| The yachts | | | | which often include a competition between the chefs. |
| There are about 250 crewed charter yachts around | | | | They are the link between the yachts and the |
| the Virgin Islands, spanning from 40' monohulls to 100' | | | | brokers. |
| catamarans and motor yachts. These yachts are | | | | The brokers |
| privately owned and run either by the owners or a | | | | To book a charter you need to find a charter yacht |
| hired crew. There will be a captain and a chef - also if | | | | broker. Like any other profession, this requires a very |
| they only have 2 guests - who will work hard to | | | | specific knowledge. At the boat shows the brokers |
| ensure the guests a wonderful adventure. The | | | | are gathering facts and personal impressions, meeting |
| yachts can be categorized as tiny floating boutique | | | | new crew and hear about upgrades on yachts they |
| hotels, with a service standard that even 5 star | | | | already know. Working closely with their clients, this |
| hotels can only dream about. | | | | knowledge becomes the base for matching them |
| The rates start around $300/person/day and include | | | | with the right yacht and crew, which lives up to their |
| the yacht and crew, all meals, beverages, running | | | | requirements. Besides an in-depth knowledge of the |
| expenses and water sports equipment. The charters | | | | yachts, it is also important, that the broker is well |
| can start any day of the week and last as long as | | | | travelled and knows the different destinations, where |
| the guests wish. | | | | the charters take place. |
| The clearinghouses | | | | The guests are often people with no sailing |
| The yachts are gathered in clearinghouses, which | | | | experience and it is up to the broker to keep the |
| administer their calendars, payments, bookings etc. | | | | expectations realistic to make sure the vacation |
| They arrange yearly boat shows, where the brokers | | | | becomes a success. |
| can inspect the yachts and interview the crews and | | | | |