Choosing well

Choosing a broker well

This site recommends no specific broker. Here's how to evaluate one on what they put in writing, and the questions worth asking before you commit.

How this list is built — and what it is not.
  • We list categories of legitimate charter brokers and marketplaces, not a ranked list of specific companies.
  • Nothing here is an endorsement, inspection or verification of any broker's licensing, insurance or track record.
  • Verify a broker's standing with the relevant industry association and check references directly yourself.

Full-service charter brokers

Brokers with access to a wide range of crewed and bareboat yachts across destinations, typically working on commission from the yacht owner.

Check yourself: Ask for their industry association membership, references from recent clients, and written contract terms before paying a deposit.

Charter marketplaces

Platforms listing bareboat and crewed charters directly from owners or smaller operators, often at a range of price points.

Check yourself: Confirm the platform's dispute resolution process and read the actual charter contract, not just the listing description.

Yacht management companies

For owners: companies that handle crew, maintenance and charter placement for an owned vessel in exchange for commission on charter revenue.

Check yourself: Ask for realistic net-revenue projections and references from current owners in their program, not just gross charter rate estimates.

Before you hire

Questions worth asking

  1. Can you give me the all-in cost, including APA, gratuity, fees and tax?
  2. Will the contract name the specific vessel and dates without substitution?
  3. What are the cancellation terms at each stage before the charter?
  4. What insurance covers the vessel and me as a charterer?
  5. What is the crew's specific experience in the cruising ground I'm planning?
  6. What happens if the vessel becomes unavailable close to my charter date?
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Send us the quote that doesn't add up

This is not a booking and nothing is reserved. We are not a broker or charter company — where a relevant provider category can help, we'll say which and why, and you decide whether to contact them.

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