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.
Yes. On a well-appointed crewed yacht each stateroom has its own en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower stall, an electric flush toilet and a hairdryer. The cabins themselves are built for a week aboard, with large windows for natural light, blinds or shades for privacy, reading lights, electric fans, and drawers and a closet for storage.
No. On a crewed charter you do not have to lift a finger. You are welcome to join in with the sailing or motoring if you would enjoy it, but there is no requirement to. Cooking is handled entirely by your trained private chef, and where there is additional crew aboard, they look after the cabins and run the watersports activities.
A comfortable charter yacht covers three areas. Cabins should have en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers, electric flush toilets, hairdryers, individually controlled air conditioning, good natural light and proper storage. Living spaces should offer a spacious salon and a large dining area in the cockpit, with easy flow from inside to out. On deck, look for a flybridge or sky-lounge, shaded sun-beds, a barbecue grill, a fridge and icemaker, and a hot and cold shower on the stern.
Because of the space and the ride. Catamarans have far more room to move around than a comparable monohull, and they are notably comfortable both underway and at anchor. Their layouts also vary quite a bit from yacht to yacht, especially on deck, which means you can choose one whose exterior spaces suit how your group likes to spend the day.
Most Caribbean yacht charter activities include comprehensive water sports equipment: snorkeling gear, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, fishing equipment, and inflatable water toys. Premium yachts often feature sea scooters, water skis, wakeboards, and even SCUBA diving equipment with certified instructors.
Professional Crew:
- Captain with extensive local knowledge
- Private chef specializing in gourmet cuisine
- Stewardess for interior service (larger yachts)
- Deckhand for water activities and maintenance (larger yachts)
- Specialized crew like dive instructors (select yachts)
The Complete Package:
- Exclusive use of the entire yacht for your group
- All linens, towels, and luxury amenities
- Standard water toys and equipment (paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel gear)
- Three gourmet meals daily plus snacks and appetizers
- All beverages including standard bar with wine, beer, and spirits
- Some yachts offer curated wine or champagne lists at an additional charge
- WiFi connectivity (where available)
- Fuel for standard cruising itinerary
- Marina fees for routine stops
- Special requests available with advance notice
Special Considerations
- Crew gratuity is not included (typically 15-20%, adjusted at your discretion)
- Optional nanny or childcare services available on select yachts
- Premium excursions or activities may incur additional fees
What Should I Pack for My Yacht Charter?
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 a great deal is already waiting for you. Your crew provides beach towels, bed linens and snorkel gear for every guest, along with everyday comforts like hairdryers, so none of that needs to come with you. To help you prepare, we have 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
Yes. Crewed charter yachts are fully air conditioned, and each cabin has individual controls so you can set the temperature for your own comfort. Generators provide the power to run the air conditioning and every other system onboard when required, and some yachts also carry solar panels.
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.
