Yacht Charter Tips Archives | Northrop-Johnson Yacht Charters

Luxury Travel During COVID-19 on a Private Yacht Charter

Missy Johnston2020-09-02T23:29:22-04:00

Luxury Yachts in Secluded Harbor

Vacationing has changed this year due to the novel COVID-19 pandemic. Luxury travel during COVID-19, however, is still possible by private yacht charter, where you decide who to vacation with and you decide on the itinerary. Whether you stay remote, spend time ashore, or a combination of both is up to your discretion. A yacht charter vacation is a terrific trip to take for privacy, luxury, and fun. While private yacht charters have adopted all of the changes needed for COVID-19 including cleaning and operating protocols, the crew can also usually be COVID-19 tested before any charter, if requested. One thing remains constant about private yacht charter vacations—the opportunity to vacation in whatever manner you would like, all designed around your choices within your comfort zone.

A private yacht charter is the perfect vacation to remain socially distant. Enjoy new scenery daily, while onboard your own private floating full service “hotel and restaurant.” The private crew is there to help make each charter a special experience. Enjoy water fun, drinks, excellent cuisine, stateroom service, and anything else needed so you don’t have to lift a finger. It is, after all, your vacation. Below we share three reasons why taking a private yacht charter vacation could just be the best way to vacation during the coronavirus.

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Luxury Travel During COVID-19 on a Private Yacht CharterMissy Johnston2020-09-02T23:29:22-04:00

Your Private Yacht Charter Checklist for 2020

Missy Johnston2020-03-27T11:28:05-04:00

Family on Luxury Yacht Charter

Are you wondering about the little details for taking yourself and guests on a private yacht charter? Let us ease your mind with a list of what to have ready for any private yacht charter. It will ensure that this upcoming trip is truly delightful.

Before Boarding: Yacht Charter Tips

#1: Pack Your Vitamins and Medications

Healthy cruisers are happy cruisers. Make sure you remember all the medications and supplements that you normally take.

#2: Packing for Your Home Away from Home

Here’s what you will definitely want to have on hand:

Identification papers, including passports and IDs

Cash in the proper converted currency(ies) or cash in your currency, ready to exchange upon arrival

Copy of your Charter Reservation Statement, Charter Contract, and any applicable insurance policy information such as Trip Cancellation Insurance if applicable

Skincare—sunblock, lip balm and lotion with SPF, and insect repellent if applicable

Swimsuits

Lightweight wardrobe—bathing suit cover-ups, shorts, dresses, activewear, shoreside shoes, sun protection clothing if needed, upscale or elegant nightlife clothing depending on the charter location (most charter locations are very casual ashore)

Sunglasses and a hat

After-sun creams or aloe vera

The tools: waterproof phone case, universal plug adapters and converters if needed, and chargers!

For camera buffs, all camera gear, with backup everything including batteries

#3: On-board Cuisine

Yacht Chef Prepares Cuisine

The crew will be preparing on-board meals during your charter. Once you board, reprovisioning may not be available, depending on your charter location, so all meals must be planned in advance. If there are special dietary requests, certain items may need to be ordered in advance to have on board.

Before your charter we will send you a comprehensive provisioning form that will ask you not only what you like to eat, but how you like to eat. You can request low-fat meals with sauces on the side as a priority, and whether you prefer your main meal at lunch or dinner.

In certain locations your fish dinner can be caught fresh and prepared by your chef minutes later. Shellfish can be purchased right from the fisherman or shell farm. Lobsters right from the lobster trap and steamed in clean seawater are an unforgettable treat.

Chefs can accommodate all allergies and food requests such as gluten and dairy-free, as well as tree nut allergies. Just be sure to include all dietary requests and needs when completing your provisioning form. If chartering in a new location, take advantage of the opportunity to try fresh local cuisine from that region.

#4: Unplug

Many of our private yachts have excellent WiFi and numerous connectivity options for playing music, entertaining the children, checking in with the office, etc. Despite these amenities, we highly recommend stepping away from email, chat, and social media for at least a little while. They will still be there when you finish hiking volcanoes, scuba diving with tropical fish, and getting in from a night out at chic clubs. For any movies you might want to see or music you might want to hear, download those while at home before embarking on your yacht charter vacation.

#7: Ask About Pets

In some cases, Fido or Daisy can join you on your charter. First, you’ll want to check on the rules with your charter broker. Once you know your dog will be allowed, make sure to check on the following:

Documentation: Find out any paperwork that may be required for each country you will be entering on your charter.

Microchipping: Check to see if the country(ies) where you will cruise require(s) that an animal be microchipped.

Fear and anxiety: If your dog has never been on a yacht, consider if this is the best vacation for your pet, and if your dog will be comfortable with the whole boating experience. A yacht may make a dog accustomed to stable land feel uncertain and anxious.

Bathroom needs: Which supplies do you need so that your pet can be comfortable?

Pet flotation device: Bring one that your dog will find comfortable, and expect your pet to wear a flotation device at all times when on deck or in the ship’s tender.

#8: Pre-Assign Staterooms

This is your choice. You can either pre-assign staterooms to your guests, or allow everyone to choose upon boarding. Pre-assigning staterooms will allow the crew to immediately take all luggage to the right stateroom upon boarding.

After Boarding: Living On Board Your Charter Yacht

Warm Welcome from the Crew

The preliminary work is done, and now you are on board, ready to enjoy your fabulous vacation. Here are a few basic tips we compiled for all guests when on board your chosen charter yacht on a yacht charter holiday.

Enjoy the yacht as you would your own home

It might take you a day or two to fully relax. That’s normal! The vessel will soon become your home away from home.

Allow time for crew housekeeping

Part of the crew’s job is to keep things sparkling and to clean your stateroom every day. Be aware of their need to clean, giving them the time and space to do so.

Listen to safety briefings

This is not only a requirement when boarding a vessel, it is also important for your safety. The safety briefing given at the beginning of any charter includes how to avoid dangerous equipment, the location of the medical kits and lifejackets, and where to muster in the unlikely event that all must abandon ship.

Follow the “barefoot” rule

When boarding, expect that your street shoes go into a basket or another location on deck to be gathered when heading ashore during the charter. The usual mode on board is barefoot. Shoes with land dirt on the soles can scuff and damage yacht decks. Anyone that needs to wear shoes on board is welcome to do so. Just bring a pair of new or very well-cleaned rubber-soled shoes to be worn solely on board.

Crew Gratuity

On every charter the crew is working very hard to supply you top service. It is customary at the end of the charter to leave a crew gratuity. This is discretionary and is based on what you feel the crew has earned. The gratuity range is from 5 or 10 percent up to 15 or 20 percent, depending on the charter location. Your charter broker will advise the crew gratuity range for the location in which your charter takes place in advance of the charter. If crew gratuity is earned, it is given to the captain to divide up equally amongst the crew. The work of each—whether in the engine room or on deck—adds up to an enjoyable charter..

Plan special occasions ahead of time

The crew wants to create a fun environment, but they do need to be able to plan for all special events or celebrations in advance. This way, it can be ready when you board. With complete information, the crew will be able to do a better job for you in creating events such as a special birthday party, a themed dinner night or a wine tasting of local boutique wines.

Smoking?

Marcato, 140' expedition luxury charter yacht in Highborne Cay, the Exumas, Bahamas

Family Breakfast on Yacht Charter

Be sure to check before booking your yacht re: the smoking or non-smoking standard on board. Every yacht has a standard on smoking or non-smoking which will include whether you can or cannot indulge in the occasional after-dinner cigar. If smoking is allowed, it will be in exterior areas only. Check with the crew on where smoking zones might be on board.

The very nature of luxury private yacht charter is an entirely customizable experience. This extends from food and drink to unique activities such as a murder mystery night and celebrating special occasions on board.

Just be sure to let the crew know all group needs and desires in advance. It will all be ready and waiting on board at the beginning of your charter, so you can have the best and most memorable time possible. On a private yacht charter, there is no such thing as providing the crew with too much information. And do ask any question you would like to ask in advance. Every detail helps!

Your Private Yacht Charter Checklist for 2020Missy Johnston2020-03-27T11:28:05-04:00

Where Those “In the Know” Go on a Mediterranean Luxury Private Yacht Charter

Missy Johnston2020-03-16T12:11:40-04:00

Cannes Harbor, France

A luxury private yacht charter is the best way to see the cultures and histories of the Mediterranean—and to travel virtually incognito as you explore the hottest, most chic spots of this region. We’ve got your VIP table reserved for pure fantasy!

There are so many exclusive destinations across the Eastern and Western Mediterranean; we want you to see all of them on your own private getaway. Many of these spots can be visited by the ship’s tender without fanfare! After all, you deserve to vacation just as you imagined it; privately, with access to all of the more luxurious places on the planet. We want to stress that, as always, client confidentiality is key and privacy is strictly protected.

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Where Those “In the Know” Go on a Mediterranean Luxury Private Yacht CharterMissy Johnston2020-03-16T12:11:40-04:00

5 Exciting New Trends for Luxury Yacht Charters

Missy Johnston2020-02-15T19:13:08-05:00

A fascinating blend of technology and a desire to honor nature and its resources is turning the “typical” charter yacht excursion on its head in new and delightful ways.

Here are five of the biggest private yacht trends currently taking place around the globe:

The eco-friendly yacht, inviting the outside in and bringing travelers closer to the elements.
Open concept design, reflecting ample open-air space and the opportunity for stunning views at every angle.
Smart yachts. Just as a home can be enhanced with smart control of temperature, security, WiFi, and other functionality, the same is happening in luxury yachts.
Unique yacht trends, extravagant and larger-than-life. You won’t believe what you can find on board!
Finally, there are the supersize yachts playing host to an extended group of family or friends.

The private yacht charter of your choice can be customized in so many ways. The examples below are only a sampling of what exists in today’s yacht charters. If you have questions about which amenities, features, and other bonuses are available on board the type of vessel you prefer, NJ Charters can provide answers.

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5 Exciting New Trends for Luxury Yacht ChartersMissy Johnston2020-02-15T19:13:08-05:00

Yacht vs. Superyacht: Which Is the Best Yacht for Charter for You?

Missy Johnston2019-12-20T16:20:03-05:00

There is nothing quite like the private yacht charter experience. It is a carefully customized vacation designed for you and your guests, whether family or friends. The best parts are the luxury, the attentive crew service, and the lack of limitations; you are able to choose your destinations, your amenities, and your adventures.

Another amazing option is the type of yacht. The question then becomes, “Which is the best yacht for charter for me and my group?”

We will demystify the various yacht types so you can more easily choose the best yacht for you. There isn’t a more luxurious way to travel the globe.

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Yacht vs. Superyacht: Which Is the Best Yacht for Charter for You?Missy Johnston2019-12-20T16:20:03-05:00

FAQ: Booking a Private Yacht Charter

Missy Johnston2019-11-19T15:23:10-05:00

Yacht Charter Lifestyle

Everything you need to know before setting off on your new adventure

Q: How many people can travel on the same private yacht charter?

A: Yacht charters are booked on a whole-boat basis. This means whether your group consists of 2 people or 12, the fee paid will be for the yacht charter itself and is not determined by the number of occupied staterooms. Private yacht charter peaks at 12 guests per yacht because a charter is considered a “private yacht charter” according to the International Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) rules and regulations which state it carries 12 or fewer people. Cruise ships and other multi-cabin ships carry more than 12 guests, and operate under a different set of regulations.

Q: Are private yacht charters OK for kids and senior citizens?

A: Absolutely. Many of our bookings are made by families excited to sail the world and make exquisite memories together. From babies to seniors, everyone can find something they love.

Q: How does overall pricing work for a private yacht charter?

A: Generally speaking, private yacht charter contracts can be broken down into two main categories:

All-inclusive—This pricing includes the yacht, crew, food, and beverages. Often there are other services and items included in the pricing as well. All inclusions and exclusions in the pricing should be clearly delineated by the charter broker.

Plus all expenses—With this pricing structure, the charter price is for the yacht and crew only, and your trip is customized by adding whatever you would like for food, beverage, bar, and the itinerary. You are only charged for what you want, and your expenses are at the receipt price. The base charter price which includes the yacht and crew includes the services of a chef, so food is charged at the grocery-store-receipt price. The services of the crew also include preparing the yacht before the charter.

An expense deposit (what is known as an Advance Provisioning Allowance, or APA) is paid to fund all additional expenses beyond the yacht and crew. This usually costs approximately 20-30 percent of the base charter cost. The APA is then settled at the end of the charter against full receipts. General etiquette also includes tipping the crew, depending on the quality of service, using the typical range used for your cruising location. Your broker can help you calculate this amount.

Q: How does seasonal pricing work for a private yacht charter?

A: High- and low-season pricing is not necessarily priced based on the most or less desirable time to be in the location of your choice. Often high or low season might be based on demand. For example, July and August have high-season pricing in the Mediterranean due to demand, while June and September are typically less expensive. However, June and September are actually both excellent months to charter in the Mediterranean; you will experience the same nice weather in June and September that you would experience in July and August. Ask your yacht charter broker what might determine high and low season pricing in your charter location of choice, as perhaps you could enjoy low-season pricing and have a great charter with all of the high-season advantages of that charter location.

Q: How far in advance should I book?

A: For some of the most popular spots, yacht charters will book up months in advance. Each region has a season, and within that season both high- and low-season pricing are normally available. It is important to consider timing for your chosen location; yachts move and cruise around the world, and usually are available in a location during the season for that charter destination.

Q: Where should I travel?

Family Bonding

A: Private charter hotspots can be found all over the globe.

The Caribbean is a natural draw for travelers young and old.

Step into paradise with a private charter in the South Pacific.

See the expansive vistas and exotic wildlife Down Under.

Immerse yourself in history via the Mediterranean, including France, Spain, and Croatia.

Excellent fishing and sightseeing await you in the Pacific Northwest.

Still don’t know where to go? Our insider tips can assist.

Q: What type of yacht should I select?

A: There are both motor yachts and sailing yachts. These can be catamarans, monohulls, classic yachts, or explorer yachts. Further, these can be mega or super yachts. Mega or super yachts can have amenities such as swimming pools, helipads, elevators, and fully-equipped gyms or spas.

Generally speaking, motor yachts cost more to build and operate and therefore more to charter than sailing yachts, as their engines are larger and more expensive and they also have more space to accommodate various types of amenities (such as an on-board gym). Obviously, if you want an additional sport + adventure factor, sailing is the way to go.

When reviewing charter yacht listings, one important consideration is the number of staterooms and bathrooms (“heads”). Yachts are usually chartered with each stateroom based on double occupancy, meaning if the yacht has 3 staterooms, the yacht is available to charter for 6 guests.

Q: How do I find a good private yacht charter broker?

A: A qualified charter broker will do everything possible to ensure your trip is trouble-free, which begins with your contract. The gold standards are the MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Broker Association) contract or the AYCA (American Yacht Charter Association) contract. It is best to work with a charter broker who is an MYBA and/or AYCA member. A charter broker who is a member of one or both associations must have established professional excellence for a certain number of years to become a member, and must maintain proven professional excellence in the yachting industry to stay a member.

Q: What are private yacht charter crews responsible for on my trip?

A: Your crew handles maintenance, on-board service, on-board cuisine, and cocktail mixing. Not only that, they know the cruising area intimately. This includes all the great little anchorages, excellent restaurants ashore, where to go hiking, the best local guides, what to see ashore, and who to call when you need a taxi. They organize anything you need, help with all of your water fun, and are there spending time with you on board. They know which fruit is ripe, where to find fresh fish and shellfish, the best wines and cheeses, where to do the best kitesurfing, and the most scenic swimming spots. Bottom line: A great crew equals an extraordinary charter.

Q: Which amenities can I expect on board?

A: Electronics are always important. Most yachts do have a sound system for music, and a system to watch movies on board, plus a selection of CDs and DVDs.

Water toys are always fun to have and most yachts have a nice selection of water toys, including at least: snorkeling equipment, a tender for shoreside access, and tow toys to use with the tender. The yacht brochure will list the additional water toys that a yacht in which you have an interest might have on board, which might include sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, wakeboards, beach picnic setups, and scuba diving gear (if the yacht offers on-board scuba diving). Motor yachts, which have more room on board to store water toys, might have water slides from the top deck to the water, jet skis for licensed users, jet pack toys, and other equipment.

FAQ: Booking a Private Yacht CharterMissy Johnston2019-11-19T15:23:10-05:00

Yacht Charters Are a Family Affair: The Best Way To Travel, From Kids to Seniors

Missy Johnston2019-09-14T21:27:46-04:00

Family on Luxury Yacht Charter

At any age, a yacht charter is a luxurious and unforgettable way to see the world. That is why so many of our yacht charter clients are extended families returning time and time again, ranging in age from toddlers to seniors.

From Baby Boomers to Generation Z, the youngest of whom are just 4 years old, every single age group can benefit as they enjoy the amazing scenery and destinations. We have even had babies in baskets, perhaps one of the easiest age groups to have on board. Here is a quick list of the generations by name:

Baby Boomers: born between 1944 and 1964, ages 55 to 75

Gen X: born between 1965 – 1979, ages 40 to 54

Gen Y/Millennials: born between 1980 and 1994, ages 25 to 39

Gen Z: born between 1995 and 2015, ages 4 to 24

There is no other type of luxury family vacation which affords the same wide range of experiences while keeping loved ones together. And as we’ll illustrate below, that is a really good thing. If you’ve been hesitant to book a yacht charter, these are some great reasons to go for it. Read on to find out how every age group can be entertained, awed, and pampered on board one of our charter yachts as a vacation choice.

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Yacht Charters Are a Family Affair: The Best Way To Travel, From Kids to SeniorsMissy Johnston2019-09-14T21:27:46-04:00

5 Tips for Deepening the Family Bond on a Yacht Charter

Missy Johnston2019-09-10T17:28:54-04:00

A yacht charter is a joy all by itself; but some of the most memorable trips on board our beautiful yachts are the ones made with family. Deepening the family bond while cruising on a yacht charter is an incredible experience. No vacation is the same, with each charter customized to any preference. With so many choices and destinations across the globe, it’s just a matter of picking the right luxury yacht charter for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

Mother and daughter kayaking at tropical ocean on summer vacatio

Kayaking with Mom

A private yacht charter is filled with fun, sun-soaked days in paradise. For kids, however, it can also be an educational opportunity, if wanted. They are able to experience rare sights, new foods, new cultures, and new languages. Meanwhile, it’s way more fun than a crowded theme park or a cruise ship.

A family yacht vacation brings everyone together. There is no better way to obtain five-star service with your babies in tow! Here are our five top tips for deepening the family bond on board a luxury yacht.

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5 Tips for Deepening the Family Bond on a Yacht CharterMissy Johnston2019-09-10T17:28:54-04:00

Yacht Charter Tips: What You Need to Know for Your First Private Yacht Charter

Missy Johnston2019-07-23T23:17:09-04:00

“There is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats. …Nothing seems really to matter, that’s the charm of it . . . Here today, up and off to somewhere else tomorrow!”

-Kenneth Grahame

A little bit of advice and a good dose of wanderlust is all you need to enjoy a private, customized charter on the seven seas. If you’ve always wanted to explore international waters from the comfort of your very own boat, we’re here to help. Follow our yacht charter tips and discover why a luxury yacht charter can be surprisingly accessible!

Private yacht rentals are always done on a whole-boat basis. Your group takes the entire boat, even if it’s a romantic cruise for two. Whether you plan to travel with family or friends, it is a one-of-a-kind experience.

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Yacht Charter Tips: What You Need to Know for Your First Private Yacht CharterMissy Johnston2019-07-23T23:17:09-04:00

What You Can Expect From a Private Yacht Charter Broker

Missy Johnston2019-07-18T10:04:15-04:00

Booking the ideal luxury yacht charter vacation involves many considerations and choices. And there are a host of internet booking websites and agents who can help you book your getaway. However, if you want a personalized itinerary, a seamless booking process, and a catered experience, an experienced yacht charter broker is the way to go.

A broker has knowledge of the industry that simply cannot be matched. Not only do they know how to charter a yacht, but they have “been there, done that”—on the yachts and in the specific yacht charter destinations. They can make a customized dream yacht charter vacation a reality by providing first-hand knowledge on a day-to-day cruising basis for a terrific personalized charter itinerary with great “Insider Recommendations.”

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What You Can Expect From a Private Yacht Charter BrokerMissy Johnston2019-07-18T10:04:15-04:00

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