Let’s talk about one of the most common questions I get as a yacht charter broker—
‘How many people can we bring on the yacht?’ And the answer might surprise you…
Most charter yachts, yes, even the big, glamorous ones, are legally limited to 12 guests. And it’s not just a preference. It’s tied to international maritime law.
But don’t worry, if you’ve got a group of 13 or more, you still have great options. Let’s talk about what those options are!
Option 1: Tandem Charter (aka Flotilla Style)
One of the most popular solutions is a tandem charter. That means two (or more) yachts travel together on the same route—coordinated, crewed, and fully in sync.
We’ll help you pick the best yachts based on your group’s style and budget, and then the crews work together to make sure it feels like one big, shared experience. You can anchor side-by-side, eat meals together, hop between boats, and still enjoy that full-service, private yacht lifestyle.
This is a fantastic option for weddings, retreats, family reunions, or any large group looking to get the private yacht experience together.
Option 2: Go Where High-Occupancy Yachts Are Legal.
Now, if you’d prefer to keep the whole group on one yacht, your best bet is heading to a destination where those regulations don’t apply. Croatia is the superstar here. It’s home to high-occupancy yachts. Think mini cruisers, motor sailers, and gulets that can accommodate up to 39+ guests, legally. These are all spacious, elegant options and come at a variety of price points, giving you options at every level of luxury.
Greece and Turkey also have a few of these large-capacity yachts, so if you’re looking for that classic Mediterranean charm and need space for a crowd, there are options.
The Bottom Line: If your group is larger than 12, don’t stress. Whether it’s a tandem charter or a high-occupancy yacht, we’ll find the perfect solution and make sure the experience is luxurious and exactly what you had in mind.
The key to success with large groups is to start planning 1-2 years out because the high-occupancy yachts get booked up FAST!
Ready to start planning your group’s dream yacht vacation? Or just curious what’s possible based on your guest count and budget? 📩 Reach out—I’d love to help guide you through it.
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