Finding a space for an event can be challenging. Whether it’s a corporate event, a birthday party for your best friend, or simply a fun evening out, renting out a space and arranging for food, cleanup, and more can be a stressful process. Rather than worry about all of that and keeping your guests entertained, why not look into chartering a yacht in Miami? The adventure of being out on the water adds excitement to your event, as well as a feeling of luxury, and can make for a truly memorable day- or even an overnight vacation! Read on for more information about the cost of a yacht charter in Miami and whether that cost is worth it. Or click here to visit our website.
Why Do People Charter Yachts?
So why would you want to charter a yacht in the first place? While yachts are a great place for cocktail parties and events, they can also make for a wonderful vacation. Going out into the ocean and away from work for a few days can be relaxing and refreshing- or if you work remotely, you may be able to charter a yacht with Internet connectivity. Imagine being able to look out at the waves while you complete your daily tasks, rather than your own four walls.
Miami Yacht Charter Costs
The cost of a yacht charter in Miami is typically determined in one of two ways: per day or per hour. The cost may also change depending on how many people you are taking on the yacht, how long you plan to stay on it, and where you go (though most Miami yacht charters stay relatively close to shore).
The average cost to charter a yacht for a full eight-hour day in Miami starts around $2,000 and can go up to $5,000 for larger boats. Some yacht charter companies offer packages in increments of 4, 6, and 8 hours. If a yacht has a place to sleep, the owner or company may offer overnight packages, which are typically about 1.3-1.5 times the cost of the 8-hour package.
Hourly yacht charters are relatively uncommon, as most yacht charter companies in Miami use the package system. However, some companies charge by the “quarter day,” or two hours. Quarter days range from $200 to $500, making the hourly cost $100 to $250 depending on the size of the boat.
Can I Drive?
One of the main differences between renting a yacht versus chartering one is who’s driving. As much fun as it would be to learn to drive a yacht on vacation, unfortunately, passengers on charters are not permitted to sail the boat. Charter yachts are driven by a yacht captain and may have a first mate or small crew aboard, depending on the size and capacity of the yacht.
If you do want to learn to drive a boat, there are places around Miami that offer lessons! You will need to get a boat license, but after you take lessons and get your license, you can rent a boat that you are free to drive- however, a yacht charter is for having fun, not driving.
Do I Need Insurance to Charter a Yacht?
Generally, you do not need insurance in order to charter a yacht. While it is true that charter yachts must be insured, it is the responsibility of the charter company or yacht owner to insure the boat itself.
There are some insurance options that can come in handy, however. You may be offered cancellation insurance. With any type of boat rental or charter, there is the possibility that the water will be too rough on the day of your trip and it will be canceled or rescheduled.
It is also advisable to bring your health insurance card with you when you take a trip on a yacht charter in Miami. In the case of an accident or illness, you’ll want to make sure you have a smooth treatment experience should you need to be brought to a hospital.
What Are Party Boats?
Where on river cruise websites you might see dinner cruises advertised, on yacht charter websites you may see “party boats.” Yachts frequently play host to bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, and even small wedding receptions. They can be a great way to have a fun party and enjoy the freedom of the sea at the same time.
What separates a party boat from just a yacht charter is the atmosphere and the cost. Party yacht charters typically have a club-like lighting setup and a set of speakers, and they may be hosted on yachts with longer bows so that people can go hang out at the end of the boat. There are often add-ons to a party boat package, such as a DJ, a photographer or videographer, extra drinks, and other “extras.” Each of these will add a few hundred dollars to the cost of the yacht charter, but can add an extra boost to the party.
Yacht Captain Salaries
As previously mentioned, yacht charters in Miami will be driven by a yacht captain, which sounds like a pretty fun job! Driving a boat all day in sunny Miami is the dream for many who love the ocean. How much does a yacht captain in Miami make?
The salary for a yacht captain in Miami is actually close to the average American’s income. Deckhands and first mates are usually paid hourly, but a salaried charter yacht captain can expect to make around $45,000-$50,000 per year.
Is a Yacht Charter Worth It?
Looking at the cost of a yacht charter, the question remains: is the experience worth the cost? Generally, yes! Though up to $5,000 may sound like a lot to pay for one day, going with a group of people who are splitting the cost can bring that down. Even more importantly, you will have an incredible memory to look back on for years to come. If you enjoy being out on the water, you will love your Miami yacht charter experience!