Cost of Crewed Yacht Charter
Know what it will cost for your next crewed yacht vacation in the British and US Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Croatia and Greece.
WHAT IS THE COST OF A CREWED YACHT CHARTER?
Most crewed yacht charters in the Caribbean are all-inclusive and range from $23,000 per week to $100,000.00 per week. Yachts in the Mediterranean have a base rate and then added to that are the expenses and VAT. Luxury Motor yachts start closer to $70,000.00 per week and do not included expenses. Some yachts offer half-board options where meals are enjoyed ashore at the charterer’s expense, making the week more affordable.
Dining at sea is more than just meals — it’s part of your adventure. Customized menus allow you to:
- Celebrate milestones with tailored cuisine
- Explore local flavors prepared by expert chefs
- Pair wines and cocktails with your favorite dishes
- Relax knowing all dietary needs are handled in advance
Your yacht chef can design a wide range of dining experiences:
- Breakfast: light continental spreads or full plated meals
- Lunch: casual buffets, themed barbecues, or formal service
- Dinners: elegant multi-course menus or relaxed family-style meals
- Special Events: themed parties, holiday meals, or anniversary celebrations
Every aspect of the yacht charter menu can be customized, from morning smoothies to midnight desserts.
On larger yachts, provisions are covered through the APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance). This system gives flexibility to choose premium ingredients, fine wines, and custom dining experiences. There are no set limits, so your chef can source exactly what you request.
For many sailing catamarans in the Caribbean, the all-inclusive rate includes all meals and beverages. You’ll typically enjoy:
- Three gourmet meals daily
- Premium wines and spirits (included as standard)
- Hors d’oeuvres and snacks throughout the day
- Desserts and wine pairings with dinners
Even though meals are included, the menu is still fully tailored to your group’s preferences.
Our charter chefs are experienced in meeting diverse needs, so you can enjoy a seamless culinary experience. Common accommodations include:
- Vegan and vegetarian menus
- Gluten-free preparations
- Food allergy awareness
- Cultural and religious requirements
- Child-friendly meals
By knowing your group’s needs in advance, your chef can prepare menus that satisfy everyone.
The answer is absolutely yes. Every charter menu is designed around your personal preferences, dietary requirements, and favorite foods, ensuring every meal onboard is memorable.
Q: Why choose half board for a yacht charter?
A half board yacht charter offers flexibility to enjoy both onboard dining and local restaurants ashore. It’s budget-friendly, ideal for food lovers, and perfect for guests who want a balance between all-inclusive convenience and authentic island dining.
Half board vs full board yacht charters comes down to flexibility and dining style. Half board (also called “partial board”) includes some meals on the yacht, leaving room to enjoy restaurants ashore. Full board covers all meals onboard with a set menu and service. Half board offers variety and slightly lower base costs, while full board ensures all-inclusive convenience.
Q: Is half board cheaper than full board on a yacht charter?
Yes. A half board yacht charter usually has a lower base cost since fewer meals are included. Guests budget separately for dining ashore. Full board covers all meals onboard and costs more upfront but removes restaurant expenses. Overall, on fully crewed and inclusive yacht charters, the cost saving is negligible.
Q: What does full board mean on a yacht charter?
A full board yacht charter includes all meals onboard, prepared by the yacht’s professional chef. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and beverages are provided, giving guests an all-inclusive dining experience throughout the trip.
On a half board yacht charter, some meals are provided on board by your crew, and the rest are enjoyed ashore at local restaurants. Typically, breakfast and lunch are included, with several dinners served onboard. The remaining meals are at your own expense, giving you flexibility to explore authentic dining at your destinations. Read more ➝
HOW DO I RESERVE A CHARTER, AND WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT TERMS?
Once you decide on the yacht, Epic puts a complimentary reservation on the yacht. Next, a contract is drawn up, and details to proceed with the booking are solidified. Your deposit is also required at this time. Travel arrangements can be finalized. If you are more than 6 months away from your charter dates, a 25% deposit is required. Then 25% at 6 months out, and the final 50% is due 45 days before the charter. Your monies are held in escrow and the yacht is paid right before your charter.
WHAT IS A STANDARD GRATUITY FOR THE CREW?
15-20% of the charter cost is the standard crew gratuity. Your crew is on call 24/7, working hard to ensure you have the vacation of your dreams. They begin preparing for your charter from the moment they receive your requests. The crew’s goal is also to provide you with exemplary service. The gratuity is given to the crew at the end of the charter in cash, checks or wire transfers.
WHAT ARE THE CANCELLATION TERMS?
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.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE YACHT CHARTER FEE?
Most yachts are all-inclusive with a professional captain and private chef. Larger vessels may have additional crew such as deckhands and stewards. 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 cruising and National Park permits are part of your package. Some yachts offer SCUBA diving for guests with diving certification.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE YACHT CHARTER FEE?
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.
WHY A CREWED YACHT?
1st class service is the goal of your yacht crew, allowing you the time to enjoy all that a luxury vacation on a yacht has to offer.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON CHARTER
Having a hard time visualizing your crewed yacht vacation? Watch our video for a glimpse of life on your crewed yacht charter.
