One of the most common questions we receive from first-time charter clients is whether to book a day charter or a term (multi-day) charter. The answer depends on your group, your schedule, your budget, and what kind of experience you\u2019re looking for. This guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide.
What Is a Day Charter?
A day charter typically runs from 10:00 to 18:00 or 10:00 to 20:00, departing from and returning to the same marina. You\u2019ll cruise along the coastline, stop at one or two anchorages for swimming and water sports, enjoy lunch on board or at a waterfront restaurant, and return to port by evening. Day charters are available in Mallorca and Ibiza throughout the season (May\u2013October).
What Is a Term Charter?
A term charter is a multi-day voyage, typically 3\u20137 days (or longer), where you live aboard the yacht. The crew handles all navigation, cooking, and service. You\u2019ll visit multiple anchorages, harbours, and islands, sleeping on board each night. Term charters follow a bespoke itinerary designed around your preferences.
Cost Comparison
Day charter: From \u20ac1,500 to \u20ac15,000+ depending on the yacht. This typically includes the yacht, captain, crew, fuel, and basic water toys. Food and beverages may be included or arranged separately.
Term charter: From \u20ac15,000 to \u20ac500,000+ per week depending on the yacht. The charter fee covers the yacht, crew, and insurance. An additional Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) of 25\u201335% covers food, fuel, marina fees, and other running costs.
On a per-hour basis, term charters often represent better value because the daily rate decreases with longer bookings. However, the total cost is naturally higher.
Experience Comparison
Day charter is ideal if you want a taste of yachting without a major commitment, are visiting Mallorca or Ibiza for a short stay, have a mixed group where not everyone wants to sleep on a boat, or want to combine a yacht day with a land-based holiday.
Term charter is ideal if you want full immersion in the yachting lifestyle, want to explore multiple destinations and islands, are celebrating a special occasion (anniversary, birthday, wedding), or want the crew to learn your preferences over several days and tailor the experience accordingly.
Flexibility
Day charters follow a general route but can be adjusted on the day based on weather and your mood. Term charters offer significantly more flexibility \u2014 your captain can change the itinerary daily, discover hidden anchorages, and adapt to conditions. The longer you\u2019re on board, the more the crew can personalise the experience.
Which Should You Choose?
If this is your first time on a yacht and you\u2019re unsure whether you\u2019ll enjoy it, start with a day charter. Many of our clients book a day charter, fall in love with the experience, and return the following year for a week-long term charter.
If you already know you want a multi-day experience, or if you\u2019re planning a special celebration, go directly to a term charter. The difference in depth of experience is significant \u2014 by day three, the crew knows your coffee order, your favourite anchorages, and exactly how you like your gin and tonic.
Our charter advisors can help you decide based on your specific circumstances. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation.
