The warm Dubai air kisses your skin.
You hear the soft clink of ice in a crystal glass. A gentle sea breeze carries the scent of salt and opportunity. You are standing on the polished teak deck of a magnificent superyacht. The skyline of Dubai Marina glitters before you, a monument to ambition.
This is more than a vacation. It is a statement.
Many people wonder about the price for a world-class experience like this. Especially for a private group of 20 friends, family, or partners. So, let’s talk about the real Dubai superyacht charter price. More importantly, let’s explore what that 7-star experience truly feels like.
What Makes a Dubai Superyacht Charter So Special?
A superyacht is not just a boat. It is your own private, floating island of luxury.
Imagine gliding past the iconic Palm Jumeirah. You see the stunning Atlantis The Royal hotel from a perspective few will ever know. Your captain, a seasoned master of these waters, points out exclusive villas. You might even arrange for an exclusive real estate viewing right from the deck.
This is a world of complete privacy and control. You decide the music. You decide the menu. You decide when to anchor for a swim in the warm Arabian Gulf. It’s a level of freedom that is the ultimate luxury.
Your journey here was seamless. Perhaps you arrived via a private jet service at Al Maktoum International, whisked away to the marina in minutes. The effortless transition from air to sea is part of the magic. This is how Dubai’s elite experience their city.
What Does a 7-Star Superyacht Charter for 20 Actually Include?
The term “7-Star” was born in Dubai. It means service and quality that go beyond all expectations. On a superyacht, this concept comes to life.
For your group of 20, you’ll have a dedicated crew. This is not just a captain. You have a chief stewardess who anticipates your every need. You have deckhands keeping everything perfect. And most importantly, you have a world-class private chef.
Think of a chef who has trained in Dubai’s Michelin-starred kitchens, like Il Ristorante or Trèsind Studio. They will craft a bespoke menu just for you. One night might be a Japanese tasting menu under the stars. The next, a lavish Arabic feast with the freshest local ingredients.
But it goes beyond dining. A 7-star charter includes:
- A Fleet of Water Toys: Imagine your guests’ delight when they see the jet skis, Seabobs, and eFoils ready to go.
- Onboard Cinema: Watch a blockbuster movie on a huge screen on the upper deck, with the real stars above you.
- Wellness Facilities: Many superyachts have a jacuzzi, a small gym, and even a spa room for a massage therapist.
- Impeccable Service: Your favorite drink appears before you ask. Cool towels are offered after a swim. This is true intuitive service.
Breaking Down the Dubai Superyacht Charter Price for Your Group
So, what is the investment for this level of opulence? The Dubai superyacht charter price is not one single number. It’s made of a few key parts.
First is the base charter fee. This is the price to hire the yacht itself. For a superyacht that can comfortably host 20 guests for a day-long event, this is the biggest part of the cost. The size, age, and brand of the yacht (like a Majesty or a Benetti) will change this price.
Second is the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA). Think of this as your onboard expense account. It’s usually about 30-40% of the base fee. This covers all your personalized requests: fuel for the journey, all food and premium beverages, port fees, and any special arrangements. It’s completely transparent.
Third are the bespoke extras. This is where you create true magic. Want to arrange for an on-site luxury car rental with a fleet of Rolls-Royces waiting at the dock? Done. Want a famous DJ to play a set at sunset? Easy. Want a professional photographer to capture the day? Of course. These additions are what make the experience uniquely yours.
My Insider Secrets to an Unforgettable Charter
After years of exploring these waters, I’ve learned a few things. These tips will help you elevate your experience from great to truly legendary.
- Communicate Everything. The broker and crew are there to create your perfect day. Be specific. Tell them your favorite brand of champagne, the music you love, and any dietary needs. The more they know, the better they can serve you.
- Plan One “Wow” Moment. A charter is already special. But add one unforgettable surprise. This could be a live saxophonist playing as the sun sets over the Burj Al Arab. Or perhaps a coordinated fireworks display just for your group.
- Trust Your Captain. They know the best and most private spots to anchor. Ask for their recommendation on the perfect place to watch the sunset or enjoy a quiet swim away from the crowds.
- Don’t Forget the Crew. A professional crew works incredibly hard to make your day seamless. A gratuity of 10-20% of the base charter fee is customary and deeply appreciated for excellent service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a superyacht charter in Dubai for 20 people?
For a true superyacht (over 100 feet) with a full crew, you should expect the total cost to start around 150,000 AED for a day charter and go well over 500,000 AED. It depends entirely on the yacht, the APA, and your bespoke requests.
What is APA and how much should I budget?
APA stands for Advanced Provisioning Allowance. It covers all your custom expenses like fuel, food, and drinks. You should budget about 30-40% of the yacht’s base charter fee for the APA. You get a full breakdown of the spending, and any unspent funds are returned to you.
Can we bring our own chef or DJ?
Yes, in most cases. This must be coordinated with your charter broker well in advance. They will ensure the third party has the right credentials and can work smoothly with the yacht’s existing crew and facilities.
What is the best time of year for a Dubai yacht charter?
The prime season is from October to May. The weather is absolutely perfect—sunny, warm, and with calm seas. The summer months (June-September) are very hot, making daytime charters less comfortable.