What It’s like to Cruise on Your own Luxury Private Yacht
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.Luxury yachts get a lot of attention. Imagine travelling aboard a beautiful private yacht with your friends and family for both entertainment and comfort. It would provide you with breathtaking views of the sea while cruising, swimming, cooking, or sleeping under the stars. I haven’t tried one yet, but it’s on my bucket list! It could be something to add on your bucket list as well!
Have you ever dreamed of cruising on your own private yacht? Or intrigued but never tried it before? Well, I hope this post will help you decide if it is worth adding on your bucket list. Let’s get started!
In this post I’ll be sharing with you about some private yachts and their perks and why you should include cruising on a luxury private yacht on your bucket list
Cruise Ships VS. Luxury Yacht Charters
The cruise ship industry’s luxury end is experiencing a significant rise. Many of you are already considering all-inclusive cruise vacations that cost at least $6,000 per person, or $12,000 each cabin. Many of you are paying even more than that, with 34% of luxury cruise ship guests are spending more than $7,000 per person. If you’ve got some friends who want to take the leap into luxury yachting, that’s a great place to start planning a yacht charter vacation.
I have to mention that if you’re travelling as a couple and don’t want to travel with friends or family, the cruise ship option is a better financial alternative than chartering a yacht because you would have to cover the full expense on your own. When it comes to pricing comparisons, it’s when you travel in groups that things get really interesting.
A private yacht can sleep up to 12 people, but on the lower end of the range, 8 people is more frequent, so let’s start there to make the price comparisons realistic. By pooling your money with 3 other couples and if each person is spending $6,000 on a cruise ship holiday, you and your spouse might collect $ 48,000 for a private yacht charter. If you crusing on a yacht with 12 beds, you can raise $72,000.
Pros & Cons of Cruise Ships
Onboard Entertainment: As cruise ships have grown in size, customers have access to different entertainment and shopping opportunities. You will almost certainly never be bored while on the water, with everything from multiple top-brand boutiques and countless dining options to pools and mini water parks to complete Broadway performances.
Short Stopovers: A cruise ship may not be the greatest option if your primary goal is to see exotic places and tropical areas. While cruise ships visit a variety of locations as part of their pre-planned itineraries, they only stop in one spot for a short period of time. Guests are usually only allowed to spend a few hours exploring a local area before returning to the ship.
Crowds: Unlike private yacht charters, cruise ships provide significantly less privacy and intimacy. Cruise ships are like hotels at sea, with hundreds of rooms and up to thousands of passengers. The noise level on a cruise ship might become uncomfortable due to the large number of families that bring their small children.
Cheaper: Cruise ships offer several advantages over luxury yacht charters. They are often cheaper than charters. They provide plenty of activities for people who don’t have time to do everything themselves. In addition, Cruise ships also tend to have more dining options than most yachts do. It means that it can be helpful if you don’t want to cook every meal during your trip.
Pros & Cons of Yacht Charters
Personalized experience: One of the most appealing aspects of chartering a private yacht is how intimate and personal the experience is. The ship is entirely for you, your guests, and the crew to enjoy. A luxury yacht charter may be suitable if you’re looking for a more intimate experience. Yachts are typically smaller than cruise ships and have fewer passengers. You will also enjoy many of the activities available on larger private yachts without feeling like you’re stuck in the middle of a crowd.
Higher Cost: Chartering is usually far more expensive than booking a cruise ship stateroom. While bareboat charters can be as little as a few thousand dollars per week, private crewed yacht charters typically start at $10,000 per week. Weekly fees for premium superyacht charters range from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars.
Superior Service: The superior service offered by the crew is an important part of the personalised experience. Only you and your guests will be served by the captain, chef, and the rest of the crew. Cooking and serving delicious food, cabin cleaning, bartending, managing private watercraft and toys, massage, and taking you on land excursions are all part of their five-star service.
The 5 best places to go on your first private vacation yacht
So, how can you choose among thousands of stunning and exciting yachting destinations?
After all, you’re not just thinking about yourself. There are probably 8 to 12 of you on this beautiful superyacht holiday, and everyone has different interests. Your teenage daughter enjoys shopping, you enjoy diving, your kid is turning into quite the little surfer, and your wife is a foodie. Your toddler isn’t sure what she loves yet (but will let you know if she doesn’t), and your parents simply want a relaxed vacation with lots of great books, a comfortable deckchair, and some breathtaking scenery. Your wife’s parents, on the other hand, seem to enjoy every activity under the sun, but your teenage nephew is just interested in meeting girls.
This may or may not sound like your family, but when you choose the right cruising locations, a superyacht getaway may fit everyone.
When choosing your first yacht charter destination, there are a few factors to take into consideration:
- Many destinations within a short cruise of one another
- Well-equipped marinas and sheltered anchorages
- Calm waters and low winds
- A variety of activities, both onboard and onshore
- Breathtaking landscape
- Towns with great shopping, dining, and nightlife
- Great Wi-Fi coverage (this varies between yachts and between regions).
The following are the 5 best places for people who are just getting started with private yacht charters:
1. The Caribbean
The Caribbean is one of the greatest first-time yacht charter locations on the planet, with more than 60 islands within a short distance of each other and tranquil, protected waters.
2. The Mediterranean
The Mediterranean offers many beautiful beaches. It makes it perfect for those who want some sun and something more than dunes and palm trees. You will be able to shop in quaint villages. Also, you can visit ancient ruins while still enjoying all-inclusive accommodations at one of the many five-star hotels along this coastline.
3. Miami, Florida
This is the perfect place to go on your first private vacation yacht. It is known for its beautiful beaches and several beachfront hotels. Miami also has many tourist attractions and great nightlife. You can also go shopping in South Beach or visit the famous Art Deco District. It was built in the 1930s and 1940s by Americans who came to Miami after World War I.
4. the Bahamas
The Bahamas is another go-to destination. The Bahamas is close to Florida and has wonderful beaches, coral reefs, and marine life. Various islands have colorful marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sharks, so that you can go scuba diving or snorkeling! There are also several shipwrecks from World War II that you can dive into!
5. Mexico
Mexico is another popular destination for people looking for private vacations on yachts because it has many beautiful beaches, tropical weather, delicious food, and great nightlife! In addition, you will also learn Mexican culture through traditional dances like Tequila Sunrise or La Raspa!
Featured Yachts Available to Take You on Your Unique Adventure
You will not want to waste money on something not worth it. There are many different yachts out there, and it won’t be easy to choose one that suits your needs.
I’m sure you’re wondering which Yacht will fit your particular needs. You should probably look into all of these luxury yachts and see which one is the best for you. I think that you won’t regret it if you choose to cruise on a private yacht with OceanScape.
Here is a list of available featured boats so you can decide about which yacht is best for you and your family.
Looking for a truly one-of-a-kind way to see the Bahamas or Florida?
The All Good is a 65-foot luxury yacht that can accommodate up to 6 guests on a cruise across Florida and the Bahamas. Don’t be fooled by her size; she still has seven-star service and a two-person crew.
If you wish to read or relax in the sun while travelling to your next location, you can always find a peaceful spot on one of the two decks. Alternatively, you may enjoy snacks and beverages with your friends while sitting on the flybridge with your hair in the wind.
You may dine alfresco on the aftdeck or cuddle up inside in your salon when it’s time to enjoy some of your gourmet chef’s delicious meals.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 6 people, this incredible vacation costs $5,750 per week per guest. A base charter rate of $23,000 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
This yacht is also available for day charter at a cost of $3,600 for a half day or $4,800 for a full day, with all expenses.
With plenty of outdoor space – on both the bow and aft decks – you will never be without a view or the sun!
This is the perfect yacht for a weekend getaway with your boyfriend or closest friend! You will still have access to the wonderful services that come with the luxury yacht lifestyle, such as a personal crew, no fixed itinerary, and stunning surroundings, even if there’s only the two of you.
Also, don’t forget the toys! Your own inflatable island, a wave runner, and snorkelling gear to get up up and personal with the native marine life.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise with 2 guests, this wonderful vacation is available for $15,000 per week per guest. The price includes a $20,000 base charter cost, plus an extra 35% for basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
This yacht is also available for day charter at a cost of $3000 for a half day or $4,000 for a full day, plus all expenses.
The 84-foot-long yacht is beautiful and sleek. Chip has all of the amenities and stylings of a yacht twice her size, but at a lower cost!
Every effort has been made to maximise space thanks to her spacious interior stylings. The master suite is located full beam, while the VIP and 2 guest suites offer all of the comfort of home with traditional luxury furniture.
Chip also includes 3 crew members, including a captain and chef. They are a qualified and experienced team that are ready to show you the highlights of Bahamas and Florida while delivering a truly luxurious experience.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 8 adult guests, this great trip costs $6,750 per week per person. A base charter rate of $36,000 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
This yacht is also available for day charter at a fee of $6,000 – $7,000 per day, plus all expenses, depending on the length of stay.
Cinque Mare is a luxury yacht measuring just under 90 feet and ready to cruise around the Bahamas and Florida for your next holiday!
A beautiful and spacious exterior provides lots of space to soak up the sun or seek refuge in the shade. The flybridge has a jacuzzi, bar, and eating area, while a lovely dining area on the aft allows you to enjoy wonderful meals prepared by your chef.
Her interior features a spacious salon, formal dining space, and 4 suites that may accommodate up to 10 guests.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 8 adult guests, this wonderful experience costs $7,687 per week per person. A base charter rate of $41,000 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
This yacht is also available for day charter at a fee of $7,000 – $8,000 per day plus all expenses, depending on the length of stay.
Enjoy Australia’s famous beaches in comfort and style
Enjoy Australia’s beautiful beaches in luxury and style by boarding this gorgeous 100-foot superyacht. Onboard, you will find a huge alfresco dining area, plenty of deck space, and even a large swimming platform for you and your guests to enjoy. Spend your mornings chasing the sun in comfortable lounge chairs, your afternoons diving and fishing in the deep blue, and your evenings watching the sunset from the bow with a refreshing cocktail in hand.
Lady Pamela has 4 suites – 1 Master, 1 VIP, and 2 twins – and can accommodate up to 8 people. Each room has its own bathroom and portholes to take in the changing views of the day from the comfort of your own bed. After a long day of swimming, snorkelling, and exploring some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, it’s always a good idea to relax in the top deck jacuzzi while drinking champagne and taking in the breathtaking sights.
Lady Pamela offers the perfect blend of luxury and pleasure. It can be for many guests celebrating a special event, overnight escape, or corporate cruise. The experienced crew is committed to taking every guest to new horizons. They give access to places that few ever get to experience, all in the highest comfort.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 10 guests, this amazing vacation costs $7,500 per person each week. A base charter rate of $50,000 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
Masteka 2 provides something for everyone, whether you want to dive the Great Barrier Reef, go fishing, or explore the South Pacific.
Masteka 2 comes with a ton of features into her 122-foot length and provides plenty of room both inside and out. When you take a vacation onboard, there are no compromises to be made, from her large interior with complete dining and traditional salon to her exterior with an oversized aft deck eating space and a jacuzzi in the bow. She can comfortably sleep up to 12 people in her five cabins, but she can also accommodate up to 80 guests if you only want to charter for the day.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 12 guests, this magnificent experience costs $8,580 per person per week. A base charter rate of $68,650 is included in the price, with the remaining 40% covering basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 10% gratuity.
This yacht is also available for day charter at an hourly rate of AUD 3,250. (minimum booking of 4 hours).
As you board the superyacht Oscar II, you will be amazed by the wide deck area and luminous interior. With its jacuzzi on the bow, huge salon, and barbeque deck, not to mention plenty of space for outdoor eating or sunbathing, this yacht is built for entertaining. Oscar II is a stunning superyacht that can accommodate 8 guests in 4 luxury suites including 1 main suite, 1 VIP suite, and 2 twins. All cabins have its own bathrooms and air conditioning throughout the yacht.
Oscar II’s main salon is best for entertaining with its large dining table. Up to 10 guests can sit up comfortably, and it has a bar area. You can sit down with friends and family over drinks after a day out enjoying Australia’s famous yacht. Don’t forget about the large exterior space, where you can relax on a lounge chair and spend the day tanning.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 8 guests, this incredible experience costs $10,687 per week per person. A base charter rate of $57,000 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
Is a trip to the South Pacific on your bucket list?
The South Pacific is an incredible place to explore. Getting onboard your own private luxury yacht and exploring the region with Miss Kulani has never been easier. Miss Kulani is a wonderful choice for getting up close to some of the most remote bays and crystal blue waters in the South Pacific, with its perfect size yacht of 75 feet. Her long bow provides plenty of space to rest and unwind in the sun, or take a deep dive off the aft deck’s swim platform to see the diversity of wildlife below the surface.
Miss Kulani’s interior features a wonderful salon, new furniture, and a bar area where you can unwind with a game or drink evening cocktails before dining beneath the stars. She can sleep up to 8 people, the fourth stateroom is better suited for children, leaving the spacious master and 2 staterooms for adults.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 8 guests, this wonderful experience costs $7,500 per week per person. A base charter rate of $40,000 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
Cruise across eastern Europe waters
Baby I is a wonderful choice for your next luxury yacht vacation in Eastern Europe. Get ready to travel over Croatian waters from Split to Dubrovnik and everything in between.
Baby I has been upgraded inside and out in 2016, with a stylish new interior able to accommodate up to 8 guests in 4 staterooms with 5 crew members. There is plenty of deck space, with a dining room and a wonderful entertaining space on the flybridge, which has a jacuzzi, full bar, and seats. Inside, she has 4 luxury guestrooms, including a full beam master suite, VIP stateroom, and 2 twin staterooms, all with ensuites, to accommodate all guests comfortably.
Do you want to treat yourself to a night of fine dining? Your chef will be delighted to prepare your favourite meals and he might surprise you with one of their creations! A bright and spacious salon is close to huge windows, providing plenty of natural light.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 8 guests, this adventure starts at $12,300 per week per person. A base charter rate of $60,400 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering provisioning allowance and fuel, 15% gratuity, and 13% VAT.
The perfect way to discover Riviera Maya in Mexico!
The 58-foot Azimut is the ideal yacht for exploring Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Why not explore these beautiful waters on your terms? It is available for up to 6 guests for overnight trips and 12 for day charters.
Don’t let her size deceive you. This magnificent yacht will undoubtedly be the “Belle” of your Riviera Maya vacation in the future. This is the perfect way to spend your time in a place filled with crystal blue waters and an abundance of marine life. While staying on board and being served to by your Captain, sailor, and, of course, private chef, you will never miss a sunrise and sunset!
The cost
Based on a 6-night charter and 6 people, this amazing vacation costs $5,750 per week per guest. The cost is $34,500, which includes all basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
A new way to discover the hundreds of islands in Croatia
Why not try Champion if you seek a different way to discover hundreds of islands in Croatia?
If you’re looking for toys, Champion has you covered. You will have plenty of chances to explore the world below you. You can experience it while cruising from one crystal clear cove to the next in Croatia. Thanks to her jet ski, stand-up paddleboard, as well as snorkelling gear and a Seabob.
Her interior is decorated in complementary colours and patterns. The entire space offers a peaceful and polished vibe, from the huge windows in the salon to the white furnishings and decorations in the 4 luxury cabins.
Champions Yacht Club wants you to have a fantastic time on board. You have complete freedom to choose the destination you want to visit and make the most of it. You can go fishing or try out watersports far away from the harbor. Alternatively, you might find a spot to watch a beautiful sunset while dining on a candle-lit meal on a yacht.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 8 guests, this incredible adventure starts at $6,500 per week per person. A base charter rate of $32,000 is included in the price, with the remaining 35% covering provisioning allowance and fuel, 15% gratuity, and 13% VAT.
Around the Mediterranean
Lady Amanda provides a stress-free luxury yacht charter experience. Also, it is child-friendly so that families will enjoy their travel and vacation. It has a master bedroom, 1 VIP cabin, and 2 double cabins. It may be configured as twins or doubles and can accommodate up to 9 guests. There is also plenty of indoor space if you wish to get out of the heat or have a more formal dinner with your guests.
Whatever the activities on your cruise are, you will find some great features that are perfectly incorporated to help you. They have access to the internet via Wi-Fi. You can stay connected if you want to. With air conditioning on board, you will be comfortable no matter what the weather is like throughout your vacation.
Moreover, Lady Amanda offers a variety of toys. There are also accessories on board to keep you and your guests entertained. While you’re out there on the water, there are jet skis, wakeboards and waterskis available which are a lot of fun, whether you’re a beginner or pro.
The cost
Based on a 7-night cruise and 9 guests, this great trip costs $8,700 per week per person. The price includes a $52,000 base charter cost, plus an extra 35% for basic taxes, fees, provisioning allowance, fuel, and a 15% gratuity.
OceanScape Club Premium Membership
OceanScape Yachts is the world’s first vacation club committed to offering the unparalleled yachting experience to more people around the world. Think of them as the Airbnb of luxury yacht charter industry. Their platform connects brokers and owners with potential customers.
The yachts are all built to be comparable to 5-star hotels. Staterooms and VIP guest rooms with either queen, double, or twin beds are available. Every room offers a luxurious bathroom as well as in-room entertainment.
A one-time payment of $3000 for a year’s membership is available, as well as monthly payment. But keep in mind that you will save 16% by making a one-time payment. There are no initial fees or complicated contracts to sign! Most importantly, they offer a 5% cashback on EVERY vacation you book! So, probably after your first or second trip, you should be able to earn back your membership fees!
The following is a list of the benefits of having a Premium Membership with OceanScape Yachts:
- You and your guests will have global access to private, approved yachts.
- There are various options for both land and sea excursions.
- Every yacht has a well-trained and experienced captain and crew.
- While onboard, a personal chef will prepare your meals.
- A personal travel concierge to help you arrange your vacation.
- No hidden fees and transparent, easy-to-understand pricing.
- They provide, upon embarkation, a welcome gift box.
- Each vacation has its own individual digital memory book.
- The option to share membership advantages with family and friends.
- And every journey (of at least 5 days or longer) will earn you 5% cashback!
This is the perfect opportunity to cross something off your bucket list: a luxury yacht vacation. So, it’s time to figure out where you want to go on a cruise! These featured yachts I just mentioned are fantastic! That’s my opinion, and I would appreciate hearing yours as well.
Amalia
Looks so cool, would love to try something like this in the Caribbean, definetly an experience to remember!
Linhy Banh
Hello Amalia,
Yes it is definitely worth adding to your bucket list!
Linhy
Liv
I’ve always wanted to go on a cruise just for the experience. Thanks for this detailed post has given me a few things to think about. Is it still worth it if you only spend a few hours in each country ?
Linhy Banh
Hello Liv,
I find its better to stay longer! But if you want to stay a few hours, they can make a personalized cruise for your needs! ?