Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The charter rate includes the yacht, the yacht’s insurance, the crew, Crew’s food and Crew’s insurance.
Yacht rates do not include VAT and APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) and gratuity for the Crew.
APA stands for Advance Provisions Allowance, it is an upfront payment by the charterer [the person renting the yacht] to cover the operational expenses of the yacht during the charter period.
It is typically calculated as a percentage of the total charter fee, usually around 35-40%, depending on the yacht and the itinerary.
APA covers various expenses incurred during the charter, such as:
FUEL for the yacht, tenders, and water toys.
FOOD & BEVERAGES for the guests and crew.
DOCKAGE FEES at marinas.
CUSTOMS & IMMIGRATION FEES if applicable.
COMMUNICATION COSTS, satellite phones or internet.
OTHER EXPENSES, port taxes, pilot fees, canal passage, or special requests for birthdays or parties.
The APA does not include a markup. It’s simply the estimated cost for these extra expenses.
The APA is essentially a pre-paid deposit that you provide to cover these expenses. The yacht charter company or crew will use the APA to cover these costs as they arise throughout the charter.
Here’s how it works in practice:
Before the charter: When you book the yacht, the charter company will ask for an APA, which is typically 20-30% of the charter fee, though it can vary based on the size of the yacht and the expected expenses.
During the charter: As you use the yacht, the crew will keep track of the expenses (fuel, food, port fees, VAT, etc.) and deduct them from the APA.
After the charter: The charter company will calculate the total expenses once your trip is finished. If the APA covers all costs, you’ll receive a refund for any unused amount. You’ll be asked to pay the difference if the expenses exceed the APA.
Why is it important?
Convenience: It simplifies the financial aspect of the charter since you don’t have to constantly settle expenses during the trip.
Flexibility: You can customize your charter experience (e.g., special meals, water sports, etc.), and the APA ensures that funds are available for these requests.
Transparency: Both you and the charter company know exactly what expenses are covered, and there’s no confusion about what’s included in the charter fee and what’s not.
Example:
Let’s say you charter a yacht for a week, and the base rental is $50,000. The charter company might request an APA of $15,000 (30% of the charter fee).
Throughout the trip, you use:
$4,000 for fuel
$3,000 for food and beverages
$2,000 for docking fees
The total expenses come to $9,000. This means $9,000 will be deducted from your APA, leaving you with a balance of $6,000 remaining. If you’ve used only $9,000, the charter company will refund the $6,000 back to you.
But if the total expenses were higher than $15,000, you would be asked to pay the extra amount before the end of the charter.
Conclusion:
The APA ensures that there are enough funds available to cover all the operational costs during your yacht charter. It’s a way to streamline the process, so you don’t need to worry about constantly settling individual bills during your vacation.
Pets on board are generally a no-go, unless the owners have given their royal approval, or if it’s a parrot on a pirate ship—because let’s face it, a parrot just adds to the whole “talk like a pirate” vibe! 🦜☠️ No one’s going to tell a parrot to leave—he’s probably the captain anyway!
Peak Season (July & August)
Weather: Sunny, warm, and dry with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F).
Pros:
Ideal for sun-seekers and water activities.
Bustling nightlife and lively atmosphere in popular islands like Mykonos, Paros and Santorini.
Full range of events, festivals, and open restaurants, bars, and attractions.
Cons:
Most crowded and expensive time to visit.
Marinas and popular anchorages can be busy.
Higher demand for yacht charters, requiring early bookings.
Shoulder Seasons (May to June & September to October)
Weather: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
Pros:
Fewer crowds, making it easier to find peaceful anchorages and enjoy sightseeing.
Lower charter and marina fees compared to the peak season.
Sea temperatures are warm, especially in September, perfect for swimming.
Comfortable conditions for sailing, especially in May and early June when the Meltemi winds are weaker.
Cons:
Some restaurants and attractions in smaller islands may have limited hours in May or October.
Recommendation
The shoulder seasons (May, June, September, and early October) are generally the best times to charter a yacht in Greece. These months offer a perfect balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower costs, allowing you to enjoy the islands at their finest.
Greece is a sailor’s paradise, with its island groups offering diverse experiences for yacht enthusiasts.
The Cyclades are the crown jewel of the Aegean, famous for their iconic white-washed villages, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife. Sail through Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros for a mix of luxury, history, and stunning landscapes.
The Ionian Islands, located off the west coast of mainland Greece, are lush and green, with calm seas perfect for sailing. Explore Corfu, Zakynthos, and Lefkada for serene beaches, Venetian architecture, and emerald waters.
Closer to Athens, the Saronic Gulf islands are ideal for shorter trips, offering a blend of history and relaxation. Visit Hydra, Aegina, and Poros for charming harbors, car-free streets, and a taste of traditional Greek island life. Each group has its own unique charm, making Greece a dream destination for yacht adventures!
Feel free to contact us to guide you further.
One Week (7 Days)
Best For: A comprehensive exploration of a specific region.
Highlights: Allows enough time to visit multiple islands and enjoy activities at a leisurely pace. Balances adventure and relaxation.
Example Itineraries:
Cyclades: Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, and Santorini.
Ionian Islands: Corfu, Paxos, Lefkada, and Kefalonia.
10–14 Days
Best For: In-depth exploration or covering multiple regions.
Highlights: Perfect for those seeking a more immersive experience with diverse destinations. Provides time for extended stays in favourite spots or spontaneous adventures.
Example Itineraries:
A mix of the Cyclades and Dodecanese islands.
A grand tour of the Ionian Sea, including hidden coves and cultural sites.
Longer Charters (2+ Weeks)
Best For: True yachting enthusiasts or those on extended vacations.
Highlights: Ultimate flexibility to explore remote islands, cultural landmarks, and secluded spots.
Allows for complete immersion in Greek maritime life.
Example Itineraries:
A full circuit of the Greek islands, combining the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Sporades, and Ionian islands.
Pro Tip: A 7- to 10-day charter is the most popular choice, offering a well-rounded experience while maintaining flexibility. Reach out to discuss your preferences, and we’ll help design the perfect itinerary for your charter duration.
When it comes to yacht charters, the number of guests a yacht can accommodate is all about its size, layout, number of cabins, and berths. But here’s the thing—most yachts, especially those in Europe, have a legal cap of 12 overnight guests. This rule ensures that the experience stays intimate and luxurious, with enough space and privacy for everyone on board.
Ready to set sail? Contact us to assist you further.
Most of the yachts offers water sports like jet skis, water skis, paddleboards, snorkeling gear and many more. These can vary significantly from yacht to yacht.
The standard tip for a luxury yacht in Greece is usually around 10-15% of the charter fee, but it can vary based on the level of service and the size of the crew.
Let us help you create the perfect holiday by crafting a custom itinerary tailored to your desires. Whether you’re seeking secluded beaches, vibrant nightlife, or hidden gems along the coast, we’ll design a journey that fits your every need. With our expertise and insider knowledge, your dream yacht adventure is just a few steps away. Reach out today and let’s start planning an unforgettable escape!
Privacy and security are integral to luxury yacht charters. By planning ahead and choosing the right provider, you can enjoy a worry-free and exclusive experience.
Smoking on board is generally not allowed due to safety regulations. However, many yachts permits smoking on deck. Please ask your broker on yacht’s smoking policy.
Luggage on board, we recommend you to use soft luggage bags so to enables easier storage on board.
Childcare on board, while many yachts encourage charter guests to bring children on board of all ages, kindly note that crew is not responsible for babysitting. You can either plan to care for them personally, bring a nanny, or outsource a service.
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