A yacht delivery quote can look like a single number, but it is built from several parts. Understanding them helps you compare quotes fairly, avoid surprises and choose the right service for your boat. This guide explains what you pay for in a delivery along the Turkish coast and in the Eastern Mediterranean.
1. Distance and route
Distance in nautical miles is the starting point, but the route matters as much. A direct open-water passage is different from a coastal route that must stop each night. Routes around headlands and through channels with strong winds or currents need more time and sometimes more crew.
2. Skipper and crew
The skipper’s day rate is the core of the quote. Longer passages with night sailing need additional crew to keep watches safe. The number of crew depends on the distance, the length of each leg, the size of the boat and its equipment.
3. Fuel
Fuel is normally paid by the owner, either directly or as a disbursement. It depends on the boat’s consumption, the conditions and how much of the passage is under engine. Sailing yachts in light winds can use more fuel than expected; motor yachts’ consumption rises steeply with speed.
4. Marina, harbour and clearance fees
Overnight stops, fuel docks and clearance at ports of entry have fees. Crossing between Turkey and Greece, for example, involves clearance on both sides and, where applicable, other charges such as a cruising tax. These costs are usually passed on at cost.
5. Travel and provisioning
The crew must get to the boat and back home at the end. Flights, transfers and accommodation where needed are part of the cost. Food and water on board during the passage are usually included or charged as disbursements.
6. Preparation
A boat that has been sitting in a marina may need work before it is ready: fuel filters, impeller, batteries, safety equipment. A short pre-delivery check identifies what is needed. Preparation work is quoted separately so you can decide what to do and who does it.
7. Weather waiting
No responsible skipper sails into dangerous weather to meet a date. Waiting days are a normal part of deliveries, especially in the Meltemi season. How they are charged should be written in the contract before departure.
8. What is not included
- Repairs needed along the way, agreed with the owner at the time.
- Damage cover: the boat’s own insurance covers the passage; the delivery captain is not the insurer.
- Additional services such as cleaning, provisioning for the owner or hand-over at a particular hour.
9. Comparing quotes
When comparing delivery quotes, check:
- Is the skipper licensed, and how many crew are included?
- Are fuel, fees and travel included or charged at cost?
- How are weather days and breakdowns handled?
- Is there a written contract and a photographic handover report?
The lowest quote often leaves out crew or preparation, or pushes risk back onto the owner.
10. How our pricing works
We quote deliveries with an itemised breakdown so you can see each part. Payment is typically 50% at booking and 50% before departure, with a 48-hour cancellation window. Use our delivery quote calculator for an instant estimate; see delivery services for what is included.
11. How to reduce delivery costs
- Prepare the boat in advance: Service the engine, replace filters and check safety equipment before the crew arrives, so no delivery days are spent on preparation.
- Be flexible with dates: A flexible window lets the skipper choose good weather, which reduces fuel and waiting.
- Have documents ready: Missing papers can cost days at a port of entry.
- Combine work: If the boat needs a haul-out or service at the destination, schedule it to follow the delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Is a delivery cheaper than a transport by road or ship?
For most boats along the coast, delivery by sea is the most economical option. Road or ship transport can make sense for long distances or when time is critical.
Who pays for fuel?
Normally the owner, either directly or as a disbursement at cost.
What if the boat breaks down on the way?
The captain ensures safety first and then contacts the owner; repairs are agreed with the owner as set out in the contract.