COVID-19 Yacht Charter Booking Protection
In comparison with the 2020 summer season - when there was uncertainty in the market due to the global pandemic - this year is markedly different. Yacht owners are already preparing for the upcoming season, and everyone is optimistic that, with the correct precautions, most of the charter groups will be able to arrive and safely board their yacht without disruption, to enjoy a (much needed) holiday at sea.
COVID-19 fatigue is at its highest level since the start of the pandemic, and people are looking forward to their next summer holiday.
Chartering a yacht or a gulet is one of the most enjoyable experiences for a rejuvenating getaway.
The yachting industry is somewhat fortunate in this regard, given that yacht charters enable clients to travel around securely in their own “private bubble” away from crowds, enjoy all meals and drinks on board, and stay safe. As a result, yacht charters are booking fast, and there hasn’t been a significant drop in business since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020.
However, people are still nervous as to what might happen if they book a holiday and due to government restrictions in their country (or a country where they booked a vessel), they could be prevented from boarding either an aeroplane to the destination or the yacht itself. Or, if a member of the charter group becomes unwell prior to boarding.
For these reasons, there are various options we would like to outline in order to provide peace of mind when booking your yacht:
Free Cancellation
We have a small number of yachts available that can be booked with the assurance of free cancellation if the trip cannot proceed due to COVID-19. These are limited options but we do have some available; so if this is the reassurance you require, we will do our best to assist.
In this case, you would pay the deposit; we would hold your funds in an escrow account until the start of the charter, and when you board the yacht, we would release the funds to the yacht owner.
In case of government-mandated COVID-19 restrictions in your country or in the country where you booked your yacht being enforced, you will then receive a full refund.
The MYBA yacht charter agreement (official worldwide yacht brokers association) is used for these yacht charters, which provide full protection to charterers in this regard.
Postponement to 2022 or 2023
In the case of COVID-19 restrictions or illness occurring, most yacht owners are willing to consider a postponement of your charter until 2022 or even 2023. It is becoming more difficult to secure a booking for the upcoming summer season. If you are happy with postponing your charter, we will try to negotiate a discounted price.
So you can either secure a good price for a great 2021 summer holiday, or - if you are unable to participate due to COVID-19 - you can move your dates to 2022 or even 2023 without any additional cost. It is expected the prices will increase year on year, so you can still secure your yacht charter next year under the same conditions as 2021.
Covid-19 Cancellation Insurance
Some insurance companies are providing COVID-19 cancellation insurance, to cover unforeseen travel restrictions, or if you become unwell with COVID-19 and cannot travel.
Different fees apply in different countries, however an average cost of this type of insurance is around 4% to 7% as a percentage of the base charter rate.
If you are interested in this option, please let us know and we will send you detailed information.
COVID fatigue has taken its toll on everyone. We are all tired of being stuck indoors for what feels like an eternity, so making holiday plans for the summer is an exciting project in itself.
We are more than happy to assist you with every aspect of planning your yacht charter.
COVID-19 Safety on Yachts
We need to be mindful of the reality that despite the worldwide vaccination roll-out, safety protocols will remain in place for some time. These will include the wearing of masks, social distancing, and regular hand sanitizing, as well as anti-viral deep cleaning of vessels.
Yacht owners and crew are very familiar with these requirements, and will make sure your holiday is safe.
The reluctance of some travelers to move in large crowds since the onset of the pandemic last year has undoubtedly made travel more difficult. Individuals, couples, and families who want to minimize their exposure to the coronavirus are increasingly opting for private yacht charters.
We invite you to do the same.
Start Planning your cruise with Goolets.
