About Chartering

In this fast paced world of crushing crowds and package tours, chartering is the only luxury travel choice that puts you in charge of every detail of your vacation.

Simply call our office to begin planning incredible memories... the yacht vacation of a lifetime!  We will want to know a little about you and your guests, your interests, where and when you wish to go and the type of accommodation you require.   With the destinations and yachts on this website to entice you, the selection process begins.

INTERPAC YACHTS has over 30 years of experience in chartering.  Our personal service, honesty, experience and concern that you always get the best value make us a respected leader in the charter industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a charter yacht different from a cruise ship or land travel?

The flexibility to spend your day exactly how you want is the ultimate indulgence of a private yacht.  Professional crew are standing by to take you where you want to go, teach you a brand new water sport, and be your private guide to a new destination.

Cruising allows you the luxury of unpacking your bags once even though you visit many different ports and harbors.

Only on a charter yacht can you visit an exotic destination, spend quality time with family or friends and travel at your own relaxed pace!

How do I select a yacht that is right for me?

The more you can tell us about the make up of your charter party, your budget, interests and dreams, the better we will be able to guide you to the perfect selection.  We personally inspect over 500 yachts each year, know the crew well, and work hard to maintain the highest standards in the industry!

Do I need a broker?

Charter agents provide guidance, experience, convenience and security - all at no charge to their clients.

Is my charter deposit secure?

All charter funds are held in a Corporate Trust Account and are well protected until the time of your charter.  The only exception is a Greek charter:   these funds are disbursed according to Greek law.

Do I need to carry a passport?

Yes, a valid passport will need to be presented at your various ports of call unless your charter takes place entirely within the jurisdiction of the port where you embark.  If visas are required they are your responsibility.  Our office will be happy to assist and advise you in these matters.

Do I need to purchase "Trip Cancellation Insurance?

We recommend Trip Cancellation Insurance to all of our clients.  Most charter contracts do not provide a refund for cancellations unless the yacht is rebooked for your charter dates.  INTERPAC offers TRAVEL GUARD PROTECTION through an "A" rated company with a very good record and reasonable rates.

Who plans my itinerary?

Once your captain has received your "Preference Sheets", he will be very happy to suggest an itinerary that suits your interests.  However, you are free to change this route at any time.  One of our clients chose to stay in the same tranquil bay for two weeks!

What do I need to pack?

Caribbean charters are generally relaxed and informal... you'll need bathing suits and cool, comfortable clothing.  I always recommend "layers", including sleeveless tops, t-shirts, sweatshirts or sweaters and a light jacket.  The Mediterranean is more formal so you will want to add some dresses and long pants for going ashore.  Most of us tend to pack to much for yacht vacations.  Your crew will appreciate soft luggage since storage on board is usually very limited.

Are children welcome aboard the yachts?

Chartering can be a wonderful family vacation, especially in the Caribbean.  Over the years we have selected yachts that we know are perfect for family charters.  Age limit is left to the discretion of the parents but children should be water safe.  Keep in mind that the crew is kept busy with their assigned duties and are not free to offer child care.  It is best to select an itinerary where there are no long passages, giving the children maximum time for swimming, snorkeling and exploring.

Do I have to know how to sail?

One of the benefits of your charter is that the crew does all the work!   They are professional sailors, knowledgeable guides and interesting hosts.  If you wish to take the helm, the captain and crew will be there to guide you or instruct you in the basics of sailing...you are welcome to participate or simply relax and enjoy your day!

Will I experience seasickness?

If you are concerned with seasickness, it is a good idea to check with your doctor or pharmacists.  I personally find that CHEWABLE BONINE (available at your drugstore with a prescription) does the job and it doesn't make you sleepy!  Of course, your crew will endeavor to make your trip as comfortable as possible by recommending routes in protected waters and keeping track of changing weather conditions.

Who plans the menus?

Your on-board chef or cook will usually provide a sample menu for you to look over.  However, it is important that you fill out the "Charterer's Information Sheet" as completely as possible -- keeping all of the charter guests in mind -- so that your meals will be served according to your tastes and wishes.

Can I use my hair dryer on board?

All motor yachts and most sailing vessels have auxiliary generators.   Power boats normally run their generators 24 hours / day allowing unlimited use of hair dryers and other electrical items.  Many sailing yachts operate their generators a few hours each day, usually in the late afternoon and early evening.  In general, American built boats have 110 volt systems while European vessels run on 220 volts.   Please check with our office if this is not clear on your charter brochure.   You may not have to pack hairdryers at all as many of our yachts provide these items for their guests.

Is smoking permitted on board?

Smoking is rarely permitted inside the yachts.  For safety reasons and for the comfort of future charter guests.  If you have heavy smokers in your party and feel this could be an issue please let us know in advance.

Will my family and office be able to reach me on charter?

Most charter yachts are equipped with some of the latest communications equipment including cellular service, global satellite communications, radio telephones, personal computers and fax machines.

How much do I tip the crew?

A crew gratuity is both customary and discretionary.  10%-15% of the base charter fee is customary in North America and the Caribbean; 5%-10% is more the norm in Europe.  It is usually given to the captain at the end of the charter and divided equally among the crew members.

At INTERPAC YACHTS we welcome all of your questions... we want every aspect of your vacation to be planned with your special interests in mind.