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September 2025
The yacht charter market is expected to increase from USD 9.60 billion in 2025 to USD 15.18 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.23% throughout the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. The yacht charter market is rapidly growing as it becomes a significant part of tourism, hospitality, and corporate events. In the present times, yachts are used for private holidays, destination weddings, entertainment, and business meetings while travelling on water.
The yacht charter market spans several segments, attracting high-income and tourist clients wanting memorable experiences. Factors fueling the growth of the yacht charter market include the growth of tourism globally, the increase in people wanting luxury holidays, and the emergence of direct-to-consumer online travel booking via various apps and websites. Eco-friendly yachts, hybrid booking models, and high demand for sustainable travel options show up as opportunities in the market.
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The global yacht charter market refers to the leasing of motor yachts, sailing yachts, and luxury superyachts for recreational, business, and leisure purposes. Yacht charters are offered with crewed or bareboat options, enabling short-term or long-term travel across coastal waters and international destinations. The end-user for the market comprises leisure/private users, corporate charters, and luxury travel operators & brokers. The market is driven by rising disposable incomes, growth in marine tourism, increasing popularity of luxury travel experiences, expansion of online booking platforms, and demand for personalized itineraries. Additionally, sustainability initiatives and the adoption of hybrid/electric yachts are shaping the future of yacht charters. Moreover, the geographic extent of the yacht charter market is significant because it appeals to higher-income individuals and tourists who want to have memorable travel experiences.
The trends in the yacht charter market are partnerships and product launches.
The motor yachts segment dominated the yacht charter market and captured almost 55% of the total market share. The motor yacht is typically the preferred method of yacht charter for short to medium trips and is favored for trips with both individuals and families. They offer comfortable and luxurious vessels with a range of useful features on each vessel, including decks, cabins, and entertainment systems. Given all of these elements combined, motor yachts are very attractive to leisure charter users. Moreover, motor yachts are also easy to charter and maintain in the long term. The convenience, comfort, and performance of motor yachts are favorable to the majority of charter users.
The luxury superyachts & megayachts segment is expected to be the fastest-growing segment in the market due to substantial demand by ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Luxury superyachts and megayachts are essentially hotels floating on water that provide unmatched privacy, the largest amount of space, along with other extravagant luxury amenities, including chefs, spas, entertainment systems, and much more. The number of charter superyachts is increasing due to an increase in the number of exclusive corporate events (meetings, gatherings) and private vacations, as they can provide a whole different, unique experience.
The reasons for the growing trend of luxury yacht chartering include interest in experiences around luxury travel, lavish lifestyles, social media, and increased wealth growth among the wealthy classes. There are incredibly important drivers for many consumers who are looking to get engaged in unique high-end non-consumer experiences on water. The prospects for the future growth of the superyacht and megayacht markets look great as more and more ultra-high-net-worth individuals continue to search for unique and dynamic experiences on water for themselves and their families.
The medium yachts segment dominated the market, capturing almost 40% of the total market share, as it provides a fair amount of comfort, space, and cost. Medium-sized yachts offer ample space and amenities to provide a complete charter experience with multiple cabins, dining, and entertainment options. Moreover, the medium-sized yacht category services customers who want the luxury experience without the complications or prohibitive costs of a superyacht. In addition, medium yachts are packed with amenities available for day trips or short-term charters, which make them a popular option among consumers.
The large yachts segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the forecasted period due to rapidly increasing demand for luxury travel experiences and corporate events. These yachts tend to provide lots of space with amenities and services from professional crews to help create memorable social events, business meetings, and longer-term vacations. A sustained increase in interest in private charter experiences from high-net-worth travelers is currently supporting the adoption of larger yachts. Additionally, technological developments and innovative designs, coupled with more comfort and safety, have boosted the growth of large yachts. As high-net-worth clients and corporate clients desire unique experiences and larger areas to socialize and entertain, large yachts can be expected to grow at a rapid pace in the yacht charter market
The crewed charter segment captured 60% of the yacht charter market. The crewed charter segment dominated the yacht charter market because it provides full-service experience to clients. With the navigation, cooking, cleaning, and entertainment being handled by professionals, the client could totally relax or enjoy their experiences knowing their yacht was being managed by trained professionals with experience. This full-service experience is ideal for leisure travelers, families, and luxury tourists to enjoy their trips, meetings, and events. Clients also prefer the full-service experience because of the convenience, comfort, safety, and professional expertise contributed by an entirely qualified crew. When travelling long-term distances, it is important to have trained staff on the yachts to maintain safety and elevated premium luxury, while accelerating through unfamiliar waters. Since travelers are not required to manage the yacht themselves, they are able to enjoy a more luxurious experience of the trip.
The bareboat charter segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the forecasted period. The bareboat charter is rapidly growing as experienced sailors enjoy the freedom and autonomy that it affords. In this case, the client/charter is only renting the yacht and is in charge of the planning of destinations, activities, and services on the yacht. This appeals to adventure travel consumers, with ocean and sailing travel enthusiasts preferring to navigate the boat to suit themselves and manage the yacht to pick up and drop off as they see fit. Moreover, the bareboat market can be financially advantageous to the client, where they are paying for what they need as opposed to a crewed charter that may be appealing to investors and corporate clients. In addition, as self-guided sailing vacations become more popular among travelers, the bareboat charter segment is expected to rapidly rise in the yacht charter market.
The short-term charter segment led the market with a total share of 65% as it provides flexibility and convenience for travelers, along with a decent time to enjoy the experience. A significant number of clients prefer day trips and long weekend vacations, as this requires no long-term commitment, nor a significant budget for a lengthy experience. Short-term charter provides people the ability to partake in the luxury of yachts without requiring planning for longer durations or complex itineraries. This segment also views more travel and leisure, which comprises spontaneous travel, or travelers to coastal areas. Moreover, short-term charter appeals to a wide range of clients and appeals to the widest budget range, hence there are significant numbers of clients for this duration of travel.
The long-term charter segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the yacht charter market, as with the changing preference, many travelers are looking for longer luxury experiences. Long-term charters are ideal for clients who want to travel and visit multiple destinations, spending weeks or months on their private vacations or hosting a business retreat. The long-term charter provides a highly customized experience that generally includes crewed trips, meal planning, onboard entertainment, and much more. In addition, the increase in remote work and lifestyle trends like “work from anywhere” have also sparked interest in long-term charter. As more and more wealthy clients design immersive, private experiences on the water, the long-term charter segment is expected to grow quickly in the yacht charter market.
The leisure/private users segment dominated the yacht charter market and captured around 70% of the total market share, as charter clients are luxury yacht users who use yachts for their personal enjoyment, relaxation, or vacation. Private individuals and families prefer yachts because they offer privacy, comfort, and unique travel experiences. Yachts provide luxury amenities and entertainment and allow for freedom and exploration of various coastal destinations and Island experiences, which make yachts ideal for leisure use. Consumer travel and vacation trends towards personalized and unique experiences, and social media are also drivers of demand for yacht charter. In addition, leisure/private users are all about convenience, privacy, and high-quality services, and make up the most consistent customer segment in the yacht charter market.
The corporate charters segment is expected to be the fastest-growing segment in the market as more and more companies are using yachts as venues for corporate events, client entertainment, and team retreats. Yachts offer an incredible setting for networking, meetings, and celebrations. Corporate clients very often look for customizable packages, professional crews, and luxury services for a memorable experience. The prevalence of corporate hospitality spending and the use of experiential marketing and premium experiences is the reason behind the corporate charter growth rate. Furthermore, many businesses are searching for unique incentives, motivational programs, and retreats to engage employees or help impress clients, and a yacht charter offers this unique option for a retreat or trip. As companies search for premium, exclusive, and flexible venues for their events, corporate yachts charter are estimated to grow quickly in the yacht charter market.
The online platforms & apps segment dominated the yacht charter market and captured around 55% of the total market share. The online platforms & apps sector leads the yacht charter market as it simplifies and increases access to booking. Online platforms help clients to compare yachts, view pricing, availability, and reviews from anywhere in the world. Moreover, these online platforms make it very easy for clients to book last-minute trips or to plan vacations without going through a traditional travel broker. The transparency and ease of the booking process with digital platforms give clients instant booking confirmations, visibility in pricing and available options, making it suitable for tech-savvy travelers. Clients appreciate the convenience of being able to browse, filter, and book yachts through an app, which opens the market to many more users who choose an app to book their trips. In addition, the ease of use, access, and reliability support the dominance of online platforms & apps as a booking mode in the yacht charter market.
The hybrid model segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the yacht charter market as it combines online booking efficiency with broker-tailored services. Clients can now have all the regular choices and flexibility of digital platforms to search for and compare yachts, combined with the advice of professional brokers on a customized experience. This hybrid model is appealing and efficient for high-value charters where the expertise and personal touch of a broker add incredible value to the charter experience. Moreover, the hybrid model provides clients with the best of both worlds by ensuring the convenience and reliability of booking online and providing a solution for clients who want more traditional brokers. As charter clients become increasingly expectant of the ability to tailor every aspect of the booking experience seamlessly and conveniently, it is expected that hybrid charter options will grow rapidly in the yacht charter market.
Europe dominates the yacht charter market due to its long coastline, well-known tourist destinations, and competitive sailing culture. Popular countries in Europe for yacht charters include Greece, Italy, France, and Spain, which attract millions of visitors each year who value luxury experiences such as yacht charters. Europe also has many marinas, skilled crews, and varying types of yachts to rent. The European yacht charter market will continue to grow due to the growing tourism market, higher disposable incomes, and travelers seeking unique traveling experiences. Moreover, the European yacht charter market is shifting towards the adoption of eco-friendly yachts to cater to the demand of consumers for sustainable travel and strict environmental regulations. In summary, the movement towards eco-friendly yachts, the rapid increase in online booking, and luxury packages for weddings and corporate events all create opportunities in the European yacht charter market.
Greece led the European yacht charter market as the country offers clear waters, sunny weather, and thousands of islands for travelling. Travel enthusiasts can find gems like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete that are a playground for both adventure and leisure. Moreover, Greece has a long sailing season and has modern marinas that are great for yacht charter starting points. In addition, Greece has cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, and luxury facilities that attract clients in the domestic and overseas yacht charter markets. There are a lot of growth opportunities in eco-friendly yachts, expanding marina infrastructure, and marketing yacht tourism packages.
Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the global yacht charter market, driven by growing tourism, rising disposable income, and changing consumers' expectations for luxury travel. Countries such as Thailand, the Maldives, and Indonesia offer exotic travel destinations, with beautiful beaches and islands, that are popular among travelers from around the world. New modern marina infrastructure is being developed, and many nations in the region are actively promoting yacht tourism as a new luxury travel trend. The APAC region has a relatively young and wealthy population of people looking for unique experiences, adventure travel, and private holiday experiences, which can all be found in a yacht charter. Due to the rapid growth in yacht charters, there are opportunities to develop eco-friendly yachts, expand digital charter booking platforms, and develop differentiated packages, whether for leisure or business purposes.
Thailand dominates the Asia-Pacific yacht charter market. Its attractive islands, cultural heritage, and solid and growing tourism industry make it a favorable yacht charter location. Places like Krabi and Phuket are recognized globally for their water-based holidays and have an extensive global tourist appeal to yacht and marina holiday makers. Additionally, Thailand has enforced a strategy to build world-class marinas and develop supporting infrastructure to ensure luxury yacht tourism. It has pursued green travel initiatives and sustainable tourism practices, which are attractive to international visitors. Combining its beautiful scenery, cultural locations, and travel needs of the international tourists (medical facilities, accommodation), Thailand is leading the yacht charter growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
North America is expected to grow at a considerable rate in the global yacht charter market due to its boating culture, combined with its highly developed marina infrastructure and popular sailing destinations. The Caribbean is geographically close to the U.S., rendering it an especially promising market during the winter yacht charter season, while such summer traveler destinations as Florida, California, and New England are featured on the summer yacht charter itinerary of many travelers. The market drivers for the North America yacht charter market include the availability of disposable income, the high-luxury tourism sector, and growing interest in eco-friendly yachts.
The U.S. is the leading yacht charter market in North America due to its coastlines, a large ownership of luxury yachts, and high-value customer demographics. States in the U.S., such as Florida, California, and the Great Lakes region have globally recognizable yacht charter locations. The U.S. attracts customers from both domestic and international destinations, as it is competitive in the category of luxury yacht service offerings. Moreover, the U.S. can sustain its dominance in yacht charter markets because of its extensive marina infrastructure, modern yacht fleet, and early adoption of hybrid-electric yachts.
| September 2025 | Announcement |
| Illia Kolomoiskyi, co-founder and chief executive of Boatscribe. | Within the next three years, our goal is to be the company that turns the yacht charter industry upside down. We want to bring an entirely new, active, and high-spending audience into yachting — and serve as the bridge between travellers and charter partners worldwide. |
| August 2025 | Announcement |
| Mr. Dave Cai, Director of Zenith Yacht Charters. | Expanding into other parts of Southeast Asia strengthens our presence in the region and allows us to offer a wider range of charter options, we want to make it easier for travellers from around the world to experience the culture and natural beauty of Southeast Asia with the right yacht and itinerary, wherever they choose to explore. |
| April 2025 | Announcement |
| Jeremy Roche, Director for Europe at Denison Yachting. | As boats grew in size and more began arriving in Europe, we recognised the need to support those customers here. Once we had that capability, it made sense to extend our services to other clients who could benefit from the same model. It was about enhancing service for our existing clients and then expanding into a new market. |
| March 2025 | Announcement |
| Gianmaria Costantino, Chief Commercial Officer of TISG, | This partnership with Yachtzoo Japan represents a pivotal milestone for The Italian Sea Group. Their deep understanding of the Japanese and Asian markets, combined with their premier network, positions us advantageously in this dynamic, high-growth sector. |
| November 2024 | Announcement |
| Kirstie Palmer Tippett, President of Waypoints® Yacht Charters. | We are thrilled to partner with Belize Sailing Vacations to expand the horizons for our Waypoints charter guests. This new collaboration will allow us to offer our charter guests the opportunity to explore the beauty of Belize with all-inclusive, 5-star, custom Fountaine Pajot catamaran sailing experiences. With convenient direct flights from major US and Canadian cities and with the marina just 15 minutes from Belize City Airport, reaching paradise has never been easier. We are looking forward to introducing our Waypoints charter guests to this extraordinary destination. |
The yacht charter market is highly competitive. Some of the prominent players in the market are Beneteau S.A, Sunseeker International Ltd., The Moorings Limited, Camper & Nicholsons International Ltd., Sunsail Worldwide Sailing Ltd., IYC, Argo Nautical Limited, Burgess Yacht, Kiriacoulis Mediterranean Cruises Shipping S.A., Boat International Media Ltd., Yachtico Inc., and Fraser Yachts Florida Inc. Firms in the yacht charter market are enhancing their dominance by investing in digital platforms, expanding fleet options, and becoming more environmentally sustainable. Moreover, they are creating booking sites and apps that are user-friendly, providing customization and individualized service based on differing customer interests, and expanding their fleets with modern, sustainable yachts. Opportunities for yacht charter market players arise in eco-friendly yachts, integration of fun activities, enhancing luxury experiences and exploring untapped destinations.
By Yacht Type
By Size
By Charter Type
By Duration
By End-Use / Customer Segment
By Booking Mode
By Region / Country
September 2025
September 2025
September 2025
September 2025
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