Answers across sales, charter, and ownership.

Browse frequently asked questions by topic below. Each group is managed in the admin FAQs area and filtered by tag — so the same answer can appear wherever it is relevant.

Working with IYB.

How do I begin working with International Yacht Brokerage?

Start with a conversation. Share how you intend to use the yacht — private ownership, charter, or both — and we will outline a clear path for viewing, valuation, or charter planning.

Where are your offices based?

We operate from London and Monaco, advising private clients across sales, charter, management, and new construction with the same standard of service in both markets.

Buying and selling.

Do you advise on both buying and selling?

Yes. Our brokers represent buyers and sellers with the same emphasis on discretion, market clarity, and disciplined negotiation through survey and handover.

How is a yacht valued for sale?

Valuation draws on comparable transactions, current demand, condition, specification, and how the vessel presents to qualified buyers. We provide a clear market view before agreeing a sale strategy.

Can you handle off-market sales?

Yes. When quieter conversations are preferred, we approach selected buyers confidentially while protecting the vessel’s profile and your timeline.

Private charter.

How do I book a yacht charter?

Every charter begins with understanding what you are looking for. Share your preferred dates, guest numbers, destination, budget and the type of experience you have in mind, and our brokers will create a tailored selection of yachts for you.

Once you have chosen your yacht, we take care of the booking process, from securing your dates and arranging the charter agreement to managing payments and coordinating with the crew. Ahead of your arrival, we will help organise your preferences, itinerary and the finer details, so everything is ready when you step aboard.

How far in advance should I book a yacht charter?

We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly if you are looking to charter during peak periods such as July and August or over Christmas and New Year.

Booking early gives you the greatest choice of yachts and dates, although last-minute opportunities can also become available.

How long can I charter a yacht for?

A week is the most common charter duration, particularly during the Mediterranean summer season, but charters can range from a few days to several weeks depending on the yacht, destination and time of year.

Speak with our team and we can advise on yachts available for your preferred dates.

How many guests can stay on board?

Guest capacity varies between yachts and is determined by the yacht’s certification and accommodation.

Many charter yachts accommodate up to 12 guests overnight, while some are certified for larger groups. Your IYB broker will only recommend yachts suitable for your party size.

How are charter fees and expenses structured?

The charter fee is the base cost of renting the yacht and includes the vessel, professional crew, standard equipment, and insurance.

Local VAT may also apply depending on your embarkation point and cruising area; this is set by the destination’s regulations and is charged on top of the base fee.

Additional running costs, such as fuel, food and beverages, port fees and special requests, are not included in the base rate and are covered via an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA). The APA is calculated as a percentage of the charter fee and varies depending on the yacht and nature of the charter.

What is APA and what does it cover?

APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance. It is paid in addition to the charter fee and is used to cover expenses incurred during your charter, such as fuel, food and beverages, berthing fees and other running costs.

The APA is calculated as a percentage of the charter fee, with the amount varying depending on the yacht and nature of the charter. Your broker will confirm the applicable APA when presenting your yacht options.

The Captain manages the APA throughout the charter and provides an account of expenditure. Any remaining balance is returned to you following reconciliation of the account, while any additional expenditure will be payable by the Charterer.

What is a MYBA Charter Agreement?

The MYBA Charter Agreement is a widely recognised industry contract used for many professionally crewed yacht charters. It clearly sets out the yacht, charter dates, cruising area, costs, payment terms and responsibilities of each party, providing a clear framework for your charter.

What documents do I need to charter a yacht?

Documentation requirements can vary depending on the yacht, charter agreement and destination. Your IYB broker will let you know exactly what is required and guide you through the process ahead of your charter.

Do I need travel insurance for a yacht charter?

We strongly recommend arranging appropriate travel and cancellation insurance for your charter.

Your policy should be suitable for the value and nature of your trip and should be arranged separately from the yacht’s own insurance.

Can I choose my itinerary?

Yes. We’ll create a tailor-made itinerary that reflects your preferences, whether that’s secluded anchorages, chic beach clubs, vibrant nightlife or cultural excursions. Your Captain and crew will also draw on their local knowledge and current weather conditions to recommend the most suitable route for your journey.

Can I embark and disembark in different locations?

Often, yes. Depending on the yacht and itinerary, it may be possible to begin your charter in one location and finish in another.

Additional repositioning or delivery/redelivery fees may apply, and your broker will confirm these before booking.

What happens if the weather changes our itinerary?

Your itinerary remains flexible throughout your charter. The Captain will always prioritise safety and may recommend changes based on weather, sea conditions or local circumstances.

One of the advantages of chartering a yacht is the freedom to adapt your plans and discover alternative destinations along the way.

What happens after I book my yacht?

Once your charter is confirmed, we begin planning the finer details. You will be asked to complete a preference form covering your guests, food and beverages, dietary requirements, activities and any special requests.

Your IYB broker will work closely with the yacht and crew ahead of your arrival to help tailor the itinerary and onboard experience around you.

Can I make special requests for my charter?

Of course. From celebrations and restaurant reservations to particular wines, menus, activities and experiences ashore, let your broker know what you have in mind.

Wherever possible, we will work with the yacht’s crew to arrange your requests ahead of your arrival.

Can the yacht accommodate dietary requirements?

Yes. Before your charter, you will complete a preference form detailing food and beverage preferences, allergies and dietary requirements.

This information is shared with the yacht’s chef and crew so they can prepare for your arrival and tailor the onboard experience around you.

Can children come on a yacht charter?

Absolutely. Yacht charter is particularly well suited to families and we can recommend yachts with family-friendly accommodation, water toys and onboard facilities.

Let us know the ages of your guests when enquiring so we can find the most suitable options.

Is crew included in the charter?

Yes. Professionally crewed charter yachts include a dedicated crew, with the number and roles varying depending on the size and style of the yacht. Your crew will be there throughout your charter to take care of the yacht, service and onboard experience, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy your time on the water.

Can I use the water toys on board?

Most charter yachts carry a selection of water toys, which may include Seabobs, paddleboards, kayaks, jet skis, eFoils, inflatables and snorkelling equipment.

The equipment available varies by yacht, and some motorised water toys may require licences or be subject to local regulations.

How much should I tip the crew?

Gratuities are entirely at the guest’s discretion and are a way of recognising the crew for exceptional service.

The customary amount can vary depending on the cruising region and charter, and your IYB broker will be happy to provide guidance ahead of your trip.

Yacht management.

What does yacht management typically include?

Management covers crew oversight, maintenance planning, compliance, insurance coordination, and operational readiness — so the yacht is prepared when you are.

Still have a question?

Speak with our team in London or Monaco — we will point you in the right direction with clarity and discretion.

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