Yachts have grown in popularity over the recent past, reflecting the increasing need for personalized, luxury travel. This is owing to many travel enthusiasts’ penchant for seeking unique and private vacation options.
The global yacht market is set to reach USD$84.7 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% over the period 2020-2027. The figures attest to the popularity of yacht travel.
However, you must plan adequately, navigate budgeting hurdles, and choose the right yacht among the hundreds. This guide provides insightful tips on chartering a yacht.
1. Understand your yachting needs
To begin with, you must have in mind what you’re after. Perhaps you desire a romantic getaway, solitude, or a family adventure. A yacht for a family adventure is definitely different from one you’d hire for a honeymoon.
One critical aspect to consider is size. Yachts have limits on the number of people they can carry. Your group’s size determines the capacity of the yacht you’ll choose. Another thing you must consider is the trip’s duration. A weekend getaway requires a different yacht from a two-week trip, with the latter designed and built hardier to withstand the rigors of the sea.
You also have a choice between a bareboat or a crewed charter. The former allows you to solo drive the yacht, offering maximum privacy. With the latter, you’ll be with the navigator on board and perhaps a chef.
Understanding your needs helps you find a fitting yacht. And once you’ve laid down your requirements, companies like YACHTZOO have a wide variety of luxury yachts you can choose from.
2. Set a realistic budget
The cost of hiring a yacht varies widely, with modest sailboats being on the lower end and luxurious mega yachts on the higher end. So, it helps to have a spending limit. Expect to shell out about USD$40,000 per week for a six-people yacht.
Decide how much you intend to spend daily for the hire. Besides that, factor in additional expenses like insurance, meals, fuel, dockage, and tips for the crew. Also, have some extra cash for unforeseen expenses and emergencies.
3. Choose the right yacht
There are many yachts to choose from. The first one is the sailing yacht. It’s a relatively affordable option. Sailing yachts harness wind power, making your sail more natural and serene. They’re also energy-efficient as they don’t rely on engines, like motor yachts.
Motor yachts offer more luxury and are faster than sailing yachts. However, they’re more expensive.
Another option is the catamaran, famous for its spacious layout and unequaled stability. These features make it suitable for large groups.
4. Determine your destination
Matching your destination to your skills and desired adventure is critical. For instance, you may want to sail the Carribean seas if you’re a beginner looking for warm, clear waters. The calm waters of the Bahamas are also ideal for beginners.
But if you’re more experienced, you’d want to try the Mediterranean. Here, you’ll also experience the coastal communities’ vibrant culture and rich history. Alternatively, the challenging tides of New Zealand may put your skills to the test.
If your aim is isolation, the untouched waters of the South Pacific will do you good.
5. Comply with legal and safety requirements
Legal compliance should never be underestimated. Some jurisdictions require you to provide proof of sailing qualifications, failure to which you may be fined or jailed. So, inquire about the credentials you need and carry them.
Next, sign a contract with the yacht owner. It defines your rights and responsibilities and those of the owner. If any party breaches the agreement, the offended one will have valid grounds for raising complaints.
Insurance shields you from financial strain in the event of an accident. It’s never a guarantee that you’ll set sail and return safely. Yachts can capsize in bad weather, a fire can break out and destroy property within the vessel, or you can get sick. Having an insurance policy to cover such risks gives you much-needed peace of mind.
Some essential insurance policies you should buy when chartering a yacht include trip cancellation insurance, ‘cancel for any reason’ coverage, travel medical insurance, telehealth benefits, emergency medical evacuation, and water activities and sports upgrade coverage.
Ensure the chartered yacht has the necessary safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, GPS, life jackets, life rafts, flares, a VHF radio for communication, and a first aid kit.
6. Tips for a smooth sailing experience
Preparing adequately sets the pace for a smooth sailing experience. Pack enough clothes for sunny, chilly, and rainy weather, as the conditions at sea can drastically change in the spur of the moment. Sunscreen, wide-brim hats, and sunglasses will help protect you from the scorching sun. It’s also wise to carry medications for illnesses you’re susceptible to.
Besides the material requirements, arm yourself with the right mannerisms while on board. Show respect to the crew and always interact with them courteously. You wouldn’t want an expedition filled with grudges and unnecessary arguments.
Also, be flexible enough to accept suggestions from the crew. They may advise you not to take a route you’d planned to because of inclement weather. Trust their expertise and heed such advice. The thing is to uphold open and honest communication regarding every arising matter.
7. Make the most of your time onboard
There’s a lot to do on board a yacht. First and foremost, master the art of sailing. Bombard the professional navigators with questions on the sailing maneuvers they make. Ensure you can do it on your own.
Dive into the waters whenever and wherever possible. Get lost in an interesting read under the sun. Catch a fish or two and prepare sumptuous meals. Capture the vibrant sunsets. Take hilarious selfies with your friends. Jot your experiences in a journal.
In short, make the most of your time, and you’ll live to remember the voyage.
Conclusion
Vacationing on board a yacht is pure bliss. However, it’s more than approaching the owner and paying. A lot of background preparation is involved to ensure your voyage is enjoyable and safe. The guidelines above will help you in this pursuit.
