How a Crewed Yacht Charter Works
Step into a world of personalised service, refined comfort, and effortless exploration - where every detail is guided by experience and shaped entirely around you.
What is a Crewed Yacht Charter?
A crewed yacht charter is the most tailored way to explore the world by sea - with a professional crew dedicated to your comfort, preferences, and privacy.
From the moment you arrive on board, every element of your journey is shaped around you. From custom itineraries and five-star dining to private anchorages and daily adventures, your yacht becomes a floating sanctuary - where luxury meets complete freedom.
Whether you seek discovery or stillness, a crewed charter offers something rare: space, time, and the ability to travel completely on your own terms.
Why Charter with CharterWorld?
While many brokerages operate across sales, crew placement, and technical management, CharterWorld focuses solely on one thing: delivering exceptional charter experiences, tailored to the client.
Our elite global team of brokers provides discreet, highly personalised service that reflects both our integrity and deep expertise. We inspect yachts personally, know the crews, and take pride in crafting experiences that align with each client’s lifestyle and vision.
We also bring unmatched insight into the world’s most spectacular cruising grounds because someone on our team has likely been there themselves. From the Caribbean to the Med and beyond, we know the nuances of each destination, and this first-hand experience helps us guide you towards truly unforgettable charters.
“We’re not tied to any single fleet or region - our only priority is finding the right yacht, with the right crew, in the right location, for you.”
– Nicolas Benazeth, Director of Charter
This is a relationship, not a transaction - built on trust, insight, and excellence from start to finish.

Why Use a Charter Broker?
Your CharterWorld broker is your personal advisor, someone who listens deeply, offers honest insight, and ensures every detail is taken care of.
- Unbiased access to the world’s finest crewed yachts
- Personal recommendations based on lifestyle, not just logistics
- First-hand knowledge of yachts, destinations, and seasonal nuances
- Calm, expert support at every step, from enquiry to disembarkation
There is no additional cost to use a broker - and everything you gain is peace of mind, expertise, and a truly exceptional experience.
What’s Included - and What’s Extra?
Your yacht charter is priced either as “plus expenses” or “inclusive”, depending on the yacht and destination.
Most yachts operate on a ‘plus expenses’ basis:
The charter fee includes the fully equipped yacht and services and upkeep of the professional crew. All variable cruising expenses are charged extra, at cost price. You will be asked to make a deposit (the Advance Provisioning Allowance - APA) prior to the charter and this will be kept as an onboard account by the captain to provision the yacht according to your preferences and cover the cruising expenses.
These typically include:
- Fuel for the yacht and tenders
- Food and beverages for your group
- Dockage and port fees
- Local taxes and permits
- Shore excursions and special requests
Detailed accounts are kept for your review and any remaining funds are returned to you at the end of the charter. Should there be any overspend due to a particularly long itinerary or special requests for example, additional funds will be requested to top up the APA. Depending on the yacht and location, an APA of 25%-40% of the charter fee is requested.
Some yachts operate on an inclusive basis:
A number of yachts, particularly in remote destinations like Indonesia, the Maldives, or the Galápagos Islands, offer all-inclusive pricing. All costs are included in the charter fee, except special requests for exceptional foods, premium beverages, or activities not usually included.
Some smaller yachts, typically catamarans in parts of the Caribbean, operate on a ‘plus bar’ or ‘Caribbean terms’ basis, where most expenses are included in the charter fee, but most alcohol, any dockage and local cruising taxes and permits may be charged extra.
Please note: Crew gratuities are not included. While tipping is entirely discretionary, a gratuity of 10–20% of the charter fee (excluding expenses) is customary for exceptional service.
Your CharterWorld broker will clearly explain which model applies to your chosen yacht and cruising destination.

How It Works: Your CharterWorld Journey
Chartering a yacht should feel effortless - and with CharterWorld, it is. From the very first conversation to the final farewell, your dedicated broker is here to guide, personalise, and refine every detail, creating something truly extraordinary.
1. We Get to Know You
We begin with a conversation — not just about dates and destinations, but about you. What does the perfect holiday feel like? What pace do you enjoy? What kind of service, food, atmosphere makes you feel at home? We listen closely, ask the right questions, and take time to understand what truly matters to you.
You’ll feel understood and confident from the very beginning.
2. We Curate the Perfect Match
Your broker will handpick a shortlist of yachts, crews, and destinations that align beautifully with your vision. We share personal insights on each option - not just specifications, but personality. Why this yacht? Why that destination? You'll always know.
You’ll receive tailored options that feel considered, and a clear sense of what’s right for you.
3. We Shape the Experience Around You
Once confirmed, we work closely with the crew to personalise every detail: from your preferred wines and dietary needs to daily activities, hidden anchorages, and shore experiences. Whether you dream of spa mornings, cultural excursions, or lazy afternoons on deck, it’s all designed around your lifestyle.
You’ll step on board to find everything prepared just the way you like it.
4. We Support You Throughout - and Beyond
While your crew brings the charter to life, your broker remains discreetly available in the background supporting, checking in, and ready to assist if needed. The broker stays in constant contact with the crew throughout the experience, ensuring everything runs smoothly and adjusting plans if necessary. And once your journey ends, we’re still here: to hear what you loved, answer questions, or begin dreaming up the next one.
You’ll feel supported at every turn, not just for this charter, but as a client we’re proud to serve for years to come.
Who is a Crewed Yacht Charter For?
A private yacht charter offers a rare combination of freedom and refinement, making it perfect for:
- Families – Reconnect in comfort, with every detail managed discreetly
- Couples – Celebrate in complete privacy, with romantic itineraries
- Groups of Friends – Share unforgettable adventures, tailored to your style
- First-Time Charterers – Be guided with care, clarity, and calm
- Experienced Travellers – Uncover remote wonders and rare experiences.
Whether you're sailing the Greek Islands, exploring Croatia’s coastline, or venturing through the Pacific, every journey becomes a personal story elevated by care and curated by experts.
FAQs
Can I customise my itinerary and meals?
Yes, absolutely. Your yacht's itinerary and menus are shaped entirely around your preferences. You’ll complete a preference form in advance so the captain and chef can create a journey that feels completely your own.
Do I need sailing experience?
No. A professional crew handles all navigation, safety, and daily operations. You can simply relax and enjoy your time on board.
What is APA and how does it work?
The APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) is a pre-paid amount - typically 25–40% of your charter fee - used by the captain to cover fuel, food, drinks, port fees, and other cruising expenses. At the end of the charter, you’ll receive a full breakdown of spend. Any unused amount is returned to you.
How much should I tip the crew?
Tipping is entirely discretionary, but 10–20% of the charter fee (excluding expenses) is customary for outstanding service. Gratuities are shared equally among the crew.
What should I pack for my charter?
We recommend lightweight, resort-style clothing and plenty of swimwear. Bring soft luggage rather than hard suitcases for easier storage. Your broker will provide a detailed, personalised packing guide.
How long can I charter a yacht for?
The minimum charter duration is usually 7 days, though shorter charters may be possible in certain destinations or seasons. Your broker will help you find a solution that suits your plans.
Can we change the itinerary during the charter?
Yes, within reason. Your captain will aim to accommodate changes, depending on weather conditions, timing, and local regulations. Flexibility is one of the great advantages of private charter.
Are children welcome on board?
Absolutely. Many yachts are family-friendly, and we can recommend vessels with safety features, water toys, and crew experienced with children of all ages. Just let us know what your family needs.
Can we host a celebration or party on board?
Yes - many clients charter yachts for special celebrations. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or private gathering, we can help you plan a bespoke event within the yacht’s capacity and local maritime regulations.
What types of yachts are available for charter?
CharterWorld offers access to the full spectrum of professionally crewed yachts: motor yachts, sailing yachts, classic yachts, explorer vessels, and catamarans — from family-friendly to ultra-luxury. Your broker will help you find the perfect fit.
Do all yachts have stabilisers?
Many modern motor yachts are equipped with stabilisers that reduce movement both underway and at anchor. If motion comfort is important to you, we’ll recommend yachts that offer the right stabilisation features.
What happens in bad weather?
Your captain constantly monitors conditions and will adapt the itinerary if necessary to maintain comfort and safety. Most charters are planned for optimal weather windows, and the crew is experienced in navigating any changes smoothly.
Can I bring pets on board?
Some yachts are pet-friendly, but this is typically subject to prior approval and may depend on the yacht, itinerary, and size or breed of the animal. Let us know early if you’d like to bring a pet.
Are there any hidden fees?
No, your CharterWorld broker will outline all expected costs clearly and transparently. You’ll be advised on the charter fee, APA, VAT (if applicable), and any optional extras. We pride ourselves on clarity, discretion, and trust.
When should I book my charter?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak season charters in the Mediterranean (June–August) or Caribbean (December–January). Booking 6–12 months in advance provides the best availability and choice of yachts.
Let’s Start Planning
Your perfect charter begins with a conversation. Whether you’re exploring possibilities or ready to confirm your next journey, our brokers are here to guide you with insight, care, and world-class service.
















































