How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht?

The Allure of Yacht Chartering

What does it really cost to step onto a yacht & sail into the open sea? The question lingers for many, because behind the glamour of sleek decks & turquoise waters lies a cost structure that isn’t always transparent.

One of the biggest frustrations for travelers is the confusion around pricing. Charter websites may show a weekly rate, but then guests are surprised when fuel, provisions, crew tips, & taxes are added later. Without clarity, budgets spiral out of control, turning excitement into stress.

At Roccabella Yachts, we aim to make this simple. Before you book, you should know exactly what goes into the cost of chartering a yacht.

The Numbers: What Statistics Reveal

According to Worldwide Boat, the average yacht charter cost ranges between $10,000 & $150,000 per week depending on yacht type & size.

Sailing yachts & catamarans (50–60 feet) → $10,000–$20,000 per week.
Motor yachts (80–100 feet) → $35,000–$80,000 per week.
Superyachts (150+ feet, like those seen on Below Deck) → $150,000–$500,000+ per week.

These numbers exclude extras like the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), which typically adds another 25–35%. To explore current listings, see our Yachts for Charter or use our Search Yachts for Charter tool.

Understanding the Base Charter Fee

When you first see a yacht charter price listed online, that figure is known as the base charter fee. Think of it as the foundation of your booking, it’s the minimum amount required to secure the yacht for your chosen dates.

Here’s what the base fee includes:

The yacht itself: This covers exclusive access to the vessel, its cabins, lounges, dining areas, sun decks, & onboard amenities. Essentially, the yacht is yours for the duration of your charter.
Crew wages & services: A professional crew is included in every charter. Depending on the yacht’s size, this could mean a captain, deckhands, stewards, and even a chef. Their salaries & standard services (navigation, cooking, housekeeping, maintenance) are all built into the base fee.
Standard equipment: This usually includes items like onboard entertainment systems, basic water sports gear (such as snorkeling equipment), and the yacht’s tender for short transfers to shore.

Important note: The base fee does not cover fuel, food, drinks, or taxes. Those costs are separate and calculated through the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance).

For example, a luxury motor yacht listed on our Yacht Charter page may start at $60,000 per week. While this sounds like the full price, it’s actually just the starting point before other expenses are added.

The APA: What It Really Covers

The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a payment made before your charter begins. It usually equals 25–35% of the base charter fee and acts as a deposit for all variable expenses during your trip.

Here’s what the APA typically covers:

Fuel for cruising & generators: Yachts consume significant fuel, whether cruising between islands or running generators while at anchor. Costs can vary widely depending on distances traveled.
Food & beverages: Everything from daily meals to fine dining menus & premium wines comes out of the APA. Your crew will work with you in advance to plan menus and stock the yacht with your preferences.
Port fees & marina berths: Each time you dock at a marina or harbor, charges apply. These are covered by your APA.
Water toys & tender fuel: Jet skis, tenders, and other recreational equipment require fuel & upkeep, which is accounted for within the APA.

Seasonal Costs: Timing Matters

Yacht charter pricing isn’t fixed - it fluctuates with demand across different times of the year. The same yacht can cost significantly more or less depending on when you choose to book.

High season: July & August in the Mediterranean are the busiest months of the year. Likewise, Christmas & New Year are peak weeks in the Caribbean. During these periods, demand is high, marinas are crowded, & rates typically increase by up to 20%. Availability is also limited - so the most desirable yachts are often reserved months in advance.
Low season: May, June, September, & October offer a more relaxed experience. The weather is still excellent in destinations like Greece, Italy, or Spain, but demand is lower. This often translates into better availability & cost savings compared to peak months.

The benefit of low-season charters is twofold, guests enjoy more space in popular destinations & the same yachts at reduced rates.

For inspiration, explore our Mediterranean Yacht Charters to see how seasonal timing could shape your itinerary.

Crew Tips & Additional Fees

While the base charter fee & APA cover the majority of your costs, there are a few additional expenses that should be factored into your budget.

Crew Gratuity

Tipping your crew is customary & highly appreciated. Crews work long hours to deliver flawless service, from planning meals to maintaining the yacht’s smooth operation. Gratuity typically falls between 10–20% of the base charter fee.

On a $50,000 yacht, this means $5,000–$10,000.
On a $150,000 yacht, expect $15,000–$30,000.

This is usually given in cash at the end of the trip, or settled through the central agent.

Other Additional Fees

Charter taxes: Depending on the region, a tax may be added to your charter. In Europe, Value Added Tax (VAT) often applies and can range from 5–20% of the base fee.
Delivery fees: If the yacht needs to be moved from one port to another to begin your trip, the cost of fuel & crew time is charged as a delivery fee.
Event charges: Hosting a large celebration onboard (such as a wedding or corporate event) may come with added costs for setup, additional staff, or higher insurance requirements.

Factoring these into your budget early means no surprises when your final balance is due. Want help managing these details? Our Yacht Management team handles operational logistics so your experience stays seamless.

Empathy: We Know It Can Be Overwhelming

The first time you look into yacht charter prices, it can feel overwhelming. The range is huge, anywhere from $15,000 for a smaller catamaran to over $500,000 for a superyacht. On top of that, you’ll see extra terms like APA, crew gratuity, taxes, & delivery fees. What starts as an exciting dream vacation can quickly feel complicated.

This reaction is completely natural. Luxury travel often comes with details that aren’t obvious at first glance. The good news is, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

At Roccabella Yachts, we make the process clear. Our team takes the mystery out of the numbers by explaining exactly what’s included in your base rate, what the APA covers, & which extras apply in your chosen destination. That way, you can focus on what matters most, the experience onboard, without worrying about hidden costs or surprise charges.

The Value of Chartering With Roccabella

When you charter with Roccabella, you’re choosing more than just a yacht. You’re choosing a service designed to give you clarity, confidence, & unforgettable memories at sea.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Transparent pricing from the start: No hidden extras or vague explanations. We outline every cost so you know exactly what to expect.
Access to world-class yachts: Explore the vessels available on our Yachts page (https://roccabellayachts.com/yachts-for-charter?utm_source=chatgpt.com) and find the one that fits your trip.
Destination knowledge: Our team understands the best cruising grounds in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, & beyond, ensuring your itinerary is perfectly planned.
Personal guidance: From the first inquiry to the final day onboard, we support you in building the experience you want, whether that means quiet coves, glamorous ports, or family-friendly adventures.

Looking for trusted representation? Our brokers are based worldwide, including London, Dubai, Geneva, Mallorca, and Miami.

If ownership interests you, we also provide services for Yachts for Sale , Selling a Yacht, and even guiding clients to Build a Yacht.

Ready to begin? Explore About Roccabella, view Yacht Sales & Brokerage, or Contact Us today and let’s plan your next charter.

Final Word

So, how much does it cost to charter a yacht? Anywhere from $15,000 to $500,000+, depending on size, season, & extras. Think of the base rate as your entry point. Then add APA, gratuity, & regional taxes.

With clarity, you’ll know what to expect & what you’ll get: private luxury, personalized service, & the ability to explore the world’s best destinations at your own pace.

Check out our full Yacht Charter Guide & start planning your journey today.

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