Why use a Charter Yacht Broker?

Brokers are like travel agents. All charter yacht brokers have the same access to the same yachts. The yacht owners pay the broker. There is no additional cost to you. Yachts do not offer a lower price without a broker, period.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE

After being part of a yacht crew and a yacht manager for over 16 years in the Virgin Islands, other Caribbean islands, and the Bahamas, Michelle Heyns is now a charter yacht broker who understands firsthand why matching yacht with client and crew is imperative to the success of a luxury vacation. Her specialized experience gives her a rare and personal insight into the yachts and crews that make her unique. First and foremost, Michelle’s responsibility is to recommend the highest quality yachts and crews that meet your specific vacation, travel needs, and budget. We are happy that Hannah, with a similar experience, joined our team in February 2023 after being crew for 10 years in the BVI and Bahamas.

Simply put, Epic Yacht Charters allows you to avoid any stress or hassles you might encounter while planning your yacht vacation. Michelle and Hannah navigate on your behalf from the first point of contact until your trip is complete. We have full access to the most up-to-date availability schedules and will only book fully crewed yacht charters we know will give the highest quality vacation. We know the ins and outs of Caribbean and Mediterranean travel and where yachts can meet you to begin and end your charter. Our sound advice will not only expedite your travel time but can also help you to control these costs.

Epic Yacht Charters offers protection of the standard CYBA (Charter Yacht Broker Association) charter agreement and additionally holds funds in a private escrow account until a few days before your charter begins. They strictly adhere to ethics codes and procedures governed by yacht broker groups to protect each client. In sum, ensure your trip is exactly as you planned – no surprises.

SETTING A NEW STANDARD

Team EPIC’s personal experience with yachts, crews, owners, and yacht managers sets them apart from other charter yacht brokers. Additionally, we participate in major annual charter yacht shows to inspect each yacht and interview each crew personally. As an independent outlet, our unbiased, expert advice can often help tip the scales, turning the best vacation into an EPIC journey.

Our #1 goal is to match the yacht and crew that fits the client, identifying your needs to provide the vacation of a lifetime. We’d love to continue booking your vacations for years to come – the ultimate reward is creating lasting relationships and even lifelong friendships. Your friends will be envious when they see your trip, and then they will contact us to help them have the same unforgettable experience.

Do I Need to Bring My Own SCUBA Gear on a Yacht Charter?

Categories: SCUBA Diving What to Bring

Most crewed yachts that offer SCUBA diving include high-quality SCUBA equipment onboard, so you don’t need to bring bulky items like tanks or weights. However, many divers prefer to bring their own mask or dive computer for comfort and familiarity. Equipment onboard is well maintained and regularly serviced.

Are You Allowed to Wear Shoes on a Yacht?

Categories: Booking What to Bring

No. The barefoot rule is there to keep the decks undamaged, carpets from getting stained and soles from marking the clean decks. If you need to have shoes on for medical reasons you can wear white soled shoes that have not been worn outside. Shoes specifically designed for yachts or soft sports sandals, with a good grip on the sole, would be an option. Here is more information on What to Pack

What Do I Need to Pack for My Yacht Charter?

Categories: Booking What to Bring

What Should I Pack for My Yacht Charter?

Packing for a luxury yacht vacation is different from packing for a typical resort stay. Space is limited onboard, but a great deal is already waiting for you. Your crew provides beach towels, bed linens and snorkel gear for every guest, along with everyday comforts like hairdryers, so none of that needs to come with you. To help you prepare, we have created a practical packing guide so you bring everything you need without overpacking. Browse Our Luxury Charter Fleet to see what’s already included onboard.

Essential Wardrobe

Multiple swimsuits for daily water activities
Light, breathable clothing to wear over swimwear
2–3 casual dinner outfits for onboard dining
1–2 smart casual outfits for restaurants ashore
Light jacket or sweater for evening breezes
Comfortable, non-marking deck shoes or sandals
Sun Protection
High-quality polarized sunglasses
Sun hats or caps with secure straps
Reef-safe sunscreen and lip protection
UPF-rated rash guards for extended water activities

Personal Items

Prescription medications in original containers
Seasickness remedies if prone to motion sensitivity
Personal toiletries and hygiene items
Small camera or GoPro for capturing memories
Lightweight backpack or dry bag for shore excursions
Electronics & Documents
Passport and travel documents
Credit cards and small amounts of local currency
Power adapters if traveling internationally
Phone and charger (most yachts offer WiFi)
Downloaded playlists, e-books, or podcasts for offline use

Entertainment & Extras

Books, e-readers, or magazines
Portable waterproof speakers (optional)
Travel journal or sketchbook
Small gifts or souvenirs for crew (optional)

Practical Packing Tips

Choose soft-sided luggage that can be folded and stowed under beds—avoid large hard-shell suitcases.
Pack versatile items that mix and match easily.
Avoid overpacking, storage space is efficient but compact.
Most yachts supply beach towels, linens, and water sports equipment. Confirm with your broker before bringing extras.

For more planning advice, visit our Yacht Charter FAQ Hub

Final Advice

Your yacht crew will help you feel at home and can provide personalized recommendations for your specific destination and season. If you’re unsure about packing certain items, ask your charter broker for guidance.

For personalized packing suggestions or help planning your trip, call 1-954-271-3005