The yacht charter cost is often the first thing you want to understand when planning a private yacht holiday. Whether you are organising a short Mediterranean escape or researching how much a yacht charter costs for a full week, having clear and accurate pricing information helps you plan with confidence.
Charter rates can vary significantly depending on the yacht type, season, destination, and what is included in the agreement. That is why this guide provides a detailed 2026 yacht charter pricing guide, including a practical breakdown of yacht charter costs and real cost ranges.
Many clients from Malta and across Europe also look for pricing clarity when planning winter yacht holidays abroad, including the cost to rent a yacht in the Caribbean. VDHY supports Maltese clients throughout the process, offering transparent cost explanations from the initial enquiry through to booking, with a Malta-based team available for guidance and support.
In the sections below, you will find updated 2026 pricing estimates, key factors that influence the cost to charter a yacht, and examples to help you understand what to expect when budgeting for your next yacht charter.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht?
The truth is that yacht charter prices vary widely depending on the yacht type, destination, season, and onboard services.
In this complete guide, you’ll discover the real cost to rent a yacht for a week, including hidden expenses like APA, crew gratuities, fuel, and more.
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The True Cost of Chartering a Yacht
Chartering a yacht is far more than a simple transaction. It’s an invitation to step into a world of unparalleled luxury, freedom, and personalised adventure. Each charter represents an opportunity to design your dream escape, complete with bespoke itineraries, attentive crew, and breathtaking destinations. However, the cost of such an experience can vary widely, shaped by an array of factors that reflect your unique preferences and lifestyle aspirations.
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of a sleek sailing yacht or the lavish indulgence of an opulent mega yacht, the final price depends on a combination of elements. The size and type of vessel, the duration of your journey, the location you choose to explore, and the onboard amenities all play a role in determining the cost. These choices not only influence your budget. They also define the scope of your adventure, whether it’s a tranquil escape, a family gathering, or a corporate event on the water.
In this guide, we’ll answer some of the most pressing questions about yacht charter costs, such as:
- How much is it to charter a yacht for a week?
- What does a yacht charter cost?
- Are there additional expenses you should factor into your budget?
By exploring these key topics, we aim to demystify the world of yacht charter pricing and provide clarity on what to expect. With this insight, you’ll be better equipped to create a bespoke yachting experience that’s not only tailored to your desires but also represents exceptional value. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an adventurous exploration, or a serene retreat, understanding the costs involved is the first step to bringing your yachting vision to life.
If you’re asking how much is a yacht charter, this guide explains the full yacht charter price breakdown, including weekly rates, taxes, and onboard expenses.
What Determines the Yacht Charter Cost?
The cost to charter a yacht depends on several key factors, including the yacht type, destination, season, and onboard expenses. Understanding these variables helps you estimate the full yacht charter cost more accurately and compare options with confidence.
Below are the main elements that influence pricing.
Size and Type of Yacht
The size and type of yacht you choose play a pivotal role in determining the cost. Options include:
- Standard Yachts: These range from 20 to 50 feet and are ideal for small groups or families. Prices typically start at £5,000 per week.
- Superyacht: Spanning 100 to 200 feet, these yachts feature lavish amenities, including jacuzzis, cinemas, and helipads. Chartering a superyacht costs upwards of £100,000 per week.
- Mega Yacht: The epitome of luxury, mega yachts exceed 200 feet. These offer bespoke experiences with dedicated staff and world-class facilities. Expect to pay at least £500,000 per week.
Larger yachts offer more space, more crew, and higher-end facilities, which increases the overall charter price.
Destination and Duration
Where and when you charter has a major impact on the yacht rental price per week.
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Mediterranean charters are most expensive during July and August
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Il Caribbean charter season peaks between December and March, with many yachts priced in USD
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Popular regions such as the Costa Azzurra, Grecia, Croazia, and the Caribbean often carry premium rates
Longer charters are usually priced weekly, while short charters may have higher daily costs.
Crew, Fuel, and Additional Expenses
The base fee is only one part of a full yacht charter price breakdown. Most charters also include operating costs such as:
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Crew salaries, covered within the charter rate
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Fuel costs, which increase with cruising distance and speed
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Provisioning, including food, beverages, and guest preferences
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Port fees and itinerary-related expenses
These costs are typically managed through APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance), usually 20–35% of the base rate.
Onboard Amenities and Yacht Features
Luxury amenities also influence the total yacht charter cost, especially on newer or high-spec yachts.
Common features that affect pricing include:
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Gyms, spas, or wellness areas
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Jacuzzis, beach clubs, and expanded deck spaces
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Cinema rooms and high-speed Wi-Fi
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Water toys such as jet skis, seabobs, and inflatables
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Professional chefs providing tailored dining onboard
Mega yachts may also include helipads or pool decks, which place them at the top end of the charter market.
The more specialised the yacht’s onboard offering, the higher the weekly charter rate.
How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht?
The cost of chartering a yacht varies widely depending on the type of yacht, the level of service, the destination, and time of year. Yacht charters are highly customizable — meaning two similar-length charters can cost very different amounts.
Here are typical weekly price ranges:
Smaller Yachts
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€9,000 – €22,000 per week
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≈ $10,000 – $25,000 per week
Ideal for couples or small groups looking for a sailing experience or entry-level yacht charter.
Luxury Crewed Yachts
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€27,000 – €73,000 per week
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≈ $30,000 – $80,000 per week
These yachts usually come with a professional crew, gourmet meals, and premium onboard amenities, a balanced luxury experience.
Superyachts & High-End Motor Yachts
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€91,000 – €228,000+ per week
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≈ $100,000 – $250,000+ per week
For ultimate comfort, space, and service — often with top-tier crew, water toys, and large entertainment areas. Some ultra-luxury options exceed €455,000+ / $500,000+ per week in peak season.
Why Yacht Charter Prices Vary
🛥️ Yacht Size, Brand & Age
Larger and newer yachts cost more to operate and maintain — and that gets passed on in charter pricing.
📍 Number of Guests
Yachts accommodating more guests often have more cabins, crew, and amenities — increasing the base charter fee.
👩✈️ Crewed vs Bareboat
Bareboat charters (no crew included) can be significantly cheaper — but require sailing experience. Fully crewed charters include a captain, chef, and additional staff.
🌍 Destination & Season
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High season (July/August): peak pricing
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Shoulder season (May/September): better value
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Some regions carry taxes or seasonal premiums.
⛽ Fuel & Itinerary
Motor yachts with long cruising distances incur higher fuel costs than anchored or short-distance sailing yachts.
What Is Included in the Yacht Charter Cost?
When people ask how much is a yacht charter, the answer depends on several pricing components. Your total yacht rental price per week is typically made up of:
Base Charter Fee (Weekly Rate)
The base charter fee is the published weekly price of the yacht itself, including the crew and standard onboard equipment. This is the starting point for any booking.
Typical yacht rental price per week ranges:
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Catamarans: €18,000–€28,000/week (≈ $19,000–$30,000 USD)
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Motor yachts: €30,000–€100,000+/week (≈ $32,000–$110,000+ USD)
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Mega yachts: €100,000–€1,000,000+/week (≈ $110,000–$1.1M+ USD)
The final base rate depends on yacht size, destination, season, and onboard luxury level.
APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) 20–35%
APA is an additional amount paid upfront to cover your running expenses during the charter. This is not a fixed fee, but a charter operating budget.
APA typically covers:
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Carburante
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Food and beverages
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Port fees and marina charges
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Special requests and activities
Most charters require 20–35% of the base rate (e.g., €10,000–€35,000 on a €50,000 yacht).
Unused APA is refunded at the end of the trip with full accounting.
VAT and Local Taxes (Usually 5–20%)
VAT or charter tax depends entirely on where you charter.
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Mediterranean destinations often apply 5–20% VAT
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Caribbean charters are frequently priced in USD, with different tax rules by island
For example:
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10% VAT on €50,000 = €5,000 (≈ $5,400 USD)
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Some regions apply reduced rates or exemptions depending on cruising area
This is why location matters when comparing the cost to charter a yacht.
Crew Gratuity (Usually 5–15%)
Crew gratuity is customary but discretionary, and it rewards the crew for service during your charter.
Most clients budget:
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5–15% of the base charter fee
Example:
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10% tip on €50,000 = €5,000 (≈ $5,400 USD)
Gratuity is typically given at the end of the charter, based on your experience.
Von der Heyden Yachting has helped hundreds of Malta-based and international clients understand yacht charter pricing through transparent advice and expert guidance.
Charter costs vary depending on yacht type, destination, and season.
Contact our team to receive a tailored offer within 24 hours.
Average Yacht Charter Prices by Yacht Type
Different yacht categories come with very different cost levels.
Motor Yacht Charter Cost
Motor yachts are among the most popular options for luxury travelers.
Typical weekly rates:
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$25,000 – $120,000/week
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Higher fuel consumption, faster travel
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Ideal for island-hopping itineraries
Sailing Yacht Charter Cost
Sailing yachts are often more affordable and provide a classic sailing experience.
Typical weekly rates:
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$10,000 – $50,000/week
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Lower fuel costs
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Great for couples and smaller groups
Catamaran Charter Prices
Catamarans offer stability, space, and excellent comfort.
Typical weekly rates:
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$15,000 – $60,000/week
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Perfect for family vacations
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Popular in the Mediterranean and Caribbean
Superyacht Charter Cost
For the ultimate luxury, superyachts deliver five-star service on the sea.
Typical weekly rates:
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$250,000 – $1,000,000+/week
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Includes premium crew, toys, spa features, helipads
Yacht Charter Cost Insights for Malta-Based Clients
If you are planning a charter from Malta, understanding the full yacht charter cost often comes down to comparing regions, seasons, and pricing structures. Charter rates in the Mediterranean are typically quoted in EUR, while the cost to rent a yacht in the Caribbean is often listed in USD, which can make direct comparisons less straightforward.
For example, a crewed yacht charter in the Mediterranean may range from €25,000/€60,000 per week (approximately $27,000/$65,000 USD), depending on the season and destination. In the Caribbean, similar yachts may start around $30,000/$70,000 per week (about €28,000/€65,000 EUR), with higher rates during peak winter holidays.
Seasonality plays a major role: summer demand increases pricing across Europe, while the Caribbean sees its highest charter costs between December and March. Our Malta-based team helps you understand these regional differences clearly, providing transparent guidance and a detailed yacht charter price breakdown so you can choose the best option with confidence.
Example Weekly Charter Cost Breakdown
To understand the true yacht charter cost, it helps to look beyond the base rate and include the standard additional expenses that apply to most crewed charters.
Example: €50,000/week motor yacht (≈ $54,000 USD/week)
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Base charter rate: €50,000 (≈ $54,000 USD)
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APA (30%): €15,000 (≈ $16,000 USD)
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VAT (10%): €5,000 (≈ $5,400 USD)
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Crew tip (10%): €5,000 (≈ $5,400 USD)
Total estimated weekly cost: €75,000 (≈ $81,000 USD)
This type of yacht charter price breakdown gives you a more realistic figure when budgeting, especially when comparing destinations where taxes, onboard expenses, and seasonal pricing may differ.
When comparing the cost to charter a yacht, clarity matters just as much as the numbers themselves. Charter pricing can involve multiple components, and understanding them upfront helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
If you’re comparing destinations, the cost to rent a yacht in the Caribbean is often quoted in USD and may differ from Mediterranean pricing due to seasonal demand and local taxes.
Von der Heyden Yachting has helped hundreds of Malta-based and international clients understand yacht charter pricing through transparent advice and expert guidance.
Our role is to ensure you receive a clear breakdown of every cost before you confirm your booking. Contattateci for a custom quote.
FAQs: Yacht Charter Cost Questions Answered
Tips to Get the Best Value When Chartering a Yacht
Book in Advance for Peak Seasons
Planning ahead ensures access to the best yachts and avoids last-minute price surges.
Consider Off-Season Charters
Destinations like the Caribbean offer year-round sunshine, making off-season charters an excellent value.
Work with a Reputable Charter Broker
Experienced yacht management brokers, like Von der Heyden Yachting, can help you navigate options and negotiate the best deals.
Yacht Charter Cost by Destination (Mediterranean vs Caribbean)
Mediterranean Yacht Charter Pricing
A Mediterranean yacht charter is typically most expensive during the summer peak season (June to August), particularly in high-demand areas such as the Costa Azzurra, Costiera Amalfitana, and the Greek Islands.
As a general guide, the yacht charter cost for a week-long crewed motor yacht in the Mediterranean usually starts from around €30,000–€100,000+ per week (approximately $33,000–$110,000+ USD), depending on the yacht size, crew, and itinerary.
Larger superyachts can exceed €200,000/week (around $220,000+ USD) during peak summer weeks.
VAT and regional taxes may also apply, which will affect your full yacht charter price breakdown.
Cost to Rent a Yacht in the Caribbean
Caribbean yacht charters are most popular during the winter season (December to March), making this region a common choice for Malta- and Europe-based clients planning warm-weather cruising.
The cost to rent a yacht in the Caribbean is often quoted in USD, and weekly rates typically range from $35,000–$120,000+ per week (approximately €32,000–€110,000+ EUR), depending on the yacht type and travel dates.
Holiday periods such as Christmas and New Year can increase pricing further due to demand, and local taxes or cruising permits may apply.
As with all destinations, the total cost to charter a yacht includes the base rate plus APA (20–35%), applicable VAT or taxes, and crew gratuity.
You can explore regional options in our dedicated Noleggio barche ai Caraibi guide.
Luxury Yacht Charter Reviews: What Others Are Saying
Clients consistently rave about the exceptional and unparalleled service provided by Von der Heyden Yachting, which goes above and beyond to ensure every need is met with precision and care. The exquisite design of their yachts is frequently mentioned in testimonials, reflecting a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and style. Each vessel is thoughtfully crafted to provide an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance, making every voyage a memorable experience.
Moreover, Von der Heyden Yachting is renowned for creating bespoke itineraries tailored to the unique desires and preferences of each client. These personalized journeys are designed to offer not just a trip, but an immersive adventure that exceeds expectations. Testimonials from clients often highlight the company’s remarkable attention to detail, ensuring that every element of the journey, from the onboard services to the carefully curated destinations, is flawlessly executed.
Professionalism is a hallmark of Von der Heyden Yachting, with every team member demonstrating the highest level of expertise and dedication. The result is an experience that is both seamless and stress-free, allowing guests to fully indulge in the luxury of their surroundings. Clients frequently express their gratitude for the unforgettable moments created during their time aboard, underscoring the lasting memories forged through exceptional service, design, and bespoke planning.
Charter With Full Cost Clarity
Understanding the full yacht charter cost means looking beyond the base rate and planning for key elements such as APA, VAT, and crew gratuity. With the right guidance, charter pricing becomes straightforward and fully predictable.
Whether you’re chartering in the Mediterranean, planning a winter escape through our Noleggio barche ai Caraibi collection, or exploring premium options via our mega yacht charter fleet, we’ll explain every cost clearly from the start.
