British Virgin Islands – An Ideal Destination for Crewed Yacht Charters
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are widely regarded as one of the finest destinations in the world for crewed yacht charters. Calm sailing conditions,...
Whether you are exploring yacht chartering for the first time or returning to the sea with prior experience, this guide is designed to support you. Yacht charters naturally involve many considerations, and understanding the process makes planning both easier and more enjoyable. We have brought together key insights and practical details to help you navigate each stage with clarity and confidence, offering thoughtful guidance as you begin shaping your next journey at sea.
Begin by exploring our fleet and destinations, then reach out to our team with your preferred dates, group size, and any special requests. We’ll guide you through the options, suggest suitable yachts, and craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your preferences.
For peak seasons, we recommend securing your yacht six to ten months in advance to ensure the best selection. Off-season charters can typically be booked three to six months ahead. Keep in mind that the most sought-after yachts may be reserved up to a year in advance, so early planning is always advised for a seamless and tailored experience.
CROATIA – You should own the license for operating the pleasure craft issued by the state authority of your country as well as the VHF license. Licenses from most European countries are accepted in Croatia. Please download a list of valid licenses issued by the Croatian Ministry of Sea to check are you in possession of a valid license.
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS – A formal sailing license is not mandatory for a bareboat charter here. A completed Sailing or Power resume is required to ensure you have the necessary experience required to charter yourself.
Once your chosen yacht is confirmed, we will provide a standard MYBA or Fine Sailing charter agreement for signing. The contract outlines important details including liabilities, payment terms, and the cancellation policy, which can vary depending on the yacht or operator.
In Croatia, the sailing season runs from May through October, with July and August being the busiest months. For the most pleasant conditions and fewer crowds, June and September are often considered the ideal months to charter.
The Caribbean season is most active during the winter months, from November to June, with peak demand around Christmas and New Year. For calmer seas and a more relaxed experience, January through April offer excellent conditions and a perfect escape from colder climates.
Prices depend on the yacht type, size, destination, duration, season, and crew service included. Additional services such as provisioning, water toys, and guided activities can also affect the final price.
In most cases, charter payments are divided into two installments. A deposit of approximately 50% of the charter fee is required upon signing the contract to confirm the booking. The remaining balance is typically due 30 to 60 days prior to the start of the charter.
Please note that payment schedules may vary depending on the yacht, operator, or destination.
What is included in your yacht charter fee can vary depending on the yacht and the selected charter arrangement. In addition to the base charter price, certain running expenses may apply, such as fuel, port and marina fees, provisioning, transfers, and other operational costs.
For crewed charters, these variable expenses are commonly covered through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), which is managed onboard throughout the charter. Your broker will explain the available options in detail and ensure full clarity before confirmation.
APA, or Advance Provisioning Allowance, is an additional amount paid in advance for crewed yacht charters to cover variable expenses during your journey. This typically includes fuel, food and beverages, port and marina fees, and other agreed operational costs.
The APA is usually around 30% of the charter fee and is managed by the captain, who keeps detailed records of all expenses. At the end of the charter, any unused funds are returned to you, while any additional costs are settled accordingly. This system ensures smooth onboard operations and complete transparency throughout your charter.
We accept bank transfers and major credit cards. Usually, payment by credit card may be subject to a slightly higher total price, typically around 3-5%, due to processing fees charged by financial institutions. Bank transfers are generally the most cost-effective payment method. We will always inform you of any applicable differences in advance, ensuring full transparency before confirmation.
Tipping is customary but entirely at your discretion. For crewed yachts, gratuities are a way to acknowledge exceptional service and the effort the crew puts into making your charter unforgettable. The typical range is around 10–15% of the base charter fee
A right yacht broker brings unmatched expertise and firsthand knowledge of yachts, crews, and destinations, cultivated over years in the industry. They can guide you in selecting the perfect vessel from an extensive network of fleet operators and owners worldwide, ensuring your yacht aligns seamlessly with your vision, preferences, and the type of experience you desire.
A broker’s network also extends to concierge services, private transfers, excursions, and bespoke experiences, allowing every element of your journey to be effortless and curated. With a broker, your charter transforms into a truly personalized and luxurious voyage, thoughtfully planned from start to finish.
The right broker is someone who understands your vision and can guide you to a seamless, tailored yachting experience. Look for expertise, a personal approach, and a deep knowledge of yachts, crews, and destinations. Experienced brokers not only provide guidance based on firsthand knowledge, but their standing and connections in the industry allow them to create journeys that go beyond the ordinary. Choosing a broker with experience, insight, and a commitment to your preferences is the key to a truly exceptional charter.
Working with a broker comes at no additional cost to you, while offering significant value. The broker’s commission is part of the established partnership between yacht owners/fleet operators, and brokers, and is included in the charter rate. This means the price remains the same whether you book independently or with a broker’s guidance. By working with a broker, you gain expert advice, tailored recommendations, and support throughout the process, helping you enjoy your yacht charter to its fullest.
At this stage, the fundamentals of booking a yacht charter should feel clear and familiar. The sections that follow explore the finer details – the elements that shape comfort, rhythm, and enjoyment once you are on board. From destinations and yacht types to provisioning, itineraries, and practical considerations, this part of our Charter Guide is designed to help you approach your journey with confidence and ease, discovering insights that often only become apparent once you are already at sea.
Croatia and the British Virgin Islands offer distinctly different yachting experiences, shaped by their landscapes, culture, and rhythm of life. Croatia is defined by historic coastal towns, island-dotted routes, and a strong Mediterranean character, while the British Virgin Islands offer a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere, calm waters, and effortless island hopping.
Seasonality also plays an important role. Croatia is a summer sailing destination, while the British Virgin Islands are available outside the European season, offering excellent conditions during the winter and spring months. Many guests choose their destination not only for the experience itself, but also based on when it best fits their travel plans.
Our fleet includes sailing yachts, catamarans (both sailing and power), motor yachts, and mini cruisers. Options range from independent, self-skippered vessels to fully crewed luxury yachts that provide a superyacht-style experience.
Yes - as part of our bespoke service, we thoughtfully build itineraries that go beyond sailing, incorporating local dining, guided excursions, water activities, and cultural visits.
Yachts vary widely in size and layout depending on the type selected. Sailing yachts, catamarans, and motor yachts typically range from approximately 35 to 100 feet and are designed to accommodate up to 12 guests, depending on the number of cabins and onboard configuration.
Mini cruisers are an exception. These larger vessels can reach up to 150 feet in length and are specifically designed for group charters, offering accommodation for up to 40 guests in multiple cabins, along with generous communal spaces for dining and socialising.
Many yachts up to approximately 50-55 feet can be chartered either with or without crew, offering flexibility depending on your preferences and experience. Larger yachts are typically operated with a permanent professional crew onboard, ensuring a high level of service throughout the charter.
Charters without crew are known as bareboat charters and are suitable for guests who meet the required sailing qualifications.
Nothing to be worried about staying in touch with family, friends, or business. Most of the areas and islands will have signal coverage and you can connect through your own provider, or through WIFI on board.
Charter guests can be anyone. Small children and babies are welcome to enjoy the yachts as well. Consider focusing even more on safety when coming with the kids aboard. Your broker might advise putting the safety net around the yacht fence and choosing more of a relaxed route, skipping the rough sea navigation.
Yachts are designed with efficient use of space in mind, featuring numerous hidden storage spots for your belongings. To maximize your storage, pack your clothes in soft luggage; this allows you to fold and store them easily once you unpack. Avoid large, bulky luggage to free up valuable space and minimize overpacking. Even if you’re headed to warm and sunny destinations, don’t forget to include a couple of warmer clothing items for the cooler moments at sea.
Most of the yachts will allow having your furry friends aboard. Communicate with your charter broker to find the pet friendly yacht.
In Croatia yacht charters are typically organized on a week-by-week basis, with Saturdays as the most common starting day. In Croatia, it’s not unusual for guests to combine multiple weeks for an extended voyage. Different charter durations or start days other than Saturday are possible, but options are limited, especially during the busy summer season.
In the Caribbean, the season is longer and more flexible, allowing for a wider variety of charter durations and alternative start days to suit your plans.
Provisioning arrangements depend on the type of charter you choose. For bareboat charters, guests are responsible for purchasing food and beverages. Many choose to arrive earlier to shop locally, while others prefer the convenience of ordering provisions online in advance, with delivery directly to the yacht before embarkation.
For charters with a hostess, assistance with provisioning is often available - either by helping with shopping upon arrival or coordinating online orders ahead of time. On fully crewed charters, provisioning is typically handled entirely by the crew, with supplies arranged and stored onboard prior to your arrival based on your prefilled preference sheet.
In both Croatia and the British Virgin Islands, it is also easy to restock during the charter week, with well-equipped marinas, village shops, and local markets available throughout the sailing areas.
For crewed yacht charters, you will be asked to complete a preference sheet prior to departure. This allows you to share important details such as dietary requirements, food preferences, allergies, and beverage selections, ensuring the onboard provisions reflect your tastes from the moment you arrive.
In addition, the preference sheet often includes space to note your preferred activities, places you’d like to visit, and any special occasions you may wish to celebrate during the charter, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or milestones. This information helps the crew and our team prepare thoughtful arrangements in advance, allowing your time on board to feel considered, relaxed, and personal.
Having a sample itinerary in advance can be very helpful, but it’s important to understand that yachting routes are always flexible and subject to change. Weather, local conditions, and other factors can influence your journey, so your initial plan should be adapted once you begin your charter. Following a route set months in advance without adjustment is rarely practical and can lead to frustration.
If you’ve booked a yacht with a captain, we encourage you to benefit from the crew’s expertise and local knowledge - they can enhance your itinerary with hidden gems, optimal anchorages, and unique experiences. Alternatively, you may leave the planning entirely in their hands, allowing every detail to be arranged so you can focus on relaxation and discovery.
Prior to your departure, we can assist in shaping your route, offering suggestions tailored to your preferences, interests, and pace. On our website, you’ll also find sample itineraries to inspire your voyage.
Absolutely. It’s common for itineraries to evolve during the week - whether you choose to linger in a favorite spot, skip certain stops, or take a few days just to relax on board. The two key factors guiding any changes are weather conditions and the availability of destinations or anchorages. With these in mind, your route can be adapted effortlessly to match your preferences and the flow of your journey.
Safety is always the top priority on board, so it’s important to adapt your plans if conditions are challenging. “Bad weather” doesn’t always mean storms - it can also include very windy days that make sailing less comfortable. In these moments, it’s perfectly fine to stay longer in port, explore local activities ashore, or simply relax on board in a sheltered area. Taking a pause ensures everyone stays safe while still enjoying the journey at a leisurely, stress-free pace.
Yes - we can coordinate airport transfers, private drivers, and pre- or post-charter accommodations to ensure your journey is seamless from start to finish.
Sailing experience is only required for bareboat charters, where a valid license and sufficient experience must be demonstrated. For guests who prefer to relax and enjoy the journey, skippered or fully crewed charters allow you to sail without any prior experience.
Absolutely. From birthdays and anniversaries to private dining experiences or surprise moments, special arrangements can be planned in advance. Simply share your ideas with us, and we’ll ensure the details are thoughtfully arranged.
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