Chartering a yacht is an incredible way to enjoy the open water, but what happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate? While we all hope for sunshine and calm seas, unexpected storms or rough conditions can sometimes change plans. Knowing what to expect in these situations can help you feel prepared and make the most of your charter experience.
How We Handle Bad Weather
At YATR, safety is always our top priority. If the forecast calls for bad weather—whether it's strong winds, heavy rain, or rough seas—we may need to adjust plans. In some cases, this could mean delaying departure, changing the itinerary, or, in rare situations, rescheduling the trip.
We always keep our guests informed and provide options to ensure you still have a fantastic experience.
Your Captain’s Role in Weather Decisions
When you charter a yacht, you're in the hands of an experienced captain who constantly monitors marine forecasts, radar reports, and real-time weather conditions. If there’s any concern about safety, the captain might recommend waiting for better conditions or adjusting the route to avoid rough waters.
If bad weather develops while we're already on the water, the crew will take necessary precautions—rerouting the trip, finding a sheltered area, or, in extreme cases, heading back to shore earlier than planned. The captain’s goal is to keep you safe while still ensuring you have the best experience possible.
How Weather Can Affect Your Itinerary
Weather can sometimes impact the original itinerary, but that doesn’t mean your experience will be any less enjoyable! If conditions prevent us from reaching a certain destination, we’ll find an alternative route or adjust activities to match the conditions. For example:
Snorkeling or swimming may be postponed if waves or currents are too strong. If conditions are rough, the captain can relocate to calmer waters, ensuring you can fully enjoy swimming and water toys.
Outdoor dining might be moved inside for comfort if there’s unexpected rain.
Sunset cruises may be rescheduled for a clearer evening.
Being flexible and trusting the crew’s expertise ensures you still have an amazing time, no matter the conditions.
What If the Charter Gets Canceled?
If the weather is severe enough that we can’t go out at all, we’ll work with you to find the best solution. Depending on our policies and availability, we may offer:
A chance to reschedule for another day.
A full or partial refund if rescheduling isn’t possible.
An alternative experience—sometimes a modified itinerary can still make for a great day.
We always recommend reviewing our cancellation and weather policies.
What Happens If Bad Weather Hits While We're at Sea?
If the weather takes a turn while we're already on the water, our trained crew will take all necessary safety measures, including:
Adjusting the course to avoid rough patches.
Secure loose items to prevent anything from shifting in high winds.
Providing life jackets and reviewing emergency procedures if needed.
Find a sheltered marina or protected bay until the weather clears.
We always keep guests informed and do everything possible to keep the trip smooth and enjoyable, even if we have to adjust plans.
How You Can Prepare for Weather Changes
While we handle all the logistics, there are a few things you can do to make sure you're ready for any situation:
Check the forecast before your trip and choose the best season for calm waters.
Stay flexible and open-minded—sometimes, a slightly different route leads to even better views!
Ask about rescheduling policies so you know your options ahead of time.
Bring light rain gear just in case of a passing shower.
Bad weather doesn’t have to ruin a yacht charter. With an experienced captain, a flexible mindset, and a solid backup plan, you can still have an unforgettable experience on the water. And if conditions aren’t safe, we’ll make sure you have options to reschedule or adjust your plans.
Browse our fleet and book your next adventure at YATR.co. Have questions? Contact us at info@yatr.co.