How to choose the right yacht charter: All you need to know

Yacht charters are becoming increasingly popular, offering incredible opportunities to explore stunning destinations like the Mediterranean or Caribbean. Whether you’re seeking adventure or pure relaxation, chartering a yacht gives you the flexibility to shape your perfect getaway.

That’s why we’ve created this guide for those of you exploring and comparing yacht charter options, looking for a little support along the way. Yacht charters allow you to craft the experience just as you want it. Whether you’re aiming to unwind, engage in activities, or enjoy other unique adventures. With countless charter companies offering everything from simple rentals to fully tailored experiences, the possibilities are endless.

Perhaps you already know exactly what you’re looking for and just need to double-check prices and offers. Or maybe you’re still deciding between a bareboat charter and a fully crewed yacht. Either way, we’re here to provide the information and tips you need to make a well-informed decision. This guide is designed to help you navigate all the options, whether you’re comparing prices, looking at different yacht types, or figuring out the right charter service for your needs.

Here’s everything you need to make a confident choice and get started. And to make things even easier if you are new to this world, at the end of this article, you’ll find a glossary explaining key terms, such as what a bareboat charter is and the difference between a catamaran and a monohull.

Why choose a yacht charter?

Yacht charters provide a level of flexibility and freedom that is unmatched by traditional vacations. They allow you to craft an experience that is completely tailored to your preferences, making every trip truly unique. Here’s why people love booking yacht charters:

Explore Remote Destinations
One of the most exciting aspects of a yacht charter is the opportunity to reach places that are inaccessible by land. Imagine sailing to hidden coves, untouched beaches, and secluded islands that few have ever set foot on. These remote destinations offer a sense of adventure and exclusivity, allowing you to explore the world from a new perspective. Whether you’re anchoring in a quiet bay or discovering vibrant coral reefs, a yacht gives you access to locations that remain undiscovered by the typical traveler.

Customize your itinerary
With a yacht charter, you’re in control of your journey. Unlike cruise ships that follow set schedules and predetermined stops, you decide where to go and how long to stay. Want to linger in a peaceful bay to enjoy a perfect sunset or sail overnight to wake up in a new destination? It’s entirely up to you. You can create a completely personalized itinerary based on your interests—whether it’s exploring historic coastal towns, diving at famous sites, or simply drifting wherever the wind takes you. Flexibility is the name of the game, and your yacht charter is as spontaneous or structured as you want it to be.

Luxurious Privacy
A yacht charter offers an unrivaled sense of exclusivity and privacy. Unlike busy resorts or cruise ships, where you’re sharing spaces with hundreds or even thousands of other guests, a yacht is your private sanctuary. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or your partner, you’ll have the entire boat to yourselves. Enjoy meals on deck, lounge in the sun, or take a dip in the ocean—without the noise and distractions of other tourists. The freedom to unwind in total privacy, with only the sound of the waves around you, is what makes yacht charters the ultimate escape.

Adventure and Relaxation
Yacht charters perfectly blend adventure and relaxation, giving you the best of both worlds. For thrill-seekers, you can fill your days with watersports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, jet skiing, or deep-sea fishing. Dive into clear waters to explore coral reefs, or take a kayak to explore hidden caves along the coast. On the other hand, if relaxation is what you’re after, there’s no better place to find it than on a yacht. Picture yourself lounging on deck with a good book, taking in the ocean breeze, and watching the horizon. Whether you want an action-packed adventure or a tranquil escape, a yacht charter offers the flexibility to design your days exactly as you wish.

Now, let’s break down the different types of yacht charters available.

Types of yacht charters

1. Bareboat yacht charter

A bareboat yacht charter is perfect for experienced sailors who want to take full control of the vessel. With this option, you charter the yacht without a crew, and you’re responsible for navigating, operating, and managing the boat. Some platforms like Click&Boat and Sailo specialize in bareboat options, allowing you to tailor the experience entirely to your liking.

2. Crewed yacht charter

If you prefer to relax and let someone else handle the navigation and operation, a crewed yacht charter is ideal. A professional crew takes care of everything from steering the yacht to cooking meals, ensuring that you have a stress-free experience. Yachtico and Boatsetter are known for offering excellent crewed options, often with luxury amenities.

3. Luxury yacht charter

For those who want the best of the best, a luxury yacht charter offers unparalleled service and comfort. Expect fully crewed yachts with top-notch amenities, gourmet meals, and personalized itineraries. Platforms like Yachtico specialize in high-end luxury charters in some of the most exclusive destinations, such as the South of France or the Maldives.

4. Catamaran yacht charter

Catamarans are a popular choice for groups or families due to their spacious design and stability on the water. These yachts are great for longer trips and offer plenty of room for activities and relaxation. Platforms like Sailo and GetMyBoat provide a wide range of catamaran yacht charters.

5. Sailing yacht charter

For those who prefer the elegance of sailing, sailing yacht charters offer an authentic experience on the water. Sailing yachts are quieter and more environmentally friendly than motor yachts. Platforms like Sailo cater specifically to sailing enthusiasts and often include both bareboat and crewed options.

What to Consider Before Booking a Yacht Charter

Booking the right yacht charter depends on several key factors. Here are a few things to think about before making your decision:

1. Duration and Destination

Are you planning a quick day trip or a multi-day journey? Platforms like Boatsetter and GetMyBoat are perfect for short rentals, while Yachtico caters to longer, more luxurious trips.

2. Budget

Your budget will largely determine the type of yacht and the platform you choose. For affordable options, Click&Boatand GetMyBoat offer a wide range of choices, while Yachtico specializes in higher-end, luxury yachts.

3. Boat Type

Depending on your preferences, you may want a motor yacht, catamaran, or sailing yacht. Platforms like Sailo are ideal for sailing lovers, while Boatsetter and Click&Boat offer a broader range of vessels.

4. Crewed or Bareboat

Do you want a professional crew, or would you prefer to operate the boat yourself? Boatsetter and Yachtico offer fully crewed options, while Sailo and Click&Boat provide plenty of bareboat yacht charters for the more hands-on experience.

Checklist for booking a yacht Charter

Before finalizing your yacht charter, make sure you’ve checked off everything from this handy checklist:

• Decide on the type of yacht (motor yacht, catamaran, sailing yacht).
• Determine the charter duration (day trip, weekend, or multi-day).
• Set a budget and compare prices across platforms.
• Choose between bareboat or crewed charter based on your preferences.
• Research the destination and check the availability of yachts in that region.
• Read reviews and ratings for the boat and platform.
• Check what’s included (fuel, captain, crew, insurance).
• Understand the cancellation policies for flexibility.
• Ensure the boat is equipped with the necessary safety equipment.

Popular platforms for yacht charters

Now that you know the types of yachts available, let’s dive into some of the most popular platforms for booking yacht charters.

Here’s a summary of the top 15 yacht charter platforms, helping you compare the best options for your next adventure:

Ocean Independence
Ocean Independence focuses on high-end, crewed yacht charters with a personalized touch. They offer large yachts in exclusive locations with fully tailored experiences for discerning clients.

Boatsetter
Boatsetter offers a diverse range of yachts, from bareboat charters to crewed motor yachts. It’s perfect for short trips and spontaneous bookings, with locations in the U.S., Europe, and Australia.

Click&Boat
Often called the “Airbnb of the sea,” Click&Boat connects you with local boat owners, offering options from bareboat sailing yachts to luxury motor yachts. This platform is ideal for personalized experiences with local insights.

Sailo
Sailo focuses on sailing adventures, with a range of sailing yachts, catamarans, and motorboats. It also offers curated itineraries in destinations like Greece and Croatia, making it a top pick for sailing enthusiasts.

GetMyBoat
With over 130,000 boats available worldwide, GetMyBoat is a go-to platform for last-minute bookings. From kayaks to luxury yachts, this app-driven service is perfect for spontaneous rentals.

Yachtico
Yachtico specializes in luxury, offering fully crewed yachts in exclusive destinations. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an all-inclusive, high-end experience in places like the Amalfi Coast and Maldives.

The Moorings
Known for their wide selection of yachts, The Moorings offers both bareboat and crewed charters, with a strong presence in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and other prime locations.

Dream Yacht Charter
One of the largest charter companies, Dream Yacht Charter offers sailing yachts, catamarans, and crewed vessels in over 60 destinations worldwide, from tropical islands to Mediterranean coastlines.

SamBoat
SamBoat is a user-friendly platform that connects renters directly with boat owners. It offers affordable options for everything from day trips to longer sailing vacations, available in multiple global locations.

Fraser Yachts
Fraser Yachts is known for its high-end, luxury yacht charters, focusing on large, crewed yachts with impeccable service. It’s ideal for travelers looking for exclusive experiences.

Zizoo
Zizoo specializes in sailing and motor yacht charters, with a wide range of boats available for rent in popular Mediterranean destinations. The platform also offers curated experiences for special occasions.

Nautal
Nautal connects you with boat owners and charter companies, offering everything from small motorboats to luxury yachts. It’s particularly strong in European locations, with options for all budgets.

Bluewater Yachting
Focusing on luxury yacht charters, Bluewater Yachting offers fully crewed vessels in prime locations like the Mediterranean and Caribbean, known for their exceptional service and premium amenities.

Borrow a Boat
Borrow a Boat makes yacht rentals simple and accessible, offering a wide selection of boats from sailing yachts to motorboats, both bareboat and crewed, in various global locations.

CharterWorld
CharterWorld specializes in bespoke yacht charters, offering tailored itineraries on luxury vessels in stunning destinations like the French Riviera, the Caribbean, and the Maldives.

FAQs About Yacht Charters

1. What is the difference between a bareboat yacht charter and a crewed yacht charter?
A bareboat yacht charter allows you to operate the boat yourself without a crew. In contrast, a crewed yacht charter includes a professional crew who handles everything from navigation to meal preparation.

2. How much does a yacht charter cost?
The cost of a yacht charter varies depending on the type of yacht, the destination, and the duration of the trip. Bareboat charters tend to be more affordable, while luxury crewed yachts can range from $5,000 to $100,000+ per week.

3. Do I need a license for a bareboat yacht charter?
Yes, in most cases, you’ll need a boating license or proof of experience to charter a bareboat. The requirements vary by country and platform, so it’s best to check with the charter provider.

4. What destinations are most popular for yacht charters?
Popular yacht charter destinations include the Mediterranean (Greece, Croatia, Italy), the Caribbean, and tropical locations like the Maldives and Tahiti.

5. Can I book a yacht charter last minute?
Yes, platforms like GetMyBoat and Boatsetter are designed for spontaneous bookings, and you can often find available yachts the same day.

Glossary – Common Yacht Charter Terms

Tender: A small boat used to transport passengers and supplies from the larger yacht to shore..

Bareboat Charter: A boat rental without crew. You or someone in your group must have the necessary certification to operate the boat yourselves.

Crewed Charter: A boat that comes with a crew, including a captain and often a cook or other staff. They take care of everything from navigation to meals.

Catamaran: A multi-hull boat with two parallel hulls. Catamarans are stable and provide more space, making them ideal for families or larger groups.

Monohull: A single-hulled boat, often seen as the more traditional choice, especially in sailing.

Luxury Yacht Charter: A fully equipped and crewed yacht, typically for long trips or exclusive experiences. These yachts come with high-end amenities and services.

Motor Yacht: A yacht powered by engines, offering higher speed and longer range compared to sailing yachts.

Sailing Yacht: A boat powered primarily by sails, popular for those seeking an authentic and eco-friendly experience on the water.

Skipper: The person in charge of navigating and operating the boat. On a crewed charter, this is usually the captain.

Charter Agreement: A contract between you and the charter company detailing rental terms, costs, and responsibilities.

One-way Charter: A charter where you pick up the boat in one location and return it to another. Common in larger areas like the Mediterranean or the Caribbean.

Day Charter: A short-term rental where the boat is used for a single day, ideal for quick getaways or shorter trips.

Provisioning: Arranging food, drinks, and supplies before setting sail. This can often be handled by the charter company.

From bareboat yacht charters to crewed yacht charters, and from luxury yacht charters to more affordable yacht rentals, this comprehensive guide covers all aspects of the yacht charter process. Plus, we’ve included a detailed checklist at the end to ensure you’re fully prepared before booking.