July 15, 2025
Thinking about chartering a private yacht but not sure how much it costs to charter a yacht, or what that cost actually includes? You’re not alone.
If this is your first time looking into a yacht charter, the pricing might seem a little confusing at first glance. But once you understand how it works, it’s easier than you think to find something that suits your travel style and budget. Plus, we’re here every step of the way to help guide you through the process.
Whether you're planning a family trip, romantic escape, or milestone celebration, in this guide, we’ll answer one of the most common questions: how much does it cost to charter a private yacht?
The base rate (sometimes called the weekly charter rate) typically includes:
It does not include food, fuel, dockage, or excursions. These additional expenses are covered by something called Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) — more on that below.
For example: A 30m crewed motor yacht might cost around USD 80,000–150,000 per week, depending on the yacht, destination, and season.
Tip: The base rate is for the entire yacht, not per person, so costs can be split between guests.
The APA is typically 25–35% of the base rate and is paid upfront to cover your onboard expenses. This includes:
The captain manages this budget throughout the trip, and you'll receive a full breakdown (with receipts) at the end. Want champagne stocked on board? Craving freshly caught seafood? Planning a surprise celebration? The APA gives your crew the ability to provision and adapt the experience to your preferences.
Once the charter has finished, if you’ve overspent, you’ll settle the difference. If there’s money left over, it’s refunded. To know how you’re tracking throughout the charter, just chat to the captain, and they’ll be happy to provide an update on the balance.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all package, the APA model ensures you only pay for what you actually use. It allows your charter to be truly personalised—whether that’s indulging in fine wines, focusing on fuel for long cruising legs, or keeping things simple. It puts the control (and the flexibility) in your hands.
Let’s say you’re booking a luxury crewed yacht charter for USD 150,000/week.
Remember, these figures vary depending on where you're chartering and what type of yacht you choose. Different countries have different tax rates.
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1. Yacht size and style
Smaller yachts under 30m like Crazy Horse and Santorini, can range from USD 15,000/week to USD 35,000/week, while luxury superyachts over 40m like The Beast and Mischief can go beyond USD 200,000/week.
2. Destination
Popular locations in the Mediterranean, like France and Italy tend to have higher charter taxes. Remote areas might also have relocation fees if the yacht needs to travel to meet you.
3. Time of year
High season (e.g. July–August in Europe or December–January in the Caribbean) usually comes with premium pricing. Shoulder seasons offer more value and availability.
4. Duration of the trip
Most yachts charter by the week, but shorter trips can be arranged depending on the chosen yacht. In this case, the weekly rate is usually prorated (e.g. a 3-day charter would be calculated as 3/7 of the weekly rate). Some yachts also offer 10-day or multi-week rates. Our charter experts can advise on the best setup for your travel plans.
5. Crew and service level
A highly experienced crew, chef, or onboard spa services may also influence price.
At 37South, we support you every step of the way—from your first enquiry to the moment you step off the yacht.
Here’s a general overview of how the booking process works:
Chartering a private yacht isn’t just about luxury—it’s about freedom, flexibility, and experiencing the world from a new perspective. From swimming off the aft deck to sipping sundowners in a secluded bay, it’s a holiday that’s hard to top.
Whether you’re curious about how much it costs to charter a yacht or ready to start planning, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
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