Charter FAQs

Sterling Yachting is here to help you plan your own trip of a lifetime. Because we are totally independent, we have access to thousands of vessels, carefully selected to exceed the expectations of our most demanding clients. From 20m to 100m+, from cruising in the West Mediterranean to exotic, far-flung destinations, trust our team to create a bespoke and impeccable charter holiday.

Experience tells us that you may have a few questions, here are a few that we often come across.

What is the minimum length of charter and how are the rates calculated?

Charter length and rates

Charter rates are quoted per week for the hire of the yacht. Seven days is generally the minimum charter period accepted by yachts, but charters can be for any duration over seven days. Charters over seven days are calculated pro-rata against the weekly rate divided by seven and multiplied by the number of charter days. During low season periods some yachts may consider charters of less than seven days. Charters normally commence from noon onwards on the first day and terminate by noon on the last day. For example, a charter contracted to commence at noon on 1st June and terminate at noon on 8th June constitutes a one week charter. However, there is usually some flexibility to suit your flight schedule.

High season rates apply to the most popular charter periods, i.e.: July/August and Christmas/New Year, and are also normally applicable to all major events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival. Low season rates apply to all other periods.

What is included in the charter rate?

Charter rate inclusions

Most charter rates are based on MYBA Terms, which imply that the yacht will be provided to the charterer in full commission and with all necessary equipment, properly insured for marine risks and managed by a crew, whose wages, food and clothing are for the owner’s account. All other operating expenses are payable by the charterer and comprise (but are not restricted to) the following items: fuel and lubricating oils for the yacht, her tenders and motorised water toys; local taxes; pilotage; port, harbour and marina dues; customs clearance; water and electricity; personal laundry; all provisions, wines, beers, spirits, soft drinks and consumables for the charterer’s party; telecommunication costs. Please note that, occasionally, a yacht may offer a variation on the terms described above. We will provide full details of any charter terms that vary from standard MYBA Terms when presenting the relevant yachts.

What do I need to do to secure my chosen yacht?

Making a booking

All charters are subject to a fully executed contract, so once the availability for your chosen yacht has been verified, you will receive a standard MYBA Charter Agreement for signature. If your chosen cruising itinerary necessitates embarking or disembarking from a point other than the yacht’s home port, positioning charges (delivery/redelivery fees) may be required. These charges, if applicable, will be confirmed in advance and affirmed in the Charter Agreement, together with any taxes that may apply.

What are the payment terms for a charter?

Payment terms

A deposit of 50% of the total charter fee is payable by bank transfer on signature of the Charter Agreement. This confirms your booking. The remaining 50%, plus an Advance Provisioning Allowance, together with any taxes, delivery/redelivery fees and any additionally agreed charges, is payable by bank transfer five weeks before the charter commences.

Can I specify the food and wine to be served onboard?

Food and wine

Every detail counts. Several weeks before you board your yacht, we will ask you to complete a detailed questionnaire describing the preferences and special needs of all the members of your party, such as dietary or medial requirements, details of any allergies, and your sporting or entertainment requests. This will enable us and the crew of your chosen yacht to ensure that everything possible is done to make your charter a fabulous experience.

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