If you’re planning a vacation on the water, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Should I book a cruise or go for a private yacht charter?” While both offer unforgettable experiences at sea, they’re very different in terms of flexibility, privacy, comfort, and cost transparency.
Here are the major differences to help you decide which option fits your travel style, and explain why more travelers are choosing private charters through YATR.
Cruise vs. Private Yacht Charter: What’s the Difference?
1. Privacy and Space
Cruises: You’ll be one of thousands of passengers. Shared dining areas, group excursions, and crowded decks are the norm.
Yacht Charters: You’re in full control. You choose your guest list based on the number of available cabins, enjoy exclusive access to all spaces onboard, and receive personalized service from a dedicated crew.
2. Flexibility and Custom Itineraries
Cruises: Fixed schedules, set ports, and limited time at each stop.
Yacht Charters: You decide where to go and when. Want to linger at a private beach or skip a crowded port? It’s your call.
3. Dining and Amenities
Cruises: Buffets, large dining halls, and set menus are standard. You may pay extra for specialty restaurants.
Yacht Charters: Many yachts offer private chefs, custom meals, and open bars. Amenities like tenders, seabobs, waterslides, jetskis, Jacuzzis, and wifi are often included.
4. Cost Transparency
Cruises: Base fares may seem low, but often don’t include drinks, tips, excursions, WiFi, or premium dining.
Yacht Charters: With YATR, you see total costs upfront—including taxes, gratuity, and optional APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) for multi-day trips.
5. Travel Experience
Cruises: Great for first-time travelers who prefer structured experiences.
Yacht Charters: Ideal for families, couples, or groups looking for exclusivity, adventure, or celebration.
Here are our top yacht picks available on YATR:
94’ Custom Line in Miami – Starting at $70,000* per week
Cruise ships may pack in more people, but this yacht packs in more comfort and freedom. With 5 cabins for 10 guests and a crew of 5, this charter gives you the space, privacy, and personal attention that cruises just can’t match.
Included Amenities:
Jet Ski
Floats
Total Cost for 1 Week: $106,400* (All Taxes and Fees Included)
125’ Broward in Miami – Starting at $80,000* per week
For travelers who want cruise-level luxury without the crowds, this private charter delivers. With 4 cabins for 8 guests, a crew of 6, and space for 13 day guests, it offers full control of your itinerary, privacy at every stop, and premium onboard service you won’t find on a cruise ship.
Included Amenities:
Tender
Jacuzzi
Seabob
Floats
Wet bar
BBQ
Inflatable island
Wi-Fi
Total Cost for 1 Week: $121,200* (All Taxes and Fees Included)
94’ San Lorenzo in Nice– Starting at €90,000* per week
Think a cruise ship gives you freedom? This San Lorenzo delivers more—more privacy, more flexibility, and more luxury. With 5 cabins for up to 11 guests and a dedicated crew of 5, it’s a perfect alternative for those who want the experience of a floating boutique hotel.
Included Amenities:
Tender
Jet Ski
Wi-Fi
Total Cost for 1 Week: €139,500* (All Taxes and Fees Included)
121’ Benetti in Nassau– Starting at $135,000* per week
Why share your vacation with thousands of strangers when you can enjoy a private escape aboard this 121-foot Benetti? With 5 spacious cabins for 10 guests and a crew of 7, you’ll get the kind of privacy, service, and flexibility that cruises simply can’t offer.
Included Amenities:
Tender
Jacuzzi
Water Slide
Jet Ski
Seabob
Floats
Wi-Fi
Total Cost for 1 Week: $201,150* (All Taxes and Fees Included)
140’ Benetti in St. Martin– Starting at $160,000* per week
Skip the crowded cruise decks and experience luxury on your terms. This 140-foot Benetti offers 5 elegant cabins for 10 guests, with 8 crew members providing top-tier service. From the water toys to the peaceful settings, everything is tailored around you, not a schedule.
Included Amenities:
Tender
Jacuzzi
Water Slide
Jet Ski
Seabob
Floats
Wi-Fi
Total Cost for 1 Week: $242,400* (All Taxes and Fees Included)
Whether you're planning a group trip, a celebration, or just want to escape the crowds, a private yacht charter offers more freedom, privacy, and customization than any cruise. With YATR, you get transparent pricing, instant booking, Klarna financing, and access to concierge services like private chefs, water toys, and ground transport. Skip the stress, avoid the middlemen, and charter your way. Book now at YATR.co or contact us at info@yatr.co.
*Prices can and may change at any time without notice.