Top 5 Yacht Booking Mistakes to Avoid from an Expert Advisor

Make the most of your yacht charter by avoiding these easy mistakes.

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Jillian Dara

So, you finally decided to take that yacht trip you’ve been dreaming of for years. One, good for you. Two, can we come? And three, are you sure you’re fully prepared?

Planning a yacht vacation is undeniably an exhilarating proposition. It means being the center of attention on the high seas, where every whim is met by a dedicated crew. Additionally, it offers the freedom to explore any destination accessible by water. While this is undoubtedly an exceptional vacation option, it can also come with a hefty price tag. According to Worldwide Boat, the typical weekly fee for a 100-foot sailing yacht ranges between $50,000 and $100,000.

To help ensure you receive the best value, we consulted Melanie Burke, charter broker for Fraser, a prominent yachting company established in 1947. Below are five frequent errors travelers commit when organizing a yacht vacation—and invaluable tips for avoiding them.

Not Working With a Yacht Charter Broker

According to Burke, booking a yacht charter resembles planning a wedding. “There are numerous details, both small and large, that can significantly impact your experience when personalized effectively,” she explains. “Engaging a skilled yacht charter broker, often overlooked, is crucial for ensuring a successful booking.” The best part? Utilizing a broker incurs no cost for the client, allowing you to benefit from professional guidance without any drawback.

Relying Solely on Online Research

Although most of our research begins online, Burke emphasizes the importance of offline conversations. “Many websites fail to showcase current photographs or provide accurate information regarding the vessels,” she notes. “With over 30 years in the business, I’ve realized that online images can be misleading. That’s why my colleagues and I frequently travel globally to inspect charter yachts and interact with crews in person, often sampling the cuisine of yacht chefs firsthand to give informed recommendations to clients.”

Only Focusing on Length and Look

It may be tempting to concentrate on the visual appeal of a particular yacht. However, Burke advises looking beyond appearances and considering the interior layout. “The interior volume and deck design hold more importance than overall yacht length,” she asserts. “Some 164-foot yachts provide more guest space than 180-foot yachts, and several 130-foot yachts outperform 150-foot yachts in space and amenities.” For a fulfilling experience, it’s vital to evaluate the onboard spaces catering to your preferred activities, such as state-of-the-art gyms or screening rooms. While appreciating the exterior is essential, remember that you’ll spend most of your time inside the vessel.

Choosing the Wrong Location to Charter

Another common error made by newcomers is selecting a destination and time of year that doesn’t align with their goals. “If you’re seeking peace while discovering quaint towns and local cafes, cruising the Amalfi Coast or Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda in August may not be ideal due to heavy tourist traffic,” Burke warns. “For groups eager to indulge in water sports, the British Virgin Islands may not be suitable, as WaveRunners are permitted in only a select few bays.” Always consider your trip objectives and consult your broker for optimal choices.

Rushing From Destination to Destination

Burke often encounters clients eager to fit multiple destinations into a one-week itinerary, leading to unnecessary stress. Instead of hurriedly moving from one stunning location to another, she suggests focusing on a specific cruising area to truly immerse yourself in its offerings. “By avoiding a packed schedule, you create opportunities to linger or explore hidden gems along the way,” Burke advises.