How is a charter yacht different from a cruise ship or a resort?
Unlike other types of vacations, you control every detail, from who you travel with, to the type of yacht, to how much time you spend in a given port, to your cuisine at each meal! The flexibility and privacy of a luxury yacht is the ultimate indulgence, Professional Captain and crew wait on you from the moment you board, and give you the amount of attention you require. Back to Top
Who plans the menus?
That's up to you! Luxury yachts are home to many of the world's best-trained culinary artists! Your chef will usually provide a sample menu of the yacht's cuisine and most are delighted to adjust their fare to your palate. The crew will also be happy to stock the yacht with the food and beverages of your choice. Back to Top
What if I'm on a special diet?
No problem! Our Chef is skilled at a wide variety of cuisine and can please even the pickiest eater. It is critical that you take time to complete the preference form that you will receive in your "Welcome" package. Your crew must know of any allergies in advance as well as medical issues. Back to Top
Can I have a party for a large group on board?
International maritime law prevents yachts from carrying more than 12 passengers without special registration. You can, however, invite more than 12 persons aboard so long as you are not "under way" (i.e. at dock). Back to Top
What should I pack?
It depends on the part of the world in which you are traveling. The Pacific Nortwest and Alaska are very relaxed atmospheres, so you'll want to bring bathing suit, jeans and shorts, T-shirts and comfortable active wear. Layering is recommended. A lightweight jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings in the San Juans and Canada is advised. If you're going to Alaska, depending on the season, heavier attire will be needed. There will be resorts and restaraunts along the way, so you might also like to have the option of more dressy attire. Back to Top
How do my friends, family and business colleagues reach me during the cruise?
The Infinity is equipped with the latest in communications equipment including cellular service, global satellite telecommunications, personal computers, and fax machines. Back to Top
Will I have complete privacy while on board?
Professional crew is experienced with entertaining the yacht's owner and guests, celebrities, and prominent statesmen. They will maintain a low profile. When filling out the "Preference Sheet" that will come in your "Welcome" package, be sure to write in your preference for privacy. Back to Top
Can I bring children on board?
Yes, the Infinity is child-friendly. Keep in mind, however, that the crew are always quite busy with their assigned duties and are not at liberty to offer childcare services. Back to Top
Can I bring my pet on board?
Yachts do not permit guests to bring pets on board for several reasons:
- The Crew is required to maintain rigid cleanliness standards for all their guests and there is a potential of allergens from animals remaining on board.
- Animals are typically not accustomed to the strict confinement of a ship, and an active itinerary can be quite uncomfortable for pets.
- Just like humans, animals can also be sensitive to the effects of motion and may become disoriented or lethargic.
- Traveling abroad with pets and checking through customs in foreign ports-of-call may subject animals to quarantine periods.
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Do I need to carry my passport?
Yes, all guests must carry valid passports for customs and immigration in the various ports of call, unless your charter will take place entirely within the jurisdiction of the port where you embark. Visas, if applicable, are the responsibility of the charterer and must be secured in advance. January 2008 it will be mandatory for everyone, including children, going through the Canadian/USA border to have a valid passport. Back to Top
What if I experience seasickness?
If you are worried about seasickness, check with your local pharmacist for special medication before you leave home. Over-the-counter medication is available at most drug stores. While at sea, the crew will make your trip as comfortable has possible by recommending routes in protected waters and keeping tabs on changing weather conditions. Back to Top
Can I smoke on board?
Smoking is not permitted inside the yacht. If there are smokers in your party please tell your Charter Broker and be honest about your needs - we will do our best to ensure that you and the crew are well informed in advance.
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Do yachts have laundry facilities?
Yes, the Infinity is equipped with laundry facilities on board. Many crew are willing to do some guest laundry, however, delicate items are best left to the professionals at home. Back to Top
How much does a charter cost include?
The weekly rate is determined by high and low season. The price includes amenities on board, including "toys," such as ski-doos, scooters, kayaks and use of the tender. You will pay all other operating expenses while on board such as fuel, dockage, guest food and beverages, taxes and customs fees, and telephone charges. A good rule of thumb is to allow 20-30% of the charter fee toward expenses. This does not include gratuity for the crew, which is discretionary. The customary gratuity is 18% of the charter rate. Back to Top
How do I book a Charter?
Call or email info@infinity-yacht.com to determine availability. At that time a security deposit in the amount of $5,000 US Funds is required to hold the dates. The appropriate contracts for you to sign will be drawn specifically to your cruise. Upon signature, you must place a 50% deposit with the balance of the fee due one month prior to embarkation. The original deposit will be held as a refundable damage deposit. Your agreement includes an expense advance to the yacht (APA) which is usually due 30 days prior to the beginning charter date. Back to Top
Do I need to buy insurance during the charter?
Your charter agreement will detail insurance provisions: the yacht remains insured by the owner during your charter, however, in certain cases you may wish to purchase additional liability coverage to protect you and your guests from any unforeseen mishap. Back to Top