Your Complete Guide to Pricing, Yacht Types, Seasons & What’s Included
Planning a private yacht charter in the Caribbean is one of the best ways to experience the islands. Crystal-clear water, secluded coves, white-sand beaches, five-star dining, and the freedom to explore on your own time. But how much does it actually cost to charter a yacht in paradise?
The short answer: Caribbean yacht charter prices typically ranges up to $1,000,000+ per week, depending on yacht type, size, destination, seasonality, and the level of luxury you prefer.
Below is a transparent breakdown of pricing, what’s included, and what drives the cost of both all-inclusive charters and luxury mega yacht charters.
Caribbean Yacht Charter Price Ranges
(during peak Caribbean season)
1. Crewed Catamarans (Most Popular in the BVI)
Average Cost: $18,000–$55,000+ per week (all-inclusive)
Best for: Families, couples and groups wanting the most comfort and best value.
Typical sizes: 45–70 ft
Good to know: Holiday weeks may add 10–20% to pricing.
These charters offer:
- Spacious living areas with full amenities
- Stable and comfortable cruising
- Private crewed service
- Often all-inclusive, minimizing surprises and simplifying your planning (includes meals, drinks, fuel, toys, cruising taxes)
Crewed catamarans dominate BVI yacht charters thanks to easy island-hopping, short sailing distances, calm waters, and incredible value.
2. Sailing Yachts
Average Cost: $25,000–$150,000 per week
Best for: Traditional sailing lovers, romantic getaways and smaller groups.
Typical sizes: 50–120+ ft
Value note: Newer performance yachts often cost more but offer significantly upgraded comfort and stability.
Prices vary based on:
- Pedigree and sailing performance
- Refit level and onboard comfort
- Number of crew
- Age of the vessel
Sailing yachts offer a traditional, more intimate yachting experience. These yachts tend to be booked by experienced sailors or guests who appreciate craftsmanship and absolutely love sailing.
3. Power Catamarans & Motor Yachts
Average Cost: $30,000–$200,000+ per week
Best for: Guests seeking speed, comfort, larger interiors, and upgraded amenities
Typical sizes:
- Power Catamarans: 45–70 ft
- Motor Yachts: 70–120+ ft
Power catamarans and motor yachts appeal to guests who prefer “resort-style” living at sea:
- Spacious cabins and saloons
- Large flybridges/upper decks
- More crew for exceptional service
- Fast cruising to explore multiple islands in less time
- Extensive water-toy collections
Power cats dominate the BVI/USVI mid-range market; larger motor yachts are more common in St. Thomas due to dockage access.
Note: Many motor yachts operate under APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) rather than all-inclusive rates.
4. Superyachts
Average Cost: $80,000–$200,000+ per week
Best for: Guests who prioritize space, privacy and exceptional service.
Typical sizes: 100–150 ft
Pricing model: Almost always APA-based.
Superyachts elevate the experience with:
- Larger staterooms and gathering spaces
- Professional crew with specialized roles (chefs, stewards, deckhands, engineers)
- Great amenities ( entertainment systems, gyms, cabanas, etc.)
- Premium water toys (seabobs, e-foils, jet skis, etc.)
These yachts offer custom itineraries and can access more remote anchorages across the USVI, BVI, and broader Caribbean.
5. Luxury Mega Yacht Charters
Average Cost: $150,000–$3,000,000+ per week
Best for: Ultra-luxury vacations, VIP groups, corporate travel, special events
If you’re dreaming of Michelin-style dining, onboard spas, beach clubs, cinema rooms, helipads, and a world-class crew, a luxury mega yacht charter is the ultimate way to experience the Caribbean.
Typical sizes: 150–300+ ft
Pricing model: Weekly rate + APA + VAT + potential delivery fees.
These charters typically operate on an APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) system.
Understanding APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance)
Most motor yachts, superyachts, and mega yachts operate with an APA—typically 30% of the charter rate—intended to cover:
- Fuel
- Dockage
- Provisions (food, drinks, alcohol)
- Water toys
- Permits & cruising taxes
- Guest preferences or special requests
A full expense breakdown is provided at the end of the charter, and any unused balance is refunded, or the balance is paid by the charterer before departure.
What Affects the Cost of a Caribbean Yacht Charter?
1. Yacht Size & Type
Larger yachts with more crew and higher-end amenities command higher rates.
2. Travel Season
- Peak Season: December–April (holiday weeks are the most in-demand)
- Shoulder Season: May–June, November
- Off-Peak: Late summer through early fall
3. Destination
Fuel prices, taxes, cruising distances, and provisioning logistics vary between islands.
Little Dix Bay: Photo by Cory Bjork on Unsplash
4. Crew Experience
Charters with award-winning chefs, seasoned captains, or luxury hospitality teams are priced accordingly.
5. Water Toys & Amenities
Jet skis, e-foils, seabobs, dive compressors, gyms, larger high speed tenders and more can influence rates.
What’s Included in Yacht Charter Pricing?
All-Inclusive Catamarans & Sailing Yachts
- Captain
- Chef
- Stewardess (varies by yacht)
- All meals
- Standard bar
- Fuel
- Mooring fees
- Water toys
Mega Yacht & Motor Yacht Charters
Typically covered through APA:
- Premium ingredients + gourmet dining
- Dockage
- Cruising fuel
- Water toys (jet skis, tenders, diving, etc.)
- Excursions & special requests
- Operates as if you are the owner — the crew will make your requests come to life as you set the budget.
Caribbean Yacht Destinations & Cost Comparison
Operating costs vary across island groups. Below is a clear comparison of the most popular regions.
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Best for: All-inclusive BVI yacht charters, families, first-time charter guests
Typical Pricing: $18,000–$80,000 (catamarans) · $60,000–$250,000+ (motor yachts)
Why choose it: The BVI’s protected waters and short island-to-island distances keep fuel usage low and allow for smooth, efficient itineraries—making it one of the best-value charter regions in the Caribbean.
U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)
Best for: Easy U.S.-based travelers, luxury crewed catamarans, shorter charters and charter guests wanting convenient arrivals/departures
Typical Pricing: Comparable to BVI rates
Why choose it: Great for U.S. travelers (no passport required), modern luxury catamarans, exceptionally convenient, comfortable charter hub and similar to BVI with minimal travel time, fewer islands so great for shorter charters – long weekends!
St. Martin / St. Maarten
Best for: Food lovers, nightlife outings, high-end charters and island-hopping to St. Barths and Anguilla
Typical Pricing: $35,000–$300,000+ per week, depending on yacht size and luxury level
Why choose it: Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, St. Martin offers world-class dining, modern marinas, and effortless access to nearby islands. It’s ideal for guests seeking a charter experience with upscale beaches, boutique shopping, and premium yachting services.
St. Barths
Best for: Ultra-luxury charters, high-end shopping, Michelin-level dining and celebrity-favorite anchorages
Typical Pricing: $75,000–$500,000+ per week, primarily for superyachts and luxury mega yachts
Why choose it: St. Barths is the Caribbean’s most exclusive yachting playground, known for its luxury boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and iconic New Year’s Eve superyacht scene. Its upscale atmosphere and world-class marinas make it a top destination for high-profile guests and mega yacht charters seeking privacy, sophistication, and exceptional service.
Sample Charter Cost Scenarios
BVI Catamaran for 6–8 Guests
(typical 50–60 ft crewed catamaran during peak season outside of Christmas/New Year’s)
Includes: Captain, chef, all meals, beverages, standard bar, fuel, mooring fees, and water toys.
Estimated Total: $22,000–$55,000 all-inclusive (varies by yacht size, age, and crew reputation)
Note: Holiday weeks typically run 10–20% higher.
Motor Yacht for 6–8 Guests
(typical 75–90 ft modern motor yacht operating in the BVI/USVI during peak season outside of Christmas/New Year’s)
Includes: Yacht, crew of 3–5 (captain, chef, steward/stewardess), standard amenities, water toys.
Estimated Rate: $60,000–$200,000 per week
Plus: 30–35% APA (covers fuel, provisions, dockage, beverages, logistics, and special requests)
Note: Holiday weeks typically run 15–25% higher, and fuel consumption can significantly influence APA depending on itinerary and cruising speed.
Mega Yacht for 8–12 Guests
(typical 150–300 ft ultra-luxury mega yacht available in St. Barths, St. Martin, USVI/BVI during peak season outside of Christmas/New Year’s)
Includes: Large professional crew of 8–20, ultra-luxury interiors, expansive decks, beach clubs, spa-level amenities, premium water toys (tenders, jet skis, seabobs, e-foils), and fully bespoke service.
Estimated Rate: $250,000–$3,500,000+ per week
Plus: 30–40% APA (covers fuel, gourmet provisioning, dockage, logistics, events, alcohol, and guest requests)
Note: Holiday weeks—especially New Year’s in St. Barths—can exceed $750,000–$1,000,000+ depending on yacht size and pedigree.
Budgeting Notes:
- Weekly Base Rate: Covers yacht charter for 7 nights. Peak holiday weeks can increase the rate by 10–25%.
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): Applies mainly to motor yachts, superyachts, and mega yachts. It typically covers fuel, food, beverages, dockage, and logistics. Any unused portion is refunded.
- Crew Gratuity: Standard industry practice is 10–20% of the base rate, paid at the end of the charter.
- Travel & Logistics: Include flights, airport transfers, and any customs/immigration fees. Some yachts may offer concierge assistance.
- Optional Add-Ons: Spa services, specialty meals, shore excursions, extra water toys, private guides, or special events.
FAQ: Caribbean Yacht Charter Pricing
1. Are Caribbean yacht charters all-inclusive?
Many BVI and Caribbean crewed yacht charters are fully all-inclusive. Larger motor yachts, superyachts, and luxury mega yachts usually operate under an APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) model, allowing full customization.
2. Is the BVI more affordable than other Caribbean destinations?
Generally, yes. The BVI’s short island-hopping distances reduce fuel consumption, making it a more cost-effective charter option compared with destinations like the Bahamas or the Grenadines, where longer passages increase expenses.
3. How far in advance should I book a Caribbean yacht charter?
For peak season (December–April) and especially around holidays like Christmas and New Year’s, most guests secure bookings 9–12 months in advance. Shoulder seasons (May–November) are more flexible and may offer better pricing.
4. How many people can join a private yacht charter?
Most charter yachts accommodate 6–12 guests, depending on the vessel’s layout and size. Luxury mega yachts and some superyachts can host 12–24+ guests, but crew and space considerations vary.
5. How can I get the best price for a charter?
- Book early: Securing dates 9–12 months ahead
- Prioritize what you deem ‘must haves’ and not amenities you won’t use
- Choose shorter cruising routes: BVI or USVI
- Be flexible with yacht type/size
Start Your Caribbean Yacht Adventure
From relaxed, all-inclusive catamaran charters in the BVI to ultra-luxury mega yachts in St. Barths, the Caribbean offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.
Our team helps you select the ideal yacht, skilled crew, and personalized itinerary to match your vision because we are local to the Virgin Islands — we know the yachts, their crew and the islands!
Your dream charter is just a conversation away.
Contact us to explore availability and begin planning your perfect Caribbean escape.
