Getting the most out of your chartering experience... |
Boat charters are the ultimate customized way to travel!
When you charter a boat your options are many starting from such things as dates and locations, all the way to whether you prefer an outdoor jacuzzi or desire fishing gear.
Lest this sound daunting, (because it really isn't), here are some guidelines to help you work with your broker to get the most from your booking. Remember, your broker is well versed in all the details and can be an immense help.
Start with prioritizing the following options, and then communicating your decisions to your yacht broker:
- desired dates/time of year
- length of boat charter
- geographic area
- places you would like to visit
- events you would like to attend
- number in your party
- total budget
- type of, or specific yacht desired
- on-board equipment desired (entertainment, sports, communications)
- on-board events you would like to host
- accommodations desired
- special accommodations required
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more tips... |
- Book well in advance if planning to charter to attend an event.
- The size of your party should be settled early, as changes may necessitate an entirely different yacht.
- Discuss your desires with your broker in detail in order to ensure the best possible trip. For example, are large indoor spaces or outside decks important?
- Remember that terms and conditions vary place to place. Check them beforehand..
- Planning itineraries loosely allows for unexpected weather and taking unexpected opportunities.
- Your captain and crew will often be able to give tips on local sites or arrange activities.
- Costs can vary widely depending on many factors such as: yacht, location, season, level of luxury, length of trip.
- Operating costs also vary depending on the area and yacht. Also check with your broker if you plan to meet or leave the yacht in an unusual location.
- Regarding gratuities: Tipping yacht crews is customary and discretionary. Commonly 10-20% of the charter fee at the end of the trip, and is often left with the captain with suggestions as to how it should be distributed.
- Regarding deposits: Once you have made your plans and selection, your broker will provide you with a charter contract. When you approve this contract, you will be asked to provide a deposit - usually 50% of the charter fee.
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Rate & Term Help |
Often, rates may be posted as "all-inclusive" or "plus expenses". What does this mean? Different yachts operate under different terms often dependant upon the geographic region. These are defined below. A general guideline for chartering on a "plus expenses" basis, is to add 20-30% of the charter rate. The captain will give you updates on items such as fuel usage, communications charges, and liquor.
Terms and Conditions:
- MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association): The charter rate includes the hire and insurance of the yacht, crew wages, and crew food and ship's laundry only.
- WMT (Western Mediterranean Terms): The charter rate includes the hire and insurance of the yacht and the crew wages only.
- EMT (Eastern Mediterranean Terms): The charter rate includes the hire and insurance of the yacht, crew wages, crew food, ship's laundry, all running expenses such as fuel for four hours' cruising per day, harbour dues, breakfast and lunch, but excludes soft and alcoholic drinks, dinner on board, communication costs and local taxes.
- CTI (Caribbean Terms/Inclusive): The charter rate includes the hire and insurance of the yacht, crew wages, crew food, ship's laundry, fuel for four hours' cruising per day, harbour dues and three meals per day, but excludes soft and alcoholic beverages, local taxes and communication costs.
- GT (Greek Terms): The charter rate includes the hire and insurance of the yacht, crew wages, crew food, harbour dues within Greek waters, water and ship's laundry. Excluded are fuel, all meals, soft and alcoholic beverages, communication costs, local taxes, Corinth Canal dues (if applicable), and all Turkish cruising costs.
- Harbour Fees: Often called dues in Europe, these vary from port to port. Normally, this is a small item, especially in the Caribbean or Pacific Northwest.
- Taxes: Charter rates are subject to varying rates of VAT within EC waters. Local taxes may also apply in certain areas outside the EC.
- Fuel: Note that only certain flag yachts qualify for Duty Free fuel. This differs from country to country.
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