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.
FAQ: Can I Customize the Yacht Charter Menu?
One of the most enjoyable parts of a luxury yacht vacation is the dining experience. Guests often ask: “Can I customize the yacht charter menu?” 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.
The Preference Sheet Process
- Before your charter begins, you’ll complete a detailed preference sheet. This allows your chef and crew to plan menus that match your exact tastes.
- Share your dietary restrictions and allergies.
- Indicate special celebration details such as birthdays or anniversaries.
- Include wine, cocktail, and beverage preferences.
- List favorite snacks or ingredients you’d like on board.
- This process ensures every aspect of your dining is customized.
- Dietary Accommodations
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.
All-Inclusive Charters
- For many sailing catamarans in the Caribbean, the 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.
Flexible Provisioning Charters
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.
Menu Planning Options
- 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.
Why Custom Menus Enhance the Charter Experience
- 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
Final Word
So, can you customize the yacht charter menu? Yes — completely. From dietary accommodations to themed dinners and wine pairings, your onboard chef will create meals designed just for you. Whether you prefer simple, healthy menus or multi-course gourmet experiences, Epic Yacht Charters ensures dining is one of the highlights of your trip.
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.
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 ➝
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: 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.
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.
