Charter terms in the context of yacht chartering refer to the specific agreements, conditions, rights, and obligations outlined in a contract between the charterer (individual or entity renting the yacht) and the owner or designated agent. These terms cover various aspects including the duration of the charter, financial obligations, cancellation policy, use of yacht and other related equipment, responsibility for damages, crew services, insurance, and liabilities, among other details. Charter terms also stipulate the nature of the charter, be it a bareboat (where the charterer is responsible for operating the yacht) or crewed (where a crew is provided by the owner). In essence, charter terms represent the comprehensive legal framework governing the yacht charter experience.
Example
1. "Bareboat Charter": This term refers to the agreement where you hire the yacht without a crew, handling its running and maintenance yourself during the charter period. In this context, you are responsible for stocking food, fuel, and other amenities.
2. "Skippered Charter": This means that the yacht rental includes a professional skipper (or captain) who is responsible for navigation. You can help if you wish, but the skipper has ultimate control of the yacht.
3. "Charter Fee": This is the overall cost that you agree to pay to charter the yacht. The charter fee may include additional costs such as insurance, provisioning, fuel costs, or port fees.
4. "Crewed Charter": This refers to an agreement in which you hire a yacht that comes with a fully staffed crew, including a captain, chef, attendants, and more. In such a charter, all the service and operating needs of the yacht are catered to by the included professional team.
5. "Charter Duration": This is the set timeframe decided upon by both parties during which you have the right to use and navigate the yacht. Typically, this is a set number of days or weeks, and it may also specifically include the check-in and check-out times on the first and last days.
Interesting fact
Fun Fact: The term "Bareboat" in yacht chartering is a common yet intriguing one. Contrary to what you might think, it doesn't mean the boat comes without any fittings or furnishings. It actually refers to a charter agreement where you rent the yacht itself, without any crew or provisions. This means you'll be handling everything from navigating the boat to cooking your meals! This term has its origin from older times when the term "bare" was used to distinguish between a boat that was hired with a crew and one that was not. Nowadays, such a charter is often called "self-skippered" charter or "demise charter". Although it may seem challenging, it can actually be a very freeing and exciting experience for those who have the required knowledge and experience, giving you complete control over your nautical adventures!