Luxury Yacht Charter

The cost of a luxury yacht charter depends on the yacht's size, age, facilities, destination and time of year. Charter rates are generally quoted per week and cover the yacht and its crew, while VAT or local taxes, running expenses and crew gratuities are usually additional. At SNS Yacht Charter, we provide a detailed breakdown of the expected costs before booking, allowing you to plan your holiday with a clear understanding of the overall budget.

The base charter rate generally includes exclusive use of the yacht, its equipment, professional crew, crew salaries and the yacht's insurance. Food, beverages, fuel, berthing fees and other running expenses are normally charged separately through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA). VAT or applicable local taxes may also be charged, depending on the cruising destination. Your charter broker will explain exactly what is included for your chosen yacht.

The Advance Provisioning Allowance, commonly known as APA, is an advance payment used to cover expenses incurred during your charter, including fuel, food, beverages, port fees and other guest-related costs. It typically represents around 25-40% of the base charter rate, depending on the yacht and cruising plans. The captain manages the APA and maintains a record of expenditure. Any unused funds are returned at the end of the charter, while additional expenses must be settled if the original allowance is exceeded.

Most luxury charter yachts accommodate up to 12 overnight guests, although the exact number depends on the yacht's certification and cabin configuration. Some larger yachts are authorised to accommodate more guests, while others may have lower limits. SNS Yacht Charter helps you select a yacht with a suitable cabin arrangement, whether you are travelling as a family, with several couples or as a larger group. Daytime guest limits may differ from overnight capacity.

Motor yachts are generally preferred for their cruising speed, extensive facilities and ability to cover greater distances comfortably. Sailing yachts appeal to guests who enjoy the experience of travelling under sail, while catamarans offer generous living areas, stability and a more relaxed pace on the water. Modern motorsailers and traditional gulets are also appealing alternatives, particularly in Croatia, Greece and Turkey. The best choice depends on your group, destination and preferred style of holiday.

The Mediterranean is particularly popular for summer yacht charters, with the Balearic Islands, French Riviera, Italian coast, Greece, Croatia and Turkey offering beautiful cruising grounds and a wide variety of experiences. During winter, the Caribbean and Bahamas are among the most sought-after destinations. The best location depends on the season, your preferred atmosphere and the type of itinerary you have in mind. SNS Yacht Charter arranges private yacht charters worldwide.

Yes. The luxury yachts offered by SNS Yacht Charter are fully crewed, allowing guests to enjoy their holiday without needing sailing or boating experience. Depending on the yacht's size, the crew may include a captain, chef, stewardesses and deckhands, with additional specialists on larger superyachts. The crew takes care of navigation, dining, housekeeping and activities on the water, providing attentive, personalised service while respecting your privacy.

Yes. One of the principal advantages of a private luxury yacht charter is the freedom to create an itinerary around your interests. Whether you prefer peaceful anchorages, coastal villages, waterside restaurants or lively destinations, your route can be tailored to your wishes. Your charter broker will help plan a realistic itinerary, while the captain makes the final navigational decisions based on weather conditions, distances and safety. Flexibility is an important part of the experience.

Luxury yacht charters can be an excellent choice for families, offering privacy, flexibility and opportunities for different generations to spend time together. Many yachts provide family-friendly cabin arrangements, comfortable outdoor areas and a variety of activities on the water. The crew can adapt mealtimes and daily activities to suit younger guests, while itineraries can be planned around shorter cruising distances and sheltered anchorages. Choosing a yacht with the right layout and facilities is particularly important for families.

For charters during the Mediterranean summer season, booking six to nine months in advance is generally advisable, particularly for July and August. Popular yachts and the most desirable dates can be reserved even earlier. Christmas and New Year charters in the Caribbean also benefit from early planning. However, last-minute yacht charters are often possible, depending on availability. SNS Yacht Charter can advise on suitable options for your preferred dates.

An experienced yacht charter broker provides independent advice, access to a broad selection of yachts and professional guidance throughout the booking process. Beyond recommending suitable yachts, a broker helps compare specifications, crew arrangements, charter terms and the overall suitability of each option. SNS Yacht Charter is a boutique charter brokerage based in Palma de Mallorca, offering access to more than 2,500 yachts worldwide. Our experienced team provides personal assistance from the initial enquiry through to the completion of your charter.