Planning a luxury yacht charter is exciting — but if you’ve never booked one before, you might be wondering: What’s actually included in a private yacht charter package?

The short answer: more than you think. Unlike a hotel stay or villa rental, a luxury yacht charter is a fully customized vacation where nearly every detail is taken care of — from your meals to your activities to your daily itinerary.

In this guide, we’ll break down what’s included in a yacht charter so you know exactly what to expect.

The Basics: What You Get When You Book a Luxury Yacht Charter

Image Credit: Charter Yacht ULTRA

Every private yacht charter comes with a base rate. This typically covers:

  • Exclusive Use of the Yacht
    You and your guests have the entire yacht to yourselves — staterooms, lounge areas, deck spaces, and all onboard amenities.
  • Professional Crew
    A dedicated crew is included in every charter, usually consisting of a captain, chef, and steward/stewardess (larger yachts may have engineers, deckhands, or even dive instructors). Their job is to make your trip seamless.
  • Standard Amenities
    Yachts come equipped with luxury linens, bath products, beach towels, and more. Think of it as your own floating boutique hotel.

What’s Also Included (and Often Overlooked)

Image Credit: Charter Yacht GAMBIT

Beyond the basics, here’s where the real value of a crewed yacht charter shines:

  • All Meals Onboard
    Your private chef will prepare gourmet meals tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences. Fresh, local ingredients are standard.
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages
    Soft drinks, juices, coffee, and tea are typically stocked and included.
  • Water Toys & Equipment
    Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling gear, floats, and sometimes jet skis (depending on the yacht). Many also have Scuba gear, e-foils, or Seabobs.
  • Housekeeping
    Daily cleaning, fresh towels, and turndown service — your crew handles it all.
  • Custom Itinerary
    Unlike a cruise or hotel, your route is tailored to you. Want to snorkel before breakfast? Dine ashore one night? Stay longer at your favorite beach? Your captain makes it happen.

What’s Not Included in the Base Rate on Luxury Yacht Charters

Image Credit: Charter Yacht RELENTLESS II 80

It’s important to know that some costs fall outside the base charter fee. These are covered by an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) or a “Charter Plus Expenses” structure. Typical extras include:

  • Fuel (for cruising and generators)
  • Alcoholic Beverages (your preference list is provisioned in advance)
  • Dockage & Mooring Fees (if you choose to dock at marinas)
  • Special Requests (premium wines, champagne, caviar, etc.)
  • Crew Gratuity (usually 15–20% of the base rate, given at the end of your trip)

Your charter broker (that’s where WE come in) will help estimate these expenses upfront so there are no surprises.

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Sample Daily Itinerary: What’s Included in Action

Image Credit: Charter Yacht ENDLESS HORIZON

To give you an idea of how inclusions play out during a real charter, here’s a sample day in the British Virgin Islands:

  • Morning: Wake up to fresh fruit and coffee on deck. Your captain sets course for Norman Island while you enjoy a gourmet breakfast.
  • Midday: Drop anchor at The Caves for snorkeling. Kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear are all included.
  • Afternoon: A beach picnic prepared by your chef, followed by watersports off the stern.
  • Evening: Sunset cocktails on board. Dinner is a multi-course feast under the stars.

Every detail of that day — from the meals to the water toys — is part of your yacht charter experience.

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Yacht Size Matters: What’s Included by Vessel Type


Image Credit: Charter Yacht MISCHIEVOUS

Inclusions can also vary depending on the size and type of yacht you charter.

  • 50–60 ft Catamarans
    • Typically include 2–3 crew (captain + chef/stew).
    • Great for families or small groups.
    • Water toys usually include snorkel gear, SUPs, and kayaks.
  • 80–100 ft Motor Yachts
    • Larger crew (captain, chef, stew, engineer, deckhands).
    • More luxury features: hot tubs, gyms, and multiple entertainment zones.
    • More extensive toy inventory: jet skis, seabobs, scuba gear, e-foils.
  • Superyachts (100 ft+)
    • Full-service crew with specialists (diving instructors, spa therapists).
    • Helicopter pads, cinemas, and luxury tenders.
    • Global cruising capability — not just island hopping.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Image Credit: Charter Yacht ABBY NORMAL TO

Do you tip the crew on a yacht charter?

Yes. It’s customary to tip 15–20% of the base charter rate, given at the end of your trip as a show of appreciation.

Are meals included on a luxury yacht charter?

Yes. All meals onboard are included, prepared by your private chef. Specialty requests or dining ashore are extra.

Do I need to plan the itinerary myself?

Not at all. Your captain will work with you before the trip to design a personalized route based on your preferences.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

Standard charters include house brand alcohol in the base rate, whereas high-end ‘plus all expenses’ yachts do not. All yachts will stock your favorites in advance and bill your APA. 

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Why a Yacht Charter is Worth It

Image Credit: Charter Yacht MAVERICK

When you add up what’s included — a luxury villa, a private chef, a full-service crew, endless activities, and personalized service — a yacht charter isn’t just a vacation, it’s an all-in-one luxury experience.

Unlike resorts or cruise ships, you’ll enjoy:

  • Privacy (just you and your guests)
  • Flexibility (custom itineraries, not fixed schedules)
  • Adventure (exploring hidden beaches, reefs, and islands most travelers never see)

Ready to Experience It Yourself?

Image Credit: Charter Yacht KNOT 5280

Booking a yacht charter means stepping into a world where every detail is designed around you. From gourmet dining to water sports to personalized service, everything you need for an unforgettable vacation is already included.

Contact Regency Yacht Vacations today and let us help you find the perfect yacht — and the perfect itinerary — for your next getaway.