Yacht Charter Glossary

A power-driven yacht designed for speed and comfort. Motor yachts range from 15 to 100+ metres and offer spacious interiors, multiple decks, and amenities such as Jacuzzis, cinemas, and water toy garages. Ideal for guests who prefer covering longer distances quickly between destinations.

A yacht propelled primarily by sails, offering an authentic seafaring experience. Sailing yachts range from classic wooden vessels to modern performance cruisers. They provide a quieter, more eco-friendly way to explore coastlines, though travel times between stops are generally longer than motor yachts.

A twin-hulled vessel offering exceptional stability and spacious living areas. Catamarans are ideal for families and groups who prefer minimal rocking, generous deck space, and shallow draft access to secluded bays that larger yachts cannot reach.

A traditional Turkish wooden sailing vessel, typically 20-35 metres, with a broad beam and spacious aft deck. Gulets are popular for charter in Turkey and the Greek Islands, combining classic aesthetics with modern comforts. They are usually crewed and include full catering.

A professionally crewed luxury yacht typically exceeding 24 metres (80 feet). Superyachts feature premium amenities, dedicated crew quarters, and bespoke services. Charter rates for superyachts start from approximately EUR 50,000 per week.

An ultra-luxury vessel exceeding 50 metres, often featuring helicopter pads, submarine docks, multiple pools, and a crew of 20+. Mega yachts represent the pinnacle of maritime luxury and are available for charter at premium rates.

Renting a yacht without crew or provisions. The charterer must hold a valid sailing licence and is responsible for navigation, safety, and all onboard operations. Most common for experienced sailors chartering smaller sailing yachts or catamarans.

A full-service charter where the yacht comes with a professional crew including captain, chef, and steward(ess). The crew handles navigation, cooking, cleaning, and activity planning, making this the most popular option for luxury charters. Zenitha Yachts specialises in crewed charters.

A fund paid before the charter (typically 25-35% of the base charter fee) to cover running expenses such as food, beverages, fuel, marina fees, and shore excursions. The captain manages this fund and provides a detailed accounting at the end. Any surplus is refunded; any shortfall is settled.

The Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association standard charter agreement, widely used for luxury yacht charters in the Mediterranean. MYBA terms define the contractual framework for charter parties, including payment schedules, cancellation policies, insurance requirements, and crew gratuity guidelines.

The formal contract between the yacht owner (or management company) and the charterer. It specifies the charter period, itinerary, payment terms, cancellation policy, insurance coverage, and the responsibilities of both parties.

The designated marina where the charter begins and ends. Guests board and disembark at the base port. Common base ports in the Mediterranean include Athens, Dubrovnik, Palma de Mallorca, Nice, and Bodrum.

A charter where embarkation and disembarkation occur at different ports. This allows covering more ground but often incurs a relocation fee to return the yacht to its base port. Popular for island-hopping itineraries.

The base cost of renting the yacht for a specified period, typically quoted per week. This covers the yacht itself and crew wages. It does not include APA, fuel surcharges, or VAT (which varies by country — typically 0-13% in the Mediterranean).

A customary tip for the yacht crew, typically 10-20% of the base charter fee. While not mandatory, it is standard practice in the yachting industry and reflects the quality of service received. The gratuity is usually given to the captain who distributes it among the crew.

An additional charge when the yacht must be repositioned from its current location to the charterer's desired base port. Covers fuel, crew wages, and time during the delivery voyage. Can be avoided by choosing a yacht already based in your desired region.

A refundable deposit held during the charter to cover potential damages, typically EUR 2,000-10,000 depending on yacht size. Returned in full after the charter if no damage occurs. Can often be replaced by purchasing damage waiver insurance.

The planned route and schedule for your charter, including ports of call, anchorages, and activities at each stop. Itineraries are flexible and can be adjusted by the captain based on weather, sea conditions, and guest preferences.

A sheltered area where the yacht drops anchor, typically in a bay or cove. Anchorages provide calm waters for swimming, water sports, and dining al fresco. The captain selects anchorages based on weather protection, seabed quality, and proximity to shore attractions.

The standard unit of distance at sea, equal to 1.852 kilometres (1.151 statute miles). A yacht cruising at 10 knots covers 10 nautical miles per hour. Understanding nautical miles helps gauge travel times between destinations on your itinerary.

A unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour (1.852 km/h). Motor yachts typically cruise at 10-20 knots, while sailing yachts average 6-10 knots. A yacht at 12 knots covers roughly 22 km per hour.

The depth of water a yacht needs to float safely, measured from the waterline to the lowest point of the hull. Shallow-draft vessels (under 2m) can access secluded bays and beach anchorages that deep-draft yachts cannot reach.

Maritime regulations governing navigation within a country's territorial waters. Some countries (notably Greece and Turkey) restrict foreign-flagged yachts from certain domestic routes. Your captain and charter company manage cabotage compliance.

The licensed professional responsible for the safe operation of the yacht, navigation, and overall guest experience. The captain plans daily routes, selects anchorages, monitors weather, and coordinates crew duties. On charter yachts, the captain also acts as a local guide with extensive knowledge of the cruising area.

The onboard chef prepares all meals tailored to guest preferences, dietary requirements, and cultural needs. For Zenitha Yachts charters, chefs are experienced in halal cuisine and Mediterranean cooking. Guests complete a preference form before boarding covering allergies, dislikes, and favourite cuisines.

Crew members responsible for interior service: cabin maintenance, table service, bar duties, and guest comfort. On larger yachts, the chief stewardess manages a team and coordinates with the chef on dining presentation and event planning.

The process of stocking the yacht with food, beverages, and supplies before the charter. Guests complete a provisioning list specifying their preferences. For halal charters, provisioning includes sourcing certified halal meat and ingredients from approved suppliers.

Recreational equipment carried on the yacht for guest use, including jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, snorkelling gear, water skis, wakeboards, inflatable slides, and seabobs. Larger yachts may carry diving compressors, sailboats, or even mini-submarines.