Think you’ve found the holy grail of yacht charter costs? While the age of the yacht may not be a significant factor, there are other “hidden fees” associated with the yacht and crew that contribute to the total yacht charter pricing and costs. That “starting at” price you see online is rarely what you’ll actually pay for a private yacht, and here’s why.
Usual hidden fees look like provisions, crew tips, and dockage fees; however, there are a few others that you should ask about. When booking a yacht charter, it is essential to ask questions often, and even when you think you know the answer. Unique among other vacations, a vacation at sea is a little more complex than just resort fees. This is why, when investing in a yacht charter vacation, working with the right broker is essential.
Regardless of where you’re booking, there could be hidden fees beyond what’s advertised. While some charters are all-inclusive, others have fees that can include docking fees, seasonal rate changes, fuel, food charges, APA rates, and repositioning fees, so just looking online, it’s nearly impossible to know what you will pay for your vacation.
Caribbean Yacht Charters: The Per-Guest Hidden Fees
When booking yachts in the Caribbean, the “starting at” price advertised is for just two guests on that yacht, regardless of the capacity of the yacht. If you’re booking a 10-person yacht for a full group, the total sailing yacht charter rate will be significantly higher. Catamaran rates in the Caribbean vary based on the number of people going on the trip but the great thing about them is that they are all-inclusive, making the cost of the vacation predictable once you know your headcount.
If you are a couple that wants to island hop around the Caribbean on a private yacht charter, you can take advantage of that low rate; however, if you are filling the yacht, the price will increase based on your guest count. Always inform your broker of how many guests you are planning to host when searching for your perfect charter.
Power Yachts: Don’t Forget the APA
If you’re keen on a motor yacht, keep in mind that the base rate doesn’t include the APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance). APA ranges from 30-40% of the base rate and covers expenses such as fuel, food, drinks, transfers and docking fees.
Mediterranean Yacht Charters: Low and High Season Pricing + VAT
In the Mediterranean, “starting at” usually refers to the low-season rate, typically for May or October. Touring the Amalfi Coast in July or August is lovely, but also costly. You might consider going in the low season when costs are lower.
If you’re travelling in the mid or high season (June, July, August, September), expect significantly higher rates. On top of that, you’ll pay:
- VAT (Value-Added Tax): Ranges from 5% to 24%, depending on the country
- APA: Typically 25–40% of the base rate to cover onboard expenses
The VAT is a tax applied to your charter fee, while the APA is a separate advance payment that covers the operating expenses of your trip. It’s important to factor both of these—along with gratuity—into your overall budget. Unlike VAT, which is a tax, the APA is simply a deposit, so any unused amount is returned to you.
VAT is calculated based on your departure country and is charged on the charter fee at the time of booking. It does not include or affect the APA. For example, if you depart from the French Riviera, your VAT rate will be 20%, no matter where your itinerary takes you.
The APA, on the other hand, covers costs such as food, fuel, docking fees, and beverages. It fluctuates depending on your preferences and plans. If you don’t spend the full APA, the remaining balance is refunded or can be applied toward gratuity. If you’re planning high-end activities or indulgences, expect your APA to be higher.
The Final Added Cost: Gratuity
A crewed yacht charter is as great of an experience as it is because of the people behind the charter. Your crew. These folks are experts at making a yacht charter what it is. Gratuity in the Mediterranean typically is about 10-15% based on your experience, while in the Caribbean, the standard gratuity rate is 15-20%. These percentages are based on the base charter rate.
The Bottom Line: Expect to Pay More Than the Advertised Rate
While “starting at” prices may look appealing, they rarely reflect the final cost. Between seasonal rate increases, guest-based pricing, taxes, and provisioning fees, your total can climb quickly. Ensuring that you’re working with a broker who explains the various additional fees and can educate you is key.
As we have learned, additional hidden fees vary by region, season, and yacht type. Whether you work with the team at Sanderson Yachting or with another broker, you must ask pertinent questions about any additional fees.
Want a Stress-Free, Transparent Yacht Charter Experience?
As a yacht charter expert, I make sure clients avoid costly surprises through transparent pricing and education. Helping you avoid costly surprises allows for a relaxing vacation. In the yacht charter world, that means understanding all the various hidden additional costs.
We will sit down to transparently lay out what you are investing in your dream yacht charter vacation before you book. If you’d like help navigating pricing, selecting the right yacht, and understanding all costs upfront, please reach out today. Reach out with any questions about your next yacht charter vacation.. We would love to help you plan your adventure at sea!