Mediterranean yacht charter: itineraries, prices and best weeks (2026 guide)
Pricing by segment (25 m to 80 m+), APA, VAT, best weeks and three 7-day itineraries: Riviera & Corsica, Italy & Sicily, Balearics.
TL;DR — A Mediterranean yacht charter costs between €45,000 and €1,400,000 per week excluding APA (~25-35% additional costs: fuel, marina, crew, provisions). On a 50 m in July, the listed rate sits around €280,000 to €510,000, but the final bill (APA, VAT and tips included) usually reaches €380,000-€780,000. High season (July-August) concentrates demand on the French Riviera and Italy; May-June and September offer a better price/serenity ratio.
Pricing by segment
| Yacht size | Price / week (excl. APA) | Guests | Typical crew |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 m | €45,000 – €90,000 | 6-8 | 3-4 |
| 40 m | €150,000 – €300,000 | 8-12 | 6-9 |
| 50 m+ | €250,000 – €550,000 | 10-14 | 10-14 |
| 80 m+ | €800,000 – €1,400,000 | 12-20+ | 20-30+ |
The APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) covers fuel, marina fees, provisions and beverages — typically 25 to 35% of the charter rate, paid in advance and reconciled at the end of the charter.
When to charter in the Mediterranean?
- May – June — calmer seas, rates 15-25% below high season, less crowded ports. Ideal for the Balearics and the Riviera before the summer rush.
- July – August — peak season. Strong demand in Saint-Tropez, Monaco, Portofino and Ibiza: book 4 to 6 months ahead.
- September — warm water, fewer crowds, often the best window for Corsica and Sardinia.
3 key itineraries
1. French Riviera & Corsica (7 days)
Nice → Monaco → Calvi → Porto-Vecchio → Saint-Tropez
- Day 1-2 — Nice / Monaco: boarding, Baie des Anges, Monaco stop (Casino, the Rock).
- Day 3-4 — Calvi: crossing to Corsica, Calvi beaches and citadel.
- Day 5 — Porto-Vecchio: Palombaggia and Santa Giulia coves.
- Day 6-7 — Saint-Tropez: Pampelonne, return to Les Salins.
2. Italy & Sicily (7 days)
Portofino → Capri → Lipari → Taormina
- Day 1-2 — Portofino: Liguria, Cinque Terre day trip.
- Day 3-4 — Capri: Blue Grotto, Marina Piccola.
- Day 5-6 — Aeolian Islands (Lipari): Stromboli, active volcanoes.
- Day 7 — Taormina: Sicily, ancient theatre, Etna backdrop.
3. Balearics & Spain (7 days)
Palma → Ibiza → Formentera → Menorca
- Day 1-2 — Palma de Mallorca: cathedral, luxury marinas.
- Day 3-4 — Ibiza: nightlife, Cala Comte coves.
- Day 5 — Formentera: turquoise water, Ses Illetes.
- Day 6-7 — Menorca: unspoilt coves, return to Palma.
APA, VAT and taxes: what to budget
- APA — 25-35% of the charter rate, funded in advance.
- Charter VAT — depends on the departure country and cruising area (generally 20% in France, reduced rates possible depending on time spent outside territorial waters).
- Marina and mooring fees — included in the APA on most classic itineraries.
- Crew gratuity — customary 5-15% of the charter rate, optional but widespread.
How to book with Naxelio
Naxelio handles yacht selection, contract negotiation and logistics with crew and marinas — a firm quote within 15 minutes of your brief. Explore our yachts →
FAQ
How much does a Mediterranean yacht charter cost?
Between €45,000 and €1,400,000 per week excluding APA, depending on yacht size (25 m to 80 m+). On a 50 m in July, expect roughly €380,000 to €780,000 all-in (APA, VAT, gratuities).
What is the APA on a yacht charter?
The Advance Provisioning Allowance covers fuel, marina, provisions and beverages. It typically represents 25 to 35% of the charter rate and is reconciled at the end of the charter.
What is the best time for a Mediterranean yacht charter?
May-June and September offer the best balance of weather, price and crowds. July-August remains peak season, particularly on the Riviera and in Italy.
What budget for a week in Corsica?
A 40 m yacht generally costs €150,000 to €300,000 per week excluding APA on a Corsican itinerary.
How far in advance should I book for July-August?
Four to six months ahead is recommended for the most requested destinations (Saint-Tropez, Monaco, Portofino, Ibiza).
Is a crew gratuity mandatory?
No, but the customary range is 5-15% of the charter rate.
Can several destinations be combined in one week?
Yes, a 7-day itinerary typically allows 3 to 4 main stops, such as Nice → Monaco → Calvi → Porto-Vecchio → Saint-Tropez.
What yacht size suits a group of 10?
A 40 to 50 m yacht generally accommodates 8 to 14 guests with a crew of 6 to 14.
Does VAT apply to the entire charter?
The rate depends on the departure country and cruising area; reduced rates exist depending on time spent outside territorial waters.
How do I get a yacht charter quote?
Through the Naxelio form (destination, dates, number of guests) — a firm quote within 15 minutes.