How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Yacht?

Last Updated on January 10, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Imagine cruising amazing beaches on your private luxury yacht, sipping drinks on the deck as the sun sets. A yacht charter makes this tropical dream possible, whether you’re looking for an action-packed crewed sailing adventure or a relaxing bareboat getaway. But how much does it cost to rent a yacht?

In this article, we’ll break down the typical price range for charter motor yachts and sailing yachts of various sizes. We’ll look at what factors impact yacht rental costs. And we’ll also go over what’s included with crewed versus bareboat rentals. Read on to get a sense of how much money you need to make your yacht vacation a reality.

Highlights

• The costs of renting a yacht range from $2,500-$50,000+ per week depending on yacht size and features
• Crewed charters start around double the cost of bareboat
• Provisioning, tips, and add-ons can add 20%+ over base costs
• Brokers provide insider access to deals and renter-exclusive inventory
• Destinations worldwide offer unique sailing adventures and indulgent escapes

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Yacht?

The cost of renting a yacht is usually between $2,500 and $100,000 per week, depending on the type of yacht, size of the yacht, its features, where you rent it from, whether you need crew for it or not, and so on. Here are typical price ranges to rent various yacht sizes for a week-long bareboat charter:

• 30-50 feet – Sleeps 4-10 people, costs $2,500 – $6,000
• 50-70 feet – Sleeps 8-12 people, costs $5,000 – $15,000
• 70-100 feet – Sleeps 10-24 people, costs $15,000 – $35,000
• 100+ feet – Luxury superyachts – over $50,000 per week

Crewed charters generally start around double bareboat pricing, plus additional crew tips and provisioning fees. But the crew handles everything for a VIP experience.

According to Boatsetter.com, the cost of renting a yacht can range from less than $1,000 to $5,000 plus, depending on the boat size and the length of the charter. Prices for a small yacht in NYC start at $700 for a few hours, $1,400 for a half-day, and $2,800 for a full day with a captain.

Nautal.com notes that yacht charter costs can range from $1,500 a day to $10,000 per week in the low season, and from $1,800 a day to $12,487 per week in the high season. Mega yachts over 165 ft can cost $500,000 or more per week.

Oceangetaways.com writes that rates for a crewed yacht charter vacation range from $2,500 per person per day to over $20,000 per person per day.

All-NYC-yachts.com provides specific price ranges for chartering yachts in New York City, with costs varying based on the duration of the charter and the size of the yacht. For example, a 1.75-hour charter for up to 6 persons can cost $800 plus gratuity, while a 4-hour New Year’s Eve fireworks charter for 30 persons can cost $10,400 plus gratuity.

Cost Breakdown of a Crewed Yacht Charter

Here’s an overview of the costs involved with a crewed luxury yacht rental:

• Base boat rental prices – This depends on the size, type, and amenities of the vessel chosen. Generally $10,000 – $100,000+ per week.
• Crew fees – The captain and any staff, around $5,000+ per week.
• Gratuities – Recommended 15-20% of the total for crew tip.
• Provisioning – Any catered meals, drinks, snacks chosen – $1,000+
• Incidentals – Onboard purchases like water toys or excursions.
• Optional add-ons – Private chef, massages, childcare.

So for a premium crewed charter, expect to spend $20,000+ per week total when all costs are factored in.

Factors That Affect The Price of Yacht Charter

Several key factors impact how much you’ll pay to rent a yacht:

• Yacht size – Costs scale up exponentially for larger vessels.
• Type – Sailing, motor, or catamaran – each has different price ranges.
• Add-ons – Amenities like water toys and catered meals add costs.
• High vs low season – Peak summer and holidays are pricier.
• Duration – Weekly is cheaper per day than shorter daily rentals.
• Location – Exclusive areas like the Caribbean have the highest rates.

Keep these in mind when budgeting and planning your ideal charter vacation.

Provisioning Costs on a Yacht Charter

Provisioning refers to purchasing any food, drinks, or other supplies for your charter vacation. For crewed yachts, crews typically handle provisioning based on a preset allowance budget. Costs vary greatly based on preferences, but provisioning often runs approximately:

• $1,000 – $1,500 per week for basic provisions serving breakfast, lunch, snacks
• $2,000 – $3,000+ per week for elaborate multi-course dining and premium liquors.

Crews are skilled at provisioning within different budgets. Many also accommodate special diets or food allergies.

Why Charter a Yacht?

First, let’s look at some of the benefits of booking a yacht rental:

• Total freedom – Make your own itinerary instead of sticking to cruise ship schedules.
• Privacy – It’s just you and your group, no crowds of strangers.
• Luxury amenities – Soak in the hot tub on deck or relax in elegant living quarters.
• Expert service – Let a crew cook gourmet meals and handle all details.
• Water fun – Swim, snorkel, paddleboard and more right from your vessel.
• Scenery – Visit secluded coves and beaches only accessible by yacht.

Whether sailing, motor yachting, or catamaraning, a charter opens up a wealth of possibilities.

Popular Yacht Types to Charter

When considering a yacht rental, you’ll choose what type of vessel works for your group’s interests and budget. Here are some of the most popular options:

Motor yachts – Spacious and stable, best for relaxation. Great amenities.

Sailing yachts – For more adventurous groups who want to help sail.

Catamarans – If you rent a catamaran, you get increased stability and living space. Ideal for families.

Luxury megayachts – Over 100 feet long – the ultimate in pampered indulgence.

Classic yachts – For nostalgia, book a beautiful vintage sailing vessel.

Each provides a unique on-the-water experience.

You might also like our articles about the cost of joining the New York Yacht Club, doing the Great Loop, or getting a Seabreacher.

Top Yacht Charter Destinations Worldwide

From tropical locales to exotic European haunts, you can charter a yacht almost anywhere in the world. Here are some top destinations:

Caribbean – Islands like the Bahamas or Virgin Islands for dazzling turquoise waters.

Mediterranean – Along the coasts of Italy, France, Greece, Croatia for epic history and scenery.

South Pacific – Islands like Fiji and Tahiti for a true escape to paradise.

New England – Locales like Newport, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket for coastal charm.

Australia & New Zealand – Some of the world’s most stunning unspoiled natural wonders.

Southeast Asia – Boating along Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore provides exotic diversity.

How a Bareboat Yacht Rental Works

Unlike a crewed experience, bareboat rentals let you sail the vessel yourself. Here’s how it operates:

• Training – Charter company provides sailing instruction if you need it.
• Pick up and drop off – You pick up the yacht and return it. No crew.
• DIY experience – You and your group handle all cooking, cleaning and sailing.
• Lower cost – No crew costs or gratuities, so more budget-friendly.

So if you already have sailing chops or don’t need pampering, bareboat offers an affordable self-guided alternative.

What’s Included in a Bareboat Yacht Rental?

When you book a bareboat charter, here’s what’s typically included:

• The yacht itself of your chosen size
• Onboard sleeping quarters
• Bathrooms and living areas
• Kitchen and dining space
• Safety equipment
• Fuel and engine maintenance
• Basic electronics like radar and radio
• Bedding, towels, and basic kitchenware

You’ll provision everything else like food, drinks, and your own sailing expertise!

Benefits of Booking With a Broker for Your Charter

Rather than booking directly with charter companies, many renters enlist a private yacht charter broker. Brokers offer benefits like:

• Access to insider deals and renter-exclusive yachts
• Expert guidance on selecting the perfect yacht
• Handling all the research and arrangements
• Getting you the best deals even during peak times
• Ensuring a smooth booking and charter experience

How to Get the Best Yacht Rental Value

Here are tips for maximizing your experience while keeping costs in check:

• Book off-peak – You’ll pay less for spring or fall over summer.
• Gather a group – Split among friends to make luxury more affordable.
• Go bareboat – For savvy sailors, skip the crew costs.
• Allow added budget – Factor in 20% over base for tips, fuel, provisions.
• Book a broker – Get insider deals with their buying power.
• Consider yacht models – Newer vessels charter for higher premiums.

Set Sail on a Yacht Adventure!

Escaping on a yacht charter offers the freedom to design your own luxury experience on the water. While costs range widely based on the amenities, crew, and vessel you select, the splurge delivers memories to last a lifetime.

Talk to an experienced charter broker to explore all the possibilities. From action-packed sailing with friends to a pampered honeymoon charter, the right yacht rental makes blue ocean dreams come true!