Yachts are similar in many ways but also different. Both types of yachts offer unique experiences, which is why they’re often discussed together. However, there are some important distinctions between the two. Knowing the difference may help you make a better decision when weighing your options as they relate to cruising versus chartering.
Let’s take a deeper look at these two different cruising segments so you can understand the pros and cons of each option.
Charter Yacht
The possibilities for a charter yacht are endless. You can go on a luxurious weeklong vacation with the family or embark on a once-in-a-lifetime round-the-world trip. Whatever your goals are, you can charter a yacht to help you achieve them. Charter yachts come in all shapes and sizes, but they are most commonly found in the 5-50 foot range. Chartering a yacht allows you to explore more of the world than you could ever see by car.
By taking a trip by boat, you can avoid the limitations of a car, such as dangerous weather, road conditions, and a lack of flexibility. This can also be a great way to spend quality time with your family. If you have a large group, you can also charter a yacht to help you tour more countries on your trip. Choosing the right charter yacht can help you plan your trip and get the most out of your experience.
Cruise Ship
Cruise ships are a type of mega-yacht that offers luxury cruising. With a cruise ship, you can travel to exotic destinations and explore new cultures, all while relaxing in the comfort of your ship’s roomy cabins. A cruise may take you from one coastline to another, or it may take you from one port to another, as in a Mediterranean cruise, for example.
Cruise ships can be as small as 150 feet or as big as 2,000 feet. While cruises are considered a type of river cruising, they are more commonly referred to as ocean cruising. Cruise ships typically have more passengers than charter yachts and fewer crew members than mega-yacht cruises.
What’s the Difference Between a Charter and a Cruise?
Charter boats
A charter boat is a private boat that is used for a charter service. If you charter a boat, you are the owner/operator of the boat and are responsible for the charter service. A charter yacht is a type of charter boat.
Cruise ship
A cruise ship is a large ship that sails regularly to different ports to bring tourists to their destinations. It is usually a few years old, with the newest ships being in their 50th or 60th years of service.
Charter Boat vs. Cruise Ship
These two terms can be a bit confusing, so let’s look at them closely. A charter boat is a type of private boat that is used for charter services. Charter boat owners lease the boat from the owner/operator. The owner/operator of the boat is responsible for the charter service, but the owner/operator of the boat does not own the boat.
Cruise ship
These are large ships that travel to different ports to bring tourists to their destination. There are many different types of cruise ships.
Know the Differences
Charter boat, charter yacht, and charter cruise
If you’re not sure if you should charter, it’s important to know the difference between charter boats, charter yachts, and charter cruises. Every year, there are more charter boats being chartered than charter yachts. This is because charter yachts can be more expensive than charter boats.
Boats
Charter boats are the most common type of chartered boat. While cruising on a charter cruise is one of the most popular chartered boating options, there are also many other kinds of boats that can be chartered.
Yachts
There are two main types of charter yachts. Many cruise lines only use large luxury yachts for charter. These yachts are typically in the 50-100 foot range. Some luxury yachts can be as large as 150 feet or even bigger, and these are often referred to as mega yachts.
Cruises
There are many different cruise lines, giving you endless options when it comes to choosing a cruise. If you’re not sure what type of cruise to take, a cruise search can help you narrow down your options.
