There are many ways to jazz up the charter offer for a truly elevated experience.
Gone are the days when exceptional service and fancy amenities give you the ticket to a successful charter. Today, in an increasingly competitive landscape, charter guests are looking for unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. It’s the chief stew’s job to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary but sometimes, coming up with ideas is a job in itself. Here are some ways to elevate your next charter.
Sky to sea
It starts with the journey to and from the yacht. There are various options to improve the arrival and departure experience that go above and beyond that refreshing towel and welcome drink. Partnering with private aviation companies to see what they can offer is a great start. For charter locations like the Bahamas, consider seaplane transfers. As the technology of eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) becomes more widely available, these could also offer a fun way to arrive or depart. For yachts with the capability and a location that works, consider a submersible transfer. Moreover, these options can also be used for activities throughout the charter, such as a private seaplane scenic tour of the area or a helicopter trip to hard-to-access locations.
Members only
Exclusivity is one of the main motivators for charter guests. Building relationships with exclusive facilities ashore can enhance the experience. For example, Indy partners with Frank Family Vineyards, offering wines from a members-only club and arranging private vineyard visits.
“Since this partnership began, guests have been thrilled to have access beyond retail,” Captain Paul Warner of Indy says. “With enough notice, we can bring the wines in ahead of time.” Research and establish relationships with boutique distilleries, private island clubs, art galleries, rare collectors’ clubs and high-end fashion houses to offer exclusive access, private viewings and bespoke shopping experiences.
Exclusive creations
Exceptional cuisine and drinks are a given on charter, but there are ways to take it up a notch or two. Alta collaborates with Yacht Life Vodka, offering a limited- edition spirit and a unique cocktail created by award-winning mixologist Rob Husted. “It’s an experience they can’t find anywhere else in the world,” says Alta’s Captain Iain Patterson. Another example is the Superyacht Foodie Experience, which arranges a Michelin Star dining experience on board with chefs like Kim Mikkola. “Our team prepares everything needed, from lighting, scents, ambiance, tablescaping, service and a meticulously prepared menu with the freshest ingredients, all tailored to create an unforgettable culinary extravaganza,” founder Titta Uoti-Väisänen says.
Finding fun
If the usual go-to activities no longer impress your guests, consider turning the yacht into a floating theater, adventure playground or immersive experience. Luxury Treasure Hunts offers unique entertainment options. Founder Charlie Moretti describes their offerings as the “best relief crew they’ve ever heard of.” The team brings everything needed with minimal logistical demands from the crew. “All we need is tender access,” he says. With a background in large-scale film production, Charlie curates imaginative treasure hunts and has recently expanded offerings with the Aquavistas brand, including 17 shows such as Superyacht Hero Academy, Harry Potter Experience, murder mysteries, cabaret, opera and magic shows.
If the usual activities no longer impress your guests, consider turning the yacht into a floating theater or adventure playground.
“Our concept is specifically tailored for yachting; we design shows to be brought on board, repackaged for yachts,” Charlie says. “In fact, 80 percent of what we do is logistics, ensuring seamless integration with onboard operations.”
The company tailors entertainment to charter profiles, such as offering experiences for children led by Disney cruise veterans and entertainment focused on milestones and celebrations.
Special soirees
Short of getting the engineer’s guitar out, arranging entertainment can sometimes be a struggle. But GF Entertainment can help crew, particularly in getting A-listers on board. The company sources world-class entertainment, hard-to-get tickets, private performances and DJs for bespoke productions.
With these ideas, you will be sure to leave a lasting impression on charter guests — and, who knows, you might increase that well-earned charter tip.