Frequently Asked Questions

Crewed charters in the Caribbean typically start at $15,000–$20,000 per week for smaller catamarans and go up from there based on yacht size, crew, and amenities. The charter rate covers the yacht and crew. Food, beverages, and fuel are covered separately through the APA. View our full pricing guide →

APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance — a pre-paid fund (typically 25–35%% of the base charter rate) that covers food, beverages, fuel, marina fees, and other running costs during your trip. Your captain keeps an itemized account, and any unused funds are refunded. Read our full APA guide →

The industry standard in the Caribbean is 15–20%% of the base charter rate, given to the captain on the last morning. The captain distributes it among the crew. Read our complete tipping guide →

We accept wire transfers, credit cards, and checks. A 50% deposit secures your reservation, with the balance and APA due 60 days before departure.

Cancellation terms vary by yacht and are outlined in the charter agreement. Most require notice 90+ days before departure for a partial refund. We strongly recommend trip cancellation insurance.

There's no 'typical' day — that's the beauty of it. Most guests wake up to coffee on the deck, enjoy a prepared breakfast, then choose their adventure: snorkeling, beach hopping, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on the yacht. Your chef handles lunch and dinner, and evenings often end with cocktails and stargazing. Every day is tailored to what you feel like doing.

Pack light — think swimsuits, shorts, t-shirts, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light layer for evenings. A soft duffel bag is preferred over hard luggage (easier to stow). Most time is spent in swimwear. One nice outfit if you plan to dine ashore.

Absolutely. Family charters are one of the most popular charter types. Catamarans are especially family-friendly with their stability and space. Crews are experienced with kids of all ages — from toddlers to teenagers. Learn more about family charters →

Your chef can accommodate virtually any dietary need — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies, kosher, you name it. You'll fill out a preference sheet before your trip detailing your dietary requirements and food preferences.

Most crewed yachts include paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel gear, floating mats, and fishing gear. Many larger yachts also have jet skis, wakeboards, e-foils, and even scuba gear. Water toy packages vary by yacht — we can help you find the right fit.

Included: crew services, all meals and standard bar (beer, wine, spirits), water sports equipment, fuel for normal cruising, cruising permits, linens, and towels. Not included: crew gratuities, marina/docking fees, premium drinks or provisions, onshore dining, and transfers to/from the yacht.

A few basics: most yachts have a no-shoes policy to protect the decks — you'll be barefoot on board. Treat the crew with kindness and communicate your needs openly. Follow the captain's guidance on safety and itinerary changes. Be mindful of water usage (even with a water maker, it's a limited resource), and keep music at reasonable levels in quiet anchorages.

The British Virgin Islands. Short sailing distances between islands, calm protected waters, incredible snorkeling, and iconic beach bars. It's the perfect introduction to crewed chartering.

Peak season runs December through April — dry weather, steady trade winds, and comfortable temperatures. November and May are excellent shoulder months with lower rates and fewer crowds. Hurricane season (June–November) offers the lowest prices but higher weather risk.

The BVI is the classic Caribbean charter — dozens of islands close together, beach bars, snorkeling, and a well-established charter infrastructure. The Exumas (Bahamas) is more remote and adventurous — pristine sandbars, swimming pigs, nurse sharks, and a feeling of being at the edge of the world. Both are incredible; it comes down to whether you want variety and convenience (BVI) or seclusion and adventure (Exumas).

For the BVI, fly into Tortola (EIS) or St. Thomas (STT) with a short ferry to Tortola. For the Exumas, fly into Nassau (NAS) or Staniel Cay (TYM). For St. Martin, fly into Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). We provide detailed travel logistics once your charter is confirmed — see our full travel logistics guide for more.

For the BVI and Bahamas, yes — a valid passport is required. For the US Virgin Islands, US citizens only need a government-issued photo ID.

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, medical evacuation, and baggage coverage. Chartering involves significant upfront costs, and insurance provides peace of mind.

Your captain is an expert at reading weather and adjusting the itinerary. The Caribbean offers many protected anchorages, so even on windy days there are calm spots. In rare cases of serious weather, your captain will make safety-first decisions — which might mean spending a day in a protected harbor. Major storms are uncommon during peak charter season.