Traveling on a superyacht provides a super fun and memorable way to travel. A superyacht can offer you a safe and bespoke vacation.
A superyacht is a large, luxurious yacht available for charter. It is an excellent option for a holiday trip because of its exceptional features. People love to travel on a superyacht as it provides privacy and freedom from unwanted crowds and other tourists.
Superyachts are designed to perfection. Every detail is created with comfort, luxury, and indulgence in mind. Each ship has a crew to ensure a safe and convenient trip.
Furthermore, superyachts are not new on the market. There have been a lot of superyachts around the world. And due to the pandemic, it has become more popular. In 2021, 887 superyachts were sold worldwide, almost twice the total from the previous year.
If this is your first time traveling on a superyacht, here are some things you should keep in mind.
Before sailing, ensure you have all the proper documentation, such as your passport, boat registration, and other visas. These are important for identification purposes and if a local government asks for appropriate documentation. In case of emergency, you should also bring essential items, like first-aid kits, radio, and flares.
Additionally, if you are yachting in a new country, use professional transport for yachts to get your ship from one place to another without any problems. Check the requirements and application processes you must complete before entering the country. Ensure you meet everything before boarding to avoid any issues you may encounter.
Store all your documents in waterproof bags or containers to prevent them from getting wet during the trip.
Before boarding, you are required to fill out a preference list from what you would like to eat for breakfast to your favorite Champagne. Be precise about your preference so it will be easier for your crew to prepare your yacht and have everything on board.
Prepare a list of everything you would like to experience on your trip. Let the crew and captain know what you want so they can deliver it precisely.
Experts advise engaging with a professional broker when booking a yacht. They are free and will ensure your trip is stress-free as they have access to exclusive databases with strict membership, ethics rules, and communication. Therefore, they can find you the most suitable yacht for your trip.
There are also several online platforms to book a charter yacht, such as Borrow a Boat, Ahoy Club, and Yotha. This can be more convenient but ensure to have contact information for an actual human in case something goes wrong on your trip.
Unlike traveling on a train or airplane, booking a superyacht can be complex as you must sign an agreement. You must have a bareboat charter contract if you are chartering your boat. Read the agreement carefully and know the yacht terms and language of the booking process.
The charter rate includes the hire of the yacht and crew. The rates vary depending on the location and season.
You will also see "plus expense" in the price, which covers the costs of food, drinks, dockage, fuel, and more. It is usually 30-35% of the total charter price.
Furthermore, your charter contract is designed to protect you and the yacht owner. Your trip's details, from location and dates to insurance and cancellation, are set out.
You may also come across MYBA or the Worldwide Yachting Association, which specifies the contract terms. These include crew wages, yacht hire, insurance claims, engine room maintenance, and water toys.
The weather is always essential when traveling. Before sailing, be aware of the weather conditions. You wouldn't like to be caught in bad weather or a storm, or to have your trip canceled due to bad weather.
Check the weather forecast online or download a weather app to stay up-to-date on the weather. You may also ask the staff for their opinion on the weather conditions.
The type of yacht is vital to your trip. Choose the right boat that fits your preferences.
If traveling with your family, look for a yacht with enough space and a family-friendly crew. Ensure that your chosen ship has everything your family needs for the trip.
Let your broker or crew know your preferred pace and itinerary so they can provide the needed services.
Yachting etiquette may seem complex, but the basics are rooted in common sense. The rules are simple, like respecting the crew, taking off your show, and not smoking inside. It is similar to a luxury hotel. You must know how to behave.
Make sure you know the onboard etiquette before you sail. Understand the tipping protocol. Tipping is regarded as a gift for satisfactory service and exceptional experiences.
Also, learn the safety rules on the yacht. Ensure everyone wears a life jacket and follows all the safety and navigational policies.
When packing for your trip, bring enough food and water for everyone. You wouldn't like to get stuck in the open water without food and water.
Ensure to pack snacks for everyone. Pack snacks that won't spoil fast, like nuts, dried fruits, cookies, and chips. You may bring nutritious snacks like nutty flapjacks, granola bars, or trail mix.
A superyacht has several amenities you should make use of. The ship may have exciting water toys, or there might be a hairdresser, a masseuse, and a diving instructor.
When traveling on a superyacht, you must enjoy your trip. Have fun and relax while traveling.
Pay attention to your captain's advice on places to visit, itineraries, and transit times. Captains know how to take advantage of the time available on board.
They can play tricks on your itinerary by covering longer distances when guests are asleep. Your captain's expertise and experience are crucial for a successful superyacht trip.
Traveling on a superyacht is an exceptional experience. To ensure an enjoyable and stress-free trip, you must learn the basics and be prepared for your journey.
