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’re 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’ll 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–October).
What Is a Term Charter?
A term charter is a multi-day voyage, typically 3–7 days (or longer), where you live aboard the yacht. The crew handles all navigation, cooking, and service. You’ll 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: Pricing is quoted for each yacht and date. What is included — for example fuel, water toys, food and drinks — varies by yacht and is confirmed in writing in your quote.
Term charter: Weekly charter fees are quoted for each yacht and season. The fee usually covers the yacht and crew, while running costs such as fuel, food, drinks and marina fees are typically paid from an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), whose amount is set out in your charter contract.
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 — your captain can change the itinerary daily, discover hidden anchorages, and adapt to conditions. The longer you’re 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’re unsure whether you’ll 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’re planning a special celebration, go directly to a term charter. The difference in depth of experience is significant — 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.
