Believe it or not, yacht vacations are no longer exclusively reserved for the wealthy elite. Today, yacht charters range from affordable day rentals to ultra-luxury superyachts with a full crew, which cost more than some people's annual salary.
Understanding how renting a yacht is priced can help you realistically plan a luxurious vacation while prioritizing the bells and whistles you want. It comes down to choosing the right boating experience for your needs and budget.
So, how much does it actually cost to rent a yacht? It depends on the duration of your trip, vessel size, and your destination. With that said, let's dig in.
Entry-Level Yacht Rentals
If you're imagining a fun day on a yacht with friends, you don't need to rent a multimillion-dollar vessel. A smaller yacht should do just fine. You want a yacht that's around 35 and 55 feet, which are the most affordable options.
In most U.S. coastal cities, like Los Angeles, Miami, and Charleston, the price typically ranges from $800 to $1,000 for a half day and $1,500 to $3,000 for a full day. These yachts can usually accommodate 8 to 12 guests, and some may charge an additional fee for a captain. Fuel is also an extra cost, depending on the cruising distance.
Multi-Day Crewed Charters
If you're planning a full vacation on the sea, especially in places like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Bahamas, you will need to charter a multi-day crewed yacht. These yachts typically range from 60 to 100 feet and include living quarters and often come with a captain and crew.
Typical weekly rates for multi-day crewed yachts are:
- $15,000 to $30,000/week for an entry-level crewed yacht
- $30,000 to $75,000/week for a luxury motor yacht
- $75,000 to $150,000+/week for a premium superyacht
These rates do not usually include any charges or surcharges for fuel, food, drinks, doackage fees, among others.
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Ultra-Luxury Superyachts
If you yearn for the full celebrity experience, including private chefs, jet skis, onboard cinema, and scuba instructors, you should charter a superyacht. These mansions on water range from around 150 to 300+ feet and can accommodate anywhere from 10 to 30 guests.
Typical weekly rates for ultra-luxury superyachts are:
- $200,000 to $500,000/week for large luxury yachts
- $500,000 to $1000,000/week for mega-yachts with premium amenities
- $1,000,000 to $3,000,000+/week for the world's largest superyachts
In addition, you will be responsible for crew gratuities, which can add another 30 to 50% to the cost. There might also be some surcharges for fuel and other necessities.
Renting a yacht can cost anywhere from around $1,000 for a day trip to over $2 million for a week on a luxury mega-yacht. The price is based on the size of the vessel, the location, season, and the level of luxury you want to pay for. Whether you're looking for a fun afternoon on the water or a celebrity-level experience, the market has options for you to choose from. Just make sure you plan for the additional fees and select the right charter type.
