Questions & Answers
We offer luxury yacht charters across the globe. Our team tailors each charter experience to your preferences, whether you desire the sun-soaked Mediterranean, the exotic Caribbean, or the pristine waters of Southeast Asia. We ensure the perfect yacht and itinerary for unforgettable journeys in any location worldwide.
Yacht charter costs vary based on factors such as yacht type, location, season, and charter duration. At Swisspath Yachting, we provide personalized pricing to match your specific requirements, ensuring exceptional quality for a luxury experience. Please contact us for a detailed quote.
Swisspath Yachting offers a diverse fleet of yachts, including motor yachts, sailing yachts, and catamarans. Each type offers unique features and amenities. We pre-select and curate the best yacht options to match your desires, guaranteeing a memorable journey. Beyond our own Central Agency fleet, we have access to a global network of charter yachts, ensuring we find the perfect yacht for you.
At Swisspath Yachting, we work closely with you to understand your preferences and desired activities. Our expert team leverages extensive industry knowledge to recommend and source the perfect yacht for you.
Most charter rates typically follow MYBA (The Worldwide Yachting Association) terms. This includes the yacht hire, yacht insurance, and professional crew. Additional expenses such as fuel, food, beverages, port fees, and taxes are are for the charterer’s account.
Upon signing the MYBA charter agreement, a deposit of the total charter fee is due via bank transfer. The balance payment, plus an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), taxes, delivery or redelivery fees, and any other agreed charges, is typically payable by bank transfer at least five weeks before the charter starts.
In addition to the charter fee, additional costs may include fuel, dockage fees, food and beverages, special requests, crew gratuities, and VAT charges depending on the cruising destination. The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), typically cover 30-40% of the yacht's weekly rate, which funds expenses during the charter such as fuel, food, beverages and port fees. Any excess APA will need to be settled instantly and prior to disembarktion.
For crewed charters with Swisspath Yachting, no special license is required. You can relax and enjoy your vacation while our professional crew handles the yacht.
For bareboat charters (without crew), typically on smaller day charter yachts, you may need to provide proof of boating qualifications and experience.
Typically, yachts above a certain size require a professional crew for safe operation and optimal guest experience. For these larger vessels, we offer crewed charters, providing a luxury and relaxation where you can fully enjoy your vacation while our expert team handles all details.
For those meeting necessary qualifications, we do offer bareboat charters on smaller yachts that don't require a crew. These options allow more hands-on sailing for those who prefer it. We're happy to arrange these charter options through our trusted partners who specialize in smaller vessels.
The number of guests a charter yacht can accommodate varies depending on the yacht's size and design. At Swisspath Yachting, we offer yachts that can comfortably accommodate small groups to large parties. Together, we select a yacht that meets your needs, ensuring everyone has a wonderful time.
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for popular destinations and peak seasons. Early bookings ensure a wider selection of yachts and a higher chance of securing your preferred vessel. For prime dates like July and August in the Mediterranean, booking 6-12 months in advance is advisable. However, we're also adept at arranging last-minute charters to suit your spontaneous plans.
Absolutely! Day charters are an excellent option for those seeking a taste of luxury yachting without committing to a longer trip. While availability of larger yachts for short periods may vary depending on location and season, we offer a range of options suitable for day trips through our trusted partners. These shorter excursions provide the perfect opportunity to experience the thrill of yachting, whether for a special celebration or a brief escape.
No matter the duration of your charter, our goal remains the same: to make every charter special and memorable.
Most luxury yachts, especially during high season, have a minimum charter length of 7 days. However, there's often room for negotiation. If your schedule only allows for a short break (3 to 5 days), we can find suitable vessels that meet your criteria. Our extensive network allows us to find the best option that meets your specific needs and time frame.
Safety is our top priority. If inclement weather affects your charter, we work closely with you and the onboard team to adjust your itinerary. Our experienced crew ensures the safest and most enjoyable experience, providing alternative activities if needed. For instance, cloudier days offer an ideal opportunity to explore local shops and restaurants on shore. We strive to make every moment memorable, regardless of weather conditions.
For crewed charters, your yacht comes with a private chef who prepares meals tailored to your preferences. Before your charter begins, we'll send you a detailed preference sheet covering dietary requirements, allergies, and special requests. This ensures a delightful culinary experience customized for every guest, from gourmet meals to casual al fresco dining.
All charter yachts are equipped with comprehensive safety equipment, including life vests, first aid kits, and emergency communication devices. Crew members are trained in safety procedures and first aid. Safety briefings are provided at the start of each charter, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the journey. We prioritize your safety to guarantee a worry-free and enjoyable vacation.
We create a customized itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Our team considers factors such as weather conditions, local attractions, and your desired pace to craft a memorable journey. We balance relaxation and adventure, incorporating must-see destinations and hidden gems
Absolutely! While we plan your itinerary in advance, incorporating recommendations from your charter broker and captain, flexibility is key to an enjoyable yacht charter experience. Simply communicate your desires to the captain, and they will make every effort to accommodate your requests, ensuring your charter evolves to match your preferences throughout the journey.
Our support team is available 24/7 to assist with any issues that may arise. In the rare event of a major problem, we coordinate repairs or provide a replacement yacht if necessary, ensuring minimal disruption to your vacation. Our extensive network and experience allow us to swiftly resolve issues, maintaining the high standard of your luxury charter experience.
The Mediterranean yachting season typically runs from May to October, with July and August being the peak months. During this period, you can enjoy warm weather, vibrant local culture, and bustling marinas. However, the shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, providing a more relaxed charter experience.
Most modern charter yachts offer Wi-Fi, although coverage may be limited in some areas. If you plan to work extensively during your charter or require large bandwidths, please inform us beforehand. Many yachts have recently added Starlink satellite internet for improved connectivity worldwide. We can recommend yachts with the best communication setups to suit your needs.
While you're welcome to assist with maneuvers and learn from the captain, the primary responsibility for the yacht's operation remains with the professional crew. They ensure your safety so you can fully relax and enjoy your vacation.
We recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical emergencies, and personal belongings. This should include Cancellation and Curtailment Insurance to protect your investment if your charter is cancelled or cut short. Personal Accident and Medical Insurance for all party members is advisable. The yacht and crew are covered by the yacht's insurance policy. Our team can provide detailed information on insurance options to ensure your peace of mind.
Pack light! Bring only your personal belongings, including casual and smart-casual attire, swimwear, and any specific items for planned activities. Yachts provide towels, linens, and basic toiletries. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal medications. If you have specific requirements or preferences, let us know, and we'll ensure they're available on board.
While we offer a wide range of global destinations, some locations may have restrictions due to political, environmental, or safety conditions. We stay informed about global events and will advise you on the best and safest routes for your charter. Our expertise ensures you can explore exciting destinations while prioritizing your safety and comfort.
A professional yacht charter broker brings invaluable expertise to plan your perfect vacation. We offer specialist knowledge, trusted industry contacts, and first-hand experience with yachts, crews, and locations. We navigate legal constraints and local regulations, build contingency plans, and ensure every aspect of your charter is tailored to your preferences. Our services often come at no extra cost to you, as we're typically compensated by the yacht owner.
For safety reasons, smoking is generally not allowed inside charter yachts. However, most yachts designate specific exterior areas where smoking is permitted. When booking, we can inform you about the smoking policy of your chosen yacht and ensure it aligns with your preferences.
Tipping is customary but discretionary in the yacht charter industry. The standard practice is to tip 10-15% of the base charter fee if you're satisfied with the service. Tips are usually given to the captain at the end of the charter for distribution among the crew. We can provide guidance on tipping etiquette specific to your charter region and vessel.
To protect the yacht's surfaces, particularly teak decks, outdoor shoes are typically not worn onboard. Most guests prefer to go barefoot, but many yachts provide indoor slippers. If you have specific footwear needs, let us know, and we'll ensure the yacht is prepared to accommodate you comfortably.
Charter rates are typically quoted per week. For charters over seven days, rates are calculated pro-rata (weekly rate divided by seven, multiplied by the number of charter days). Shorter charters often attract a premium, usually calculated as the weekly rate divided by six, multiplied by the number of days. High season rates apply to popular periods like July, August, and major events, while low season rates cover other times. We provide transparent pricing to help you understand the value of your luxury charter experience.
There's no minimum age for yacht charter guests. In fact, yacht charters are an excellent option for family vacations. We can recommend family-friendly yachts with features like adjoining cabins, child safety netting, and entertainment facilities suitable for all ages. Our goal is to create a safe and enjoyable charter experience for guests of all generations.
Our yacht management service is broken down into Crew Employment Services, Financial Management, Compliance Management, Technical Management and Operations & Logistics support.
We provide these as individual modules or as a complete full management package. We provide regular reports, plans and updates, keeping your yacht in pristine condition and ready for your next adventure.
During our onboarding and initial discovery calls, we discuss your vessel's custom yacht management plan, including check-in frequency and the range of services provided. Many clients opt for weekly or monthly inspection plans, but we will tailor the schedule to fit your budget and specific yacht management requirements, ensuring your yacht is always in prime condition.
Opting for professional yacht management ensures your vessel remains in optimal condition, adheres to regulatory standards, and operates efficiently. At Swisspath Yachting, our seasoned team brings years of industry expertise and a steadfast commitment to excellence. We meticulously oversee all facets of yacht management, providing you with a hassle-free yachting experience. Our clients often realise substantial value retention from having the yacht professionally managed.
Swisspath Yachting offers comprehensive crew management services to ensure your yacht is staffed with highly skilled professionals. We handle everything from recruitment and payroll administration to managing employment agreements and monitoring regulatory compliance. Our services include overseeing the hiring process, verifying seafarer certifications, administering employment queries, and providing dispute mediation when necessary. By managing these aspects, we allow you to focus on enjoying your yachting experience while ensuring your vessel is run efficiently and in full compliance with maritime regulations.
Swisspath Yachting provides comprehensive financial management services to ensure your yacht operates efficiently within budget. Our services include budgeting, accounting, and expense reporting, with transparent financial statements to give you clear insights into your yacht's finances. We prepare and periodically review annual and seasonal budgets, using specialised yacht accounting software with linked crew debit cards to record all transactions and manage expenditure in real-time. We also challenge quotes and invoices, process payments, and prepare monthly budget consolidations, investigating any deviations from the budget. This meticulous approach optimises your yacht's operating budget while maintaining the highest standards of service and maintenance.
Swisspath Yachting ensures your yacht complies with all relevant maritime regulations and safety standards. We manage certifications, conduct safety drills, and oversee regular inspections to guarantee your yacht operates within legal requirements. Our services include monitoring statutory vessel certification and ensuring timely renewal, implementing a digital Safety Management System compliant with ISM code requirements, and ongoing compliance with the ISPS code. We also appoint a Designated Person Ashore and Company Security Officer and provide 24/7 emergency support. This commitment to safety and compliance provides you with peace of mind.
The cost of Swisspath Yachting's yacht management services is tailored to meet your unique needs and your yacht's requirements. We are happy to provide a personalised quote upon request. Contact us via email or phone to discuss your specific needs
To initiate our yacht management services, simply contact us, and our Management Director will personally handle your consultation. We will discuss your specific needs and preferences, evaluate your yacht, and create a customised management plan. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless process and providing your yacht with the utmost care and attention it deserves.
Consulting in the yachting industry involves providing expert guidance and support in various areas to yacht owners and stakeholders. At Swisspath Yachting, our consulting services cover a wide range of topics including owner's representation, new build supervision, assistance in fiscal and VAT matters, and corporate services. We ensure that every aspect of yacht ownership and operation is managed efficiently and in compliance with regulations.
Our new build supervision services include setting up a dedicated management team, reviewing construction specifications, preparing budgets and project costs, assisting with flag and class registration, managing plan approval and drawings, overseeing set-up deliveries and shipyard attendance, conducting sea trials and commissioning, as well as negotiating warranty claims to ensure your new yacht meets the highest standards.
Swisspath Yachting provides comprehensive assistance in fiscal and VAT matters, assessing the owner's tax circumstances, advising on optimal tax structures, implementing preferred structures, facilitating free circulation in the EU, and implementing VAT schemes for vessel importation. Our goal is to streamline tax compliance and optimise financial efficiency for yacht owners.
Swisspath Yachting offers a range of corporate services including advising on suitable onshore/offshore jurisdictions, administering incorporation processes, managing owning company administration, appointing professional directors, registered agents, and office management, managing company bank accounts, filing tax returns, and ensuring ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements.
The cost of a yacht can vary significantly based on factors such as size, builder, specifications, and customization. Yachts can range from several hundred thousand dollars to tens of millions of dollars or more for luxury and super yachts. Swisspath Yachting can provide guidance on budgeting and financing options tailored to your yacht ownership goals.
The duration of yacht construction depends on the size, complexity, and builder's schedule. Generally, smaller yachts may take around 12-18 months to build, while larger and more custom yachts can take 1-3 years or longer. Swisspath Yachting assists in setting realistic timelines, managing construction specifications, and ensuring quality control throughout the build process.
The potential earnings from chartering your own yacht vary based on factors such as location, seasonality, yacht specifications, and market demand. Swisspath Yachting offers charter management services that include marketing, bookings, and operational logistics to maximise your yacht's charter revenue. We tailor our approach to ensure your charter experience is both lucrative and enjoyable.