Long before you arrive, you will have indicated your favorite foods and preferred types of cuisine. In addition, you will have specified the kinds of beer, wine and soda you drink as well as your favorite snacks. The crew will also want to know of any allergies amongst your guests or if there is to be a special occasion celebrated during your cruise. All provisioning will be done by the crew, prior to your arrival.
There are several different ways of pricing luxury charter yachts. They depend largely on the location and type of yacht chartered. The pricing levels run the gamut from fully inclusive, like sailboats in the Caribbean, to plus all expenses, motor yachts almost anywhere. If the charter rate is anything less than fully inclusive you will be expected to provide funds, in advance, to cover the cost of provisioning and fuel. A normal advance provisioning allowance, APA, is 25% of the basic charter price, when the rate is quoted as plus all. The APA is always collected with the final charter payment, at least one month prior to the commencement of the cruise. When you have provided APA funds the captain will always keep track of how your money has been spent. He will present you with a report and receipts at the end of the charter.
Most people when they travel bring far too much gear. Life on board a luxury yacht tends to be simple, elegant and fun. Light weight clothes for the tropics, with a jacket or wrap to put over the shoulders at night is always a good idea. Warmer clothing is required for cooler climes. Most yachts are air-conditioned and have individual climate controls. If you intend to eat an occasional dinner ashore, include a jacket and tie for the men and a light cocktail dress for the ladies. Bring a large brimmed hat or buy one in the local markets. Don't forget sunglasses, your favorite sunscreen or sun block, especially for the children and remember easy to stow, folding bags are the order of the day, instead of bulky, hard suitcases.
You
will need a passport if you are traveling outside your
own country. Traveler's checks and credit cards are preferable
to cash. A check will usually work for extra expenses
incurred, but cash is better for the crew gratuity. Some
cell phones are now global and will work in most places,
so bring yours along. If it doesn't work ask the captain
to organize a local cell phone for you. Most yachts have
fax and email capability. Communication charges, for their
use, will always be extra.
Usually a member of the crew will meet you at the airport
to help with the logistics of getting people and luggage
to the yacht. Once on board you will be introduced to
the entire the crew. Luncheon or a cocktail might be served
before you are shown to your cabin. After that the schedule
is at your discretion. Take each day as it comes, making
plans with the captain at breakfast based on the weather,
the wind direction or whatever moves you. Remember, this
luxury yacht cruise is your vacation of a lifetime; enjoy
it to the max!
