Cosmopolitan Yachting Exclusive

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about luxury yacht chartering with COSMOPOLITAN YACHTING Exclusive.

A private yacht charter combines the finest elements of a luxury resort and a private cruise, offering you your own floating boutique hotel tailored entirely to your preferences and budget.

Wake up in a new and often secluded destination each day while enjoying a level of personal attention, privacy, and service that few other vacations can provide.

Avoid crowded resorts, fixed itineraries, and long queues. Instead, enjoy the freedom to explore hidden bays, pristine beaches, and some of the world's most desirable destinations at your own pace.

A yacht charter also offers the opportunity to try new water sports, discover fascinating cultures, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Many guests are surprised by how much quality time they spend together while on board. Being at sea creates a unique environment where family and friends reconnect, relax, and share unforgettable experiences.

Some first-time charterers worry that life on board may feel cramped. Having arranged thousands of successful yacht charters over the years, we can confidently say that this is rarely the case. Modern charter yachts are designed to maximize comfort, privacy, and relaxation.

A crewed charter is a luxury yacht vacation where a professional crew takes care of every detail, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time on board.

Depending on the size of the yacht, the crew may include:

  • Captain
  • Chef
  • Stewardess
  • Deckhand
  • Engineer
  • Water sports instructor
  • Masseuse or beautician (on some larger yachts)

A crewed catamaran charter in the Caribbean is typically an all-inclusive and highly personalized vacation experience.

All-inclusive means that you enjoy full use of the yacht, professional crew services, meals, beverages, fuel, and water sports equipment as specified by the yacht's charter terms.

Personalized means that your vacation is designed around your preferences. Together with your captain, you decide where to cruise, and together with your chef, you choose your preferred menus and beverages.

Most charters are booked for one week, although shorter and longer charters can often be arranged.

Charters may usually begin on any day of the week, subject to yacht availability. During Christmas and New Year periods, fixed charter dates often apply.

Please note that crewed motor yacht charters in the Caribbean and most crewed yacht charters in the Mediterranean are generally not offered on an all-inclusive basis.

Caribbean Crewed Catamarans and Sailing Yachts

Most Caribbean crewed catamarans and sailing yachts offer all-inclusive rates.

The charter fee generally includes:

  • Professional captain and crew
  • All meals prepared on board
  • Standard ship's bar
  • Fuel
  • Cruising permits and taxes (unless otherwise stated)
  • Use of onboard water sports equipment
  • All standard operating expenses of the yacht

Your chef will prepare personalized meals based on your preferences. Dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, kosher, or other special requests can be accommodated through a detailed Preference Sheet provided before your charter.

The charter fee generally does not include:

  • Crew gratuities
  • Premium spirits, champagne, and fine wines
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Shoreside excursions
  • Marina dockage fees (where applicable)
  • Telephone charges
  • Airport transfers
  • Personal expenses

Motor Yachts and Mediterranean Charters

Motor yachts and most Mediterranean charters operate differently.

The charter fee generally includes:

  • Exclusive use of the yacht
  • Professional crew
  • Standard yacht equipment
  • Insurance covering marine risks

Additional expenses may include:

  • VAT
  • APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)
  • Fuel
  • Food and beverages
  • Electronic communications
  • Harbor and marina fees
  • Canal fees
  • Local taxes
  • Delivery and relocation fees where applicable

While most charters are booked for seven nights, shorter and longer charters may often be arranged depending on the yacht's schedule and the owner's requirements.

Many of the most desirable yachts are booked several months, and sometimes more than a year, in advance, particularly during Christmas, New Year, and peak summer periods.

We recommend beginning your planning process as early as possible to ensure the widest choice of yachts and destinations.

Charter rates are generally based on an eight-day, seven-night charter, beginning and ending at noon.

Yes.

In most cases, you may choose the day your charter begins, subject to yacht availability.

Please note that some yachts operate on fixed charter periods during major holiday seasons such as Christmas and New Year.

Absolutely.

Many people are surprised to discover that a private yacht charter can offer exceptional value, particularly for families or groups traveling together.

Charter rates vary according to:

  • Type of yacht
  • Yacht size
  • Number of guests
  • Destination
  • Season
  • Level of luxury and service

Whether you are looking for a comfortable sailing yacht, a spacious catamaran, or a luxury motor yacht, there are options available for a wide range of budgets and travel styles.

We would be delighted to help you find the perfect yacht charter experience that matches both your expectations and your budget.

Charter rates are typically quoted on a weekly basis.

For charters longer than one week, the weekly rate is divided by seven and multiplied by the number of charter days. For charters shorter than one week, a different calculation may apply, depending on the yacht and charter terms.

Most charters commence at noon on the first day and conclude at noon on the final day.

Many yachts offer seasonal pricing, with higher rates during peak travel periods and lower rates during off-peak seasons.

The world offers an extraordinary variety of cruising destinations, each with its own unique character and appeal.

Whether you dream of exploring the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, discovering charming Mediterranean villages, island-hopping through the Greek Islands, or cruising along the spectacular coastlines of Croatia, we will help you select the destination that best suits your wishes.

The Mediterranean is particularly popular from June through September, while the Caribbean offers excellent cruising conditions year-round, with peak season typically running from December through May.

We are delighted to create a personalized itinerary designed specifically around your interests and travel style.

There is a perfect yacht for every travel style, group size, and budget.

Our role is to help you select the yacht that best matches your expectations and desired experience.

Catamarans

Luxury catamarans have become one of the most sought-after choices for yacht charters. Guests appreciate their:

  • Exceptional stability
  • Spacious accommodations
  • Generous outdoor living areas
  • Privacy between cabins
  • Shallow draft, allowing access to secluded bays and beaches

Catamarans are particularly popular among families and groups of couples, as they often offer equally sized cabins and a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Sailing Yachts

For many guests, nothing compares to the romance and elegance of sailing. Luxury sailing yachts combine performance, adventure, and sophistication, allowing guests to experience the thrill of cruising under sail while enjoying all the comforts of a luxury yacht. Whether classic or contemporary, sailing yachts offer a truly authentic yachting experience.

Motor Yachts

Motor yachts offer speed, luxury, and the ability to cover greater distances within a shorter period of time. With spacious interiors, extensive water sports equipment, and exceptional comfort, they are ideal for families, groups of friends, corporate retreats, and guests seeking the highest levels of luxury and service. Modern motor yachts offer stunning accommodations, impressive amenities, and an unrivaled level of comfort at sea.

Gulets & Motor Sailors

Traditional Turkish gulets and motor sailors provide a unique blend of heritage, elegance, and comfort. Originally handcrafted wooden vessels that sailed the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, today's luxury gulets offer spacious accommodations, beautiful outdoor living areas, and exceptional service. They provide one of the most authentic and enjoyable ways to explore the coastlines of Turkey, Croatia, and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Yes.

Charter rates vary depending on the destination, yacht type, and time of year.

Mediterranean

High Season

  • July and August
  • Major events and regattas

Low Season

  • April to June
  • September and October

Caribbean

Holiday Season

  • Christmas and New Year's
  • Premium rates typically apply

Standard Season

  • All other months

Bahamas

High Season

  • Christmas and New Year's
  • Certain holiday periods

Low Season

  • All other months

We are happy to advise on the best destinations and travel periods according to your budget and preferences.

Absolutely.

A yacht charter is one of the most memorable family vacations imaginable.

Children quickly adapt to life on board and enjoy a wide variety of activities, including:

  • Snorkeling
  • Kayaking
  • Paddleboarding
  • Tubing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Beach exploration
  • Fishing

Many parents tell us that their yacht charter became one of their family's most treasured travel experiences.

For families with younger children, we often recommend catamarans due to their stability, spacious layout, and family-friendly design.

Private yacht charters offer a wonderful opportunity to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with one another.

Your crew is there to ensure that every aspect of your charter is effortless and enjoyable.

Depending on the size of the yacht, your crew may include:

  • Captain
  • Chef
  • Stewardess
  • Deckhands
  • Engineer
  • Water sports instructors

They will:

  • Navigate the yacht safely
  • Prepare and serve meals
  • Maintain the vessel
  • Organize activities
  • Recommend local experiences
  • Ensure your comfort throughout the charter

Their sole focus is creating an unforgettable vacation for you and your guests.

Depending on your chosen yacht and destination, a wide range of activities may be available, including:

  • Snorkeling
  • Scuba diving
  • Kayaking
  • Paddleboarding
  • Water-skiing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Fishing
  • Windsurfing
  • Jet skiing
  • Beach exploration

Many destinations also offer excellent opportunities for cultural excursions, shopping, sightseeing, and fine dining ashore.

In many destinations, licenses or age restrictions apply to certain motorized water toys such as jet skis and wave runners.

Some cruising areas prohibit motorized water sports entirely.

To use scuba diving equipment carried on board, guests are generally required to hold a recognized certification such as a PADI license or equivalent.

If you are not certified, we can often arrange for a qualified instructor to join the yacht during your charter.

The number of guests permitted on board depends on the yacht's size, layout, and legal certification.

On most luxury charter yachts, the maximum number of overnight guests is 12.

International maritime regulations require yachts carrying more than 12 passengers to comply with additional safety standards under the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention.

Should you require accommodations for a larger group, we will be pleased to recommend yachts specifically certified for higher guest capacities.

One of the great pleasures of a crewed yacht charter is having a private chef dedicated entirely to your preferences.

Whether you are:

  • Vegetarian
  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Lactose-free
  • Kosher
  • Halal
  • Managing food allergies

your requirements can usually be accommodated.

Prior to your charter, you will complete a detailed Preference Sheet that allows your chef and crew to prepare menus tailored specifically to your wishes.

Many guests tell us that the culinary experience on board exceeded their expectations.

Several weeks before your charter begins, we will send you a detailed Preference Sheet.

This questionnaire allows you to specify:

  • Food preferences
  • Favorite wines and beverages
  • Dietary requirements
  • Allergies
  • Medical considerations
  • Preferred activities
  • Special celebrations
  • Children's preferences

The more information you provide, the more personalized your charter experience will be.

Absolutely, if you wish.

While your professional crew takes care of all yacht operations, many captains are delighted to involve interested guests in the sailing experience.

Whether you would like to take the helm, learn more about navigation, or simply observe the sailing process, we can help select a yacht and crew that match your interests.

Once you have chosen your preferred yacht and travel dates, we will verify availability and place an option on the yacht.

An option temporarily reserves your preferred dates while you review the charter agreement and arrange the deposit.

Please note that another client may challenge your option. In this case, you will usually be given 48 hours to confirm your reservation.

Once the charter agreement has been signed and the deposit received, your booking becomes officially confirmed.

All charter funds are held securely by the yacht's management company in accordance with industry standards and charter regulations.

Once you have selected your preferred yacht and travel dates, we will place an option on the yacht and prepare the Charter Agreement for your review.

Payment terms typically follow the industry standard:

  • 25% deposit upon signing the Charter Agreement
  • 25% six months prior to embarkation
  • Remaining balance 45 days prior to charter commencement

For bookings made within six months of departure, a 50% deposit is generally required.

Your deposit is held securely in an escrow account and transferred to the yacht shortly before the commencement of your charter.

Following confirmation, we will provide a detailed Preference Sheet for completion. This allows you to specify:

  • Food and beverage preferences
  • Dietary requirements and allergies
  • Preferred activities and water sports
  • Passport information
  • Special celebrations
  • Children's preferences
  • Any additional requests

The more information you provide, the more personalized your charter experience will be.

Prior to embarkation, the crew will review your preferences and may contact you directly to discuss your itinerary and special requests. Upon arrival on board, your captain will conduct a welcome briefing and safety orientation before your unforgettable journey begins.

Throughout the charter, your captain and crew are available to assist with any requests while always ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests on board.

A professional yacht charter broker serves as your trusted advisor throughout the entire charter process.

Access to the Best Yachts

The finest charter brokers have access to virtually every professionally managed charter yacht available worldwide. Rather than being limited to a small selection of yachts from a single company, you benefit from an extensive range of options and unbiased recommendations tailored specifically to your needs.

Independent and Objective Advice

Our goal is not simply to book a yacht, but to ensure that you choose the right yacht. We take the time to understand your travel style, budget, expectations, and preferences before recommending the yachts that best suit your requirements. Our success is measured by your satisfaction and your desire to return year after year.

Professional Expertise

At COSMOPOLITAN YACHTING, we continuously attend international yacht shows, industry seminars, and destination workshops. This enables us to provide expert guidance throughout every stage of your charter, including:

  • Yacht selection
  • Contract review
  • Itinerary planning
  • Travel logistics
  • Preference planning
  • Charter support

Someone on Your Side

While the vast majority of charters run flawlessly, unexpected situations can occasionally arise. Should any issue occur before or during your charter, you have an experienced professional working exclusively in your best interests and helping to find the most appropriate solution.

The Same or Better Pricing

Charter rates are set by the yacht owner or management company. In most cases, you will pay the same price whether you book directly or through a professional charter broker. The difference is that through a broker you benefit from independent advice, extensive market knowledge, and personalized service at no additional cost.

The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) applies primarily to motor yachts and many Mediterranean charters.

The APA acts as a dedicated onboard expense account managed by the captain on your behalf.

It is used to cover expenses incurred during the charter, including:

  • Fuel
  • Food and beverages
  • Marina fees
  • Port charges
  • Local taxes
  • National park fees
  • Customs and clearance charges
  • Other guest-related expenses

The APA is usually calculated as a percentage of the charter fee:

  • Sailing yachts: typically 20–30%
  • Motor yachts: typically 30–40%

The captain maintains detailed records throughout the charter and provides a complete accounting at the conclusion of your trip.

If actual expenses are lower than the APA amount, the remaining balance will be refunded to you.

If expenses exceed the APA amount, the additional balance is payable at the end of the charter.

Crew gratuities are entirely at your discretion and should reflect your satisfaction with the service received.

As a general guideline, a gratuity of 10–20% of the charter fee is customary, with 15–20% being the most common range for exceptional service.

Charter crews work tirelessly behind the scenes to create a seamless and memorable experience, and gratuities are greatly appreciated.

At the end of the charter, gratuities are typically presented to the captain, who distributes them fairly among all crew members.

All guests are required to carry valid passports during their charter.

Depending on your itinerary and nationality, visas or additional travel documentation may also be required.

Obtaining the necessary travel documents remains the responsibility of the charterer.

Should you have any questions, we will gladly direct you to the appropriate authorities or resources for guidance.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including:

  • Trip cancellation coverage
  • Trip interruption coverage
  • Medical insurance
  • Emergency evacuation coverage
  • Lost or delayed baggage protection

Travel disruptions caused by weather, airline delays, illness, or unforeseen circumstances can occur, and appropriate insurance provides valuable peace of mind.

A modest insurance premium can protect a significant investment in your vacation.

Although such situations are extremely rare, occasionally a yacht may become unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances.

Should this occur, we will work diligently on your behalf to secure the best possible alternative.

Depending on the circumstances, solutions may include:

  • A comparable replacement yacht
  • Alternative charter dates
  • A full refund in accordance with the Charter Agreement

Our priority will always be to achieve the most favorable outcome for our clients.

An excellent question—and one we take very seriously.

All yachts offered through COSMOPOLITAN YACHTING are professionally managed and must comply with local maritime regulations, safety requirements, insurance obligations, and licensing standards.

Many cruising destinations require annual inspections, operating licenses, and proof of insurance before a yacht is permitted to charter.

Professional crew members must also maintain current certifications, medical clearances, and safety training.

In addition, we personally attend international yacht shows throughout Europe and the Caribbean each year, inspecting yachts, meeting crews, and evaluating service standards firsthand.

This allows us to recommend yachts with confidence and ensure they meet the high standards our clients expect.

While newer yachts often offer the latest amenities and technologies, many owner-operated yachts remain in exceptional condition for years thanks to meticulous maintenance and personal care.

Our recommendations are based not only on specifications, but also on experience, reputation, and first-hand knowledge.

Guests wishing to fish during their yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands should be aware that a valid BVI fishing permit is required for each individual participating in fishing activities.

The permit application can be completed online and requires a copy of your passport. Once approved, the fishing license will be issued electronically.

Should you wish to obtain a permit, we would be delighted to put you in contact with the Department of Conservation and Fisheries, which is responsible for issuing all fishing licenses in the British Virgin Islands.

The cost of a fishing permit is approximately USD 45 per person.

Important Regulations

In addition to individual fishing permits, all vessels engaging in fishing activities within BVI waters must hold a valid BVI Fishing Vessel Registration Number. If your selected yacht possesses the required registration, we will provide the relevant information and guidance approximately 30 days prior to the start of your charter. Please note that yachts without the necessary vessel registration are not legally permitted to engage in fishing activities within BVI waters.

Responsible Fishing Practices

The British Virgin Islands are committed to preserving their unique marine environment and fisheries. As a result:

  • Fishing within Marine Parks is strictly prohibited.
  • Fishing is not permitted in most anchorages.
  • Fishing typically takes place while the yacht is underway between islands.
  • Any reef fish caught must be released immediately.
  • Fishing during a yacht charter is intended primarily as a recreational activity and an enjoyable experience rather than a source of food.

Important Health Information

Many reef fish commonly found in the Caribbean, including barracuda, snapper, grunts, and certain bottom fish, may carry a naturally occurring toxin known as Ciguatera. For health and safety reasons, consumption of these species is strongly discouraged and is generally not permitted aboard crewed charter yachts. Should you have any questions regarding fishing opportunities during your charter, we will be happy to advise you and ensure that all local regulations are followed.

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