There’s a moment at sea when the world feels still. No traffic. No inbox. The endless blue meets the horizon. A warm breeze plays with your hair. Waves create a soft rhythm as they touch the hull. Time slows down. Your senses sharpen. Everything seems vibrant and full of life.
This is just the magic of yachting, which doesn’t need to be reserved only for the “elite.”
Picture waking up on a sunny morning. You’re on a private yacht, gently rocking in a calm cove in Sardinia. In the afternoon, you might snorkel in coral gardens in the Caribbean. Or you could explore a whitewashed Greek village that is only reachable by boat. Every day is yours to live.
And that’s where Boatbookings comes in. Boatbookings has over 15,000 yachts worldwide. It stands out for its focus on personalization, transparency, and trust. Boatbookings is more than a charter platform. It’s your compass to a world less ordinary.
If you’re planning a family trip, a honeymoon, a fun adventure with friends, or a beach party, this guide is for you. It explains the yacht types, destination options, what to expect, and how to begin.
Welcome aboard. Let’s chart your dream.
I. WHY CHOOSE BOATBOOKINGS?
A. Industry Expertise and Independence
Looking for a luxury motor yacht with a crew, a bareboat sailing yacht, or a crewed catamaran? Boatbookings is a full-service yacht charter broker. The main goal is to match customers with the ideal charter yachts. Their expert team can help you find the best choice.
B. Personalized Matchmaking Service
Boatbookings is available in the world’s most popular yachting destinations. This provides you with exclusive access to an enormous variety of yachts. Their personalized approach means you’re not just booking a yacht. You’re creating a unique sailing experience made just for you.
C. Seamless Booking Experience
Boatbookings offers complete help during the charter planning process. You can find out the distance, fuel use, and cost with their online tools. One tool is the yacht charter route planner. This makes your experience smoother.
II. Explore Dream Destinations
A. Mediterranean
- French Riviera
Sail the blue waters of the Mediterranean. Explore places like the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast, Greece, and Croatia. Each locale offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes.
- Amalfi Coast and Sicily
Discover the Bay of Naples, Capri, Amalfi, Positano, and more on your luxury yacht this summer. Visit Stromboli, Panarea, Lipari, Vulcano, and Milazzo for an unforgettable experience.
- Greek Islands
Take a trip to the Greek Islands. Explore the famous Cyclades Islands in Greece. See these islands from your yacht without the crowds.
- Croatia
Enjoy incredible island-hopping, culture, nature, and history in Croatia next summer.
B. Caribbean
- British Virgin Islands
Discover the Baths of Virgin Gorda and relax on the palm-lined beaches of Jost Van Dyke. They make for a perfect winter escape.
- St. Martin & Anguilla
Explore the vibrant islands of the Caribbean, from the British Virgin Islands to St. Barts. The clear waters and beautiful beaches make it a great place for relaxing or having fun.
- St. Barts
Experience the chic, upscale, and celebrity-favorite destination of St. Barts.
C. Asia-Pacific
- Thailand
Explore Southeast Asia. Explore Thailand’s beautiful islands, the clear beaches of the BVI, and the lively cultures of Indonesia and the South Pacific.
- Indonesia
Set sail on a classic Phinisi yacht. Enjoy a magical journey through Raja Ampat and the stunning Indonesian islands.
- Fiji and French Polynesia
Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life of Tahiti.
III. Types of Charters
A. Crewed Luxury Yachts
Experience the pinnacle of luxury with a fully crewed yacht. They take care of all the details. You’ll enjoy gourmet dining and customized itineraries that match your preferences.
B. Bareboat Charters
Bareboat charters are available for experienced boaters. They can sail on their schedule and explore secluded coves and beaches.
C. Catamaran Adventures
Catamarans are more stable and spacious. They’re great for families or groups wanting an easy sailing experience.
IV. Motor Yachts vs Sailing Yachts
When you charter a luxury yacht, you first choose: Do you want to sail effortlessly or zoom ahead with speed? Would you choose a motor yacht or a sailing yacht? Each offers a distinct kind of magic. Let’s break down both so you can select your perfect escape.
Motor Yachts:
Motor yachts have a sleek design and modern look. They offer a luxurious experience that celebrates extravagance. They’re the penthouse suites of yachting, built for luxury. They provide large sun decks, private jacuzzis, on-board cinemas, and ocean-view cocktail lounges.
But it’s not just about appearances.
Why choose a motor yacht?
- Speed and Range: These boats cover distance fast. Want to island-hop through Croatia, explore the French Riviera, and wake up in Italy? A motor yacht lets you do more in less time.
- Luxury Amenities: Picture jet skis, underwater scooters, full-size bars, and helipads. You’ll find massage rooms, gyms, and even nightclubs onboard. It’s not just a boat; it’s a private resort.
- Stability and Comfort: Their strong engines and stabilizers reduce rocking. Sailing becomes more relaxing for everyone. This is great for kids, older guests, and beginners.
- Crew Efficiency: A larger crew-to-guest ratio means you enjoy top-notch service. From the captain to the sommelier, every staff member is at your service.
Ideal for:
- Glamorous getaways
- Corporate charters
- High-speed itineraries
- Luxury events
- Travelers who enjoy creature comforts and ocean views.
Sailing Yachts:
There’s something poetic about sailing yachts. They’re slower, yes—but deliberately so. Sailing is an experience, a dance with nature. It’s about listening to the wind, trimming the sails, and feeling every gentle shift of the sea beneath you.
You’re not just on the water. You’re a part of it.
Why choose a sailing yacht?
- Sailing connects you to the sea in a way no engine can. It’s quieter, more intimate, and provides a profound sense of grounding. It’s not just travel; it’s voyaging.
- Using wind instead of fuel means a smaller carbon footprint. For sustainability-conscious travelers, sailing is a greener way to explore.
- Slower, More Immersive Pace When you sail, you’re not in a hurry. You linger in lagoons, enjoy stargazing far from city lights, and anchor where motor yachts can’t go.
- Many sailing crews invite guests to help. You can hoist sails, navigate, or learn about the boat’s mechanics.
Ideal for:
- Honeymoons
- Romantic getaways
- Nature enthusiasts
- Anyone who thinks the journey is as lovely as the destination.
Which one is right for you?
Picking a motor yacht or a sailing yacht is like choosing a sports car or a classic convertible. One is sleek and powerful. The other? Timeless and soulful.
If you crave speed, space, and ultimate luxury, go motor. If you crave connection, serenity, and authenticity, go sailing.
But here’s the secret: you can’t go wrong. No matter which boat you pick, Boatbookings ensures a smooth journey. Your service will be excellent, and you’ll create lasting memories.
V. How the Booking Process Works?
Booking a private yacht might seem complicated. You may think of long negotiations, lots of paperwork, or needing special connections. Boatbookings has changed yacht chartering. Now, it’s seamless, clear, and personalized. It doesn’t matter if you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning your honeymoon, or dreaming of an adventure. This process is enjoyable and simple right from the start.
Let’s walk you through exactly how it works:
1. Discover & Enquire
It all starts at https://www.boatbookings.com/. Browse a selection of over 15,000 yachts. You’ll find sleek motor yachts, sailing vessels, catamarans, and mega yachts. Explore them in destinations all around the world.
You can refine your options easily with the search filters. Choose your destination, travel dates, number of guests, type of yacht, and budget. Each yacht listing includes:
- Photos & specifications
- Pricing details
- Crew and amenities
- Charter availability
When you find some yachts you like, submit an enquiry. This is a simple form. It asks for your travel dates, destination, and group info.
2. Connect with Your Dedicated Charter Broker
Shortly after your enquiry, a licensed, experienced charter broker will contact you directly. Think of them as your travel advisor. They listen, understand your needs, and create options exclusively for you.
They’ll discuss:
- Preferred travel dates and destination.
- Type of experience (family trip, honeymoon, event charter, etc.)
- Onboard requirements (chef, water toys, Wi-Fi, cabins)
- Budget and flexibility.
- Itinerary preferences.
Their goal isn’t to “sell you a yacht.” It’s to help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle, group, and goals.
3. Receive hand-picked proposals.
Your charter expert will send you a list of yachts. These yachts will be available for your dates and match your preferences. Each proposal includes:
- High-resolution images of the yacht and cabins.
- Exact charter costs (no hidden fees)
- Sample itineraries.
- Crew bios (for crewed charters)
- Terms of the charter agreement.
You can compare and ask questions anytime. Your broker will keep improving options until you feel sure.
4. Secure Your Booking with a MYBA Contract
Once you’ve selected your yacht, you will receive a MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) contract. It is a standardized and widely accepted agreement in the yachting industry. It outlines:
- Your charter period
- Agreed price and payment structure
- Cancellation and insurance terms
- What’s included (yacht, crew, and insurance)
You will usually pay:
- 50% deposit upon signing
- 50% balance one month before departure
- APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance): generally 20–30% of the charter fee for food, drinks, fuel, docking fees, etc.
5. Tailor the Experience with a Preference Sheet
Once confirmed, you’ll complete a Guest Preference Sheet. This is where you personalize the trip. You’ll detail:
- Food and drink preferences
- Allergies or dietary needs
- Activities & excursions you’re interested in
- Celebrations or surprises (e.g., anniversaries, birthdays)
Your captain and crew will use this to prepare everything to your liking before you board.
6. Embark and Enjoy
On the day of your charter, you will arrive at the designated marina or port where the captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. After a safety briefing and quick tour, you’re ready to set sail.
From that moment on, everything is taken care of. From your morning espresso on deck to starlit dinners under the sky. Your charter broker is available throughout your journey for any support or adjustments needed.
Booking with Boatbookings: Personal, Professional, and Proven
What truly sets Boatbookings apart is the human touch. You’re never handed off to automated systems or left guessing. Every step is guided, thoughtful, and crafted with care.
VI. Why Travelers Choose Boatbookings – Real Reviews, Real Stories
What makes a yacht charter unforgettable? The turquoise waters? The million-dollar views? The gourmet cuisine at sea? Sure, those things matter. But ask any seasoned traveler, and you’ll hear a different answer. It’s how they were made to feel. That’s where Boatbookings wins hearts. With luxury yachts and exceptional, deeply human experiences that stay with people long after they’ve returned to shore.
Let’s see why so many adventurers, romantics, and explorers keep choosing Boatbookings to chart their course at sea.
1. A Seamless Experience on the French Riviera
In July 2023, a traveler shared their delight after a Sunseeker yacht trip along the South of France:
“A few weeks ago we visited the South of France and Boatbookings organized a beautiful trip for our group on a Sunseeker yacht. The boat was impeccable, the food delicious, and the Rosé wine was cold! The captain and the deck hand were super friendly and made sure the entire trip was thoroughly enjoyable. The total experience was smoothly run from start to finish, and is highly recommended!”
Source: https://ie.trustpilot.com/review/boatbookings.com
2. Exploring the Mediterranean: Cannes to St. Tropez
Another client recounted a memorable day cruising from Cannes to St. Tropez:
“We spent a wonderful day on the Mediterranean enjoying a lovely boat ride with a group of friends. What a great boat. The crew was super nice and knowledgeable, providing great catering and bringing us to great places to enjoy a swim in the ocean.”
SOURCE: https://ie.trustpilot.com/review/boatbookings.com
3. Family Adventure on Catamaran ALTESSE in the BVI
A family chartered the catamaran ALTESSE in the British Virgin Islands and shared their experience:
“Altesse and Boatbookings provided the perfect BVI charter for my family and friends. Richard, you are simply superb and brilliant at working out the best itinerary and plan for the trip. You listened to my suggestions, pushed back or provided alternatives when necessary and got my boys involved in the sailing, which was great. Sarah, you are an extraordinary chef and organizer and kept everyone happy while managing complex logistics such as a lobster dinner for 11 on Anegada. The perfect BVI charter. Thanks again!!”
SOURCE: https://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/testimonials.php
4. Exceptional Service on Motor Yacht AVALON in New England
A group chartered the motor yacht AVALON and praised the crew’s dedication:
“Captain Whitney would ask us every morning what we wanted to do… out came the jet skis and slide. The next day we were looking at colonies of seals and whale watching, flaming and catching huge fish! After each shore excursion – Maggie and Madison would greet us on the back deck with cold drinks and iced hand towels. Our cabins were kept immaculate! These girls worked so hard! Always one step ahead of our every need. Pete (the sea saviour), Jesse, Adam and Devon were an amazing team of guys that kept the boys entertained and the equipment ready to go! Chef Kevin bowled us over with his culinary skills. Every meal was amazing. He even took care of our 5-year-old to make sure she was happy. There were always warm delicious cookies somewhere onboard. We have travelled around the world – our kids told us this was the BEST TRIP EVER! That speaks volumes about this crew and yacht. We will definitely look for this yacht and crew again – thank you for introducing us and for your superb organisation!”
SOURCE: https://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/testimonials.php
Note: All testimonials are sourced directly from verified platforms to ensure authenticity and transparency.
Conclusion
There’s a difference between going on a trip and experiencing something that stays with you. That difference? It’s in the details. It’s in how the air feels at sea when the noise of daily life is finally gone. It’s in the way time slows down when you’re somewhere beautiful, with nothing expected of you except to be present. That’s the kind of escape Boatbookings knows how to deliver.
This isn’t about flashy yachts or ticking destinations off a list. It’s about choosing a better way to travel; one that’s intentional, personal, and a little bit extraordinary. Whether planning a family reunion, celebrating a milestone, or just needing a break from everything, Boatbookings handles the logistics so you can focus on what matters: the people you’re with and the memories you’re making.
They don’t promise perfection; they deliver what they know: decades of experience, real support, and access to the kind of travel most people only daydream about. No over-selling. No fake glamour. Just honest, well-executed escapes on the water.
So if you’re done with crowded resorts and predictable itineraries, and you’re craving something more immersive, private, and more you, this is it.
Leap. Let go of the noise. Let Boatbookings take you somewhere unforgettable.
Ready to Start Planning?
Explore the yachts. Chat with a real expert. Ask every question you have.
This isn’t just another trip; it could be your best one yet.
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