Pro tips
Practical advice from our planners.
Book the shoulder season
May–June and late September in the Mediterranean often cut charter rates 10–20% versus July–August, with calmer seas and open anchorages.
Understand the APA
The Advance Provisioning Allowance covers fuel, food, dockage and drinks. Ask for a weekly statement and unspent balances returned in writing.
Ask about the crew, not just the boat
Captain’s experience in your region, a chef’s sample menus and a stewardess-led service style shape the trip more than deck area.
Check the sea state
Pick the route by wind: Meltemi in the Aegean (July–Aug), monsoon in the Maldives (May–Oct), hurricane season in the Caribbean (Jun–Nov).
Sort visas early
Schengen, Turkey, Thailand and Indian e-visas vary by passport. Start 8–10 weeks before departure and carry offline copies.
Pack soft, not hard
Soft-sided bags store in cabins. Bring non-marking soles, reef-safe sunscreen, motion-sickness remedy and a light layer for evenings.
Plan an event at sea in layers
Fix date, guest cap and licensing first, then catering, sound limits and a weather-backup room ashore. Add 15% contingency.
Insure the real risks
Choose cover that includes medical evacuation, cancellation for named causes, and yacht damage waiver if you charter bareboat.