The cost of chartering a boat can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type and size of the boat, the duration of the charter, the destination, and any additional services or amenities included. Here’s a general breakdown of the costs involved in chartering a boat:
- Base Charter Fee: The primary cost is the base charter fee, which covers the rental of the boat itself. This fee is typically charged on a per-day or per-week basis. The price varies greatly depending on the type and size of the boat. For example, smaller sailboats or motorboats can range from a few hundred dollars per day to a few thousand dollars per week, while larger luxury yachts can cost tens of thousands of dollars per week.
- Crew Fees: Many charter boats come with a crew included in the rental fee. The crew usually consists of a captain and additional staff such as a chef or deckhands. Crew fees are either included in the base charter fee or charged as an additional percentage (usually 10-20%) on top of the base fee. You may also have the option to hire additional crew members or specialized staff at an extra cost.
- Fuel Expenses: Fuel costs are typically not included in the base charter fee and are an additional expense. The amount spent on fuel depends on the boat’s size, distance traveled, cruising speed, and fuel efficiency. It’s important to clarify with the charter company whether fuel is included or if you’ll be responsible for refueling the boat during your charter.
- Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): In the case of larger luxury yachts, an APA may be required. This is an additional amount (usually around 20-30% of the base charter fee) that covers expenses such as fuel, food, drinks, berthing fees, and other incidentals during the charter. The APA is paid in advance and any unused portion is typically refunded at the end of the charter.
- Additional Services and Amenities: Depending on your preferences and the type of boat, there may be extra costs for services such as water sports equipment rentals, scuba diving gear, fishing equipment, onboard entertainment systems, special food and beverage requests, and more. These costs are usually specified separately and may vary depending on your needs.
- Taxes and Fees: Some jurisdictions impose taxes or additional fees on boat charters. These can include local sales taxes, cruising permits, and port fees. The specific taxes and fees vary by location, so it’s important to inquire about them when arranging your charter.
It’s worth noting that the prices mentioned above are general estimates, and actual costs can vary widely depending on the location, time of year, boat availability, and other factors. It’s always recommended to contact charter companies directly to get accurate and up-to-date pricing information based on your specific requirements.