A private yacht charter to the Mediterranean is the fastest way to have a good time at sea. You get to pick your boat, pace and decide where you want to stop. This article is a guide to yacht charter.
Bare boat or crew charter to the Mediterranean?
When you charter, you have an option between bare boat and crewed options. Bare boat means you skip the crew and helm it yourself, where allowed.
Whereas hiring a crew gets you the captain and the staff. You can relax while everyone is out there doing the work.
Types of yachts available at Mediterranean Charters
· Motor yachts are fast, they have a large deck and lots of interior space. It’s ideal for groups wanting comfort and luxury.
· Sailing yachts are powered by an engine. They have a classic feel and better fuel economy. If you prefer a quiet and peaceful time, then charter a sailing yacht.
· Catamarans have two hulls for stability. They have roomy salons and big decks. These are popular for families and groups who want a flat space.
· Traditional wooden yachts are slow, charming, and have ample tech space. These are crewed and common in Turkey and some parts of the Aegean.
· Super yachts are luxurious and have a crewed staff. They provide high-end services. The weekly rates run into six or seven figures for top examples.
Choose a yacht based on what matters to you, speed, space, cost or style.
Mediterranean yacht charter price guide
· Bareboat yachts are small sailing yachts. They start at $2000 per week in some Greek islands.
· Bare boat catamaran starts around $3000 and can go up to $10,000 per week, depending on season and size.
· Crude mid-range yachts start roughly at $25,000 per week. It includes a professional crew, but not the extra running cost.
· Luxury yachts start at around $50,000 per week. High-end super yachts can cost hundreds of thousands to 1,000,000 per week.
Remember, there are extra costs. Expect to pay a full security deposit, full fuel, burning food, drinks and a variable operating cost called APA, an advanced provision allowance for quote charters.
A quick planning checklist
· Before chartering , decide on dates. Whether you want to go for a week or longer, it matters for crossings.
· Choose the region. If you want to visit the West or the East Mediterranean, it changes the timing
· Choose between bare boat and crewed yachts.
· Set a realistic budget. Include APA and taxes. The APA ranges from 25% to 40% of the charter fees.
· Ensure you know berthing and customs rules for multi-country trips.
Top Mediterranean destinations for a yacht charter
· The French Riviera or the Côte d’Azur has the scenic beauty of Saint Tropez, Cannes and Monaco. It’s glamorous with big marinas. Easy berthing is available for super yachts.
· If you plan on visiting Spain, Ibiza and Menorca have good beaches and nightlife near the anchorages.
· Italian coastal islands like the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Sardinia have scenic bays and excellent food.
· Croatia and the Dalmatian coast have clear waters and many sheltered coves.
· Mykonos, Santorini and the Cyclades, have massive options for both crewed and bare boat charters. Greece requires special documentation and a transit log.
· The turquoise coast of Turkey is known for gullets, calm, encouragement and a slower style.
Choose an area that fits your mood. Each has a different vibe and crowd.
How to choose a reliable broker for a yacht charter to the Mediterranean
· Read reviews and ask about their experience. Inquire how long they have been in business.
· Ask for a breakdown of what you have to pay.
· Confirm that the captain is licensed. Ask about the crew’s credentials on crew charters.
· Inquire about the contract and cancellation policy.
· Get information about insurance and damage procedures.
Preparing for the yacht charter
· Bring along important documents like passports, visas and boat licenses.
· Carry your luggage in duffel bags to fit better than hard suitcases.
· Bring non-marking deck shoes or plain trainers.
· Don’t forget a sun protection hat and sunglasses.
· Some yachts have European sockets, bring your plug adapters.
Choose from Mediterranean private yacht charter packages that give you control and privacy. Decide where you want to go from day one. Match your group size to the right yacht type.
