resort stay, or private transfer, planning ahead ensures your Virgin Islands yacht charter begins effortlessly.

👉 Need personalized travel planning? Contact Epic Yacht Charters for tailored guidance on flights, ferries, water taxis, and accommodations for your Virgin Islands yacht charter.

Ready to set sail? Contact Epic Yacht Charters today to start planning your perfect escape.

No visa is required to enter the British Virgin Islands. You are allowed to stay for up to one month provided you meet the entry requirements.

• Please make sure you have a valid passport  and at least one blank page
• Complete the online portal 36 hours before your arrival. Customs and Immigration Form
• You will need to have details of accommodations
• You may be asked to provide proof of your return flight/ferry

Yes — at the end of your yacht charter, the captain provides a full expense report. Any unused APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) funds are refunded to you. In some cases, guests choose to apply a portion of the remaining balance toward crew gratuities.

For a full breakdown of how APA works, see our APA in Yacht Charters Explained Guide
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Croatia has 9 international airports including Split (SPU), Zadar (ZAD) and Dubrovnik (DBV), which are all close to the coast. Direct flights are available from Chicago, New York, Dallas, Miami and Houston as well as from many locations across Europe.

• Split – Many yacht charters start and end in split and so this would be the most convenient airport. This is a great city to spend some time in before your charter.
• Dubrovnik – You may wish to charter one way from Dubrovnik to Split or Vice Versa. Dubrovnik is a great place to explore before or after your crewed yacht charter.
• Zadar – A great option if your charter is based in the northern region. 

Most yachts are based in Marin Kastela which is a 15-minute taxi ride from Split Airport.

7 nights is the typical length of a crewed yacht charter. Most yachts will charter a minimum of 5 nights up to any duration you would like. Some yachts have a standard 7 night minimum.

• Location – A five night charter would in a location such as the British Virgin Islands, as the distances to travel between islands are fairly short. Destinations such as Greece, Croatia and Bahamas, where the island are further apart, we would suggest 7 nights.
• Season – During high season in the Mediterranean (July and August) the minimum number of nights is 7. Also during Christmas, New Years and some yachts, Thanksgiving in the Caribbean.
• Availability – Yachts may offer less than 5 nights during slow season or if it is a last minute request.

On most yacht charters, the APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) is set at 10–40% of the base charter fee, depending on the yacht type and cruising area. These funds cover operating expenses like fuel, food, beverages, and dockage.

Learn more about budgeting and cost ranges in our full APA in Yacht Charters Explained Guide
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The APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) on a yacht charter covers the running expenses of your trip. This typically includes fuel, food and beverages, harbor and marina fees, customs, communications, and local taxes.

For a deeper breakdown of costs, see our full APA in Yacht Charters Explained Guide
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There a various ferry services that can transport you from St Thomas to Tortola (BVI). The following companies offer direct routes from Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook across to either Road Town or West End:

• Native Son
• Road Town Fast Ferry
• Smiths Ferry
• Aquatic Rentals Ferry Service

For most Caribbean charters that are all inclusive: Not included are crew gratuities of 15-20%, optional marina docking/berthing for an overnight stay, excursions, and meals ashore, special requests for top-shelf liquor, wine, or excessive alcohol consumption, and transfers to and from the airport.

For Mediterranean charters or APA charters “plus expenses”: APA expenses include fuel for both the yacht and tender, provisions, dockage, moorings, airport transfers, cruising permits and taxes, scuba diving and onshore excursions.

The APA payment is typically 25%-30% of the base charter rate for sailing yachts and 30%-45% for motor yachts. Your captain will purchase provisions, taxes, fuel etc for the charter using the APA and will keep all receipts along with a running log of expenses. This can be viewed at any time during your charter.If you do not use all of the APA this will be returned to you at the end of your charter. If you exceed the APA you will need to settle your account before you disembark.

Mediterranean and APA charters charters do not include crew gratuity, which is typically 10%-15% of the charter cost.

Crewed yacht charters in Croatia run from April through to the end of October. The best time to go is during shoulder season – May, June, and September.

Chartering in Shoulder Season (May, June and September)

Pros

• Comfortable temperatures
• Fewer crowds to enable a more authentic experience
• Lower prices

Cons

• Water is still cool in the beginning of May
• Weather less predictable

Chartering in summer season (July and August)

Pros

• Warmer weather and hottest days
• Warm water great for snorkelling, swimming and water sports
• Fun atmosphere with many events and festivals

Cons

• Most expensive time to charter
• Large crowds

Chartering in off- season (April and October)

Pros

• Significantly lower prices
• Less crowded
• Ideal for sailers who like stronger winds

Cons

• Cooler seas temperatures
• Less attractions will be open
• Weather can be less predictable

Temperatures

• High Season – July – August  – Average 85 °F  (29 °C)
• Mid-Season – June – September – Average 77 °F  (25 °C)
• Low Season –  April, May and October – 71 °F  (22 °C)

• We were crew for many years in the BVI, Bahamas and the rest of the Caribbean. This gives us a unique understanding and insight to chartering.
• Formed in 2016, Epic Yacht Charters is a well known and trusted brokerage within the yacht charter industry.
• We offer a personalised approach, aiming to provide a crewed yacht charter tailored to your preferences. With decades of experience, regional expertise across the Caribbean, Greece, and worldwide destinations, and a shared passion for matching guests with their perfect crewed yacht.
• The yacht owner pays us so that our service is free to you.
• We have full access to the MYBA e-Contract system and YachtFolio, to source the best yachts and crews, not only in the Caribbean but also in the Mediterranean and other international charter destinations.
• We attend Charter Yacht Shows, in many locations, giving us first hand knowledge of the yachts and crews. This is essential so that we can match you with the best yacht and crew for your group.
• We will give you unbiased advice, personalized service and support before, during and after your charter.
• We will manage the contracts, payments and logistics; making the experience as stress-free as possible.
• We keep your money secure by holding funds in an escrow account.

If you are considering a crewed yacht charter contact us and we will help you plan a vacation like no other!

Yacht Charter Booking | Epic Yacht Charters

Booking a luxury yacht charter is a straightforward process when you understand the steps involved. Our yacht charter booking guide explains everything from destination selection and yacht choice to contracts, deposits, and final payments. Whether it’s your first time booking or you’re a seasoned charter guest, these details will help you plan with confidence.

1. Yacht Charter Booking Process
Initial Steps

• The first stage of yacht charter booking is deciding where and when you want to travel:
• Destination selection – Choose from popular regions such as the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mediterranean, or Greece.
• Yacht choice – Decide between motor yachts, catamarans, trimarans, or sailing yachts, depending on your group’s preferences.
• Personal consultation – Work with an experienced charter specialist who can recommend the best yachts based on your budget, group size, and preferred style of travel.
• Preliminary itinerary planning – Discuss possible routes, anchorages, and highlights to ensure the yacht matches your desired experience.

Timing Guidelines

• Booking early is always recommended:
• Peak season (Caribbean holidays, Mediterranean summers): Reserve 6–12 months in advance.
• Holiday bookings (Christmas & New Year’s): Book 12+ months ahead, as prime yachts fill up quickly.
• Off-season: Booking 3–6 months ahead is usually sufficient.
• Last-minute bookings: Sometimes possible depending on yacht and crew availability.

2. Financial Terms & Payments
Deposit Requirements

• A 50% deposit is required at the time of signing your yacht charter contract.
• For Caribbean all-inclusive charters, sometimes 25% is accepted if booking more than six months in advance.
• The remaining balance is due 60 days before the charter.

APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)

• For yachts operating under MYBA or Mediterranean terms, an APA (usually 30–40% of the charter fee) is collected in advance to cover expenses such as fuel, food, beverages, and dockage. Any unused funds are refunded at the end of your charter.

What’s Included & Excluded

• Included: The yacht, crew services, onboard amenities, and insurance for the vessel.
• Excluded: Food, beverages, fuel, dockage fees, communication charges, and crew gratuity (typically 15–20% of the base charter fee).

3. Yacht Charter Contracts

• Charters are secured with industry-standard contracts such as:
• MYBA Contract – Used for most Mediterranean charters.
• CYBA or AYCA Contracts – Often used in the Caribbean and North America.

These contracts clearly outline:

• Charter dates and location
• Payment schedule and cancellation terms
• Insurance requirements
• Crew responsibilities and guest obligations
• Your charter broker will review all contract details with you to ensure clarity before you sign.

4. Why Book Early?

Booking your yacht charter early provides several benefits:

• Greater yacht selection – Prime yachts and best crews are reserved quickly.
• Better itinerary planning – Early bookings secure dockage in popular marinas.
• Peace of mind – Time to finalize preferences, travel logistics, and insurance.

5. Insurance & Cancellation Protection

• Because yacht charters are a significant investment, we strongly recommend travel insurance:
• Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage – Gives maximum flexibility.
• Trip cancellation/interruption insurance – Protects against illness, weather disruptions, or other emergencies.
• Medical and evacuation coverage – Important for international travel.
• 6. Working with a Yacht Charter Specialist

A professional broker ensures that every aspect of your booking is handled with care:

• Yacht recommendations based on personal inspections and industry connections.
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
• Preference sheet guidance to match food, drink, and activity options to your group.
• Ongoing support before, during, and after your trip.

Final Thoughts on Yacht Charter Booking

The yacht charter booking process is designed to make your vacation seamless. From choosing the right yacht and destination to securing contracts, deposits, and provisioning, our team at Epic Yacht Charters is here to guide you through every step.

Whether you are planning a family yacht charter in the Caribbean, a luxury motor yacht in the Mediterranean, or a catamaran sailing adventure in Greece, early planning and expert guidance ensure the best experience.

📞 Contact Epic Yacht Charters today to begin planning your yacht charter booking and enjoy a stress-free journey to your dream vacation at sea.

The standard gratuity for yacht crew ranges from 10–20% of the charter fee, depending on the destination and level of service. In the Caribbean and Bahamas, gratuities are typically 15–20%, while in the Mediterranean and Europe, the standard is 10–15%.

👉 For a detailed breakdown of tipping practices by region, visit our full Yacht Crew Gratuity Guide
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Caribbean – Once you decide on the yacht you would like to book, we will put a complimentary hold on your dates. while the hold is in place we will draw up a contract for you to sign along with details of how to pay your deposit. If you are more than 6 months away from your charter, a 25% deposit is required (50% if under 6 months). Payments of 25% at 6 months out, and the final 50% will be due 60 days before the charter. Your monies are held in escrow and the yacht owner is paid right before your charter.

Bahamas – Same payment terms as Caribbean except the VAT and Charter Tax is added to your final payment along with any APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). Some yachts in the Bahamas include the APA in their rate.

Mediterranean – Once you decide which yacht that you would like to charter you need to be ready to sign your contract and submit your deposit as soon as possible. The deposit is 50% of the charter fee. 2 months before your charter we will invoice you for the other 50%, the VAT and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)

Crewed yacht charters range from $25,000 per week to $100,000 per week, all inclusive, for a large catamaran or small motor yacht. Luxury motor yachts start closer to $70,000.00 per week, plus expenses. Rates will depend on the size, age, amenities (jacuzzi, jet skis), how many crew etc

Size and Type of Yacht

Larger more luxurious motor yachts will be more significantly more expensive to charter than a smaller catamaran.

Season

Yachts in the Caribbean will have higher rates for Christmas, New Years and some also have increased rates for Thanksgiving and Easter. In the Mediterranean, larger motor yachts will have higher rates for July and August, with smaller yachts and catamarans typically having a high, mid, and low season.

Location

VAT is added to yacht charters in locations in the Mediterranean and also in The Bahamas. VAT ranges from 5% up to 22%, depending on which country your charter is in.

What Should I Pack for My Yacht Charter?

Packing for a luxury yacht vacation is different from packing for a typical resort stay. Space is limited onboard, but your crew will provide many essentials like beach towels, linens, and snorkeling gear. To help you prepare, we’ve created a practical packing guide so you bring everything you need—without overpacking. Browse Our Luxury Charter Fleet to see what’s already included onboard.

Essential Wardrobe

• Multiple swimsuits for daily water activities
• Light, breathable clothing to wear over swimwear
• 2–3 casual dinner outfits for onboard dining
• 1–2 smart casual outfits for restaurants ashore
• Light jacket or sweater for evening breezes
• Comfortable, non-marking deck shoes or sandals
• Sun Protection
• High-quality polarized sunglasses
• Sun hats or caps with secure straps
• Reef-safe sunscreen and lip protection
• UPF-rated rash guards for extended water activities

Personal Items

• Prescription medications in original containers
• Seasickness remedies if prone to motion sensitivity
• Personal toiletries and hygiene items
• Small camera or GoPro for capturing memories
• Lightweight backpack or dry bag for shore excursions
• Electronics & Documents
• Passport and travel documents
• Credit cards and small amounts of local currency
• Power adapters if traveling internationally
• Phone and charger (most yachts offer WiFi)
• Downloaded playlists, e-books, or podcasts for offline use

Entertainment & Extras

• Books, e-readers, or magazines
• Portable waterproof speakers (optional)
• Travel journal or sketchbook
• Small gifts or souvenirs for crew (optional)

Practical Packing Tips

• Choose soft-sided luggage that can be folded and stowed under beds—avoid large hard-shell suitcases.
• Pack versatile items that mix and match easily.
• Avoid overpacking; storage space is efficient but compact.
• Most yachts supply beach towels, linens, and water sports equipment—confirm with your broker before bringing extras.

For more planning advice, visit our Yacht Charter FAQ Hub

Final Advice

Your yacht crew will help you feel at home and can provide personalized recommendations for your specific destination and season. If you’re unsure about packing certain items, ask your charter broker for guidance.

For personalized packing suggestions or help planning your trip, call 1-954-271-3005 or Explore Yacht Charter Destinations
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Caribbean yachts (not large motor yachts) are all-inclusive with a professional captain and private chef. Larger vessels may have additional crew such as deckhands and steward(ess). All meals, snacks, standard ship’s bar (liquor, wine, beer, and soft drinks), fuel for the vessel and tender, insurance for the vessel and crews, all water sports activities, and SCUBA diving on some vessels are part of your package.

Not included are crew gratuities (15%-20%), optional marina docking/berthing for an overnight stay, excursions and meals ashore, port fees in the BVI, special requests for top-shelf liquor, wine, or excessive alcohol consumption, and transfers to and from the airport.

Mediterranean yachts include the use of the charter yacht, professional crew, and onboard equipment and water Sports gear and activities.

All other daily expenses will be covered with an Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA). This is typically 25%-40% of the charter fee, which can vary according to the yacht type, itinerary, and possible charter requests and requirements. The APA payment is collected with the final balance

APA expenses include fuel for both the yacht and tender, provisions, marina fees, moorings, airport transfers, cruising permits, canal fees, scuba diving, onshore excursions, electronic communications, and local taxes

Your yacht will be fully fuelled and provisioned, according to your preferences, when you step onboard. The Captain will keep all receipts, along with a running log of expenses, which can be viewed at any time during your charter

Any APA that has not been spent will be returned to you at the end of the charter. If expenses exceed the APA during your charter, additional funds will need to be submitted. Your captain will update and advise you if any further payment is required. This will need to be paid before you disembark

Crew Gratuity is separate and is typically 10%-15% of the charter rate. This should be given to your captain at the end of your charter

You can fly commercial or private into Nassau (airport code NAS). After a taxi ride, your yacht will pick you up at the marina. You may wish to fly into the Exuma Cays, on a small plane, to start your sailing vacation there and then you can depart from Nassau when you leave.

Makers Air provides daily direct flights from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Staniel Cay and other locations in the Bahamas to make your trips quick and stress-free. A Cessna Caravan is popular for island hopping by air. It is also possible to fly by waterplane and fly straight to your yacht at anchor in the Cays from Nassau.

The best way to get to this beautiful Caribbean island is St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA), the second-busiest airport in the eastern Caribbean. It is very modern and from here you can taxi it to the marina where your crew will meet you.

The much smaller L’Espérance Airport, in Grand Case on French St. Martin, caters largely to inter-island commuter airlines and small private aircraft. Your charter yacht can pick you up at the small dock nearby.

There are multiple ways to get to the BVI

Fly direct to Tortola (EIS) and take a taxi to your crewed yacht charter or hotel. The Tortola airport has many flights daily from Miami with American, and from Puerto Rico and St Maarten via Cape Air, Seaborne, and Liat Airlines.

Fly into St Thomas and take a scenic 45-minute ferry ride into the BVI. The ferry will depart from either Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook and go to West End or Road Town on Tortola. Your crew can arrange transportation for you from the ferry terminal to the marina. Ferry Guide

Fly into St Thomas and take a private water taxi to your yacht. A taxi will pick you up form the airport and take you to Red Hook. There you will meet your water taxi. The journey across to Tortola is around 30 minutes. You will first stop in West End to clear customs and immigration and then get taken to your hotel or crewed yacht. Water Taxi Guide 

There are various airlines flying directly into St. Thomas. Airport (code STT). Flights are also daily from Puerto Rico (code SJU). Most international flights depart in the afternoon, which is convenient since your yacht charter ends at noon. Once in the USVI, short flights will take you to St. Croix.

In the unlikely event of you canceling your charter, all payments are forfeited. However, if the yacht can re-book a different charter for the same dates, there is a chance of a partial refund. In some cases, a future date can be chosen, and the deposit can be held.

The cancellation terms may depend on what contract is used for your charter. Contact us for more information. We would always recommend purchasing trip insurance.

Travel insurance is always a good idea. Major travel insurance companies can cover cancellations due to extreme weather or an Act of God, emergency medical issues, and other specific situations.  Please inquire with your preferred travel insurance company.

Crewed yachts will have internet access for you to use while onboard. Some locations have better wi-fi than others but on the whole in the Caribbean and Mediterranean you will have access. Some yachts now come equipped with Starlink.

Yes yachts are fully air-conditioned. Generators provide power to run all systems when required. Some yachts have solar panels also.

Each cabin will have individual controls so that you can set the temperate for your comfort.

Your private yacht chef caters to most special diets and allergies. We will send you a preference sheet 2 months before your charter for you to complete. Here you can list any special diets or allergies anyone in your group may have. We will forward this to your chef and then he/she can plan a menu. It is not uncommon to have several special diets on one charter. If this is a need, Epic Yacht Charters will inquire with yachts during the search process and discuss it with the chef.

Your cell phone should work in most places while on your crewed yacht charter. Set your phone to internet calling and messaging and connect to the yachts WiFi.

Make sure you give our information to someone at home so that we can reach out to the crew if they are unable to contact you.

All yachts have a VHF radio.

The BVI charter yacht season runs from November through July. Here are some things to take into consideration when planning what time of year to take your crewed yacht charter.

• Temperatures are around 79°F from December to March and around 84°F from May to October.
• Expect to pay slightly higher rates during holiday weeks – Christmas, New Years and Thanksgiving
• Christmas and New Year’s weeks are booked up to 18 months in advance.
• The busiest months are December to April. Enjoy warm sinner weather, less rainfall and lower humidity.
• March and April are busy with spring break charters. These weeks get booked up so make sure you start to think about your charter at least 9 months to a year in advance to get the best selection.
• If you are wanting smaller crowds May, June and July will be quieter on the water.
• The driest months are usually February to April
• Increased rainfall will be May – November. This will short bursts, followed by hot sunshine.