First-time yacht charter FAQ

Question 1

I've never chartered a yacht. Where do I start?

Accepted Answer

Start with a short conversation. Tell me who's coming, rough dates, where you'd love to go and a comfortable budget. I'll take it from there and guide you through every step, so no question is too basic.

Question 2

What does it cost to work with you?

Accepted Answer

Nothing extra. My commission is paid from the charter fee by the yacht owner, so you pay the same as booking direct, with an accredited broker on your side from start to finish.

Question 3

Where in the world can I charter?

Accepted Answer

Anywhere the global fleet sails. Winter favorites are the Bahamas, the Caribbean and the British Virgin Islands. Summer brings the French Riviera, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Spain and Turkey. I also arrange the Galapagos, the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia and Central America.

Question 4

How far ahead should I book?

Accepted Answer

For peak weeks like the holidays, spring break and July or August in the Mediterranean, six to twelve months ahead gives you the best choice. Outside those weeks a few months is often plenty, and last-minute charters can work too.

Question 5

What is included in the price?

Accepted Answer

The charter fee covers the yacht and her crew. Running costs such as food, drinks, fuel and dockage are paid separately through the APA, plus any local taxes or VAT, and a crew gratuity is customary at the end. I show you the true all-in figure before you commit.

Question 6

What is an APA?

Accepted Answer

The Advance Provisioning Allowance, usually 25 to 40 percent of the charter fee. The captain uses it for fuel, provisions, dockage and your requests, keeps every receipt, and refunds anything left over at the end of your charter.

Question 7

How do you choose the yachts on my shortlist?

Accepted Answer

I match yachts to your group, not just your budget: cabin layouts and bed sizes, crew, style, toys and the real all-in cost. I favor yachts my team and I have seen in person, and I'll tell you honestly which ones are worth it.

Question 8

How do holds and availability work?

Accepted Answer

Once you have a favorite, I confirm your dates with the yacht's central agent and can often place a short hold while you decide, so you never feel rushed.

Question 9

What contract will I sign?

Accepted Answer

An industry-standard charter agreement, usually MYBA in the Mediterranean and MYBA, AYCA or CYBA in the Americas. I walk you through every clause in plain language before anything is signed.

Question 10

When is the deposit due?

Accepted Answer

Typically 50 percent of the charter fee when the contract is signed, which secures your yacht and dates. Funds go to Denison Yachting's secure client account and are passed on to the yacht as the contract sets out.

Question 11

When is the final payment due?

Accepted Answer

Usually about 30 days before you step aboard: the remaining charter fee, the APA and any taxes. If you book inside that window, everything is paid at signing. I send a clear payment schedule up front, so there are no surprises.

Question 12

What happens between booking and boarding?

Accepted Answer

You complete a short preference sheet with favorite foods and drinks, allergies, celebrations and activities. I share it with the captain and chef, shape the itinerary with the captain and handle guest details, so you arrive to a yacht that already knows you.

Question 13

Can you arrange flights, villas and everything around the charter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I take care of everything around your week through trusted partners in private aviation, villas and hotels, transfers, restaurant reservations and experiences ashore, so the whole trip feels seamless.

Question 14

What if the weather turns or we want to change plans?

Accepted Answer

Your captain adjusts the route for comfort and safety, and plans on board stay flexible. I remain reachable before, during and after your charter, in English or Spanish.

Question 15

How much should we tip the crew?

Accepted Answer

A gratuity of 10 to 20 percent of the charter fee is customary, given to the captain at the end of the trip to share with the crew. It is always at your discretion.

Question 16

What happens after the charter?

Accepted Answer

The captain settles the APA with receipts and any balance is returned to you. I'll ask how everything went, and whenever you're ready, we start planning the next one.

Private yacht charters, personally vetted