Of course, it is more expensive to rent a yacht than a car. After all, the average yacht cost is much higher than the average car cost. The boating lifestyle is often considered a very luxurious one. The ultra-rich often buy boats and spend lots of money on them. However, chartering a yacht is not as unimaginable as it might seem at first. It might even be cheaper than other options in some cases.
What makes it expensive to rent a yacht?
Rental prices for yachts can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per day. It depends on many factors.
First, of course, is the yacht itself, especially its size. Do you want to charter a yacht for four or 24 people? Most can only have up to 12 people aboard because of regulations of Safety of Life at Sea. Of course, some are much bigger and can have much more passengers, but the price goes up considerably. Design and age also affect the price. The better the design, the higher the cost, of course. Learn more about different types of yachts.
The destination is also important. Places with well-developed yachting businesses tend to have lower prices. However, if you are looking to rent at or reach some exotic location, the price will likely go up.
The time during which you rent the yacht matters too. In the Caribbean, the yachting season approximately lasts from late November to May. The official start of the season is in early December when the Antigua Charter Yacht Show takes place. However, in New York, the high season is from late April to late October. Basically, the season dates depend on the optimal weather and temperature for yachting. Of course, rental prices are much higher during the yachting season.
Now, let’s compare the prices a little. The average cost of a rental yacht in California is about $1,100 per day. In the Bahamas, the most popular yachting location in the Caribbean, the daily price during high season starts from $2,000. But the average is more like $4,000. It’s pretty similar in New York. In Saint Tropez, sailboats and catamarans can cost less than $500 per day.
Tips for cheaper yacht charters
Do you only need the boat and are planning to sail yourself or find your own crew? This way is known as a bareboat charter. Of course, it’s cheaper but can more troublesome. Also, in many cases, it is only possible renting a yacht together with the captain. Check out the video about bareboat chartering if you are interested:
If you want to get a good deal, start looking early, like 7 to 12 months before your planned yachting trip. The closer it is to your vacation, the more expensive it becomes. Also, if you want to save, opt for older yachts, which are maybe four years old. They are new enough to be reliable but still a little bit cheaper.
Finally, it’s best if you find and close the deal yourself, without any agents. Agencies can rip off up to 35% of the rent price. It is also better to communicate directly with the owner in case any trouble arises.
And if you really want to save, you can rent just a cabin instead of the whole yacht. It’s like a group tour but on a yacht! Sure, there is way less privacy and freedom. But if you like socializing and want a cheaper experience, it might be a good choice for you.
Is it worth it?
Yes, if you want to try a boating lifestyle and spend a few relaxing days this way. If you wish to taste luxury without long‑term obligations, also yes. Finally, if you are looking to host an unforgettable party, definitely rent a yacht! It might also be cheaper than week-long cruise tickets for a large family. If you are really trying to save money, well, think about it. Renting yachts is more expensive than renting cars, to be sure. But it’s affordable, depending on your budget and your needs.
It is also much, much cheaper than buying one. While having one might be something more to boast of, it will cost you so much more. Yachts are expensive to buy, depreciate like cars, and require lots of sustenance. You are also not likely to use it for more than 30 days a year which means that the yacht will sit idle 11 months out of 12. When you rent a yacht, you can save lots of money, not care about maintenance, or the purchase sitting idly. And you will be able to relax on a yacht, getting this extraordinary experience.
To sum up, if you have some money and are looking for a unique experience for yourself, your family or your friends, a yacht charter might be perfect. Consider all the factors, such as location, season, yacht size, crew, and decide on what you need. Try to close the deal without agents and a long time in advance to save money.
Planning a yachting vacation? Check out the best places for a yacht charter in the Mediterranean and the US!