Are you fed up with elbowing your way through the crowds at oversaturated tourist hotspots? Why not head out to sea on your own, with nothing but the vast waters all around you and the horizon unfolding before your eyes? Long believed to be a hobby just for the ultra-wealthy, yacht sailing is fast becoming a go-to activity for nature lovers and adventure-seekers in search of a new spin on the traditional coastal getaway. And tropical destinations like the Philippines, brimming with powdery white beaches and hidden coves, are the perfect places to start.
Gone are the days of private yachts only being options for the high-rolling vacationer. Private yacht rental services have made it far more accessible. Treat yourself to a luxurious weekend retreat or take a quick island-hopping adventure. You might even embark on an extended sailing expedition with a professional crew. Whatever your vision might be, yacht charter companies in the Philippines will rise to meet your every need. You can be assured of reliable, well-trained staff and excellently maintained vessels, and a few providers will even offer additional services like itinerary planning or sailing lessons to improve your experience.
Interested in booking a private yacht rental Philippines’ sailing enthusiasts trust? There are a few important things you need to know before you set off. This handy, comprehensive guide can help you cruise through the rental process with the confidence of a seasoned sailor.
Types of Yacht Charters
Some yachters want the freedom to sail where and how they want, while others would rather kick back and leave everything to a trained crew. Others might want a balanced experience that nets them the best of both worlds.
Fortunately, you’ve got a few yacht charters that you can choose from depending on how you’d like your time out on the water to go. Let’s look more closely at the different types:
- Crewed Charters – A fully staffed yacht is typically composed of a captain, deckhands, and sometimes a chef. They’ll take care of everything from navigation to meal prep for you, so all you need to do is settle in and fully enjoy the journey.
- Bareboat Charters – Love the idea of sailing independently and already have the necessary experience? Go ahead and rent a yacht without a crew. You may just need to have certification ready, depending on the provider’s requirements.
- Skippered Charters – Leave navigation to a professional skipper and learn more about sailing at a relaxed pace. You’ll enjoy the privilege of traveling in private without necessarily having to handle the boat all by yourself.
- Cabin Charters – Instead of booking a whole boat, you can book a cabin on a shared yacht for a better deal. Similar to a boutique cruise, this option is perfect when you’re traveling solo or with a partner and looking for a social sailing adventure.
Cost of Yacht Charters
You’re probably now wondering how much you can expect to spend on a private yacht rental in the Philippines. That ultimately comes down to a few different factors, including:
- Type of yacht
- Rental duration
- Season
- Included amenities
- Participating crew
Expect smaller speedboats or monohull sailing yachts to start at around USD 500 to USD 1,000 for a short day trip. These can accommodate small groups for excursions like island-hopping or snorkeling. A charter with a crew on a larger sailing catamaran, on the other hand, can start at USD 3,500 per day. Meanwhile, a week-long adventure on a fully staffed yacht can cost upwards of USD 20,000.
Don’t forget to consider additional expenses that may not be included in the initial quote. These can include:
- Fuel costs
- Docking fees
- Food and beverage provisions
- Crew gratuities
- Special activity permits (such as those for diving or fishing).
Some providers offer all-inclusive packages that bundle these costs, while others follow a more à la carte pricing model. Don’t hesitate to shop around among different rental companies until you find one whose approach matches what you’re looking for.
Selection of Boat Types Available
Not all yachts are built the same. Some are designed to zip across the water, while others are built for more leisurely, luxury cruising. Here are some of the most common yacht types available for charter in the Philippines:
- Speedboats – Compact, highly mobile vessels that are ideal for island hopping or day trips with multiple destinations.
- Monohull Sailboats – A classic choice for traditional sailing enthusiasts. These boats require more skill to maneuver but allow you to work with the wind, like a real sailor.
- Sailing Catamarans – Stable, spacious boats that have long been the go-to vessel for group charters and extended trips.
- Motor Yachts – Larger speedboats designed for comfort and luxury travel. These yachts come with powerful engines, high-end amenities, and roomy cabins.
Booking and Regulations
You might find it a bit more complicated to book a private yacht than a hotel room. Take the following steps to arrange your next sailing adventure hassle-free:
- Book as Far in Advance as Possible – Demand for yacht rentals skyrockets during peak season. Move fast to improve your chances of securing the boat you want. Most providers will ask you for an initial deposit and collect the rest before you depart.
- Read Your Rental Agreement Well – Your rental agreement will outline important details like cancellation policies and payment terms. It will also probably cover your responsibilities as the charterer, as well as your provider’s responsibilities to you. Some companies may ask you for proof of sailing experience or certification to guarantee your safety at sea if you go for a bareboat charter.
- Figure Out What Permits You Need – If you’re looking to dive, fish, or visit a protected marine area, you may need additional special permits. Your charter company will usually take care of the necessary paperwork for you should you choose to travel with a crew. Still, it never hurts to confirm these details before you hit the water.
It can take a bit of know-how and a lot of planning to rent a private yacht in the Philippines. Still, you’ll feel all that effort pay off in spades once you get to drink in the beauty of the islands from the deck of your own boat. There’s ultimately no better way to craft a sailing getaway that’s exactly the way you want it in every respect.
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