Charter Smarter Newsletter | April 14, 2025
Sail Smarter: What to Know Before You Go
Thinking about booking a yacht vacation, but still have a few questions? You’re not alone. Before you set sail, here’s a quick guide to some of the most common things guests want to know — and a few tips that will help you get even more out of your time on the water.
What’s Included in the Charter Rate?
When you book a charter with Charter Smarter, almost everything you need for a perfect week is included. Your private yacht, captain, chef, meals, drinks, water toys, housekeeping — it’s all part of the package. Some yachts even include on-board WiFi, scuba diving, and fishing gear. It's truly an all-inclusive experience, customized just for you.
Can We Dine Ashore?
Absolutely. While your chef will prepare incredible meals on board, many guests love the option of dining ashore to experience the local flavors and island vibes. Your crew can suggest the best beach bars, waterfront restaurants, and hidden gems — and tailor your itinerary around any onshore dining you want to include.
What Should We Pack?
Packing for a yacht vacation is easy — think light, casual, and comfortable. Swimsuits, cover-ups, flip-flops, and a couple of outfits for dining ashore are usually all you need. Soft-sided luggage is recommended (it’s easier to store), along with a good sun hat, polarized sunglasses, and your favorite book or two. Trust us: life on board is wonderfully laid-back.
Can We Choose Where We Go?
Definitely. Your crew will work with you to design an itinerary that matches your vibe — whether you’re all about snorkeling and beach bars or prefer secluded coves and quiet sunsets. Every trip is tailored to what you and your group want to experience. For more common Q&As, visit our FAQ page!
PLUS 10: Everything You Love About Chartering, Plus More
Looking for a yacht that takes everything you love about island-hopping and turns it up a notch? Welcome aboard PLUS 10, a new addition to the Charter Smarter fleet. This brand-new 59’ Fountaine Pajot Samana catamaran was designed for adventure, luxury, and plenty of unforgettable moments.
From the moment you step aboard, you'll feel it — the perfect balance of laid-back luxury and pure excitement. Claim your spot on the expansive flybridge — the largest in its class — where plush daybeds and endless views set the tone. Inside, the cozy main salon features a hidden drop-down TV and a sleek bar for easy afternoons and breezy evenings. Out back, a beautiful teak dining table comfortably seats eight for open-air meals you’ll never forget. And when it’s time to soak up the sun, the sunken bow lounge and oversized trampoline are ready and waiting.
Below deck, PLUS 10 feels more like a boutique hotel than a boat. Five en-suite cabins (four queens and one bunk cabin), each with individual A/C controls, give up to eight guests plenty of space to spread out and relax.
Guiding the experience are Captain David Cuevas and Chef/First Mate Emily Cuevas, a dynamic husband-and-wife team whose love of adventure and passion for great food bring an unforgettable energy to every charter.
When adventure calls, PLUS 10 delivers:
Seabob
eFoil
Four Subnados
Wakeboard and tow tube
Stand-up paddleboards
Snorkeling gear, floats, yoga mats, and hand reels
One minute you’re snorkeling hidden reefs, the next you’re paddleboarding into a secret cove. However you want to spend your day, PLUS 10 makes it effortless.
Limited-Time Offer: Save $4,000 on Your PLUS 10 Charter
7-night charters now start at $36,700 — and that already includes $4,000 off. This special won't last long, so if you’ve been dreaming of a Virgin Islands escape, now’s the time.
Let’s make your PLUS 10 getaway happen!
TODAY’S CHARTER TIP 💡
I love recommending May as a great month to charter! It’s generally a slower booking time, so it’s a quieter, more relaxed vibe compared to the busy winter and spring break months. The beaches and anchorages are less crowded, and the weather is perfect too; it’s warm but not too hot, with steady winds and calm seas. I also love how May feels like spring in the islands with the hillsides green and lush, and the flamboyant trees in bloom!”
- Kristi, Yacht Charter Specialist
Guest Feedback ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 Biggest Misconceptions About Yacht Vacations
Yacht vacations often carry an image of exclusivity, but the reality is much more inviting. At Charter Smarter, we believe everyone should experience the magic of waking up with the ocean at their doorstep — no mega-mansion budget required. Let’s clear up five of the biggest misconceptions:
1. Yacht Vacations Are Only for the Super-Rich
It’s easy to think yacht vacations are reserved for celebrities and billionaires. In reality, there are incredible options for all kinds of travelers. By splitting the cost with family or friends, a private, all-inclusive yacht charter becomes surprisingly attainable — offering an unforgettable way to explore the islands together.
2. Yacht Vacations Are Only for Special Occasions
Weddings and anniversaries are great reasons to charter, but they’re not the only ones. Sometimes the best memories are made on a random Tuesday. Whether you’re celebrating something big or simply craving sunshine, salt air, and quality time, a yacht vacation is always a good idea.
3. You Need Boating Experience to Charter a Yacht
Good news: you don’t have to know port from starboard. All of Charter Smarter’s yachts come with a professional captain and chef who handle everything from navigation to meal planning. Your only job? Kick back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
4. Yacht Vacations Are Hard to Get To
We get it — after a flight, no one wants a complicated trek to start their vacation. That’s why Charter Smarter yachts are based in the Virgin Islands — just a direct flight from several major airports in the United States and only about 2.5 hours from Miami. Getting to paradise has never been easier.
5. Bareboat Charters Are Always the Better Deal
While the idea of captaining your own boat can sound adventurous, bareboat charters often come with hidden costs and responsibilities. With an all-inclusive crewed charter through Charter Smarter, everything is taken care of — meals, drinks, water toys, and even itinerary planning — so you can spend more time enjoying and less time worrying.
