Chartering a superyacht offers a luxurious and unparalleled experience, combining privacy, world-class service, and the freedom to explore stunning destinations. However, there’s often one pressing question: how much does it cost to charter a superyacht?

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Types of Yacht Charters: “All-Inclusive” vs “Plus Expenses”

There are two main types of yacht charters: all-inclusive and ‘plus expenses’. As the name suggests, an all-inclusive charter covers almost everything—crew, meals, drinks, fuel, and equipment. However, additional costs like dockage fees or taxes might not be included, so it’s essential to check what is covered with the charter company.

More common, particularly for superyachts, is the ‘plus expenses’ model. In this type of charter, the base price covers the yacht and crew, but all other costs, such as food, drinks, and fuel, are paid through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), typically around 30-35% of the base price. For example, a yacht charter costing £122,000 for a week may require an APA of around £37,000 to cover additional expenses.


Read more: All About Renaissance. The Most Expensive Charter Yacht 2024


The Impact of Yacht Size

The size of the yacht has the greatest impact on the overall cost. Here’s a general idea of weekly base rates:

  • Sailing Yachts: £8,000 – £16,000 (under 80ft), up to £160,000 (over 150ft)
  • Catamarans: £8,000 – £40,000 (depending on size)
  • Motor Yachts: £16,000 – £400,000 (with larger yachts over 150ft fetching the highest prices)

The price increases with the yacht’s size, but other factors, such as the crew’s reputation and the yacht’s amenities, also contribute.

Hidden Costs to Consider

Beyond the base price and APA, several additional costs may apply:

  • Taxes and VAT: Different countries charge varying rates. For instance, Greece levies 12% VAT, while Croatia charges 13%.
  • Crew Gratuity: A gratuity of 15-20% of the base charter rate is customary for excellent service.
  • Insurance: Charterers may wish to purchase travel insurance to cover cancellation or unforeseen events.

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