Are you thinking of chartering a yacht on your next vacation, but don’t know what to look for? If this is the first time you’ll be doing this, it can seem a bit daunting.
All their websites seem to make the same promises. How will you decide which one is the best? How can you know that you are getting a good deal?
There are a few tried-and-true guidelines to follow when searching for the best yacht charter service. So take a look at our 5 top tips for finding the best yacht charter company, below.
Use An Independent Yacht Charter Broker
Book your yacht charter through an independent yacht charter broker. They will assist you in finding the right yacht for your needs and budget. You may, of course, deal with a yacht owner directly. But it is a risky thing to do.
A qualified charter broker is well-versed in all the legalities involved and will act in your best interests. This is especially important if you have never chartered a yacht before. Discuss your requirements with them. A charter broker knows the different types of vessels, and what amenities they have.
The yacht owner pays the charter broker’s fee, but the charter industry sets charter rates that are the same across the board. The broker has no vested interest to book any particular yacht, so you know that they will provide an unbiased and professional service.
And check that the broker assisting you is affiliated with a reputable charter broker association.
Consider Your Needs
If you are going on a family Summer vacation, there are some important considerations involved. Look at the needs of your family (or whomever you will be sailing with).
Will the yacht you charter need child safety features, wheelchair access, or any other special facilities? Find out if the charter company has a boat that meets your needs.
If you intend to skipper the vessel yourself, ensure that you have the necessary training and certification, if necessary. A bareboat charter, with no crew involved, places the burden on you to do what need’s to be done onboard. Can you handle that responsibility? If not, find out if they offer crewed boats.
Ask Questions
Make a list of all the questions you have. It’s up to you to look past the marketing and find out the facts. Your questions will depend on your particular situation. But there are a few that fit most situations.
Relevant questions may be: Who are your top clients? How do you choose your crews? What are your medical protocols? Are you familiar with the local Customs and Immigration officials? What are your qualifications? Will there be port fees to worry about?
Do not shy away from asking questions. Chartering a yacht is not an inexpensive thing to do. You deserve the best service possible. And you have the right to ask questions.
Check References And Read Reviews
References and reviews are fantastic resources for helping you make your decision. Look at online reviews, and ask for references from former clients. You may learn things the charter company is reluctant to share with you.
Do not rely solely on reviews on the charter company’s site. Visit other review sites. And speak to people you know who have used the service. Check if any accidents have been reported by the company, or if any complaints have been lodged against them. Such information will be on the public record, and not difficult to find.
Find out if they practice responsible yachting, how they handle emergencies, and if they have good customer service policies. If anything you read or hear makes you doubt their qualifications, capability, or ethics, move on to the next option.
Be Specific About Your Requirements
Are you having a yacht party? Are you chartering a yacht for corporate use? Perhaps a family Summer vacation? Your plans will determine the type of vessel you need.
And that, in turn, may influence the charter company you choose. Your reasons for chartering a yacht will also impact other factors, such as the passenger capacity, whether or not it needs to be crewed, etc.
Some yacht charter companies cater to particular markets. Your reasons for chartering a yacht will also impact other factors, such as the passenger capacity, whether or not it needs to be crewed, etc.
Be as specific as possible about your requirements, and this will lead you to the right charter.
