At its simplest, a yacht charter itinerary is just a list of places you might visit when on a charter – the route the yacht will take from port of boarding to port of embarkation, and distances possible in one day’s sailing or motoring.
Examples of simple itineraries include:
A seven-night charter on a motor yacht in Greece.
A seven-night charter on a motor yacht from Naples, along the Amalfi Coast.
A seven-night charter on a catamaran in the BVIs.
Whether you're dreaming of sun-drenched Mediterranean islands, secluded Caribbean anchorages, or the rugged beauty of Southeast Asian archipelagos, planning is key to a successful and unforgettable voyage.
When you contact me for advice on booking a yacht charter, I’ll ask that we spend some time talking through your expectations. Ideally, on a phone call, we’ll cover a lot of information, including:
- Are you seeking a family-friendly adventure, a romantic getaway, or a lively party experience?
- What time of the year would you like to charter?
- Where are you flying from? Are some of your guests travelling from different destinations, or even different continents?
- Are you prepared for long-haul flights?
- What type of yacht do you have in mind?
- What is your budget?
And then the smaller details which define your charter:
- Do you prefer a relaxed pace with ample time for swimming and sunbathing, or an action-packed itinerary filled with water sports and exploration?
- Are you passionate about snorkelling and diving and other water-sport toys; exploring historical sites; indulging in gourmet cuisine, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery from your yacht?
- How much time would you like to spend ashore, visiting local towns and villages, enjoying a day of shopping, or watching the world go by from a sheltered café terrace?
Once the best yacht for you is booked, the charter itinerary really begins to take shape when the yacht Captain becomes involved. The itinerary will be refined in discussions with you according to the Captain’s local knowledge. In some locations, making marina bookings well in advance is essential – for example, some of the West Mediterranean ports get very busy during the summer or if there are local events happening. If you wish to eat ashore occasionally, the Captain will be able to make specific recommendations and make the all-important reservations for you.
More questions you could be asked include:
- If going ashore to a historic site or busy town, will you want a local guide to escort you?
- Would you like to book a tour of a local winery or a local cooking class?
- Are there any local regattas, festivals or concerts which might coincide with your charter - for example, an outdoor concert in one of the amphitheatre ruins in Greece or Italy, full moon beach parties, or a weekly event such as the steel drum band at Shirley Heights in Antigua on a Sunday afternoon?
All the activities you’d like to try will be worked into the programme to give plenty of time for water-sports, beach games, a movie night, a themed party, or a special occasion.
The itinerary should also have some flexibility in it, too. Perhaps you’ll want to stay longer in some places. Perhaps you’d like more quiet time. And, most importantly, the weather will be a big deciding factor in an exact route, along with the condition of particular anchorages.
Please get in touch to discuss your next charter yacht vacation – I’ll be happy to help you with the detailed planning.
