The 12 questions everyone asks before their first charter.
No fluff, no upsell. If your question isn't here, ask Gizmo or the consultant — both are paid to answer honestly.
What does a crewed yacht charter include?
The yacht, a professional captain and crew (typically a chef on yachts hosting 8+ guests), fuel within reason, all linens, water toys (paddleboards, snorkeling kit, often kayaks and floats), and dockage at the home base.
An APA (advance provisioning allowance) of around 30% of the charter fee is held to cover food, beverages, harbour fees, fuel beyond a daily allowance, and shore-side excursions. Anything not used is refunded at the end of the trip.
How accurate is Gizmo, the AI concierge?
Gizmo answers only from our verified fleet database. It cannot invent yachts, prices or itineraries. If a question can't be answered from the data — for example, specific availability for specific dates, or off-record yacht details — Gizmo says so and routes you to a human charter consultant.
This is the design choice that distinguishes Gizmo from generic chatbots: it is plumbed into a verified database, with hard rules against fabrication.
Are the prices on this site live?
Listing data updates daily from the central broker feed. Weekly base rates are accurate as published, but the final quote always depends on dates, season, APA, taxes and any extras — which a consultant confirms with the management company before you commit.
How do I book?
Send an inquiry (90-second form) or chat with Gizmo. A consultant replies within one business day with three or four matched yachts and live availability. You sign a MYBA-form charter agreement, pay 50% to confirm and 50% before embarkation, plus APA.
What's the difference between a sailing catamaran and a motor yacht?
Catamarans (sail or power) sit flat and shallow — great for kids, snorkeling and beach access. Sailing cats add the romance of sail. Motor yachts are faster between anchorages, with more interior space and a more hotel-like experience. Most first-timers in the Caribbean choose catamarans; most Med charterers choose motor yachts.
When are the best months for each destination?
- Caribbean: December to April
- Bahamas: November to May
- Mediterranean (Greece, Croatia, Italy, France): May to October — peak July/August, value in May/early June and late September
- Pacific Northwest: June to September
- Belize: November to May
Do I need to know how to sail?
No. A crewed charter means a professional captain runs the boat. You're a guest. If you sail, the captain will hand you the helm — but it's optional, not the brief.
How much should I budget?
Crewed Caribbean catamaran charters start around $20,000–30,000/week all-in for 6–8 guests. Mediterranean motor yachts run €40,000–80,000/week and up. Add APA (~30%) plus VAT where applicable. Gizmo can show you yachts in any bracket.
Can we customize the itinerary?
Yes. The captain meets you at embarkation with a draft itinerary and adjusts daily based on weather, your preferences and what the group wants. Itineraries are guidelines, not contracts.
What about food and dietary requirements?
On 8+ guest yachts you typically have a chef. They send a preference sheet beforehand — allergies, mileage on red meat, dietary restrictions, drink preferences. Then they shop and cook to that brief. The food on a well-run charter is genuinely better than most resort dining.
Is travel insurance included?
No. We strongly recommend Charter Insurance covering cancellation (CFAR), damage, and travel medical. Your consultant can introduce a broker.
What if my plans change?
Cancellation terms depend on the charter agreement and timing — typically a percentage of the fee is returned up to a certain window before embarkation. Charter Insurance closes the gap. Discuss before signing.
Question still unanswered?
Ask Gizmo for a quick answer, or send an inquiry for a real consultant to follow up.