How to get into yachting.

Published 18 March 2022

Want to find out how to try the world of yachting? Yacht rental - known in the trade as yacht charter - is the easiest way to dip your toe in the water. The smart move is to work with a charter broker to make sure you're taken care of every step of the way


Where to start

Everyone’s first time aboard a yacht is memorable. The sun, sea and seven-star service make an unrivalled holiday. Whether invited by friends or discussing options with one of our charter brokers, charter is the best way to try the yachting lifestyle to understand what floats your boat.

Welcome aboard! You are in safe hands with your captain and crew
Welcome aboard! You are in safe hands with your captain and crew 

Ranging from a weekend trip cruising the Italian Riviera to a three-week stint island hopping The Bahamas, the best yachting experiences are those supported by a professional broker. A charter broker will advise you on the what, where and how - and provide a joined-up service from your front door to the yacht, the watersports and destinations, the restaurants and on-board chef, even the wellness spa and activites.

Your charter broker will take care of you every step of the way
Your charter broker will take care of you every step of the way
From airport to car to yacht tender
From airport to car to yacht tender
To getting aboard your yacht begin your holiday
To getting aboard your yacht begin your holiday

Which yacht

Superyachts are much like cars in the vast variety on offer. To understand your options start with your own requirements for your yacht charter - how many people do you want to bring aboard, where do you want to sail, what activities are you interested in? From sailing to motor, and catamaran to explorer - the style, size and capability of a yacht is largely dictated by your preferences and bucket list cruising grounds. A broker will take your brief and give you a short list.

A sailing superyacht is a great way to reduce stress levels and is the most sustainable form of yachting. Motor yachts are floating havens that facilitate relaxation – or high-octane pursuits – while an explorer yacht typically possesses a high bow, a deep draft for transatlantic crossings and autonomy for long-distance cruising in remote areas.

A motor yacht has all the facilities of an exclusive private hotel
A motor yacht has all the facilities of an exclusive private hotel
Chose a sailing yacht for peaceful, sustainable yachting
Choose a sailing yacht for peaceful, sustainable yachting
An explorer yacht is equipped to take you to wild destinations
An explorer yacht is equipped to take you to wild destinations

An explorer yacht is equipped to take you to wild destinations

Selecting your yacht charter destination depends on what time of year you plan on going. This will also influence the yacht that you end up chartering, as different yachts are based in different locations and usually move throughout the year. The most common migration is the Mediterranean in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter. However, you will also find yachts cruising the waters of Central and South America, Antarctica, the Pacific islands, Northern Europe and even Costa Rica.

For pure glamour, cruise the Mediterranean
For pure glamour, cruise the Mediterranean
The Bahamas are loads of family fun
Heli-ski from your yacht in colder climates
Heli-ski from your yacht in colder climates

What to expect

If you can dream it, you can experience it on a superyacht charter. The saying ‘anything goes’ applies, from style of food and beverage to the pace of life on board. If you’re an early bird who likes to indulge in morning yoga before taking the jetskis out for a spin, so be it. If you prefer to sleep until gone midday, enjoy al fresco lunch in private before lounging your way into the early hours, go ahead. A superyacht is a home away from home – the fun doesn’t stop until you say so.

Is sunrise yoga on your wish list?
Is sunrise yoga on your wish list?
Or taking the jetski for a spin?
Or taking the jetski for a spin?
There's always time for an al fresco lunch
There's always time for an al fresco lunch

Plan your trip

Yachting holidays are like no other. Bespoke from beginning to end, you choose the yacht, destination, activities, entertainment, food and drink, plus more. It’s best to consult with your broker who can advise on a yacht’s availability, the best times to visit your preferred destination, provide help with selecting a crew that fits your needs and ensure you have the best onboard features. The captain will plan an incredible itinerary that takes in top yachting experiences while factoring in your favourite past-times, cuisines and excursions. Then all you need to do is choose who to take along for the dream ride.

Learn more about charter with Burgess

The best way to learn more about yachts is to dive into a superyacht charter. At Burgess we have a huge fleet of charter yachts to choose from, in all corners of the world. Our charter brokers are friendly and easy to talk to - there are no 'wrong' questions - so get in touch and book your dream yacht holiday.


To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London, Monaco, New York, Miami, Singapore or all other locations.

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