Large motor yachts and sailing catamarans are ideal for family charter vacations. Whether you choose to cruise the Caribbean or the Mediterranean seas, there is always a great selection of larger vessels available in different configurations, that can accommodate today’s modern (and sometimes “extended”) family vacation. Another great option is to charter two or more smaller vessels, sailing catamarans or motor yachts, that sail together, anchor together and provide a great experience at a more reasonable cost.
For example, multi-generational vacations are becoming very popular with grandparents, parents, in-laws, kids of different ages with boyfriends or girlfriends all requiring different accommodation layouts. Men and boys do not usually want to sleep together in the same cabin, girls and women are not so picky.
Teen brothers and sisters do not usually sleep in the same cabin and toddlers can sleep with their parents and sometimes with a nanny. Teens and tweens may be able to sleep on couches or blow up mattresses on some boats if there are not enough cabins. (always the captain’s decision..!!)
In the same manner, we as charter brokers or booking agents, need to be sensitive to these special family requirements and recommend family-friendly crews and yachts that have the right number of cabins and bathrooms (heads) either in the form of king-size beds, queen-size beds, double-beds or separate singles in some cabins, over and under bunks for kids, etc. The difference between a nice charter vacation and an absolutely fabulous, once in a lifetime vacation experience is the the CREW.
If you are chartering in a large family group the crew can make it all happen for you. This is another added value that your charter broker provides. Our knowledge of the yachts and their crews DOES make a difference.
There are always plenty of things to do for everyone on a family charter vacation. Indoor activities like video games and movies are usually available on all the good yachts. Having said that, these indoor requirements always look better on your wish-list and in the ship’s brochures and especially in the parents mind – in practice, however, most of the guests’ time is spent outdoors.
Family charterers should look for boats with plenty of outside water-toys, and plan itineraries that have something for everyone. Crews that can whip up a quick snack when someone’s hungry or fix your favorite drink in 30 seconds flat..!!
Talking about itineraries, and especially if you are cruising a destination that you are not familiar with, the captain of the yacht and your charter broker are the best resources for advice on where to go. We know the local hot-spots, the get-away-from-it-all anchorages, the historical sites, the cute little ports.
We also know how long it takes to get from one location to another on a motor yacht or a sailing yacht (SLOWER..!!), so you can have fun planning your vacation and making it all fit into the week or two that you have available.
Plan your next family charter vacation with us here at American Yacht. We are just a phone call away at +1-(877) 759-8263 or use our handy contact form.
