yacht crew contract sample

Sample Crew Agreement

Date:_____________ Dear _____________________, I am enclosing a copy of the Crew Agreement covering your participation as a crew aboard the ______________. (name of vessel) I know it appears rather legalistic, but it in fact covers everything we spoke about. Having an understanding in writing is prudent for all concerned. I would be grateful if you would complete it, have it notarized, and send it back to me at your earliest convenience. Please note each page needs to be initialized where indicated. Please complete the medical sections on page 1, if appropriate; initial the cost paragraph where indicated; complete the crew details on page 2 and provide two copies of your passport as requested. Then sign and date the agreement on page 3, have it notarized where indicated and return it to me. I will complete my parts and send you back a copy for your records. I am sure you understand the need for such an agreement. It helps clarify the situation and is fairly standard information for international ocean passages of this nature. Here we have the information organized in written down for all to agree upon and be witness. Regards, Skipper______________ CREW AGREEMENT YACHT: ____________________(here after referred to as " the Yacht") DOCUMENTATION NO. _________________ VOYAGE FROM: ______________________________ TO: _________________________________ INTENTIONS: This agreement is designed to anticipate problems that might occur while aboard, both at sea or coastal cruising, and thus, avoid them. It is designed to protect both the skipper/owner and those who join him. To facilitate inquiries, should anything go wrong, a copy will be sent to the skipper's representative before departure; and I suggest that you send a copy to someone you deem appropriate. It is wise to inform someone at home of your plans. Crewing on S/Y________________works best when all are considered equals. You will be consulted, when appropriate, as a part of decision making, but you must be also willing to share all work, difficulties and dangers. In completing this agreement YOU TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR DECISION TO JOIN, and agree that you are willing to accept all that may come your way. There have been no inducements or promises or consideration that is not fully described in this agreement. The skipper hereby declares his belief that the boat is properly equipped and prepared for the planned voyage, and that he is fully competent to manage, alone or with crew. He invites the crew to test this statement in any way they wish - by their own inquiries and judgement, or with the help of others. When you sign this you agree that you have full investigated and found that the boat is properly equipped and that the skipper is capable , fit and competent. You understand and agree that I am the captain and you must obey all lawful orders. MEDICAL DETAILS: The boat has a well equipped medical kit, and a powerful radio with which emergency help may be obtained. However, you must take full responsibility for any current or past medical conditions that may recur, or any medical or health problems that may occur during or as a result of this trip. Make sure that you have ample medication for at least twice as long as the expected passage. You must inform the skipper of any potentially serious conditions that could affect safety at sea. Give details below of any known drug allergies, conditions that might recur, and current medication(s): (mark "NONE" if none)_____________________________________________: ____________________________________________________ Medical insurance may help save your life. List details of your medical insurance, if any and all contact details: _________________________________________________________: ___________________________________________________________ Apart from spoiling your trip and making it harder for others aboard, seasickness can be dangerous, even fatal. Unless you know, from extensive experience, that you will not be affected, you must have, and be willing to use, reputable seasickness treatment. This is your responsibility. _________ (initials, crew) ___________ (Initials, skipper) CREW AGREEMENT PASSPORTS, VISAS AND REPATRIATION: When you enter another country you may need to have a passport and visa, and be able to prove you can get yourself out of the country (other than by yacht) to another country to which you have full right of entry. The simplest way is to have an air ticket, or to carry sufficient cash to cover one. Credit cards are of no use in some countries. You are responsible for this and you understand that you may be asked to furnish proof to the skipper on boarding, and deposit with him your passport, air ticket or cash in lieu. TRIP INTERRUPTION: You understand that should you leave the yacht, for whatever reason, at a port other than that to which you had agreed in this agreement, you will be responsible for all your own travel and related costs. You also understand and agree that if you are asked to leave the yacht for reasons of lack of competence, inappropriate behavior, crew incompatibility, illness, or the inability to carry out required tasks, which, in skipper's opinion, is endangering the safe operation of the yacht, you will also be responsible for all your own repatriation costs. However, in this event, the Skipper will take all reasonable measures to disembark you at a suitable port along the intended route, from which you can arrange your travel home. MAINTENANCE WORK: Keeping a cruising boat in safe condition requires work on repairs and maintenance , and this is an obligation to be shared by all aboard. Good crew looks for ways to help, and taking part will make you feel involved. As a guide you should be willing to put in about a half an hour a day, plus half a day per week, on maintenance or and repair to the boat. This does not include domestic work, in which you will also be required to share. COST: You may be required to contribute a daily amount to cover your cost aboard. To help avoid disagreements, all arrangements and all transactions must be recorded, at the time they are made, in this document initialed by both parties. You agree that at any monies you pay toward your own costs is not for any charter fee or passenger fee for the benefit of the boat or its owner or the skipper, but only for your own costs. Costs per day:(no greater than) $__________________ initial_______ CREW DETAILS: __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ (Provide two (2) copies of the issue page(s) of your passport, and provide information from the passport: number, issue place , date of issue, expiration date, home address; and next of kin's full name, address and telephone number and an alternative contact.) DECLARATIONS I have completed the above details fully and honestly, and have volunteered any further information I am aware of that may affect the safe enjoyment of the proposed voyage by all aboard. I do not have any illegal drugs or weapons in my possession, and will________(initial crew) ___________(initial skipper) Crew Agreement S/Y_________________ immediately inform the skipper if I become aware of any on board, or anyone trying to bring such items aboard. I declare, by written statement on this agreement, details of any convictions, in any country, for the involvement with illegal drugs or weapons. I will not carry any packages for any third party on the boat without first requesting permission from the skipper. I accept that the skipper may change his plans, and will not hold him responsible for transportation to the original destination, should that not be reached by S/Y___________________. I will make myself familiar with the location and operation of all safety equipment aboard the boat. I will seek to learn all aspects of seamanship by reading appropriate manuals and book aboard , and by asking help from the skipper and others. The responsibility is fully mine to learn and to ask to be taught any skills that I need for safe operation of the boat. If there is anything happening aboard the boat about which I am uncomfortable, I will discuss it with those concerned as soon as possible in order to avoid irreversible resentments that may spoil the atmosphere for all aboard. If the skipper is held responsible for bailing me out of trouble if I transgress local laws and customs, I agree to fully reimburse any cost incurred; and to compensate him for the time lost for every day of delay my action may cause. I take full responsibility for any requirements and cost relating for my entry and exit in countries to be visited by the boat. I agree to share all work aboard, and obey all orders given to me relating to the safe conduct of the boat, at all times. I am aware that there are risks that I will face in this voyage, and take full responsibility for my decision to join the crew. I, or my heirs, next of kin, legal representatives, successors and assigns, and in consideration of the acceptance as a crew member of the yacht _____________, do hereby waive any and all claims which I may have against (Your Name)____________,or any other duly qualified and authorized captain appointed by him, arising out of, or in any way connected with, my participation as a members of the crew of the yacht, and understand and agree that, as a member of the crew of said yacht, I have no recourse or claims of any kind against (Your name)__________________, and shall hold him harmless against all consequences of my participation as a crew member aboard the yacht. This agreement shall be governed by the Laws of the United States of America. Crew member:________________________ Skipper:____________________________ Dated at:________________________this ______day of ________, 199____. State of________________ CREW AGREEMENT S/Y_____________________ County of________________ On this day personally appeared before me___________________________ to me known to be the individual described in and who executed the within and foregoing instrument, and acknowledge that he/she signed the same as his/her free and voluntary act and deed, for the uses and purposes therein described Given under hand and official seal the _______ day of ________, 199____. ____________________________ Notary Public in the for the State of ______________. Residing at _________________________________. My commission expires________________________. ___________________ (Notary Seal)

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CREW AGREEMENTS

Should crew have a written agreement?

Taking new crew onboard, especially for an extended passage, is likely to be made more harmonious if your arrangements are agreed in writing.

In most cases, yachts that are not operating commercially have no legal requirement to have a written Crew Agreement in place. However, there is no doubt that it is advantageous to have such a document to avoid any uncertainty and to give a clear understanding to both sides of what is expected on a passage of long duration with associated costs.  

This agreement should outline the expectations of the skipper with regard to the crew's participation and an unambiguous description of the financial arrangements onboard. It should make clear that arrival at the intended destination cannot be guaranteed and include an explanation of the agreement surrounding crew repatriation. Each party should ensure that they have the required insurance cover.  Both skipper and crew should discuss this in advance and once satisfied should sign and retain a written copy of any terms and conditions.

For shorter journey's this is unlikely to be necessary and a simple "you bring the lunch and I'll supply the boat" discussion will probably suffice.

Pleasure vessels, as defined in the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) (Minimum Requirements for Seafarers etc.) Regulations 2014 , whilst falling outside the requirement to have Seafarer Employment Agreements do require Crew Agreements if they undertake voyages, other than a coastal voyage, for which more than 4 members of the crew receive wages for their employment.

The Maritime Labour Convention requires that seafarers on registered sea-going ships ordinarily engaged in commercial activities shall have individual Seafarers’ Employment Agreements.

Full details of these requirements can be found in Maritime Guidance Note MGN 474 (M) .

A sample Yacht Crew Agreement is available to download.

YACHT CREW AGREEMENT

The information and views contained herein and in the attached document are not offered as legal advice and Crewseekers does not offer any warranty implied or otherwise as to the legality or fitness for purpose of this information.

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Yacht crew positions and contracts

Somewhat unsurprisingly, the operation and implementation of tasks aboard a superyacht is a full-time job for more than just one crew member. The superyacht industry, therefore, offers a wide range of roles on board, catering to individuals with a range of skill sets and career preferences.

The number and range of roles on a typical superyacht will vary depending on its size and set up. For those who know which role to pursue, the next step will be enrolling with crew agents  and crew training schools , while for those who don’t know where they may fit on board, keep reading.

We cover the most common positions, with a list of typical responsibilities and an expected salary range for permanent crew working on yachts between 35 and 100 metres LOA (data taken from  YPI Crew's Yachting Salaries tool ).

Yacht job roles, responsibilities and crew salaries

Superyacht captain or skipper.

Arguably the most well-known and respected job role aboard any yacht – large or small – is that of the captain. The captain has two primary objectives on board: The safe manning and operation of the vessel, and the care of guests and crew.

The main responsibilities of a superyacht captain may include:

• Safe navigation and operation of the yacht
• Budget management and accounting
• Decision-making and crew management
• Managing the upkeep of the yacht
• Taking control of yacht repairs and refit projects
• Assuming the role of ‘host’ and entertaining when necessary

Depending on the size of the vessel and experience of the applicant, a captain can expect an average salary of anywhere between €6,000 and €20,000 per month. You can find out more about a captain's salary in our dedicated article.

First officer/chief mate

All superyachts generally have a first officer or chief mate, who is essentially ready to take over the yacht should anything happen to the captain. On larger yachts, there may also be a second officer.

Job roles therefore vary depending on the set up of the department. The first officer is second in command to the captain and manages all the deck crew, including the second officer, bosuns and deckhands. He or she is also responsible for:

• Ensuring the safety of the yacht and individuals on board
• Overseeing all deck operations and management
• Supervision and preparation of water toys
• The management of administrative and safety procedures on board
• Bridge watches and the navigational passage planning of the yacht

A second officer may hold navigational responsibilities, keeping charts and publications up to date. The job may also involve monitoring radio equipment and bridge watches, and he or she may be appointed as the designated safety or medical officer.

A first officer or chief mate may expect a salary of between €4,000 and €8,900 per month, depending on the level of responsibility. In comparison, a second officer may start on a salary of €2,500 per month and a sole mate on a monthly salary of €3,500.

Bosun 

The bosun, sometimes known as the leading hand or senior deckhand, is likely to be an experienced deckhand, working his/her way up the career ladder. The bosun is responsible for maintaining the exterior of the yacht and is in charge of supervising the deckhands. The bosun is responsible for:

• Organising deck operations, including storage, the use and maintenance of tenders, toys and equipment, deck maintenance and supplies
• Bridge watches and overseeing security
• Overseeing the passerelle, and the safety of guests as they embark and disembark
• Outstanding guest service and an eye for detail

In return, a bosun may expect a salary of between €3,000 and €4,500 per month.

A deckhand is just one of the entry-level positions available on board a superyacht. Primarily, he/she will work with the other deckhands to maintain the exterior of the yacht, keeping it in pristine condition. Deckhand responsibilities include:

• Cleaning, painting and varnishing
• Polishing and finishing
• Line handling
• Driving and supervising guests using tenders and toys
• Guest service and cleaning

As an entry-level position with few additional qualifications required, a deckhand may expect a salary of between €1,250 and €2,500 per month.

Engineering

First/chief engineer.

A first or chief engineer is in charge of the engineering department on board, and is responsible for its safe and efficient operation. Reporting directly to the captain, he/she will manage the vessel’s engineers, electrical technical officers (ETO’s) and electricians, as well as:

• The day-to-day management of mechanical and electrical operations aboard
• Team management and supervision
• The coordination of operations with shore-side engineers
• The trouble-shooting and repair of all systems and equipment on board
• The sourcing and purchasing of parts
• The docking, undocking and anchoring of the yacht

First or chief officers can generally expect an average salary of between €4,700 and €9,900 per month. A second engineer may expect a salary starting at around €1,500 per month.

A purser is a senior crew member who manages several areas of the superyacht, ranging from crew recruitment and financial matters, to interior management and provisioning, depending on the crew on board. Pursers are typically found on larger yachts, as the role can otherwise contain a large amount of crossover with the responsibilities of the chief stewardess or housekeeper.

Where required, the purser becomes the chief of finances and keeping the accounts and financial affairs of the yacht in order.

Responsibilities of a purser include:

• The management of all financial matters on board including accounting and bookkeeping
• HR, payroll and general crew management such as keeping crew certifications up to date
• Management of the yacht’s interior including inventory tasks
• Provisioning the vessel with food, beverages, cleaning supplies, uniforms etc.
• Working with heads of departments to ensure smooth, efficient management of financial matters and purchasing and provisioning logistics
• Coordinating any contracts and deliveries to the superyacht
• Planning events and arranging owner and guest trips, as well as managing pre-arrival tasks such as transport options and venue checks
• General administration

Chief steward or stewardess

A chief steward/ess is likely to have progressed to this role through learned experience aboard a superyacht. They are in charge of the operation of the yacht interior and its staff, reporting directly to the captain. Attention-to-detail and outstanding yet discreet guest service are vital to this role.

The main responsibilities of a chief steward/ess include:

• Food service – including silver service
• Drink service and bar tending
• The oversight of accommodation cleaning and preparation
• Cabin preparation
• Flower arranging
• Obtaining local currency
• Arranging trips, transport and events for the owner and guests
• General yacht operations

As a chief steward/ess, you could expect to earn a salary of between €3,500 and €7,000 per month, while more junior stewardesses could take home anything from €1,400 to €4,000 per month, depending on the scope of their responsibilities on board.

The food is one of the many things a guest will always remember about his/her time aboard a superyacht. As expected, the chef plays an incredibly important role on board, sourcing, purchasing, transporting, preparing and presenting food on the table.

Depending on the size of the yacht, a chef may work alone, or may manage a sous chef and/or crew cook or galley hand, while at all times keeping the galley in pristine condition. He/she must be able to prepare a wide range of dishes, from the basic to the exotic, sometimes with scarce supplies. The main responsibilities of a yacht chef include:

• Devising interesting and delicious menus, meeting the demands of dietary requirements and the event in hand
• Sourcing and purchasing food items and ingredients
• Arranging the transportation of food stuffs to the yacht
• The preparation, cooking and presentation of meals for guests (and sometimes crew)
• Cleaning and maintaining the galley

The expected salary of a yacht chef can range from €4,500 to upwards of €9,000 per month, depending on the size of yacht , the experience of the individual and amount of supporting galley staff working aboard. A second/sous chef of a mid-size yacht (60m) might expect a median salary of around €3,650 per month.

Yacht crew contracts

Typically, yacht crew contracts will be offered on a seasonal basis (three to six months), a temporary basis (changeable periods), or a permanent basis of one year or more. Day work is also available – great for those seeking daily payment and on-board experience.

The  Maritime Labour Convention 2006  (MLC) sets out the interests of yacht crew welfare, providing minimum requirements for crew accommodation, welfare and employment. It demands that all crewmembers working aboard commercial charter yachts should be hired on the basis of a Seafarers Employment Agreement (SEA).

A crew contract should set out, in more detail, the name and contact details of the yacht’s owning company or agency, plus a description of the vessel. It should also include details of:

• Salary – How much you will be paid, and how
• Probationary period
• Annual leave or time off
• Summary of dismissal
• Repatriation
• Venue of jurisdiction
• Drug policy – always zero tolerance at sea
• Special issues – confidentiality, tips and kickbacks
• Personal hygiene expectations
• Official MCA-approved contracts and agreements

A sample crew contract, crew confidentiality agreement and job descriptions can be found in this document from  MGH Publishing .

In the unfortunate event that you are fired or dismissed, the MLC demands that a document (or reference) should be provided. This must not contain any statement to the quality of work given or salary taken. It must contain sufficient information to facilitate finding further work, or satisfy sea-service requirements for skills upgrading or promotion. An aggrieved owner cannot withhold it.

Picked your role? Read on to find out where and when to find a superyacht job , or  find yacht crew agents on Yachtingpages.com

Tried & Tested

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Understanding a Yacht Crew Contract

Entering the world of yachting as a crew member involves not only a passion for the sea but also a deep understanding of the contractual obligations binding both the employer and the employee. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the nuances of yacht crew contracts, unraveling key components crucial for both crew members and yacht staffing companies. If you’re interested in learning the complete insights into this subject as presented by Yacht Management South Florida, Inc ., a leader among South Florida yacht maintenance companies, then this article is the perfect place to start.

Essential Elements You’ll Need to Understand About a Crewed Yacht Contract

As a leading provider of yacht maintenance services to South Florida's vibrant boating community for years, we understand the significance of clear, comprehensive contracts for those working on yachts. These agreements foster successful relationships between crew members and owners looking to hire in our region's dynamic yachting landscape.

Tailored Contracts for a Unique Region South Florida attracts a diverse array of individuals seeking opportunities for yacht work. As such, a yacht crew contract will be tailored to cater specifically to the demands and expectations of those who work on yachts in this region. These ensure that agreements not only adhere to international standards but also align with the expectations of any person seeking to work on a yacht in South Florida.

Defining Roles and Expectations In these contracts, there is an emphasis on meticulously outlining the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of the crew members who will be sent on a yacht to navigate the waters of South Florida. Whether it's managing luxury charters, ensuring impeccable maintenance, or delivering unparalleled guest experiences while working on such vessels, clarity in duties is crucial for seamless operations.

Compensation Reflecting the Region's Standards The importance of providing those employed a fair salary for working on a yacht in South Florida cannot be overstated. Compensation and benefits within these contracts must align with the competitive standards prevalent in the region's yachting industry, attracting top-tier talent while ensuring satisfaction for employees.

Duration, Termination, and Continuity Acknowledging the transient nature of yacht work, contract duration, notice periods, and termination clauses are meticulously detailed. The emphasis on clear exit strategies aims to maintain continuity in vessel operations and uphold professionalism for those working on a yacht during transitions.

In servicing South Florida boaters and individuals seeking to work on a yacht, our yacht management company recognizes that a transparent, regionally tailored yacht crew contract is fundamental. This fosters successful and enduring relationships between crew members and yacht owners in this bustling maritime hub.

What to Consider Before Pursuing Yachtie Careers Under Contract

Navigating the legal intricacies and challenges of South Florida's vibrant yachting industry, particularly when a yacht crew contract is involved, requires a depth of expertise and a nuanced understanding of the region's dynamics. With years of dedicated service to South Florida boaters, our yacht management company stands at the helm, offering a comprehensive suite of payroll, crewing services, and more . In this section, we delve into our specialized knowledge, addressing what legal considerations, challenges, and resolutions are pertinent to the discerning needs of those navigating South Florida's yachting waters.

Legal Expertise in South Florida's Yachting Realm It is important to become well acquainted with the laws surrounding yacht staffing. Legal proficiency and compliance are key for employers. Understanding the unique regulatory environment governing yachting activities in this region is a must. Ensure that your contracts and operations align with international maritime laws and the specific guidelines relevant to South Florida waters.

Contract Negotiation and Review for South Florida Boaters Becoming an expert staffer extends to adeptly negotiating and meticulously reviewing contracts for South Florida boaters and yacht crew members. Be sure to prioritize fair negotiations and advocate for the protection of the interests of both crew and management. It's integral to understand the unique needs and expectations prevalent in the South Florida yachting community.

Addressing Challenges Unique to South Florida Recognizing the distinct challenges encountered in South Florida's yachting industry may require becoming well-versed in resolving disputes and challenges that arise within yacht crew contracts. Whether it involves discrepancies in compensation, work-hour concerns, or breach of contract, having strategies for effective conflict resolution could prove incredibly useful.

Adapting to South Florida's Evolving Industry Landscape It is important to ensure that you're learning all you can about the industry to provide your workers and yourself with the best possible result from yacht ownership. However, it can be difficult to stay on top of everything. This includes items such as payment of deckhand salary and the routine hiring of yacht attendant staff, which can fall to the wayside due to all the other areas that require your attention. That's where our yacht service experts step in to help.

The yachting industry in South Florida is dynamic and subject to technological advancements, evolving regulations, and market trends. Staying on top of the latest updates to the laws and industry surrounding yacht attendant staffing lies in adapting contracts. This results in these contracts aligning seamlessly with these changes, ensuring that the agreements remain reflective of the region's industry standards while accommodating emerging needs and trends.

Get in Touch With Our Professional Yacht Maintenance Company

Are you seeking stellar assistance with managing yacht crew contract payrolls and staffing? Look no further than our devoted Fort Lauderdale yacht service team, poised for seamless collaboration. We take pride in our unmatched range of yacht care services, setting us apart in the industry.

Our South Florida experts are renowned for their prowess, which is evident in our extensive array of informative yacht blog articles . Navigating our diverse service catalog or tailoring care to your specific needs is effortless with our seasoned professionals.

Reach out to our expert Fort Lauderdale yacht team today. Rest assured, we're fully equipped to become a valuable asset to your maritime team, eagerly anticipating the honor of readying your vessel for its next extraordinary journey. Your yacht deserves nothing short of top-tier care, and that's precisely what we deliver.

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For all inquiries, fill out the form below and a member of our team will respond as soon as possible

Yacht Crew Contracts

The phone rings and it's your soon-to-be new captain telling you that you got the job! In most cases, your employment contract is the last thing on your mind when you accept.

However, whether you will work on an MLC compliant vessel with a Seafarers' Employment Agreement or a private yacht under a Crew Agreement, a valid contract is vital and the devil is in the detail. If ever you have a dispute with your employer, your contract is the first thing you'll need to refer to.

Yacht crew agents are obliged to verify that the correct contract is being used, and this is achieved via the agent having sight of an in-date copy of the yacht's MLC certificate. Ultimately you yourself must be sure, before signing, that your contract is valid and recognized by the relevant legal jurisdiction.

Nobody ever plans to fall out with their boss but, if you do and there's a dispute, you need to know your rights and be able to protect yourself. 

We often see posts on yachting Facebook groups from disgruntled crew members asking for advice on how to impound a yacht that has not paid their wages. Sometimes it emerges that employment contracts were never issued and the crewmember is in a very weak position. Verbal agreements can be recognized as legally binding, but there always needs to be some form of evidence. 

Many years ago while I was working for a team in the Volvo Ocean Race, new management took over and I refused to board my flight to Brazil until I was issued with a new contract. It didn't make me very popular but, within days of arriving, my colleagues were informed that their holiday pay would not be honoured. I was the only member of the team who received holiday pay as I had a contract where it was written in black and white.   

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• Business and self-employed
• Maritime vessels and work at sea

Hiring crew for ships and yachts

Crew agreements.

A crew agreement is an employment contract between a ship or yacht’s owners and its crew.

All crew agreements must have:

• a cover with details of the ship and its owners
• an up-to-date crew list with names, dates of birth and addresses
• a list of anyone on board who is under 18 or exempt from a crew agreement
• contractual clauses for each crew member

A crew agreement can last up to 12 months. After this period, a new agreement must be drawn up.

What goes in a contractual clause

Clauses must include:

• the name of the crew member
• a description of the journey(s) that the agreement relates to
• the crew member’s job description
• details of their pay, hours and leave
• details of required notice and how the crew agreement can be terminated

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency ( MCA ) gives guidance on drawing up crew agreements for merchant ships and yachts:

• download MGN 148 ‘Approval of crew agreements: merchant ships
• download MGN 149 ‘Approval of crew agreements: yachts

Contact MCA for advice on drawing up a crew agreement.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) Telephone: 0845 603 2431 Find out about call charges

What to do once you’ve drawn up a crew agreement

Get every crew member to sign the agreement when they join the ship and at the end of the journey.

File the agreement with the shipping registry in the ship’s ‘flag state’ (the country where it’s registered).

Display a copy on board the vessel.

Send a copy (with the official log book, if a merchant ship) to a superintendent or proper officer within 3 days of its expiry.

Who signs a crew agreement

Most of the people on board a ship or yacht must sign the crew agreement. However, certain personnel will have separate employment contracts and won’t have to sign, like:

• entertainment staff

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Essential rules and regulations of employing crew

Those with the resources to purchase a yacht large probably already know a thing or two about employing people, but employing seafarers is not as straightforward as taking on shore-based staff.

Given the size and complexity of today's larger yachts, sailing one without an experienced, professional crew is not an option. Most owners are not sufficiently qualified to take the wheel of their own vessel. In fact, to do so could lead to insurance cover being withdrawn if there is an accident. Employing experienced crew is not cheap, and payroll usually forms the largest proportion of a yacht's running costs. Crew agencies can provide suitable candidates, normally taking a month's salary as commission, but do not normally act as employer.

Crew employment contracts

While crew members on private yachts may be employed or taken on as self-employed contractors, the presumption in law is that they are employees, unless the contract under which they serve states otherwise.

Given the degree of seafarer regulation, however, the only practical difference such status makes is with regard to liability to pay taxes (if any) and the law relating to leave and dismissal.

The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (MLC) covers all chartered yachts, and does not make the distinction between those employed and self-employed. The Convention mandates all kinds of contract terms, including hours of work, leave entitlement and repatriation. Crew conduct is also governed by the captain's standing orders.

However, seafarers' employment contracts differ from those used ashore and taking specialist advice is imperative.

Crew rights to payment

Crew services are usually seen as being supplied not only to the employer, whoever that may be, but also to the yacht itself. This principle, widely recognised in international law, usually gives crew a right to arrest the vessel they have been working on if their wages aren't paid. Whether they actually can depends both on the yacht's flag and the location of the yacht at any given time. Other yachts in the same ownership can also sometimes be arrested.

The captain's position is unenviable. Once taken on they, and not the owner or charter guests, are in charge and responsible for the behaviour of all on board. Standing orders can and should cover not only crew but, diplomatically, the owner and guests as well.

As an employer you owe your staff a duty of care, notwithstanding that they might be better qualified and more experienced than you. It is also difficult to know whether what you propose to pay is reasonable and whether you have found the right people for the job(s).

These issues are often sidestepped by contracting with a captain on a self-employed basis and leaving all other hirings to the captain, with funds being provided as required.

The Captain's role as manager

The captain of a yacht, for which shore-based management is not compulsory, is often employed as both the master and manager of the vessel.

Many captains incorporate themselves into companies for this purpose. This can provide a neat solution but there must be stringent provisions in place to ensure that the captain accounts accurately for all expenditures.

The nature of the contract between owner and captain becomes key to ensuring that regulatory obligations are fulfilled. It is not wise, however, to assume that your captain will know everything there is to know about the regulation of your yacht.

A minority take a cavalier attitude towards 'paperwork' and don't see the need to keep pace with sometimes rapidly changing regulations. Particularly where the yacht is chartered, to ask a captain alone to keep up with safety regulations, which are second in volume only to aviation, can be unreasonable.

There will always need to be at least some form of shore-side assistance. By law, lists of crew must normally be lodged ashore so that if the yacht is involved in a serious incident, rescue services will know how many people to look for. In spite of the need to maintain confidentiality, guests should also be included.

Engaging crew does not lessen an owner's responsibilities. Since logistical shore support is often needed anyway, it makes sense to use a shore-based manager to handle the management of the yacht, allowing the captain to concentrate on his or her duties on board.

Saving costs is no excuse for non-compliance, yet there are still many smaller crewed yachts that fail to adhere to regulations distilled from years of best practice and incident analysis. These yachts are also likely to be off-cover as far as their insurers are concerned.

Accident prevention

By and large, it is human error that causes accidents. The amended International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification & Watch Keeping for Seafarers (STCW), helps to ensure worldwide uniformity of crewmembers' qualifications. The emphasis is on competence more than knowledge.

An important feature of this convention is that it applies to yachts of countries which haven't adopted it when visiting the ports of countries which have.

Crew working hours

Fatigue at sea is particularly dangerous. Owners or managers must ensure that manning levels are sufficient to avoid the need to work excessive hours.

Minimum hours of rest apply, although given that work patterns on yachts can be unusual, exceptions can be made provided that the crewmember agrees and his or her health and safety, and the safety of the vessel, is never compromised.

While it is obvious when crewmembers are working hard, it is harder to distinguish between being on and off duty when there is waiting and hanging around involved. Working hours are those when the crewmember is at the disposal of his or her employer and carrying out duties or activities.

A Schedule of Duties should be drawn up setting out duties, working hours and rest periods, and records of working hours must be kept.

Long hours are not just a safety issue but also affect crewmembers' quality of life. Their welfare is largely governed by international conventions, and must also be adhered to when visiting other signatory states.

While yachts are unlikely to be in breach of those relating to, for example, water quality, those relating to repatriation and hours of work are often ignored.

Port officials do inspect yachts from time to time and can fine the owner and/or detain the yacht.

Crew contracts are necessary

From the owner's point of view, yachting is about fun, not paperwork. In the past some owners see this as an excuse not to bother with a formal contract of employment. (Now, with the ratification of MLC 2006, ships' masters are required to give all crew contracts.) Unfortunately, the only sort of captains and crew likely to be happy with not having contracts are those who take a relaxed attitude to regulations generally, including those relating to safety.

Given the highly involved nature of the various roles on board especially the captain's there must be no scope for confusion over the amount of notice which must be given by both parties.

The flag state or agreed contractual law may give minimums, but practical aspects should also be stipulated, including the obligation to assist in finding a replacement and ensure that he or she is fully familiarised with the yacht prior to taking over.

Some captains consider that an annual bonus and severance pay is a given, but by definition these should be discretionary in order to encourage better service.

In addition to a contract, the captain needs a Letter of Authority, sometimes known as a Letter of Appointment, to show to suppliers and port authorities that he has the owner's permission to hold his post and purchase goods and services accordingly.

This needs to be worded with care as the captain is the owner's legal agent and has the power to bind the owner, within reason, to contracts with third parties.

Whichever arrangement is settled on, the captain will need some form of expert support: he or she should not be left to handle every aspect of a yacht's management.

Benjamin Maltby is an English barrister with consultants matrixLloyd, providing impartial guidance on all aspects of large yacht purchase, building, ownership and operation.

Originally published: August 2007. Updated August 2012.

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YPI CREW, in partnership with Hill Dickinson law firm, have created a free downloadable guide designed to help superyacht Captains and their crew navigate through the complexities of the MYBA Charter Agreement (2017, current terms).

The MYBA Charter Agreement is a legal contract that establishes a binding relationship between the yacht Owner and Charterer as it outlines the key contractual obligations that charter Captains and crew must fulfill on behalf of superyacht Owners.

By understanding the key terms of the Charter Contract, Captains and crew should feel better prepared and more confident facing the busy charter season ahead.

Written by Martin Penny and Francesca Conn , experienced lawyers from Hill Dickinson, the guide draws on their expertise in handling numerous charter disputes representing both Owners and Charterers. By sharing their knowledge and insights, Martin and Francesca aim to help yacht Captains prevent potential issues from escalating into legal claims, ensuring a successful charter season.

The "Charter Contracts for Yacht Captains" guide emphasizes the crucial role that yacht Captains and crew play in upholding the contractual obligations of the Owner and promptly resolving any arising issues. As the charter experience is fundamentally rooted in a legal contract, it is essential for Captains and crew members to familiarize themselves with its key terms to minimize risks and provide an unforgettable luxury experience for superyacht charter guests.

Download 'Charter Contracts for Yacht Captains' Here:

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Michael_s New Member

Where could I get the typical contract for short(long) time working between owner and captain? And typical contract with crew Thank's

captxxxxx Guest

• Steer and operate vessel. • Direct and coordinate crew members or workers. • Inspect the vessel to ensure efficient and safe operation of vessels and equipment, and conformance to regulations. • Maintain records of daily activities, personnel reports, ship positions and movements, ports of call, weather and sea conditions etc • Arrange for the yacht to be fueled, restocked with supplies, and/or repaired. • Assign watches and living quarters to crew members. • Interview and hire crew members if needed. He is to ensure Training record books are kept current and all crew receive all required training. • Maintain boats and equipment on board, such as engines, winches, navigational systems, fire extinguishers, and life preservers. • Measure depths of water, using depth-measuring equipment. • Purchase supplies and equipment, when required. • Read gauges to verify sufficient levels of hydraulic fluid, air pressure, and oxygen. • Resolve questions or problems with customs officials. • Sort and form logs. • The Captain has overall responsibility to the Owner for the safety, day to day running and financial management of the vessel, which includes her crew, equipment and any other issues related to the yacht. • The Master should carefully and thoroughly inspect the entire Yacht weekly. The inspections should be logged. Particular attention should be paid to identifying potential hazards, and checking the maintenance and status of safety equipment. • The safety of personnel, the Yacht and the environment are foremost. Safe working conditions and operating practices must be established on board. The safety equipment provided must be used, including the use of properly adjusted safety harnesses when working aloft or outboard. • The Yacht must at all times be operated in compliance with all applicable local and international regulations. • The cleanliness, appearance and running of all the yacht and her crew. • Ensuring that all routines and disciplines described herein and any additional ones promulgated by the owner are adhered to. • Ensuring that before the vessel goes to sea she is correctly prepared. • Purchasing all paints, cleaning materials and other deck supplies and accounting for these. • Ensuring that the appropriate flags are displayed as and when convention demands. • The Captain is in charge of the maintenance and servicing of all the yacht equipment onboard and keeping all records up to date. • The Captain must ensure that all navigation information is correct and up to date. • The Captain is responsible for the running, maintenance and repair of all mechanical, electrical and electronic equipment, all machinery in the engine room, all domestic equipment, the operation of the onboard communications systems and computers etc. • He is to ensure that manufacturers planned maintenance routines are adhered. He is to organize a planned maintenance schedule, which is to be followed strictly. • He is responsible for all fuelling procedures and safe bunkering procedure • He is responsible for cash spent in the engineering department and keeping records on a weekly basis. • The Captain must give regular reports to the Yacht owner or his representative as to the condition of the Yacht. • Consumption of alcohol and controlled substances is strictly forbidden for all the crew members including the Captain. If found under the influence of alcohol or any drug, the employee will be fired without further notice.

Bamboo Senior Member

Michael_s said: Where could I get the typical contract for short(long) time working between owner and captain? And typical contract with crew Thank's Click to expand...

Marmot Senior Member

captxxxxx said: • He is responsible for all fuelling procedures and safe bunkering procedure. Click to expand...

K1W1 Senior Member

captxxxxx said: • Arrange for the yacht to be fueled, restocked with supplies, and/or repaired. • He is responsible for all fuelling procedures and safe bunkering procedure Click to expand...

Michael_s said: Where could I get the typical contract for short(long) time working between owner and captain? And typical contract with crew Click to expand...

aeronautic1 Member

An insurance policy will be provided by the Owner with the Captain included as additional insured to cover possible liabilities including but not limited to damage to vessel and all expenses related to injuries or sickness to the Captain. Coverage shall also include public liability and property damage. A copy of the policy will be forwarded to the Captain for review. The Captain is not responsible for normal wear and tear, not for equipment failure under prudent operation consistent with established practices, not for loss resulting from Acts of God. The Captain is not responsible for losses due to acts of war, piracy, government actions, insurgencies, nor for damage to vessel or injuries the Crew sustain therefrom, nor for the termination of the voyage as a practical consequence therefrom.

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• +1 772-200-6940
• [email protected]
• Stuart, Florida
• david.subers

SAMPLE DELIVERY CONTRACT

YACHT DELIVERY/CAPTAIN AGREEMENT:

This Document is legally binding and designates Captain Dave Subers as the vessel Owner’s Captain for the purpose of relocating the vessel as outlined in this document AND Limited POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR NAVIGATING THE YACHT/VESSEL.

This agreement is made and entered into on _______________________, 2021 between

Owner Name ____________________________________ Phone __________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ Vessel Name ____________________________________ Doc Number: ___________________________________

Captain Dave Subers, USCG #2648355

c/o Trusted Yacht Delivery 4726 SE Capstan Avenue #5b, Stuart, FL 34997, USA 772-200-6940 (cell)

Departing on or about:   _________________________________ From the port of:             _________________________________ Delivered to the port of: _________________________________

Assuming command of the vessel for the sole purpose of moving her on her own hull from one port to another as designated by the owner. The sailing route will be at the sole discretion of the Captain and he/she reserves the right to deviate from the proposed route if necessary for any reason.

DELIVERY ESTIMATE:  

I estimate a total of 00 days to complete the 0000-mile passage. 

The delivery fee for the above outlined delivery shall be $000 + expenses to complete the delivery for the Captain and all crew necessary.

Should it become necessary to stop during the passage to wait out bad weather or take care of a breakdown, i t is agreed that any layover days caused by weather, mechanical failure, high water/seas, river and/or lock closures or other Acts of God incur no additional expense. The owner will  still be responsible for any expenses incurred by the crew during any lay days.

DAILY RATE:

The delivery fee shall be $000/day + expenses for the Captain and $000/day + expenses for the Mate, Engineer or deckhand. Captain shall provide Mate, Engineer or deckhand unless vessel owner/agent agrees to perform all duties expected of Mate/Engineer or Deckhand or provides their own compensated Mate/Engineer or Deckhand based upon selective conditions set forth by the Captain. 

The above rate will be charged on days necessary to travel to and from the vessel, which includes prep, provisioning and refueling the day prior to departure. 

Should it become necessary to stop during the passage to wait out bad weather or take care of a breakdown, i t is agreed that any layover days caused by weather, mechanical failure, high water/seas, river and/or lock closures or other Acts of God shall be billed at the above agreed daily rate. The owner will  also be responsible for any expenses incurred by the crew.

RATES & CONDITIONS: 

Unless otherwise agreed, new clients or first time deliveries shall also provide a payment made payable to the Captain for 1/2 the total anticipated delivery fee to be returned with this signed agreement. Said payment will then be held as security and deducted from the total amount due upon completion of delivery. Vessel’s owner/agent also agrees to provide for all transportation charges incurred by the delivery crew to and from the point of departure and return to domicile in Stuart, FL. 

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES:  

Owner understands the Captain and crew will cover as many miles as safely possible during daylight hours, but night running may occur if a situation is brought about by mechanical problems or lockage delays either upstream or downstream of the nearest suitable marina or overnight anchorage. Additionally, night running may also occur to include crossing large bodies of water (Great Lakes, Gulf of Mexico, open seas) in order to take advantage of favorable weather and sea conditions, or with prior oral or written approval by the owner provided the vessel is equipped with GPS, Chart plotter and radar. 

EXPENSES UNDERWAY:  

A Visa or Mastercard credit card in good standing shall be furnished by the owner with a notarized letter of authorization for the Captain’s use for en-route expenses. These expenses include but are not limited to fuel, dockage, repairs, services, and food provisioning in transit and ashore. A detailed accounting of expenses for all credit card charges and cash expenditures will be submitted by the Captain at the conclusion of the trip, and any out of pocket funds due the Captain/Crew will be made prior to their departure from vessel. In the event any vendor while underway declines the above supplied credit card, said trip shall be considered terminated at the point of declination. (See Early Termination) 

TRIP LOG:  

The Captain shall also maintain the vessels daily trip log (The Ships Log) detailing all activities to include hours of operation, position reports, locking delays, equipment failures, etc. In addition, fluid levels will be checked and logged daily, along with notations that may reflect any deterioration in the vessel’s performance or seaworthiness. 

INSURANCE: 

Necessary insurance coverage shall be provided by the owner of the vessel in the form of a certificate or underwriters letter naming the Captain and Mate/Engineer/or Deckhand as additionally insured. Coverage shall include public liability and property damage to cover any contingency including but not limited to damage to vessel or injuries to the Captain or crew. It is also understood that the Captain and Mates/Engineer or Deckhand will not be held responsible for normal wear and tear, acts of war, piracy, government insurgencies or counterinsurgencies, including damage to vessel, crew or passengers caused by faulty navigational equipment, improperly placed or missing navigational aids, uncharted underwater obstructions, or for termination of the voyage caused as a practical matter there from. 

ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES:  

All obligations of the Captain under this agreement will become null and void if the said vessel is engaged in any illegal activity or violation of the Zero Tolerance government regulations regarding transportation or use of illegal drugs or smuggling on board. The Captain and Crew will uphold the law, report such activities and support the authorities conducting any investigation whether on land or on the high seas. 

EARLY TERMINATION:  

It is also agreed that if the services of the Captain and/or crew are terminated by the owner prior to the successful completion of the trip, said crew will be paid for all days worked up to and including the day of termination, plus the travel days, along with necessary airfare for crews to return to domicile. It is also agreed that if (during the course of the voyage) credit cards are refused for any reason or the Captain determines the vessel is not seaworthy or conditions exist that are deemed not suitable for continuance or may result in a “vessel not under command” situation, Captain may execute his command authority to terminate the voyage. Accordingly, the crew will be paid for all days worked up to and including the day of termination, plus the travel days, along with necessary airfare for crews return to domicile. 

SEAWORTHINESS: 

The following inspection checklist is provided to assist the owner/agent in preparing the vessel for transit. Upon dockside arrival, the Captain will use the aforementioned checklist to inspect the vessel to determine its seaworthiness and to verify compliance with necessary Coast Guard requirements and CFR’s for that particular vessel. If the Captain determines the vessel is not seaworthy or does not meet minimum CG requirements, he will state his reasons in writing on the checklist to the owner/agent. Accordingly, if the owner/agent fails to address the noted deficiencies in a timely manner, the crew will be paid for all days worked up to and including the day of termination, plus travel days, along with necessary airfare for crews return to domicile.

• Inspect all Life Jacket, Life rings
• Check/inspect all fire extinguishers and capabilities, check CO2 alarms
• Inspect all Navigational Lights and spare lamps, spot light
• Depth sounder/fathometer in working order
• Magnetic compass and Chart plotter operational, Nautical charts onboard
• Check ground tackle such as anchor, anchor rode, line, shackles, capstan, bow pulpit, rollers, spare anchor with ground tackle, Day shapes
• Ensure sound producing devices: Horn, Bell, Portable air horn
• Insure all flares and associated gear are operational (ex. flare gun)
• Insure lifecraft is secured properly and current
• Check all VHF-FM, SSB, Antennas for operation
• Flashlights, First Aid Kit, and interior/emergency lights are operational
• Have enough fenders, mooring lines
• Check all bilge float switches and high water alarms for correct operation (manually and power), Check all hose clamps on bilge pumps, Bilge floor should be clean and dry, have spare bilge pumps
• Check main engines, gear boxes, gen sets, oils and coolant levels
• Visually inspect all sea valves for operation and sea strainers and clean if necessary, have spare sea strainers, insure hose clamps are tight, have extra hose clamps
• Inspect steering gear for fluid leaks from hydraulic lines and steering ram, swing rudders hard right to hard left for smooth operation
• Inspect rudder glands and shaft packing glands, adjust accordingly, have extra gland packing
• Operated trim tabs and check fluid
• Ensure all batteries are secure, inspect battery electrolyte level and fill as required, have battery cables and extra battery
• Check and ensure portholes and deck hatches operation and that the seals are watertight

VESSEL EQUIPMENT: 

The Owner must represent the vessel to be seaworthy and  carry all current registration, documentation and insurance papers . 

If upon initial inspection or en route (underway), mechanical, electronic, electrical failure, loss or damage occurs or has occurred to said vessel or it’s equipment which, in the Captains’ judgment, hinders her ability to make or continue a safe voyage, the Owner must correct it, or authorize corrective action, at the Owner’s expense. 

Also expected on board will be multiple sets of fuel filters for the main engines and genset(s), along with at least four one gallon containers of oil normally used in the main engines and one gallon of oil for the genset(s). The vessel must also carry the necessary tools to maintain simple repairs and maintenance while underway, to include spare bulbs, belts, etc. Vessel shall also carry ample supply of bed linens, cooking utensils and cleaning supplies, along with deck cleaning supplies and equipment to support the delivery, and as conditions allow, the crew will wash down the vessel to remove accumulated salt spray, diesel exhaust soot, or other harmful agents. Vessel shall also carry all charts, navigation instruments, binoculars, hand-held VHF radio, etc., as necessary to complete the trip over waterways specified above. 

HOLD HARMLESS:  

The Captain in not responsible for normal wear and tear, nor for equipment failure under prudent operation consistent with established practices, nor for loss resulting from acts of God (ex lighting, hurricanes etc). The Captain is not responsible for losses due to acts of war, piracy, government’s actions, or insurgencies, nor for damage to the vessel or injuries to the crew, nor for the termination of the delivery caused by practical consequences from any of the above. 

DELIVERY AGREEMENT ACCEPTANCE: 

The Parties hereby agree to the conditions stated herein as subscribed below: 

Owner Name (PRINT)________________________________________ Owner Signature ________________________________ Date: __________________________________________

Captain’s Name (PRINT)________________________________________ Owner Signature ________________________________ Date: __________________________________________

ACCEPTANCE OF DELIVERY & RELEASE FROM OBLIGATION AND/OR RESPONSIBILITY

________________________________________ has been delivered, inspected and found to be in acceptable seaworthy condition. All expenses have been duly verified and owner has paid all charges for services rendered and expenses encountered during the delivery trip. The Captain and Mate/Engineer or Deckhand are hereby released from any further obligation or liability.

Please make checks payable to: David Subers

Yacht Delivery Quote

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Yacht Charter Contract Types

A comprehensive guide to understanding charter paperwork

Like anything else in life, it is important to have a contract in place to set out any rights, obligations and cancellation policies. The charter contract will include dates and locations of the charter, details of the payment structure and insurance along with warnings of any unacceptable behaviour. Read on for a comprehensive guide into what to expect from your charter contracts.

Although charter paperwork has recently become much more standardised, a charter broker will have plenty of experience with charter contracts and be able to explain any clauses which charterers may find confusing. A charter contract is carefully constructed to protect both the charterer and the yacht owner. Charterers must be aware of maritime rules and regulations and the contract is therefore constructed to ensure the laws of the country to which a yacht is flagged are abided by.

Typically the contracts used are provided by professional organisations with MYBA offering the most commonly used contracts in the industry, particularly for large vessels cruising within the Mediterranean.

Formerly known as Western Mediterranean Terms, MYBA (Worldwide Yachting Association, formerly known as Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) terms are often referred to as a "plus all expenses" contract. Under the terms of a MYBA contract the below are typically inclusive of the base charter fee;

• Hire of the yacht including all water toys and equipment (in full working order).
• Wages and food of the crew for the duration of the charter.
• Ship’s laundry.

In addition to the above, expenses such as food and drinks for the guests, fuel (including main engines, tender fuel and jet skis etc.), personal laundry, communication costs and berthing fees will also be applicable.

In order to make the payment structure coherent for guests, the additional expenses for the charter party will often be covered by an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) and often equates to approximately 25-30 percent of the base charter fee. For more details on APA and how it is calculated please visit our Understanding Charter Costs page.

Caribbean Terms Inclusive (CTI)

Caribbean Terms Inclusive are also commonly used within the charter industry particularly with small vessels venturing to the Caribbean. Also known as Standard Caribbean Terms, CTI terms are often described as “mostly all-inclusive”. Under the terms of a CTI contract the below are inclusive of the base charter fee;

• Wages and food of crew.
• Food only (3 meals daily) for charter party.
• Fuel for four hours of cruising per day over charter period.

Although some CTI contracts may also include a selection of beverages this may vary, meaning some may include a selection of beverages where others may charge extra for all beverages. Additional fuel costs will also be applicable (including main engines, tender fuel and jet skis etc.) plus berthing fees and communication costs.

Although MYBA and CTI are the most commonly used contract terms, there are others which charterers may come across when booking a yacht charter and this is often dependent on the size of the yacht and where the yacht is travelling to.

Standard Eastern Mediterranean Terms (SEMT)

Although less frequently than the above, SEMT are sometimes still used and offer much the same principles as CTI, however where CTI covers three daily meals, SEMT will only provide breakfast and lunch on the basis that guests are likely to eat ashore most evenings. Under SEMT the base charter fee will include;

• Half board (2 meals daily, breakfast and lunch) for charter party.
• Fuel for four hours of cruising per day over charter period (may vary).
• Harbour and berthing fees.

In addition to the above, the charterer will be required to cover any additional fuel costs, food (evening meal), and beverages for charter party, personal laundry, communication costs and any berthing fees outside the usual cruising area. National and/or local taxes may also be applicable.

Greek Terms (GT)

Under GT the below are included in the base charter fee;

• Hire and insurance of vessel with all equipment in working order.
• Crew wages and crew food.
• Ship's laundry.
• Harbour and berthing fees within Greek waters.

In addition to the below fuel costs will be required plus food and drink for the charter party, berthing fees outside the Greek waters, communications costs and local taxes.

Important considerations

Think Fuel Although some terms are inclusive of fuel for up to four cruising hours per day, it is important to remember that should guests wish to exceed a cruising speed, use jet skis and electricity whilst at anchor, more fuel will be used with the cost applied to the charterer.

Reading the contract It is essential that each charter guest has a full understanding of the charter contract and how they will be affected by it, therefore each guest should take the time to read the contract and familiarise themselves with the content.

Don’t be afraid to speak up Although a charter contract may seem daunting at first, it is there to protect both you and the yacht owner. It is critical that guests speak up should they have any questions regarding the contract or are unsure as to how the payment structure is applied or how costs are calculated. Charter brokers are experts in the field and will be able to explain one contract clause to the next, so don’t be afraid to ask.

Please visit our pages on How to Plan and Book a Yacht Charter and Understanding Charter Costs for more information on booking your private yacht charter.

Getting Started

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Featured Luxury Yachts for Charter

This is a small selection of the global luxury yacht charter fleet, with 3567 motor yachts, sail yachts, explorer yachts and catamarans to choose from including superyachts and megayachts, the world is your oyster. Why search for your ideal yacht charter vacation anywhere else?

136m | Lurssen

from $4,333,000 p/week ♦︎

115m | Lurssen

from $2,816,000 p/week ♦︎

85m | Golden Yachts

from $975,000 p/week ♦︎

88m | Golden Yachts

from $1,192,000 p/week ♦︎

84m | Feadship

from $1,083,000 p/week ♦︎

93m | Feadship

from $1,517,000 p/week ♦︎

Maltese Falcon

88m | Perini Navi

from $490,000 p/week

122m | Lurssen

from $3,000,000 p/week

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The YachtCharterFleet Difference

YachtCharterFleet makes it easy to find the yacht charter vacation that is right for you. We combine thousands of yacht listings with local destination information, sample itineraries and experiences to deliver the world's most comprehensive yacht charter website.

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