Finding the best charter deals, last-minute offers, and early booking discounts requires a combination of strategic planning, patience, long researches, and a little bit of luck. Here are some yacht charter expert tips to guide you and help you find the perfect luxury yacht for your next vacation.
Top tips to find best charter deals & special offers
Be flexible with your date
The more flexible you are with your travel dates, the more likely you’ll be able to take advantage of a deal when it pops up. Last-minute cancellations or vacancies often result in deeply discounted rates to fill the charter. Similarly, booking during off-peak times can yield substantial savings.
Opt for a classic yacht
Classic motor yachts – and to a lesser extent classic sailing yachts – are offered at very competitive prices. Having undergone a major refit, guests benefit from a stabilisation system, sheer elegance and comfort at sea.
Search & book in advance
For the best choice of yachts and dates, consider booking well ahead of time.
Early booking discounts are common in the yacht charter industry (up to 10/15% on luxury motor yacht charter according to a new study). Charter companies often offer reduced rates to early birds to ensure their schedules are filled before the season starts.
Consider low season
If you have flexibility in your travel dates, consider chartering a yacht during the off-peak seasons.
This not only offers potential cost savings but also provides the opportunity to explore popular destinations without the crowds, allowing for a more exclusive and tranquil experience.
Opt for destinations that are less popular or more affordable
According to Yachting Magazine: “By some estimates, three-quarters of the world’s charter business takes place every summer in the Mediterranean. And the stretch of coastline known as the West Med, including the French and Italian rivieras, continues to be the most popular region within this most popular place...High season in the West Med – July and August- comes with premium pricing, and some yacht owners insist on bookings of two weeks or longer.“
Here are a few destinations you might want to consider:
- Montenegro
- Croatia: Dalmatian coast
- Dodecanses islands
- Sardinia (except Porto-Cervo…)
Be ready to commit
When a yacht charter deal comes along, you need to be ready to put down a deposit immediately. Ensure your finances are in order and you’re prepared to commit financially.
“Make sure you are familiar with the terms and conditions of the charter contract, especially the special conditions and cancellation policies for last minute deals. You should be ready to commit when you find an incredible deal, and knowing what you’re agreeing to can speed up the process.” says Remi van der Deure, director of Charter-deal.com.
Top services to find best yacht charter deals & special offers
Newsletter, Twitter…
If you are prepared to spend hours scouring the internet for the best deals, regularly visit yacht charter companies’ websites, sign up for their newsletters and follow them on social media. Some companies post special offers, last minute deals and early booking discounts on these platforms.
…or use Charterwatch®
Aggregators such as Charter-deal.com, a new platform that aggregates yacht charter deals & special offers, can be a great tool. They gather offers from multiple sources, allowing you to save time, compare and find the best deals available.
Charter-deals comes with Charterwatch®, a notification service that allows charterers to receive our latest charter deals & special offers by email as soon as they go live. As charter brokers, we have inside knowledge and access to deals that may not be advertised publicly. We can negotiate on your behalf and often get better deals.
Why?
Because a good broker is well-networked and can help you get the best value for your money!
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This document is not contractual. The information and details are presented in good faith and whilst believed to be correct are not guaranteed. Doc Charter does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information and/or images displayed. All information is subject to change without notice and is not guaranteed.
Sources: * Charter-deal.com, a new platform focused on the best charter deals ** Yachting Magazine, July 23 2020
