Private yacht charters typically range from $25,000 per week to over $1,000,000+, depending on the yacht, destination, and level of service.
- $25K–$120K → All-inclusive catamarans in the Caribbean
- $50K–$150K → Luxury crewed motor yachts
- $200K+ → Ultra-luxury superyachts and mega yachts
But that base rate is not the only cost. Additional expenses like APA, VAT, and gratuity can increase the total by 25–50% or more depending on the yacht and itinerary.
In this guide, we break down exactly what to expect so there are no surprises.
Caribbean Yacht Charters: The Per-Guest Hidden Fees
When booking yachts in the Caribbean, the “starting at” price advertised is for just two guests on that yacht, regardless of the capacity of the yacht. If you’re booking a 10-person yacht for a full group, the total sailing yacht charter rate will be significantly higher. Catamaran rates in the Caribbean vary based on the number of people going on the trip but the great thing about them is that they are all-inclusive, making the cost of the vacation predictable once you know your headcount.
If you are a couple that wants to island hop around the Caribbean on a private yacht charter, you can take advantage of that low rate; however, if you are filling the yacht, the price will increase based on your guest count. Always inform your broker of how many guests you are planning to host when searching for your perfect charter.
Power Yachts: Don’t Forget the APA
If you’re keen on a motor yacht, keep in mind that the base rate doesn’t include the APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance). APA ranges from 30-40% of the base rate and covers expenses such as fuel, food, drinks, transfers and docking fees.
Mediterranean Yacht Charters: Low and High Season Pricing + VAT
In the Mediterranean, “starting at” usually refers to the low-season rate, typically for May or October. Touring the Amalfi Coast in July or August is lovely, but also costly. You might consider going in the low season when costs are lower.
If you’re traveling in the mid or high season (June, July, August, September), expect significantly higher rates.
On top of that, you’ll pay:
VAT (Value-Added Tax): Ranges from 5% to 24%, depending on the country
APA: Typically 25–40% of the base rate to cover onboard expenses
The VAT is a tax applied to your charter fee, while the APA is a separate advance payment that covers the operating expenses of your trip. It’s important to factor both of these—along with gratuity—into your overall budget. Unlike VAT, which is a tax, the APA is simply a deposit, so any unused amount is returned to you.
VAT is calculated based on your departure country and is charged on the charter fee at the time of booking. It does not include or affect the APA. For example, if you depart from the French Riviera, your VAT rate will be 20%, no matter where your itinerary takes you.
The APA, on the other hand, covers costs such as food, fuel, docking fees, and beverages. It fluctuates depending on your preferences and plans. If you don’t spend the full APA, the remaining balance is refunded or can be applied toward gratuity. If you’re planning high-end activities or indulgences, expect your APA to be higher.
Real world examples of how it all comes together:
💰 BVI Catamaran (All-Inclusive)
60ft Catamaran (8–10 guests)
$30,000 ALL-INCLUSIVE
Gratuity (15–20%): $4,500–$6,000
👉 Estimated Total: $34,500–$36,000
💰 Greece Catamaran (APA Model)
60ft Catamaran (8–10 guests)
€30,000 + 12% VAT (€3,600) + 25% APA (€7,500) = €41,100
Gratuity (10–15%): €3,000–€4,500
👉 Estimated Total: €44,100–€45,600
💰 Greece Motor Yacht (Higher APA Impact)
80ft Motor Yacht (8–10 guests)
€80,000 + 12% VAT (€9,600) + 35% APA (€28,000) = €117,600
Gratuity (10–15%): €8,000–€12,000
👉 Estimated Total: €125,600–€129,600+
💰 France Catamaran (APA Model)
60ft Catamaran (8–10 guests)
€30,000 + 22% VAT (€6,600) + 25% APA (€7,500) = €44,100
Gratuity (10–15%): €3,000–€4,500
👉 Estimated Total: €47,100–€48,600
💰 France Motor Yacht (Higher APA Impact)
80ft Motor Yacht (8–10 guests)
€80,000 + 22% VAT (€17,600) + 35% APA (€28,000) = €125,600
Gratuity (10–15%): €8,000–€12,000
👉 Estimated Total: €133,600–€137,600+
The Final Added Cost: Gratuity
A crewed yacht charter is as great of an experience as it is because of the people behind the charter. Your crew. These folks are experts at making a yacht charter what it is. Gratuity in the Mediterranean typically is about 10-15% based on your experience, while in the Caribbean the standard gratuity rate is 15-20%. These percentages are based off of the base charter rate.
The Bottom Line: Expect to Pay More Than the Advertised Rate
While “starting at” prices may look appealing, they rarely reflect the final cost. Between seasonal rate increases, guest-based pricing, taxes, and provisioning fees, your total can climb quickly. Ensuring that you’re working with a broker who explains the various additional fees and can educate you is key.
As we have learned, additional hidden fees vary by region, season, and yacht type. Whether you work with the team at Sanderson Yachting or with another broker, it is essential that you ask pertinent questions about any additional fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the price include?
The short answer is that it depends on where you go. Here is a breakdown:
Caribbean – 95% of the catamarans in the Virgin Islands, Leeward and Windward Islands are all-inclusive. However, power yachts and some of the larger catamarans have a base charter fee plus APA. The only fee not included is crew gratuity which is optional but customary. Its 15-20% in the Caribbean.
Bahamas – Same as Caribbean pricing above, however, there is an additional 14% tax on all boats in the Bahamas.
Mediterranean– There is a base charter fee plus VAT and APA. VAT is a country tax which varies from 5.2% to 24% depending on the country. The other expense is APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) which is designed to cover onboard expenses such as food, beverages, fuel, mooring/docking fees and taxi transfers. The Captain will keep an accurate record of spending and at the end of the charter, you will be refunded or asked to pay the difference if additional operating costs are incurred. The only fee not included is crew gratuity which is optional but customary. Its 10-15% in the Mediterranean.
Does the cost of a yacht charter change based on the number of guests?
It depends on where you go.
In the Mediterranean, you are chartering the boat so whether it has 2 guests or 12 guests its the same cost to you, however, the APA will likely be lower as that amount is estimated based on a full boat.
In the Caribbean, however, the boat will be less expensive for just 2 guests as the price is based on the number of guests.
What is the APA?
The APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) covers the running expenses during your charter, such as fuel, food, drinks, and other costs. The Captain will monitor and provide updates on the spending throughout the trip. If the APA is exceeded, you’ll need to settle the additional amount at the end of the charter. If there is any remaining balance, it will be refunded to you or can be apply it towards the crew’s gratuity.