private-yacht-charterThere’s nothing better than booking a vacation, leaving the daily stressors behind, and spending a handful of days with not a care in the world. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have Paid Time Off, but for those who are able to get away for a week or longer, the opportunities for exploration and relaxation are endless.

For many, yacht charters are beginning to pop up on their radar screen as an interesting alternative to the more traditional vacation. Instead of staying put at a resort, you can spend each night in a different place without having to pack up your bags and relocate. Charters allow guests to get a glimpse of many different regions or islands within a short timeframe.

Yacht charters mimic the perks of a cruise ship and the luxury of a resort, all the while offering a customized service that’s entirely unique. When it comes to booking your first yacht charter, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Size Matters

When it comes to a yacht charter, bigger isn’t always better. Mega yachts can feel overwhelming and intimidating to first timers. The experts at ADDISON suggest choosing comfort and crew over sheer size. A power yacht around 100-120 ft with four staterooms feels spacious without being unreasonable.

Be Clear About Yourself So You Get the Right Crew

You may not know which crew is right for you, but when you’re booking your trip, make sure you describe your travel expectations in detail. This will allow the agent assisting you to pair you and your guests with the perfect crew members for an enjoyable vacation.

Plan to Spend

The upfront cost of a yacht charter vacation might sound high, but ultimately, it includes nearly every aspect of your vacation rolled into one. If you’re staying at a resort, you end up paying for lots of little things along the way. Those jet ski rentals are $100+ per hour. The drinks at the bar add up every evening. Day trips and car rentals can end up costing thousands – especially if you have a larger group. Wrap your mind around the fact that a yacht is pricey

Work with the Experts

Chartering a yacht can be confusing and a little intimidating if you’ve never traveled privately by sea. Luckily there are a number of white glove services that help make the entire process seamless.

If you’re not sure whether a sailing vessel, catamaran, or powered yacht is the best fit for you, you can take this “Vessel Selector Quiz” to get the ball rolling. The next step would be to reach out to a leading broker to ensure that you get the vacation of your dreams!