FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FAQ FOR YACHTCHARTER
Why should I book with Executive Yachting?
Executive Yachting, your boutique yacht agency, grants you worldwide access to the most exclusive premium yachts – carefully selected, independently recommended.
We stand for integrity and advice without hidden interests: Unlike many conventional yacht agencies, we do not act on behalf of owners, managers, or shipyards, but solely in your best interest.
Our recommended charter yachts embody discreet luxury, individual comfort, and uncompromising quality. From the very first step on board to the last sunset, everything is designed to make you feel at home – with yourself, at sea, in the moment.
And should the unexpected occur during your journey? You won’t be alone. Executive Yachting remains by your side – accessible, discreet, efficient. We coordinate with the owner, take care of your concerns – so you can focus entirely on what truly matters: pure enjoyment.
Who sets the charter price?
In professional crewed yacht charter, the price is set by the yacht owner, who is also a transparent contractual party.
Please note: In the Mediterranean, prices are highest during peak season (July and August). The shoulder seasons (May and October) offer more favorable rates—ideal during the October school holidays in Southern Europe.
Are prices the same with all brokers?
Yes, the charter price is the same with all reputable providers, regardless of whether a broker assists you or not.
Which parties are involved in the charter contract?
A standard charter contract usually involves four parties:
Yacht Owner
Client (Charterer)
Broker
Stakeholder
How is VAT calculated for yacht charters?
VAT varies by country and is applied to the charter fee. Sample rates in the Mediterranean as of 2025:
Greece: 5.2 % –13%
Croatia: 13 %
Italy: 22 %
Balearic Islands (Spain): 21 %
France: 20 %
Caribbean: In the Eastern Caribbean, VAT can often be avoided with correct licensing or route planning. Feel free to contact us about this.
Rest of the world: Please contact us.
What costs are included in the charter price?
MYBA Contract (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association):
Clearly defines the following cost elements:
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Charter Fee: Yacht rental including crew, insurance, and water toys
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VAT: Country-specific value-added tax
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APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): The APA is an advance payment to cover ongoing costs during the charter. This includes expenses such as food, beverages, fuel, port fees, etc.
Billing is based on actual expenditure at the end of the yacht charter. Any unused amounts will be refunded to the client. Should the actual expenditure be higher, the difference must be paid directly to the captain on the last day of the charter. The following rates are usually stipulated in the contract:
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Sailing and catamaran yachts: approx. 20 %
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Motor yachts: approx. 40 %
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Delivery/Redelivery Fee: If you want an alternative start or end port
CYBA Contract (Caribbean):
All-inclusive approach. Typically includes:
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Food
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Drinks
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Cocktails and wines
Special items like lobster, champagne, and premium wines are extra.
What are the payment terms for yacht charters?
MYBA Contract: A deposit amounting to 50% of the charter fee is payable immediately upon signature of the contract. The remaining 50% of the charter fee, together with all applicable additional expenses, is due no later than 30 days prior to the commencement of the yacht charter.
CYBA Contract: A deposit of 50% is payable immediately upon signature of the contract. The balance of 50% is due no later than 30 days prior to the commencement of the yacht charter.
When is a booking considered confirmed?
MYBA Contract: Once all parties have signed the contract.
CYBA Contract: Only after payment is received and the yacht owner countersigns.
When should I book flights and hotels?
Please only book flights and hotels once the yacht owner has signed the contract and your broker confirms the booking.
Is travel insurance recommended?
We recommend all guests take out travel insurance. Consult a trusted insurance broker for advice.
May I bring pets on board?
The Charterer (customer) is not permitted to bring pets on board unless this has been previously agreed with the yacht owner and the crew.
How do I communicate my preferences and wishes?
After signing the contract, you’ll receive a preference sheet to specify your wishes regarding:
Privacy
Meals & drinks
Wines & spirits
Service preferences
Activities & itinerary suggestions
The crew will plan catering and onboard service accordingly. All expenses are transparently settled through the APA.
Important:
Full personal data of all passengers is required (for port authorities).
Some yacht owners set a minimum age for children. Please contact us.
What licenses are required for water sports equipment?
Water toys like jet skis are usually included. Please note: A valid license is required for motorized equipment. Alternatively, a licensed crew member or guide can be added.
What should I consider for external reservations?
The itinerary may change due to weather. Always coordinate external bookings (e.g., restaurants, moorings, spa, diving) with the captain. Cancellation fees are often high—sometimes the full amount.
What kind of luggage is suitable for a yacht charter?
Pack light, with soft bags. Hard-shell suitcases are difficult to stow unless you book a particularly large yacht.
What shoes can I wear on board?
No street shoes are allowed onboard. Only special non-slip boat shoes with light soles are permitted. Think: “easy go, easy flow.”
How does route planning work during the charter?
You set the course within the bounds of weather, sea state, and anchoring conditions. Discuss daily plans flexibly with the captain. Your satisfaction is key for the crew as well (think: gratuity).
How much should I tip on a yacht charter?
Mediterranean: Standard is 5–15% of the charter fee, approx. 10% recommended
Caribbean & USA: 15–20% is expected
How is the APA settled after the trip?
Unused APA funds are refunded transparently after the trip via the broker’s account, based on receipts. If the advance is insufficient, extra payments are required on-site.
Are there discounts for repeat yacht bookings?
Some yacht owners offer attractive discounts for repeat bookings. Contact us—we’ll advocate for your interests.
A crewed yacht charter is an exclusive investment – and a matter of trust. Who would you entrust it to?
Thomas Lauber, Founder and CEO of Executive Yachting, has been a member of the International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA) since 2010 -the world’s largest association of yacht and charter brokers.
We stand for SWISS values, speak your language, and are available by phone daily until 10:00 PM.