How does the booking process work?

Once you have decided on an arrangement, we will prepare the charter agreement for you. First, you will receive the agreement for review and signature. After it has been countersigned by the owner and trustee, you will receive the agreement back for confirmation. You will then make the deposit payment.

What does the charter agreement say?

For contract drafting, we utilize the templates of the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association (MYBA) and the American Yacht Charter Association (AYCA). This ensures a balanced contractual basis for all parties involved. These include you as the client, us as your agency, and the yacht's owner and trustee/manager. We prefer the MYBA contract, which has proven its worth over many years. The AYCA contract is used for yachts flying the American flag. Your charter contract lists the contracting parties' details and also includes yacht and travel information, as well as a cost breakdown.

What are the payment terms under the charter agreement?

Initially, a deposit of 50 percent of the net charter fee is due. This is payable by bank transfer upon signing the charter agreement. We will send you a reminder to pay the remaining 50 percent, along with all other contractually agreed costs, usually four weeks before the charter begins.

How are the total costs of the charter composed?

The costs are specified in the charter agreement. They are typically comprised of the following:

• Charter price plus local VAT
• Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) as an advance lump sum for ancillary costs
• Possibly transfer costs for the yacht

What is included in the charter price and what is not?

The charter price typically includes the yacht with the specified equipment, crew costs, and the necessary insurance for operating the yacht. Not included are the yacht's transfer costs (if necessary) and operating expenses. These include, but are not limited to, fuel, provisions, harbor fees, and unforeseen incidental expenses incurred during the charter. An APA (Additional Operating Costs) is charged to cover these costs. Depending on the yacht type, this is approximately 25-35 percent of the charter price. The APA is due no later than four weeks before the charter begins.

What is the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) and how is it billed?

The APA, or more precisely, Advance Provisioning Allowance, is a prepaid fee to cover incidental expenses. Before and during your yachting holiday, your captain manages this amount, which covers provisions, harbor fees, and operating costs. Operating costs primarily include fuel. The APA is approximately 25-35 percent of the charter price and is typically due four weeks before the charter begins. This ensures you are welcomed with the best possible service on board. During your trip, you can request an up-to-date summary of expenses at any time. At the end of the charter, you will receive a final statement with all receipts. Any remaining balance will, of course, be refunded. Should incidental expenses during the charter exceed the APA, the captain will request an additional payment directly from you – or through your agency.

What travel documents do I and my guests need on board?

Every passenger on board a yacht must carry their passport. Before chartering, ensure that you and your guests have valid identification documents. This will ensure a smooth embarkation process in the various countries you'll be visiting. Depending on your country of origin, visa regulations and other entry requirements or restrictions may also apply.

How does the journey to the starting port work?

Since arrival arrangements are usually very individual in terms of dates and mode of transport, guests typically book these directly. We would be happy to organize your transfer from the airport or your hotel to the yacht.

Which insurance policies are necessary and/or recommended?

We recommend taking out travel cancellation and trip reduction insurance. This way, you're covered in case of unforeseen circumstances. We also recommend that all guests on board have personal accident and health insurance. Charterer's liability insurance and theft insurance can also be useful. We would be happy to advise you personally on this matter.

Who will be my contact person on site?

As your agency, we are at your side before, during, and after your charter. On board, we also recommend direct communication with your captain. This way, you'll get quick and easy answers to your questions.

Are pets allowed on board?

A yacht is not a suitable environment for animals. With professional care, your pet will be well cared for at home or in a pet hotel while you relax on board your charter yacht.

Is a yacht holiday possible with children, and is there childcare available on board?

Children are welcome guests on most yachts. However, please bear in mind that the crew cannot assume responsibility for supervising young guests on board. Depending on the children's ages, additional childcare on board is recommended. This way, your children will be well entertained, and the crew can fully concentrate on your well-being.

How and when are preferences and special requirements coordinated?

Before your yachting holiday begins, you will receive a "Preference Sheet" from us. In this form, you provide necessary contact information, details of any guests you may be accompanying on board, and your personal preferences. This ensures that every detail meets your expectations from the moment you arrive. Please complete the Preference Sheet as thoroughly as possible. With this personalized information, the service team on board your luxury yacht will arrange the getaway you desire.

Is satellite TV available on board?

Due to varying signal strengths worldwide, we cannot guarantee satellite TV reception on board. If satellite television is important to you during your charter, please contact us in advance so we can make arrangements.

Is internet available on board?

Most yachts have standard wireless internet access. This service may be limited in certain areas and therefore cannot be guaranteed. If you anticipate regular internet use or require high bandwidth during your charter, please inform us before departure.

Is smoking allowed on board?

Each yacht has its own smoking policy on board. For your safety, smoking is strictly prohibited in the cabins of your charter yacht. Some yachts have designated smoking areas on deck. To be sure, please check before your trip whether the regulations meet your requirements.

Are overnight stays on the high seas possible?

Depending on the sailing area, weather, sea conditions, and local regulations, it may be possible to anchor overnight. This can be a fantastic experience – and also saves on mooring fees. Please let us know your preferences regarding this when planning your route – we will gladly coordinate the possibilities with the captain. In some cases, this will be necessary anyway, as not all harbors are equipped for larger yachts.

Imagine ending a perfect day relaxing in a tranquil bay with a view of the water and a delicious glass of red wine. In the morning, enjoy the breathtaking sunrise from the flybridge: all this awaits you aboard our luxury yachts.

Will the crew take care of personal laundry?

On many yachts, you have the option of having your personal laundry cleaned by the crew. Please note that onboard capacity and resources are limited. Therefore, the crew will not be able to clean excessive amounts of laundry or delicate items. Professional cleaning ashore is an option if time permits. Please speak to your captain about this. Any costs incurred will be billed through the APA (Airport Administration).

What should be considered regarding the yacht's equipment?

The yacht's equipment and fittings are listed by us to the best of our knowledge and according to the owner's specifications. Should any changes occur before your charter, the yacht owner will make every effort to replace the equipment with comparable items. Personal watercraft (jet skis, wave runners, sea bobs, etc.) may be restricted in certain cruising areas. Guests also require a valid license to operate such craft.

Please inquire whether there are any guidelines or special requirements in the respective yachting areas.

How can I contribute to restaurant recommendations and reservations?

We are happy to take your wishes into account when planning your sailing trip. Please let us know if there are any specific locations you would like to visit. In addition to restaurants and beach clubs, advance booking may also be necessary for nightclubs and discos. Furthermore, our crew usually has extensive knowledge and contacts in the respective sailing areas. They can provide recommendations and make reservations for you.

What if I get seasick?

Inform the crew in advance if you know you are prone to seasickness. The crew will give you valuable tips to help you avoid it. If desired, the team will have appropriate tablets available on board.

How does the check-out process work?

Inform the crew in advance if you know you are prone to seasickness. The crew will give you valuable tips to help you avoid it. If desired, the team will have appropriate tablets available on board.

Who do I contact after my yachting holiday if I've forgotten something on board?

Should you have forgotten anything on board, please contact us. We will arrange for your belongings to be sent to you or left for you.