Charter FAQs. Your questions answered.

Charter FAQs

You can trust us to perfect every detail of your charter – we’re here to make your experience unforgettable. We have covered some of the most common charter questions here but if you are uncertain about anything, a broker will be delighted to put your mind at rest. Our specialist brokers are always ready to advise and guide using a wealth of experience and expertise – it’s what we do. 
I’ve never chartered before, where do I start?
To get started, one of our brokers will ask you questions, like how many people you want to bring aboard, whether you know where you want to go and what you want to do. From sailing to motor, catamaran to explorer – we’ll shortlist yachts of a style, size and capability that match your preferences and suggest bucket-list cruising grounds.  
Which parts of the world can I visit on my charter?
Selecting your destination depends on what time of year you plan on going. Most yachts are in the Mediterranean during summer and the Caribbean/Bahamas over winter, but your broker knows about yachts cruising all over the world, from the waters of Northern Europe, North America, through Central and South America to Antarctica, the Indian Ocean, Asia, to the Pacific Islands, including the Galapagos Islands.  
Can all yachts charter in all locations?

In some places, such as Spain and Greece, yachts need charter licences to cruise and if that’s where you decide you want to go, we’ll only shortlist yachts that have or can obtain those licences. Also, while some yachts can charter in the US, others do not meet America’s fiscal requirements and so can’t charter there. Again, we’ll only suggest yachts that can cruise where you want to go.   

I know roughly where I would like to charter, will someone help plan the route for us?
Absolutely. Once we know what you love to do, we can make some itinerary suggestions and once you have booked we will start working with the captain on the finer details. 
How many guests can be on board?
The majority of yachts can cruise with 8-12 guests, depending on their length. For bigger parties, some yachts built to the Passenger Yacht Code (PYC) can carry up to 36 guests – these yachts are usually above 80m (260ft) long. For events, yachts can have more people on board provided they stay in port.   
Are the yachts on your website my only options?
Not at all. We can get you on board any yacht in the global charter fleet. If you have seen a yacht you like on a different website we should be able to send you information about it.  
Why do I need a charter broker? Why can’t I book direct?

Planning the perfect charter requires specialist knowledge, trusted contacts on board and on the ground, as well as first-hand knowledge of yachts, crews and locations, as well as legal contracts and local regulations to build an experience that suits you perfectly. Another reason to choose a broker is that sometimes there can be unforeseen issues with yachts or destinations and having an experienced broker to protect your interests and build a plan B is hugely reassuring. 

Creating the unforgettable is what we do at Burgess. It’s what our knowledge, experience and passion are all about. We take all the hassle out of the planning so you can just turn up and have the best holiday ever. 

How is the charter rate calculated?

Charter rates are quoted per week for the hire of the yacht. Charters over seven days are calculated pro-rata against the weekly rate divided by seven and multiplied by the number of charter days. Charters of fewer than seven days usually attract a premium, calculated as the weekly rate divided by six, multiplied by the number of days.  

High season rates usually apply to the most popular charter periods, i.e. July and August, Christmas and New Year, and are also normally applicable to all major events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival. Low season rates apply to all other periods. Low and high season periods may differ for certain locations.  

What is included in the weekly rate?
Most charter rates are based on MYBA (The Worldwide Yachting Association) terms, which include the hire of the yacht and her crew. All additional expenses are for the charterer’s account. These contracts ensure that the yacht you have chartered will be in full working order when you arrive, with all the equipment and facilities we’ve confirmed it has.  
What are the payment terms?

When you sign the MYBA charter agreement, you pay a deposit of 50 percent of the total charter fee by bank transfer. The remaining 50 percent, plus an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), any taxes, delivery or redelivery fees and any other agreed charges, is payable by bank transfer five weeks before the charter starts. 

What additional costs do I need to consider?

Along with your final charter payment, you send in your Advance Provisioning Allowance which covers all operating expenses whilst you are on board including, but not limited to food and drinks for the charter party, trips ashore, fuel for the yacht and tender(s) and any port fees. As a guide, it’s usually between 30-40 percent of the yacht’s weekly rate. 

If you want to join the yacht somewhere other than where it is, there may be a fee to cover the fuel costs of the delivery, there may be VAT charges depending on where you want to cruise, and some charters will need a security deposit.

To keep an eye on your expenditure, you can ask for an up-to-date summary of your account whenever you like during your charter, and at the end of the charter the captain will give you a full set of accounts. If, during the charter, expenditure goes over the APA figure, you’ll need to top up.  

Is there a minimum length of charter allowed?

Some yachts will have a minimum number of days for a charter, which your broker can confirm.  

What is MYBA and can you explain how the contract works?

MYBA, The Worldwide Yachting Association, is an international professional organisation. MYBA was founded in 1984 to promote the highest standards of ethical conduct and to set a standard for charter agreements. A MYBA contract clearly sets out terms and conditions to protect both the owner and charterer. Only established yachting companies can use MYBA contracts, so it’s your assurance that you’ll get what you pay for.  

I have a few allergies, how can I let the yacht know about these and also about my preferences?
A few weeks before your charter starts, we’ll send you a detailed questionnaire that lets us know the preferences and special requirements of everyone in your party. It will cover dietary and medical requirements, allergies and any special requests, birthdays or entertainment, for instance. This helps us and the crew of your yacht make sure your charter will be everything you hope it will be.  
Will I be able to use all the recreation equipment on board?
The list of recreation equipment on board is believed to be accurate but it can change at short notice so it’s not guaranteed. If there are changes, the yacht’s owner will do all they can to replace the equipment with something similar. In some places local laws can restrict the use of personal watercraft (jetskis, waverunners etc), again our brokers will know, and, if your chosen yacht is not designated as an RYA training centre, guests will also need the relevant operating licence. We’ll cover all this during the planning stage. 
Do I need insurance?

We always recommend Cancellation and Curtailment Insurance to protect your investment if, for whatever reason, your charter doesn’t happen or is cut short. We also recommend every one in your party should be covered by Personal Accident and Medical Insurance, and personal effects should be insured against theft, loss or damage. 

You may also want other forms of insurance, such as Charterer’s Liability, and our brokers can outline what the options are and why you might need them. 

Will I be able to get on Wi-Fi and work from the yacht?
There is standard Wi-Fi on most yachts, although in some areas coverage may be limited and is not guaranteed. If you plan to be online a lot during your charter, or you need large bandwidths, please let your broker know beforehand. We can check which upgrades are available and what charges are involved.   
Is smoking allowed on board?
For safety reasons, smoking inside is not allowed on any yachts. You can smoke outside on deck, and sometimes in designated areas only. If you have smokers in your party, please let us know and we’ll factor that into our shortlist.  
I’d like to tip the crew, how does this work?
Crew tips are discretionary but customary for a charterer who has enjoyed the crew’s service. Tips are usually 10-15 percent of the charter fee, but can be more or less depending on how much you enjoyed the service. On reviewing your end of charter APA accounts give your instructions about the tip to the captain and he/she will make sure everyone’s efforts are recognised, including the crew you don’t see day to day. If you need guidance, please ask your broker for advice. 
Can I bring my pet on board?
Many yachts won’t accept pets and those that do will often hold a security deposit. Some welcome pets so if you want to bring yours, just let us know and we’ll find the most suitable option for you.   
What shoes do I need to bring?
Most guests are happy to go barefoot on board, which is the tradition, to protect the teak deck. The yacht may offer slippers for use indoors. If you need to wear shoes on board, let us know and we can find out which shoes the yacht accepts. You may also want to bring water shoes if you want to explore the coastal rocks.  

Yacht charter destinations

Scotland

Imagine cruising amid the wild, romantic beauty of the Western Isles, some of the most stunning, unspoilt scenery Britain has to offer. Dramatic steep scree-sided lochs give way to rolling acres of Scots pine and sunlit golden sand beaches, deserted and inaccessible except by yacht.

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Bahamas

With shimmering white beaches fringed with sapphire seas and colourful coral reefs, the 700 or so islands and cays of the Bahamas are perfect for exploring by sea.

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Turkey

From fashionable resorts and modern marinas to heavenly white-sand beaches, secret sailing coves and ancient ruins, many only accessible by sea, the ‘Turquoise Coast’ of Turkey is the Mediterranean at its most exotic.

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Italy

More than any other country, Italy encapsulates the variety the Mediterranean has to offer – and there is no better way to experience it than on a luxury Italian yacht charter with Burgess.

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New Zealand

A world unto itself - culturally and geographically, New Zealand has a huge amount of biodiversity in plant and animal life. It also offers some of the most incredible landscapes from fjords to volcanos to glaciers and high mountains.

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Phuket

Phuket provides a heady combination of palm-lined white-sand beaches, superb hospitality, land-based fun, exciting activities, cultural wonders and delicious cuisine. With year-round good weather, its rising popularity as a charter destination is no surprise.

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Croatia & Montenegro

The coastlines and islands of Croatia and Montenegro offer world-class cruising with historic towns, stunning scenery and pulsating nightlife.

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Greece

An idyllic yacht charter to Greece offers an escape from busy modern life. From the Cyclades to the Ionian Islands, spend lazy days exploring wild landscapes and deserted sandy coves, pretty harbours and white-washed fishing villages.

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Tahiti

You could spend weeks getting lost in this breath-taking part of the world. Cruising on a yacht in Tahiti allows you to dive vibrant coral reefs with all manner of marine life, snorkel the clearest waters you’ve ever encountered or visit islets with not a soul in sight.

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Mediterranean

A yacht charter to the Mediterranean is anything you want it to be. From the Michelin stared restaurants of Naples, to the chic beach clubs, and luxury brands of Monaco and the French Riviera to the laid-back lifestyle, ancient ruins and deserted beaches of Mykonos and Santorini in the Greek islands, you can do it all.

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French Riviera

From Monaco to Saint-Tropez, the French Riviera (Cote d’Azur) has long captured the hearts and souls of the yachting crowd.

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Mykonos

Mykonos is the glamorous epicentre of the Cyclades Islands, and an essential part of any Greek island charter. From beach bars that rival Ibiza to 16th Century windmills, to sophisticated restaurants in the hinterland and tavernas that take no reservations at all – this is the juxtaposition and charm of Mykonos.

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Alaska

Enjoy outdoor experiences unlike any other on a yacht charter along this majestic coastline of North America. On a luxury yacht charter in Alaska you will cruise through sheltered waterways, passing national parks, shimmering glaciers and mountain peaks.

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Australia

From dynamic cities and breathtaking unspoilt landscapes to sweeping beaches and stunning coastlines brimming with natural wonders, Australia offers extraordinary experiences.

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Caribbean

The Caribbean has an intoxicating allure for the superyachting crowd. A luxury Caribbean yacht charter offers big blue skies and cooling trade winds for magnificent sailing and island-hopping.

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Corsica & Sardinia

A luxury yacht charter to Corsica is an excellent opportunity to explore this lush, mountainous island. Fringed by plunging cliffs and beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Mediterranean, you’ll have the chance to enjoy some of the best snorkelling and diving in the area.

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Mallorca

The star of the Balearics, the island of Mallorca is the perfect yacht rental destination thanks to its beautiful beaches, rugged mountains, and lively local scene.

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Indonesia

Indonesia is the world's last unspoilt paradise, with 17,000 islands across 5,000km between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

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French Polynesia

Explore the islands of French Polynesia on a luxury French Polynesia yacht charter. The islands which are a string of tropical jewels set in the South Pacific, have an abundance of secluded anchorages and some of the most spectacular diving in the world.

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Thailand

Thailand is diverse and exotic, from the isolated beaches and lush forests to cultural shrines and the nine pristine Similan Islands. You'll find jaw-dropping scenery, unforgettable diving and some of the finest beaches in Asia.

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Fiji

Embark on a luxury superyacht charter in Fiji to explore this tropical haven of 333 islands and discover secluded bays and uninhabited islands.

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Corfu

Located at the northern end of the Ionian chain, Corfu is full of charming towns with thriving shops, restaurants and an exuberant nightlife. All of this happily complements the abundance of secluded coves and anchorages enjoyed only by sea.

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British Virgin Islands

A yacht charter to the British Virgin Islands gives you the chance to explore 60 unspoilt volcanic islands. From the main island of Tortola to the smooth granite rocks of Virgin Gorda, or to tiny sandy islets that can be yours alone, with Burgess you’ll have the chance to explore at your leisure.

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US Virgin Islands

With 500 fish species, 40 corals, abundant wildlife in verdant interiors and stunning beaches, the US Virgin Islands have it all.

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Maldives

It's 99 percent water and one percent land! The Maldives is a magical water kingdom in the Indian Ocean. You will be greeted by white beaches, coral reefs, relaxed bars with sunset views, beach BBQs on uninhabited islands, and gourmet dining.

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Galapagos

Lying 1,000km (600 miles) off the Ecuadorean coast, the Galapagos is a modern garden of Eden and a living laboratory of evolution.

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South East Asia

On a South East Asia yacht charter you can set sail from Thailand’s island of Phuket and cruise out to Phang Nga Bay for sea kayaking or rappelling on limestone cliffs.

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Caribbean - Leeward Islands

Scattered over 150 miles from Anguilla to Dominica, this group of Caribbean islands is fascinatingly diverse. Sailing the Leeward Islands is the perfect way to discover some of the Caribbean’s most notable beaches and adventures.

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New England

New England combines old-world charm and a proud maritime history with the pretty shorelines, picturesque harbours and historic towns and islands of Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Maine.

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Red Sea

The east coast of the Red Sea is a pristine wilderness, largely untouched and unexplored. It is a place where you can genuinely escape and make discoveries every day as you cruise your yacht from one secluded turquoise bay to the next, one sandy shored island to another.

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Indian Ocean

With easy sailing distances between the jungle-covered, mountainous main islands and an abundance of opportunities to explore the more remote Outer Islands, an Indian Ocean yacht charter around the Seychelles can be tailor-made for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

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Ibiza

Famous as the party playground of the Med, Ibiza is today prized for its impressively varied offering. Any yacht charter in Ibiza will blend the sounds of international DJs in locations like Ibiza town with the tranquillity, bohemian vibe, stylish marinas and wellness scene in the north.

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The Balearics

Although famous – or is that infamous? – as the party playground of the Mediterranean, this Spanish archipelago offers so much more.

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Caribbean - Windward Islands

Explore the bejewelled chain of Caribbean islands that sweeps south from Martinique to Grenada on a luxury Caribbean Windward Islands yacht charter.

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