A superyacht charter is the most exclusive way to holiday at sea: you rent a fully crewed superyacht, including captain, crew and chef, for a week or longer. Together with your charter expert, you decide the route, the pace and the experience. Global Yacht Charter is your partner in the Benelux for superyachts from 24 meters, with access to leading superyachts and a fully customised service from the first intake to the last tender back to the quay. Want to get an idea of the process in advance? How a luxury yacht charter works (step-by-step).
What exactly does a superyacht charter entail?
With a superyacht charter, you rent a superyacht typically 24 meters or larger, including professional crew. The charter price covers the use of the yacht, crew and standard insurance. Variable costs such as fuel, food and beverages, port and berthing fees and any VAT you pay through the APA, an advance that is usually 30-40 per cent of the charter price. The captain manages these costs transparently and settles the bill afterwards. You can read more about the cost structure and APA in Cost of a superyacht charter: explanation APA, VAT & gratuities.
Your trip is fully customised. Before departure, you fill in a preference list for cuisine, wines, dietary requirements, activities and ambience. Based on this, the chef composes a menu and the crew plans the supplies. You will tailor the itinerary according to season and wishes: from quiet bays and hidden beach clubs to iconic hotspots. On board, you'll find luxury suites, a salon, outdoor decks with lounges, often a Jacuzzi, fitness and extensive water toys. It's all about privacy, comfort and smooth sailing, so you're only busy enjoying yourself. For inspiration, think an elaborate itinerary and day-to-day experience like Corsica & Sardinia, or more tropical in the Caribbean. More on what's included as standard: What's included in a superyacht charter.
Difference between a yacht and a superyacht
The main difference is in scale, service and facilities. A superyacht is larger than 24 meters, has a professional crew with specialist roles, and offers amenities like Jacuzzis, a gym, beach club and a water toys arsenal. The experience is high-touch: a private chef, turn-down service and a crew that organises your day seamlessly. Smaller yachts often lack a full crew and have more limited equipment. The price reflects that difference: superyachts start at higher weekly rates, but deliver a 5-star experience with maximum privacy and flexibility. Looking for concrete price insight with crew? What does it cost to charter a yacht with crew.
What can you expect on board?
A superyacht is a floating boutique hotel. By day, you alternate relaxing deck lounges, swimming, snorkelling and tender trips with jet skis, seabobs or paddleboards. From breakfast to late-night snacks, your private chef serves exactly what you like, tailored to your schedule. Inside, you'll find elegant lounges and suites with private bathrooms; outside, often a Jacuzzi, dining setups and shaded cabanas. The crew arranges all the details - restaurant reservations ashore, beach setups, children playing safely with water toys, or a themed evening on board - so your charter feels like effortless luxury.
Indicative prices and examples
The charter price depends on length, year of construction, shipyard, season and destination. Below are three examples from Global Yacht Charter's offer, including length, capacity and starting price per week, excluding VAT and APA.
| Yacht | Length | Guests | Crew | Starting price p/w |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Queen Martina | 27 m | max. 8 | 4 | €85.000 |
| Premura | 38 m | max. 10 | 7 | €165.000 |
| Reliance | 55 m | max. 12 | 13 | €375.000 |
For your total budget, add the APA to the charter price. In the Mediterranean, VAT is often added, depending on the country and exact routing. Seasonal influences are big: high season and iconic events increase price and demand. Your charter expert will help you with smart timing, appropriate selection and clear cost projections in advance. Want a quick indication per day? Read What does a yacht cost per day.
How to book with Global Yacht Charter?
The process is simple and personal. We start with an intake focusing on your wishes, travel dates and budget. Based on this, you will receive a shortlist of suitable superyachts and detailed brochures. After your choice, we will place an option if desired, finalise the price and conditions, and guide you through the contract. Your preference list goes to the chef and crew, and together we put together the itinerary, anchor bays, restaurants and transfers. During your trip, you will have a single point of contact and a crew who will take care of everything. Want to know exactly what to expect from request to cruise? This is how a luxury yacht charter goes step by step.
Frequently asked questions about superyacht charters
How much does a superyacht charter cost per week?
For superyachts from 24 meters , count on starting prices from around €85,000 per week for smaller vessels, rising to several hundred thousand for 50-60 meters. Excluding VAT and APA of usually 30-40 per cent.
What exactly is APA?
The Advance Provisioning Allowance is an advance payment for variable costs such as fuel, food and drinks, ports and local fees. The captain keeps track of what you consume and settles the difference afterwards.
Do I need a boating licence to charter?
No. A superyacht charter is always with professional crew. The captain and crew take care of all nautical and hospitality tasks, you focus on the experience.
Which destinations are popular?
In Europe, the French Riviera, Italy, Croatia and Greece are classics. In the winter months, the Bahamas and the Caribbean are favourites. We advise you on the best period and itinerary. For summer inspiration check out Best yacht charter destinations for summer.
Ready for your superyacht charter?
Whether you dream of the French Riviera, the Caribbean or the Croatian islands, Global Yacht Charter will arrange your superyacht charter from A to Z. Directly further? Request a quote for your yacht charter, receive a personal shortlist and find out which yacht and itinerary suits you best.
