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SERENISSIMA

New to yacht charter

Chartering looks complicated the first time. Here are the questions we get asked most, answered plainly.

01

What the rate includes

The published weekly or daily rate covers the yacht and her crew. Fuel, port and marina fees, food and drink, transfers and crew gratuity are usually separate. These items are itemised on every listing and confirmed in writing at the quotation stage.

02

What APA means

APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance. Typically twenty to thirty per cent of the weekly rate is placed with the captain before departure. Fuel, port fees, food and drink are paid from it. At the end of the charter the captain presents a full account and any balance is returned. APA is an advance, not a fee.

03

How far ahead to book

For July and August, plan three to four months ahead; the best yachts are taken over the winter. For June and September, six to eight weeks is usually enough. Day charters can often be arranged within a few days, though weekends fill quickly.

04

Crewed or bareboat

Every yacht in our fleet is crewed. The captain runs the route, knows the coast and adjusts the plan to the weather. Bareboat charter requires a licence and experience, and is outside what we do.

05

How the route is decided

Our suggested itineraries are a starting point, not a fixed programme. Tell us how many hours you want to be under way, which bays you want to swim in and where you want to watch the sunset, and we will draw up a route with the captain. Weather can change the plan; that call always rests with the captain.

06

Cancellation and weather

Cancellation terms are set out in the contract and shared before booking. If weather prevents cruising, the captain proposes an alternative programme or the dates are moved. Safety decisions are not open to negotiation.