XIPHIAS

After confirming availability for your selected vessel and finalizing your booking, you'll receive a charter agreement—either a MYBA agreement or our standard charter agreement.

MYBA is the Mediterranean Yacht Broker Association, establishing industry-wide standards that ensure the exceptional service you expect. This agreement outlines any additional charges and taxes applicable to your chosen itinerary.

Your yacht is secured once the deposit (typically 50% of the charter fee) is paid and the agreement is signed. Approximately two months before departure, the remaining balance and extras become due, at which point we begin detailed planning for your yacht holiday. Throughout the process, you'll have our complete support and guidance.

Learn more about the entire booking process here.

Your charter fee includes the vessel, crew, and all standard equipment aboard. Additional expenses generally comprise APA (which covers fuel costs, food and beverages, harbor charges, and various operational expenses), VAT (when relevant), and potential relocation fees should you embark or disembark at alternate ports. A detailed cost summary will be provided prior to confirmation.

APA stands for Advanced Provisioning Allowance. This is paid upfront and covers all supplementary expenses incurred throughout your charter week, including fuel, harbor charges, onboard dining, fuel for water toys, additional services rendered, and more. According to MYBA standards, it's typically set between 30-40% of the total charter cost. Should you not utilize the full amount by the end of your charter, the unused portion will be refunded to you. Conversely, if your expenditure surpasses the prepaid allowance, you'll need to settle the difference prior to departure.

In addition to the base charter fee, charterers should anticipate several supplementary expenses:

✔️ Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): Typically set at 30-40% of the charter fee, the APA covers operational costs such as fuel, port fees, food, beverages, and other specific requests. The captain manages this fund, providing a detailed account of expenditures, and any remaining balance is refunded at the end of the charter.

✔️ Gratuities: While discretionary, it's customary to tip the crew around 10-15% of the charter fee, reflecting the quality of service provided.

✔️ Value Added Tax (VAT): In Greece, VAT on crewed yacht charters with a Greek charter licence is typically 13% on the charter fee. Depending on the yacht’s Certificate of Compliance and navigation category, the effective VAT can be reduced, most commonly to 6.5% or 5.2%.

Securing a yacht charter immediately before or during the season is nearly impossible. For this reason, we recommend reserving your desired vessel at least 6 months ahead to prevent missing out on either the yacht itself or your preferred travel dates.

Greece's Mediterranean climate makes it an exceptional yachting destination throughout the year, with every season delivering its own distinct character. Here's your seasonal guide:

✔️ Low Season: Spring (April – May)
Perfect for travelers seeking moderate temperatures, tranquil anchorages, and reduced charter costs. Waters remain cool yet swimmable, while the scenery is vibrant and green, and coastal villages enjoy a pleasantly quiet atmosphere.

✔️ Mid-Season: Early Summer (June) & Late Summer (September)
An optimal blend of pleasant weather and manageable crowds. The Adriatic becomes perfect for swimming, while harbors and towns maintain a lively ambiance without excessive congestion. This represents one of the premier periods for luxury yacht charters.

✔️ High Season: Peak Summer (July – August)
The pinnacle of yachting season, when Greece comes alive with activity. Anticipate elevated temperatures, dynamic nightlife, and bustling social atmosphere. Sought-after marinas and anchorages reach capacity rapidly, making advance reservations crucial.

✔️ Low Season: Autumn (October)
A serene, laid-back retreat featuring warm afternoons and refreshing evenings. While certain seasonal establishments and venues begin closing, the waters stay calm, creating an ideal setting for those desiring a secluded, peaceful voyage.

Tipping isn't mandated by any formal agreement, though it is traditional practice. Based on your experience with the crew and quality of service, you may provide anywhere from 10% to 15% to the captain, who distributes it amongst all crew members.

Greece's official currency is the Euro (€). For off-board expenses, it's advisable to have some cash available. Regarding other purchases throughout the country, most establishments accept card payments. Should you need cash, ATMs are readily accessible.