About · Your Guide
How to Charter
Luxury
The Process
From Vision to Departure
Chartering a luxury yacht is simpler than you might imagine — especially when guided by specialists who have refined this process over three decades. Here, step by step, is how we transform your dream into a flawless voyage.
Free Download
Your Luxury Charter Guide
Everything you need to know — the 7 charter steps, costs explained, and insider tips — beautifully laid out in a PDF to keep.
Initial Consultation
Everything begins with a personal conversation. Share your vision with us — your desired destinations, travel dates, number of guests, and any special wishes or occasions. Sonja and Thomas will take the time to fully understand your aspirations. No detail is too small.
Choose your preferred way to contact us. On request, we will provide a complimentary, no-obligation needs assessment after our first conversation.
Yacht Selection & Presentation
Based on your requirements, we search our global network of vetted yachts and crews. We present you with a hand-picked selection of vessels, each carefully matched to your specifications, budget, and expectations.
Every recommended yacht has been personally inspected or is known to us through years of trusted collaboration. You receive detailed profiles, photographs, crew CVs, and transparent pricing.
Itinerary Planning
Together, we craft your bespoke voyage programme. Whether hidden anchorages, vibrant harbour towns, diving adventures, or gourmet experiences — your captain and our team design a route that perfectly reflects your interests.
Itineraries are flexible and can be adapted at any time. Wind, weather, and spontaneous discoveries are all part of the joy of a true yacht charter. Please note that all itineraries are subject to weather and sea conditions, and the Captain may adjust the route at any time, following consultation with the guests, to ensure the safest and most enjoyable charter experience possible.
Contract & Deposit
Once every detail meets your approval, we handle all contractual arrangements on your behalf. Most charter agreements follow the MYBA or CYBA standard (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association, Charter Yacht Broker Association) — the recognised international industry benchmarks.
A deposit of 25% is typically due upon signing the charter agreement, a second deposit of 25% 6 months prior to embarkation, remaining balance payable 45 days prior to charter commencement.
Provisioning & Preparation
Prior to departure, you will complete a detailed preference sheet provided by us. This ensures the yacht is stocked with your favourite beverages, specialities, and personal preferences from the moment you step aboard.
On motor yachts in the Caribbean and all other Yachts outside the Caribbean the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) covers food, beverages, fuel, and port fees.
On Board & at Sea
From the moment you step onto the gangway, your professional crew has everything in hand. Relax — the captain navigates, the chef creates culinary masterpieces, and the stewardess team ensures your every comfort.
Typical crews comprise a captain and a chef, on bigger yachts there is a third crew member or more. Crew size varies with the size and style of the yacht.
After Your Charter
Our relationship does not end when you disembark. We welcome your feedback, stay in touch, and are always ready to plan your next unforgettable voyage.
Many of our guests return year after year. One of the many advantages of welcoming returning guests is that we already know their preferences, enabling us to tailor each charter even more closely to their individual wishes.
Transparency
Costs & What's Included
A clear overview of the typical cost structure for a crewed luxury charter.
Base Charter FeeIncluded
The fundamental cost of the yacht and crew for the agreed charter period.
APA – Advance Provisioning AllowanceAdditional
Typically 25–40% of the base charter fee (exemption: all-inclusive-charters in the Caribbean). Covers fuel, food, beverages, and port fees. Any unspent balance is refunded at the end of the charter.
GratuityAdditional
A tip of 15–20% of the charter fee for the crew is industry standard and a mark of appreciation for outstanding service.
Flights & TransfersAdditional
Travel to and from the embarkation port is not included in the charter fee.
Travel InsuranceAdditional
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel and cancellation insurance for all charter guests.
Good to Know
Charter Essentials
MYBA Standard, CYBA Standard
Our charter agreements are based on the internationally recognised MYBA / CYBA standard — providing maximum legal clarity and transparency for all parties.
The APA System
The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a ring-fenced deposit of 25–40% of the charter fee covering fuel, provisioning, and port dues. Any unspent funds are refunded.
Best Season
Caribbean: November–June. Mediterranean: May–October. South Pacific: May–October. We advise on the optimal timing for your chosen destination.
Gratuity & Etiquette
A tip of 15–20% of the charter fee for the crew is industry standard and a sincere expression of appreciation for outstanding service. It is handed over in cash or by bank transfer at the end of the charter.
Embarkation & Handover
The yacht handover typically takes place at noon. Upon boarding you will receive a full briefing from the captain and have the opportunity to ask any questions.
Cancellation & Insurance
We strongly recommend comprehensive cancellation and travel insurance for every guest. Cancellation terms are stated in the charter agreement.
Ready to Begin?
Every extraordinary charter experience begins with a conversation. Contact us — we look forward to making your vision a reality.