Where do you start and what do you need to ask before you take on the task of finding yacht charters? We break it down for you so you all you need is a great swimsuit, great company, and a passion for having a great time.
1) What Floats Your Boat?
The first thing to ask yourself is what kind of watercraft do you want to charter? How many people will be joining you and what are their ages? Depending on your answers, options include sailing yacht, motorboat, powerboat, or luxury yacht (also known as a superyacht or mega yacht). Make sure the size of the watercraft fits the amount of guests. Keep in mind, charters are generally for a week, but can be customized for less or more time.
2) What Kind of Crew?
Having a great charter experience isn’t only about the watercraft, but also about the right crew. Ask yourself what kind of charter you want and you’ll have an idea of what kind of crew will fit best with your vibe. Highly professional in a uniform or informal in shorts and t-shirts? Ask for references, if possible, to make sure their personalities and attention to detail mesh with you and your crew of friends and/or family.
3) Where to?
They say it’s not the destination, but the journey…but on a yacht charter, both are equally important. Watercrafts tend to move seasonally, therefore, if you’re looking to charter a yacht for the Holidays in winter, your best bet will be in Miami and not the Mediterranean. It’s ideal to plan ahead so you have your pick of superyachts, sailboats, or powerboats, no matter when you set sail.
4) What to do?
Now that you found your perfect watercraft and know where you’re going, it’s time to ask about what kind of activities are available onboard. If adventure is the name of your game, make sure there are water toys on hand like a flyboard, jet ski, or waterslide. If you’re more into reflection and relaxation, with secluded dinners and a couple’s massage on deck, make sure you ask if they have a spa onboard, or at least a masseuse who caters to yachts. Anything is possible if you have the right crew and plan ahead to make sure you get everything you want, either on or off shore.
5) Money No Object?
Does all of the above sound like too much work? Besides coordinating everything from customs clearance to provisions (food/beverage) to entertainment (on and off shore) to transportation (car, hotel, helicopter), to kids activities, a yacht concierge plans everything, so all you have to do is show-up and enjoy the ride.
As you can tell, there are many questions to ask yourself before you decide to charter a yacht. Make sure you know what you’re looking for and have an agenda in mind before you begin do diligence or hire a yacht concierge to do all the legwork for you. No matter where you go or with what watercraft, we know that chartering a yacht is an experience like no other and one you’ll want to repeat every chance you get.
