Ever heard the term “this is the life?” It’s usually reserved for moments when people find themselves in an enjoyable yet relaxing situation, free from the burden and full of optimism. This must be what it’s like when you find yourself on a yacht somewhere in the open ocean with friends or family. But this isn’t a far-off dream, and you don’t have to own the yacht either. You can chart a private yacht and enjoy your own relaxing situation, even if it’s just for a few days. All you need to do is be smart about your booking. Here’s how.

First Things First… Know Your Destination

There are many popular destinations to chart a yacht to, and according to Forbes Greece is one of the best  - Image courtesy of Pixabay via Pexel

They say you don’t know where you’re going until you know where you’ve been. But when you are looking for an adventure, you don’t have to have been there to want to go there, especially on a yacht. Plus, we can tell you confidently that some of the best places to charter a yacht include the ever-popular Croatia, Greece, the staple that is the Bahamas, and the principality of Monaco. Greece is the most popular place to park a yacht, at least according to a 2021 Bloomberg Wealth superyacht index.

Know The Yacht You Need, And Plan Meticulously

A huge yacht with a helipad, 10-foot water slide, and gym ala Michael Jordan’s $1 million cruiser sounds absolutely amazing. But do you really want to book a huge, and more expensive yacht like that, for say, you and five friends, with their partners? Most Yachts accommodate 12 people in six quarters. It’s also important to plan meticulously. Meals cost extra, so you’ll have to specify how often you’re going to eat on board; alcohol also costs extra.

Also, Know Exactly What You Want Out Of Your Crew

Extra crew costs money, so know exactly what you can get for your budget and request crew accordingly - Image courtesy of  Elevate via Pexels

The average charter yacht comes with six crew members. This includes the captain and also includes a chef, deckhands, and cleaning staff. You can request an extra crew, at an extra cost, and some of those options include a fitness trainer, divemaster, and even a hairstylist. Remember, Remember, each extra person costs, so maybe get the couples to massage one another, and consider a dip in the ocean a workout, if you can’t afford the extra crew that is.

Remember The Small Print

Not all of the toys on yachts are part of the package. This is another thing you need to double check before promising your friends jet ski rides you can’t afford - Image courtesy of Pixabay via Pexels

It’s important to know what is included and what will cost extra. For example, charters usually offer a daily fuel allowance of four hours. Anything after that is charged for. Also, make sure you know what water sport toys and tools are included. Snorkeling and scuba gear may or may not be included. The same goes for jet skis and paddle boards.