Chartering a yacht is one of the most memorable ways to explore the world — whether you’re island-hopping in Greece, cruising the French Riviera, or discovering remote anchorages in the Caribbean. But before you book anything, one question always comes first: how much does it cost to charter a yacht?
The truth is that yacht charter prices vary widely depending on the type of yacht, destination, season, and what’s included in the rate. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about costs in 2026 so you can plan your charter with confidence.
How Much Does a Yacht Charter Cost? (Quick Overview)
Here’s what you can expect to pay on average for a 7-day charter:
| Yacht Type | Typical Weekly Price Range (2026) |
|---|---|
| Sailing Yachts | €8,000 – €40,000+ |
| Catamarans | €10,000 – €55,000+ |
| Motor Yachts (50–80 ft) | €25,000 – €90,000+ |
| Luxury Motor Yachts (80–120 ft) | €80,000 – €250,000+ |
| Superyachts (120–200+ ft) | €250,000 – €1,000,000+ |
| Mega Yachts (200–300+ ft) | €1,000,000 – €3,000,000+ |
These ranges depend heavily on the destination and time of year — high-season charters can cost 25–60% more.
What Determines Yacht Charter Costs?
1. Type & Size of the Yacht
Bigger yachts come with higher crew numbers, more amenities, and far greater fuel consumption — all of which influence the price.
- Sailing yachts are typically the most affordable (slower, lower fuel use).
- Catamarans offer stability and space for a mid-range price.
- Motor yachts and superyachts come with the highest weekly rates due to speed, luxury, and staffing.
2. Destination
Charter hotspots differ in price based on demand, marina fees, and local regulations (and if you’re looking for alternatives, see our post on 5 underrated yacht charter destinations).
Higher-cost destinations:
- Côte d’Azur
- Monaco
- Amalfi Coast
- Bahamas
Medium-cost destinations:
- Greece
- Croatia
- Balearic Islands
More affordable destinations:
- Turkey
- Thailand
- Seychelles
3. Season
In most regions, you’ll find:
- High Season (most expensive): July–August & Christmas/New Year
- Mid-Season: June & September
- Low Season (up to 40% cheaper): April–May & October
Booking outside peak season can save thousands, especially on larger yachts.
4. What’s Included in the Charter Fee?
The base rate typically includes:
- The yacht itself
- Crew salaries
- Insurance
But it does not include running expenses — these are paid separately through APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance).
Understanding APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)
APA is usually:
- 30% of the charter fee for motor yachts
- 20–30% for sailing yachts & catamarans
APA covers:
- Fuel
- Food & drinks
- Docking fees
- Water toys (fuel for jetskis, seabobs etc.)
- Local taxes
- Any additional requests
At the end of your charter, the captain provides a full expense report. Unused APA is refunded.
Extra Costs to Expect
Outside the base charter fee, expect:
1. VAT / Local Taxes
Yacht charter VAT varies by country:
- France: 20%
- Italy: 22% (sometimes reduced depending on itinerary)
- Spain: 21%
- Greece: 12%
- Croatia: 13%
- Turkey: 0–18%
2. Crew Gratuity
Standard in the yachting industry:
- 10–15% of the charter fee
- Given at the end of the trip to divide among the crew
3. Delivery Fees
If the yacht must travel to your starting port, you may pay fuel/relocation costs.
4. Optional Add-Ons
- Jet ski rentals (if not included)
- Diving equipment
- Special wines/spirits
- Private chef upgrades (on smaller yachts)
Real Examples: What You Get for Your Budget
€10,000 – €25,000 per week
- 40–50 ft sailing yacht
- Standard catamaran in Greece or Croatia
- Ideal for families or couples
€25,000 – €80,000 per week
- 50–80 ft motor yachts
- Premium catamarans
- Great for groups wanting comfort + speed
€80,000 – €200,000 per week
- 80–120 ft luxury motor yachts
- Multiple crew, large sundecks, top-tier dining
€250,000 – €1M+ per week
- Superyachts with pools, cinemas, beach clubs
- Helipads, spas, Michelin-level dining
This is the level you see in St. Tropez, Monaco, Mykonos, and The Bahamas during peak weeks.
How to Save Money on Yacht Charter Costs
Even premium travellers appreciate smart savings. Here are the most effective:
- Book outside peak season: June & September offer perfect weather at far better rates.
- Choose your destination strategically: Croatia and Turkey give Mediterranean quality at lower prices.
- Consider a sailing yacht or catamaran: Fuel costs are dramatically lower.
- Look for last-minute deals: Some yachts offer 10–30% discounts to fill remaining weeks.
Is Chartering a Yacht Worth It?
If you value privacy, personalised service, and the freedom to explore remote destinations, a yacht charter offers an experience unmatched by hotels or cruises. Whether you’re booking a €12,000 sailing yacht or a €500,000 superyacht, you’re guaranteed:
- A private crew
- Custom itinerary
- Access to hidden bays
- World-class service
- A memorable setting few ever experience
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to charter a yacht? Anywhere from €8,000 to several million per week, depending on the yacht, season, and destination.
The most important step is choosing a trustworthy broker who can match your budget to the right yacht — ensuring transparent pricing and no surprises once you’re onboard.
