Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a Caribbean yacht charter comes with plenty of questions, from choosing the right destination to understanding crewed charters, itineraries, and what’s included onboard. This FAQ page is designed to answer the most common questions about Caribbean yacht charters, luxury catamaran and sailing yacht rentals, and private crewed vacations throughout the Caribbean. Whether you’re chartering in the British Virgin Islands, Bahamas, St. Lucia, or the Grenadines, our goal is to help you plan a seamless, unforgettable yacht charter experience with confidence and clarity.
Who is Mainsail Yacht Charters?
Mainsail Yacht Charters is a professional yacht charter company specializing in crewed motor and sailing yacht vacations. We help guests plan seamless sailing experiences by matching them with the right yacht, destination, and level of service.
What is the difference between a crewed yacht charter & bareboat?
A bareboat charter includes only the yacht itself, meaning you are responsible for operating the vessel and arranging provisions, meals, and your itinerary. You must also provide a boating resume to prove you are capable of handling the yacht.
An all-inclusive crewed yacht charter, on the other hand, offers an all-inclusive experience. A professional crew handles navigation and itinerary planning, while a chef/steward takes care of meals and refreshments throughout the day. Cabins are stocked with high-quality linens and towels, and the yacht is equipped with amenities such as water toys, snorkel gear, and more—allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
For guests who want a more hands-on experience without captaining the yacht themselves, captain-only charters are also available. These charters include the yacht and a professional captain, along with basic water toys onboard. Guests remain responsible for preparing meals and beverages and cleaning while enjoying the added comfort and local expertise of a captain guiding the journey.
Where does Mainsail Yacht Charters operate?
Do I need a license to charter a yacht?
Requirements vary by country and charter company. Many destinations do not require a formal license but do require proof of sailing experience. Our team will advise you on the specific requirements for your destination.
What if I don’t have enough experience?
You can hire a professional charter captain or choose a fully crewed charter. This allows you to relax and enjoy the trip while learning from an expert.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht?
Charter rates vary based on several factors, which include the destination, time of year, number of guests, and the specific yacht you choose (the larger, the more expensive). Power yachts typically are more expensive than sailing yachts. Once you share these details, one of our experienced brokers will help you find the perfect yacht that fits your preferences and budget.
What is included in the charter price?
When booking a catamaran yacht in the Caribbean, most rates are all-inclusive (all meals, drinks including alcohol, taxes, mooring, and docking fees). The Bahamas has an additional 14% tax added to the charter price. Not included would be crew gratuity, water taxi/ferry costs, customs and immigration fees, and travel insurance.
What additional costs should I expect for a bareboat charter?
Common additional costs would include all running expenses:
- Fuel and water
- Food and beverages (provisioning)
- Mooring or marina fees, docking
- Captain or crew fees
- Travel insurance (link to insurance page)
- Local taxes or cruising permits
Is a security deposit required?
No separate security deposit is required. To confirm your yacht charter, a deposit toward the charter rate is due at the time of contract signing. For bookings made more than six months prior to the charter date, a 25% deposit is required. For bookings made within six months of the charter dates, a 50% deposit is required. With the final deposit being due 45-60 days before the charter.
What is the best time of year to go?
The best time to charter in the Caribbean and Bahamas, including the Virgin Islands, Leeward Islands (such as St. Martin, St. Barths, and Anguilla), and the Windward Islands (including St. Vincent and the Grenadines), is from November through July. Hurricane season typically runs from July through October. In the Bahamas, temperatures can be slightly cooler in January and February, averaging in the high 70s.
The best time to charter in the Mediterranean, including destinations such as Croatia, Greece, and Italy, is during the summer months from June through early September. Charter rates tend to be higher during peak summer season, while shoulder months like May and September are often slightly less expensive and less crowded.
For New England, the prime charter season is from July through September, when weather conditions are most favorable.
Is seasickness an issue?
Most guests ask if seasickness is an issue. Seasickness depends on the individual. Most of the areas you will be cruising are groups of islands that are only a few miles apart and you are always in sight of land. Being able to focus on a fixed object like a mountain can ease seasickness. There are effective ways to manage or prevent it. Many guests find relief with remedies such as Dramamine , prescription nausea patches or acupressure wristbands.
Am I able to choose my own itinerary and menu selections?
Yes, in most cases you can choose your preferred itinerary. However, routes may be adjusted based on weather conditions, cruising area, and the type of yacht. Since you’ll be on the open ocean, flexibility is important. Power yachts typically cruise at 12–18 knots and can cover more distance, while sailing yachts generally cruise between 5–10 knots.
Menu selections are fully customizable to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions. Our onboard chefs are experienced professionals who can prepare a wide range of dishes in the yacht’s galley. Simply share any dietary needs or preferences in advance, and the chef will tailor the menu accordingly.