Quick Answer
The weekly rate is only part of the cost of a luxury yacht charter. On most crewed motor yachts and superyachts, you also pay an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) – commonly around 25–40% of the charter fee – for fuel, food, drinks and marina fees, plus VAT or local taxes depending on where you cruise, and a customary crew gratuity. Many gulets in Turkey work differently, with some running costs included. A clear written proposal shows the full picture before you book.
Charter brochures show a weekly rate – but experienced guests know that is not the final number. Here is a transparent guide to what a luxury yacht charter really costs in 2027, based on how charters work in Turkey and the Caribbean.
The Four Parts of a Charter Budget
| Cost | What it covers | Typical guideline |
|---|---|---|
| Charter fee | The yacht and her crew for the week | The published weekly rate |
| APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) | Fuel, food, drinks, marina fees, communications | Commonly around 25–40% of the charter fee on motor yachts and superyachts |
| VAT and local taxes | Charter VAT in many countries; cruising taxes and permits in the Caribbean | Depends on the country and yacht |
| Crew gratuity | A thank-you to the crew | Often 5–15% of the charter fee, at your discretion |
Guidelines only – every yacht and contract is different, and your written proposal confirms the exact terms.
What Is APA and How Does It Work?
APA is an advance paid to the captain before the charter to cover running costs. The captain keeps detailed accounts, and at the end of the week you receive a full statement. If costs are lower than the APA, the balance is refunded; if higher, you settle the difference. Fuel is often the largest item – a fast motor yacht covering long distances uses far more than a yacht cruising gently between nearby bays.
How Gulets in Turkey Are Different
Many crewed gulets in Turkey are offered on simpler terms than international superyachts, sometimes with fuel for a set number of cruising hours or other running costs included. Each yacht’s offer explains exactly what is included. Compare typical rates in our gulet charter prices 2027 guide.
Caribbean Taxes and Permits
In the Caribbean, many islands charge cruising taxes, park fees or permits rather than VAT – for example, cruising tax and national park permits in the British Virgin Islands. These are added to your proposal according to your route. Read our Caribbean yacht charter prices guide.
Other Costs to Plan For
- Delivery fees if the yacht starts or ends away from her home port.
- Special requests such as premium wines, celebrations or shore excursions.
- Flights and transfers to and from the yacht.
- Travel insurance, including cancellation cover.
How to Avoid Surprises
- Ask for a written proposal showing the charter fee, APA, taxes and inclusions.
- Share your plans – route, guests, preferences – so the APA can be estimated realistically.
- Check the payment schedule in the contract – typically a deposit of 40–50% to confirm.
- Work with a licensed agency that explains every line. Read how to choose a yacht charter company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does APA stand for?
Advance Provisioning Allowance – an advance paid before the charter to cover running costs such as fuel, food, drinks and marina fees.
How much is the APA?
On motor yachts and superyachts it is commonly around 25–40% of the charter fee, depending on the yacht and the itinerary.
Is unused APA refunded?
Yes. The captain provides a full statement at the end of the charter and any unused balance is returned.
Is VAT included in the charter fee?
Usually not. VAT and local taxes depend on the country and yacht, and are shown separately in your proposal.
How much should we tip the crew?
Often 5–15% of the charter fee, entirely at your discretion.
Want a transparent proposal for 2027? Discover our luxury yacht charter in Turkey or our Caribbean mega yachts.