Motor Yacht Charter
Speed, Comfort, and Style
What Is a Motor Yacht Charter?
A motor yacht charter puts you aboard a power-driven vessel that trades sails for engines, offering speed, stability, and generous interior volume. Motor yachts cruise at 8 to 20 knots compared to the 5 to 8 knots typical of sailing yachts, meaning you can cover significantly more distance in a day and visit more destinations in a single trip. This makes them ideal for itineraries that span wider areas or for guests who want to minimize travel time between stops.
The defining advantage of a motor yacht is space. Without the constraints of a sailing rig, naval architects can maximize living areas at every level. Expect expansive flybridges with sun loungers and wet bars, full-beam master suites, large saloons with panoramic windows, and substantial swim platforms for easy water access. Many motor yachts also carry a wider array of water toys — tenders, jet skis, seabobs, inflatable water parks — with dedicated storage and crew to set them up.
Motor yacht charters are almost always crewed. A professional team including a captain, chef, stewards, and engineers ensures a seamless, luxury experience. The crew manages navigation, meal preparation, housekeeping, and all onboard services. Whether you want a high-energy trip with multiple island stops each day or a relaxed pace with long lunches at anchor, the crew and the vessel can accommodate your preferred rhythm.
Who It's For
Motor yacht charters appeal to guests who prioritize comfort, speed, and expansive living space over the traditional sailing experience. They are a natural fit for luxury travelers, corporate groups, and families who want hotel-level accommodations afloat with the freedom to explore multiple destinations quickly. If you tend to get seasick, motor yachts offer greater stability than sailboats, especially in beam seas.
This charter type is also ideal for guests who want to combine a yachting vacation with onshore activities — a round of golf at a coastal course, a vineyard tour, a cultural excursion in a port town — without spending half the day in transit. The speed of a motor yacht gives you more hours at your destination and more flexibility in your daily schedule.
Key Features
Speed and Range
Cruise at 10-20 knots and cover more destinations in a single trip compared to sailing yachts.
Spacious Interiors
Full-beam cabins, expansive saloons, and multiple deck levels provide generous living space for guests.
Flybridge and Sun Deck
Dedicated outdoor entertainment areas with sun loungers, wet bars, and panoramic views from elevated decks.
Extensive Water Toys
Jet skis, seabobs, paddleboards, kayaks, diving equipment, and inflatable platforms for endless water fun.
Stability and Comfort
Stabilizer systems reduce rolling, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride than most sailing vessels.
Full Crew Service
Captain, chef, stewards, and engineers deliver five-star hospitality and seamless operations throughout your charter.
Typically Included
- Motor yacht with full professional crew
- All gourmet meals prepared by the onboard chef
- Premium beverages including wines, spirits, and cocktails
- Water toys and sports equipment
- Daily housekeeping and turndown service
- Linens, towels, and luxury onboard amenities
- Itinerary planning and concierge services
- Tender for shore transfers
Usually Not Included
- Fuel (typically covered by APA, can be significant on motor yachts)
- Crew gratuity (customary 15-20% of charter fee)
- Marina and port fees
- Special shore excursions and activity bookings
- Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
- Experienceany
- Price Range$5,000 - $50,000
- Unitweek
Prices vary dramatically based on yacht size (40-120+ feet), age, brand, and destination. Fuel costs are higher than sailing yachts and are typically an additional expense covered through the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance).
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