What Does a Yacht Charter Price Include? A Complete Breakdown

Ever wondered why yacht charters can range from $1,000 to over $20,000 per week? At first glance, the pricing might feel mysterious, but once you know what’s included — and what’s extra — it makes sense. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or your first sailing trip, here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect in your yacht charter price.

Standard Inclusions

Most yacht charters — especially those booked through trusted platforms like Sailo (affiliate link)— include several essentials in the base price:

• Crew & Staff – On crewed charters, the captain is always included. Depending on the boat size, you may also have a deckhand, hostess, or even a chef. Their salaries are part of the base cost.
• Fuel (Bunkering) – Fuel for a set number of miles or hours is often included. If you go beyond that, you’ll usually pay extra.
• Insurance & Licensing – Charters typically include insurance to protect the boat, crew, and passengers, plus necessary taxes and licenses.
• Meals & Beverages – Many crewed yachts provide basic provisioning, such as daily breakfasts and drinks. Bareboat charters (where you sail yourself) generally don’t include food.

Common Add-Ons

While the essentials are covered, some experiences come at an additional cost:

• Water Toys – Jet skis, paddleboards, diving gear, and inflatables can be included or rented separately.
• Docking & Port Fees – Staying overnight in luxury marinas adds extra charges, while anchoring in a bay is often free.
• Luxury Upgrades – From curated wine lists to spa treatments, higher-end services are typically billed separately.
• Gratuities – Tipping your crew (10–20% of the charter fee) is customary and not included in the upfront price.

Price Tiers Explained

To better understand what your budget buys, here’s a quick breakdown:

• Budget Charters (< $5,000/week)
  • Often bareboat or small crew.
  • Great for hands-on sailors or short getaways.
• Mid-Range ($5,000–$20,000/week)
  • Full-service crewed yachts with standard meals, drinks, and water toys.
  • Ideal for couples or small groups wanting more comfort.
• Premium (>$20,000/week)
  • Superyachts and luxury vessels.
  • Expect gourmet dining, full staff, and personalized itineraries.

How to Compare Offers

When browsing charter listings, don’t just look at the headline price. Instead:

• Compare itemized inclusions (crew, meals, toys).
• Ask if fuel is capped at a daily allowance.
• Double-check if docking fees are included.
• Make sure the cancellation and insurance policies are clear.

Final Thoughts

A yacht charter isn’t just about the boat — it’s about the experience. From captain and crew to water toys and meals, knowing what’s included in the price helps you plan (and budget) without surprises.

So whether you’re dreaming of a bareboat adventure or a fully staffed superyacht, you now know exactly what to expect.

🧭 Ready to start comparing charters? Browse options on Sailo or GetMyBoat and find the perfect yacht for your trip.