Imagine pulling into a hidden cove where there is no pier in sight and looking out at the surroundings of nature, the mountains, or a string of beaches. The captain drops anchor and you toast the sunset on deck before dinner with your closest friends or family members. The next day you do it somewhere else, experiencing the yacht charter lifestyle of the rich and famous. But without having to own and maintain the ship.
Thanks to the option of chartering instead of owning, you can have the perks and joys without any of the maintenance and storage headaches. Yacht charters typically involve renting a luxury yacht for a specified period, during which you can cruise through stunning coastal waters, visit different ports and bays, and enjoy numerous onboard amenities. You will have a range of options available, such as motor yachts and sailing yachts of different sizes.
There are plenty of Latin American charter destinations to explore and we have highlighted a few of them on Luxury Latin America in our feature stories. We have sailed on small ships in locations from Chile to the Galapagos to Belize to Mexico, for a start.
For those who want more personalized service and do not want to be sharing a ship with 1,000 other people on a regular cruise, yacht charters can deliver a much more interesting and intimate experience, one where you have a lot more control as well. In that photo above, the max number of passengers is 12, so you have a lot of space to yourselves.
Main Advantages of a Yacht Charter
A yacht charter trip offers freedom and a personalized experience tailored to your desires. You and your party can determine the itinerary, set your own pace, and decide on the activities you want to engage in. With a professional captain at the helm and an onboard chef preparing gourmet meals, it’s the perfect way to escape the mundane and explore new destinations in luxury.
Yacht charters give you the opportunity to:
- Explore amazing destinations at your leisure
- Enjoy secluded coves away from crowded areas
- Experience relaxation in stunning surroundings
Besides the superior experience you get on a luxury yacht compared to a big cruise ship, here are some of the key considerations that can make it worth the higher price tag.
Larger Cabins with More Amenities
In most cruise ships, you need to upgrade to the very top category to have plenty of room to spread out. With far fewer cabins on a yacht, however, they are usually configured to have more space than a cruise cabin and will be loaded with better amenities. A top suite on a regular ship will be a regular room on many of these.
In addition, the crew members are there just for you, so housekeeping is on your schedule and the person restocking your minibar will be ready to get on it when you need more drinks, to your specifications.
Exclusive Access and Privacy
One of the main advantages of chartering a yacht is the exclusive access it offers. You benefit from a private space where you can unwind, entertain, or spend quality time with your friends and family. The sense of privacy is ideal for those seeking a unique and memorable vacation experience.
This exclusivity extends to destinations as well. Charter yachts can reach secluded locations that are often inaccessible by land, providing a true sense of escape from the outside world. On trips we have done with several yacht companies, we were often the only boat in the area, not in some port where we were stacked up beside huge ships.
Variety of Activities and Adventure
On a yacht charter trip, you can also embrace the spirit of adventure by landing on a beach and going for a hike or just heading off the side by paddling. You can indulge in water sports, go diving or snorkeling in vibrant underwater ecosystems, or partake in fishing excursions.
If you prefer land-based activities, you can explore local attractions, indulge in shopping sprees, or immerse yourself in the rich culture of the region.
You will have input in all of this, so the crew will be ready to lead you on a bucket list adventure by foot, paddleboard, or kayak or line up a driver for an excursion into the interior for nature, adventure, or winery visits.
We have written about quite a few yacht charter trips here on Luxury Latin America, from ships hosting 10 guests to super yachts with 50 people on board. Here are a few prime areas to consider for a yacht charter in the Americas.
Mexico’s Yacht Charter Locations
Mexico offers stunning yacht charter destinations along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. In the Caribbean, the Yucatan Peninsula is an enchanting location for sailing, with access to secluded beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Cozumel and Cancun are popular spots to explore the Caribbean atmosphere.
For a more adventurous experience, set your course for Baja California along the Pacific coast. The stunning Sea of Cortez boasts amazing marine life, beautiful islands, and picturesque harbors like La Paz and Loreto. You could also use mainland ports as the starting point and explore the coast around Mazatlan and around Puerto Vallarta, from the Riviera Nayarit down to Manzanillo in Costalegre. These are wild coasts with 100 empty beaches. The same is true of the Oaxacan coast around Huatulco.
Central American Coastal Gems
Central America is a treasure trove of hidden bays and the coral reef that extends down from the Yucatan Peninsula. There are excellent trips possible on the Caribbean side in Belize by itself or down through the rest of Central America. including the Bay Islands of Honduras.
If the Pacific coast is calling your name, be sure not to miss the vibrant wildlife and lush greenery of the Pearl Islands of Panama and the rich coast of Costa Rica. Visit the famed Papagayo Peninsula or the Nicoya Peninsula, both offering remarkable yachting experiences.
South America’s Sailing Hotspots
Go beyond the typical yachting destinations and delve into vibrant South America. Along the northwestern coast, the stunningGalapagos Islands of Ecuador are truly different than anywhere else in the world. Renowned for their unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, they offer a truly unforgettable yacht charter experience. We have gone on several trips here with different companies, so check out our Galapagos yacht cruise stories.
On the Atlantic side of South America, set sail for Uruguay and its elegant Punta del Este. Often called the “Saint Tropez of South America,” it’s a must-visit during the austral summer months for those seeking a mix of beach, nature, and nightlife.
This is sometimes a stop on trips going from Rio to Buenos Aires or the other way around. Seeing Rio from the water is definitely a magical experience.
In the clear blue waters of the Caribbean, Colombia’s San Andrés and Providencia Islands are considered one of South America’s best-kept secrets. Combining natural charm and secluded beaches with the rich Afro-Caribbean culture, this area is perfect for adventurers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path destination.
On the Pacific side, we took a large luxury yacht trip on the Scenic Eclipse that went from Lima to Valparaiso, but further south of there you get into the fjords and channels of Patagonia in Chile, with more dramatic scenery.
Planning Your Yacht Charter Adventure
Selecting the Right Yacht
When planning your yacht charter adventure, choosing the right yacht is essential. Consider the size and type of yacht that will fit your needs and preferences. Private yacht charters offer a variety of options. To make an informed decision, consider aspects such as:
- Size: Think about the number of guests and the desired level of comfort. Couples or small groups can charter smaller yachts for an intimate experience, while larger gatherings may require a more spacious option.
- Type: Motor yachts provide speed and stability, whereas sailing yachts offer a more traditional and environmentally friendly option. Ask how often they raise the sails though because if they are in a hurry to get between stops, it may not be often.
- Amenities: Consider amenities such as water sports equipment, entertainment systems, and available crew services to enhance your journey.
Deciding the Best Time to Charter
When planning your charter, it’s essential to research the best time to visit your desired destination. Factors to consider include the weather, local event calendars, and charter prices. A reliable company will help with this and not try to push you to book when it might be raining half the time because it is the wrong season.
Weather: The climate varies across Mexico, Central America, and South America, so be sure to research your destination’s typical weather patterns to ensure a comfortable trip. Generally, dry seasons offer calmer sailing conditions and sunny skies, while rainy seasons can be unpredictable. For example, in Mexico, the prime time for yacht charters is typically from November to May, when the weather is milder. Remember that summer in Patagonia is winter in the Northern Hemisphere.
Events: Research the local event calendar for your destination, as this can influence charter availability and prices. It may also help you decide on your itinerary. Some regions hold renowned events such as festivals, races, or regattas that might enhance your charter experience. Be aware that popular events may increase the demand for yacht charters, affecting availability and prices.
Charter Prices: Prices can vary depending on the season. High demand periods, such as holidays and local events, can result in higher charter rates. To find more affordable options, consider chartering during shoulder periods. This timeframe often offers a balance between favorable weather conditions and reduced prices.
Ultimately, by choosing the right yacht, planning accordingly for your destination’s optimal season, and considering your itinerary needs, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable yacht charter adventure.
