Before You Book
1. How much does a yacht charter cost?
Day charters on the French Riviera start from €2,500. Weekly charters range from €25,000 to over €500,000 for superyachts. See our detailed cost guide.
2. What is the APA?
The Advance Provisioning Allowance (25–35% of the charter fee) covers fuel, food, drinks, port fees, and other running costs. Any unused APA is refunded. Read our APA guide.
3. How far in advance should I book?
For peak season (July–August), book 3–6 months ahead. Shoulder season (May–June, September–October) offers more last-minute availability. See our booking timing guide.
4. Do I need a boating licence?
No. All Navélia charters include a professional captain. Read our licence guide.
5. What's the cancellation policy?
Standard terms: 50% deposit at booking, balance 30 days before. Full refund up to 60 days; 50% refund 30–60 days. Charter cancellation insurance is available.
On Board
6. What crew is on board?
Day charters have a captain and sometimes a hostess. Weekly charters include a full crew: captain, chef, stewardess(es), and deckhands. Read about crewed charters.
7. What food is served?
The chef creates menus based on your preferences — from Mediterranean cuisine to specific dietary requirements. On day charters, catering can be arranged or you can bring your own.
8. Is there Wi-Fi on board?
Most charter yachts have Wi-Fi. Superyachts typically offer satellite internet. Coverage may vary in remote anchorages.
9. What water activities are available?
Standard equipment includes paddleboards, snorkelling gear, and kayaks. Larger yachts add jet skis, wakeboarding, water skiing, seabobs, and inflatable slides.
10. Can I choose the itinerary?
Absolutely. You'll discuss preferences with your captain before and during the charter. The route adapts to weather, your mood, and discoveries along the way.
Practical Questions
11. What should I pack?
Light, casual clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and soft-soled shoes for the deck. One smart outfit for port dinners. See our packing guide.
12. Is there a dress code on yachts?
Casual elegance. Barefoot is standard on deck. White-soled shoes only to protect teak decks.
13. What about seasickness?
Modern yachts with stabilisers minimise motion. The French Riviera has calm, sheltered waters. If prone to seasickness, inform the crew — they have remedies and can choose calmer routes.
14. Can I bring children?
Absolutely. Many yachts cater specifically to families with safety equipment, shallow water access, and crew experienced with children. See our family charter guide.
15. How much should I tip the crew?
Industry standard is 10–20% of the charter fee, paid in cash to the captain at the end. 15% is a good benchmark for excellent service.
Safety & Logistics
16. Are yacht charters safe?
Extremely. Commercial charter yachts undergo rigorous safety inspections. Crews are trained in first aid, fire safety, and emergency procedures. Life jackets are available for all guests.
17. What happens in bad weather?
Your captain monitors forecasts continuously. In rough weather, the itinerary adapts to sheltered areas. The Mediterranean rarely produces dangerous conditions in summer.
18. Is there insurance?
All charter yachts carry comprehensive insurance. Personal travel insurance is recommended for trip cancellation and medical coverage.
19. Where do I embark?
Common embarkation points include Saint-Tropez, Monaco, Cannes, and Nice. We arrange transfers from your hotel or the airport.
20. Can I go ashore during the charter?
Of course. Your yacht carries a tender (small boat) for shore excursions. Visit restaurants, beaches, villages, and attractions throughout your charter.
Booking with Navélia
21. Why choose Navélia?
We specialise exclusively in the French Riviera and Mediterranean. Our team of charter specialists responds within 10 minutes, and our curated fleet ensures quality across every price point.
22. How does the booking process work?
Share your dates, group size, and preferences. We'll send you 3–5 curated yacht options within hours. Choose your favourite, sign the charter agreement, and we handle everything else.
23. Can I see the yacht before booking?
We provide detailed photos, videos, and 360° virtual tours. For high-value charters, we can arrange in-person yacht viewings at the nearest marina.
24. What payment methods do you accept?
Bank transfer is standard. We can also accommodate other payment methods. The deposit is 50%, with the balance due 30 days before departure.
25. Can I extend my charter once it's started?
Subject to yacht availability, extensions are often possible. Inform the crew or contact us as early as possible to check availability.
Contact Navélia with any questions not covered here. We respond within 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum charter duration?+
Day charters are available for half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (8–10 hours). Multi-day charters typically require a 2-day minimum. Weekly charters run Saturday to Saturday in peak season.
Is alcohol included on a yacht charter?+
On weekly charters with a chef, alcohol is provisioned from the APA based on your preferences. On day charters, you can bring your own or request a drinks package.
Can I bring pets on a yacht charter?+
Many yachts welcome well-behaved dogs. Inform us at booking so we can select a pet-friendly yacht. Some yachts have breed or size restrictions.
Related Articles
"The crew anticipated our every need, and the itinerary was perfectly curated." — Edward & Isabelle T., London
Ready to plan your French Riviera voyage?