How much does a crewed catamaran charter cost?

By Sail Abacos, Editorial Team

Reviewed by Captain Ronald Rolle

Understanding charter pricing helps you budget accurately and compare options effectively. Several factors influence total cost, and knowing what is included prevents surprises.

Base charter rates for crewed catamarans vary significantly by size and season. A 45-foot catamaran with captain and chef typically runs $17,000 to $24,000 weekly during peak season, while larger 55 to 60-foot vessels command $25,000 to $40,000 or more. Shoulder season rates often drop 15 to 20 percent below peak pricing.

All-inclusive charters bundle most expenses into the base rate. This typically covers the yacht, professional crew, all meals prepared by your chef, beverages including house wines and spirits, fuel for the yacht and dinghy, water sports equipment, and Wi-Fi. Moorings and similar operators specify exactly what their all-inclusive packages include.

Crew gratuity is the primary additional cost, calculated as 15 to 20 percent of the charter fee and given to the captain at voyage end for distribution. On a $20,000 charter, budget $3,000 to $4,000 for appropriate gratuity. This recognizes the crew's personalized service throughout your trip.

Optional expenses may include premium alcohol brands beyond house selections, special shore excursions, spa services, dive certifications, or marina docking if you prefer dock nights over anchoring. Discuss these possibilities with your broker when planning.

Per-person economics improve significantly with larger groups. A $20,000 weekly charter for eight guests works out to $2,500 per person for seven nights of luxury accommodations, gourmet meals, beverages, and activities, comparing favorably to upscale resort pricing while delivering incomparably more personalized experiences.

More Bahamas answers.