What makes the perfect charter yacht?

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Welcome to Yacht Charter Market, the weekly newsletter dedicated to the world of yacht charter.

In today’s newsletter:

• Top story: What defines the perfect charter yacht in 2025?

• Latest charter yacht updates: 20% discount on Lady First with FGI, Luna offered with Large Yacht Corp., Superyacht Partners offers AHS with 20% discount, Lady Kathryn V offered with Northrop and 60m Iron Blonde joins the Edmiston charter fleet.

• YachtEye: Introducing - Push Notifications by YachtEye!

• Charter photo: The crew from the Amels 60 superyacht Come Together bring some old school Monaco glamour to the Formula 1

TOP STORY

What defines the perfect charter yacht in 2025?

The definition of the perfect charter yacht has shifted dramatically in recent years. What was once a static display of luxury is now a highly curated, experience-driven platform tailored to the lifestyle of each individual guest. Today’s charter clients are prioritising dynamic activities, wellness integration, flexible layouts and seamless service – all supported by crew who go beyond expectations to deliver unforgettable moments.

To explore how this transformation is shaping design and operations, we spoke with brokers from Fraser, IYC, Cecil Wright, and Christie Yachts. From generational trends to layout evolution and sustainable tech, here’s what’s defining the modern charter yacht in 2025.

From passive luxury to immersive experience

For Daniela De Marco, Head of Business Development at Fraser, the direction is clear: “Charter clients today want memorable, personalised moments. From wellness and culinary journeys to adventure and family connection, the perfect yacht needs to enable it all.”

This shift has prompted crew to become more creative than ever, says Carrie Freeman, Charter Consultant at IYC. “It’s no longer just a hike – it’s a hike followed by a surprise sunset wine tasting. Or a casino night with a real poker pro onboard. Captains and crew are constantly raising the bar as more guests look to yachting as their ultimate vacation format.”

Luke Brennan, charter broker at Cecil Wright, confirms the trend toward immersive, family-led experiences. “We’re seeing more demand for active charters with bespoke itineraries. Guests want to explore, engage, and connect – not just be served.”

What guests now consider essential

A major by-product of this experiential focus is the redefinition of what counts as an ‘essential’ feature onboard. Wellness spaces, high-performance entertainment systems, and versatile layouts have overtaken traditional hallmarks like formal dining salons or indoor lounges.

“Beach clubs, spas, open-air gyms, and entertainment systems are now standard,” says Fraser’s Laura Verbrugge. “The quality of crew and their ability to adapt – that’s often what transforms a good charter into an exceptional one.”

Freeman highlights the increasing importance of wellness and water-based activities. “Exercise equipment is now a top request. Guests want to stay fit, even on holiday. Sea scooters and slides are always in demand because they’re family-friendly and easy to use. Unlike jet skis, they don’t come with heavy regulation and can be enjoyed by all ages.”

Meanwhile, generational shifts are influencing tech demands. “Younger charterers have grown up with high standards on land and expect the same at sea,” explains Caroline Antlett of Christie’s Yachts. “Reliable high-speed Wi-Fi – often Starlink – is now non-negotiable, whether for work, streaming or socials. Sophisticated AV systems are essential.”

Culinary flexibility has also become more prominent, with yacht chefs expected to deliver fine-dining experiences across multiple dietary preferences. “It’s not unusual for one group to require vegan, keto, gluten-free and pescatarian options all at once – and all to a five-star standard,” notes Antlett.

Design that adapts

As guest priorities change, so too do the yachts themselves. From refits to new-builds, design is being shaped by direct guest feedback, broker insight and operational know-how.

A prime example is the 97.2-metre Carinthia VII, refitted in 2023 with extensive guest input. The enhancements – managed in collaboration with Fraser – included a hammam, saloon, juice bar, 90-square-metre gym, cinema, and reconfigured cabins for flexibility.

“When owners plan to charter, brokers can offer huge value,” says Brennan. “They know what clients ask for most and can guide layout and feature decisions from the start.”

Freeman highlights the 2024 refit of No Bad Ideas, a 49-metre Trinity originally launched in 1999, as another example of thoughtful evolution. “They converted the main dining room into a sixth stateroom to meet demand in that size bracket. A jacuzzi was added to the sun deck and another on the aft swim platform to make that area more interactive. Plus, a bow fire pit turned unused space into a popular guest area.”

Luke adds, “If owners intend to charter, brokers can add huge value from the start – advising on the most requested features, popular layouts, and cost-efficient solutions for longevity.”

Sustainability and wellness shape the future

Looking forward, a blend of sustainability, health-conscious living and technological enhancement will continue to drive charter innovation.

“We’re already seeing strong moves towards eco-conscious yachting,” says Verbrugge. “Hybrid propulsion, waste-reduction systems and sustainable interiors are gaining traction – it’s all about indulgence without guilt.”

Wellness, too, is becoming integral rather than optional. From hydrotherapy areas and meditation zones to onboard health practitioners, yachts are increasingly expected to support holistic wellbeing. “Even on vessels of 40 metres, clients are asking for flexible wellness spaces,” says Brennan. “And they want to understand not just the cost of consumption – but its environmental impact.”

As for exterior spaces, open-air areas are now prioritised over formal interiors. “We’re seeing a move away from large indoor dining spaces in favour of multifunctional decks that serve as yoga studios by morning and cinemas by night,” adds Antlett.

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LATEST CHARTER UPDATES

20% discount for 40m Lady First with FGI Yacht Group

Find out more here.

☀️  Luna for charter with Large Yacht Corp. with availability from 4th-31st July

Find out more about this awesome charter yacht here.

🌟 66m AHS now available with Superyacht Partners with 20% discount on June

Find out more here.

🚀 Lürssen superyacht Lady Kathryn V has final summer availability with Northrop & Johnson

See her charter brochure here.

🏝️ 60m Iron Blonde has joined the Edmiston charter fleet

Reach out to the team for more information now.

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