Renting a yacht in the United States is no longer just for the ultra-wealthy. From weekend getaways to special celebrations, yacht charters are now a popular way to enjoy the water — but the costs can vary widely depending on where, when, and how you book. 

Whether you’re planning a half-day trip in Miami or a luxury cruise in Los Angeles, knowing the real costs behind a yacht rental helps you make smart decisions and avoid surprise charges. This 2025 guide breaks down the key pricing factors, city-wise rates, and tips to get the best value for your money. 

If you’ve ever wondered, “How much does it really cost to rent a yacht?” — you’re in the right place. 

Key Factors That Affect Yacht Rental Costs in the US 

Yacht rental prices aren’t fixed — they depend on several key variables that can significantly raise or lower your total cost. Here’s what really drives pricing in 2025: 

  1. Location

Where you rent makes a big difference. Cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and New York City typically have higher demand and premium pricing. Coastal hotspots also charge more during the tourist season, while smaller marinas in less crowded areas may offer better deals. 

  1. Duration of Rental

Hourly rentals (2–4 hours) are ideal for short events or sightseeing. Half-day (4–6 hours), full-day (8 hours), or overnight rentals are available too. The longer the rental, the better the rate per hour — but your overall cost will still increase with time. 

  1. Yacht Type and Size

A 30-foot sailboat is very different in price from a 90-foot luxury motor yacht. Smaller boats with basic amenities may cost a few hundred dollars per hour, while large party yachts or high-end vessels with jacuzzis, lounges, and crews can run into the thousands. 

  1. Onboard Amenities and Add-Ons

Many charters offer extras like catered food, open bars, jet skis, or event decorations. These premium services can enhance your experience — but they also add to the price. Always check what's included and what’s optional. 

  1. Captain and Crew

Some rentals include a captain and crew in the base price. Others charge separately. A professional crew ensures safety and service, but it’s important to know if they’re part of the package or an added cost. 

  1. Season and Day of the Week

Summer months, weekends, and holidays are peak times and come with peak pricing. Weekday or off-season bookings often give you more flexibility and lower rates, especially in locations like Florida and California. 

Sample Pricing Ranges by Yacht Type & City (2025) 

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of typical hourly rental rates across popular US cities in 2025. Keep in mind that final costs may vary depending on boat condition, event type, and specific inclusions. 

Estimated Yacht Rental Prices (Per Hour) 

 

City 

Yacht Type 

Price Range (Per Hour) 

Miami, FL 

40-ft Motor Yacht 

$450 – $700 

Los Angeles, CA 

60-ft Luxury Yacht 

$900 – $1,400 

New York City 

Party Catamaran (50–65 ft) 

$600 – $1,000 

San Diego, CA 

35-ft Sailing Yacht 

$350 – $550 

Notes: 

  • Most rentals require a 2–4 hour minimum
  • Larger yachts often offer full-day packages starting from $3,000+. 
  • Pricing may include captain, fuel, and dock fees — but not always. 
  • Bookings around holidays or major events may come with premium pricing. 

This table is intended to give you a starting point — always ask for a detailed quote before confirming. 

What’s Usually Included in the Price? 

While base rates vary, most yacht rentals come with a standard set of inclusions. Understanding what’s covered — and what’s not — helps you avoid misunderstandings or unexpected fees. 

  1. Captain (for Crewed Charters)

Many charters include a licensed captain who navigates the trip, ensures safety, and handles docking. For smaller or bareboat rentals, the captain may be optional or charged separately. 

  1. Basic Amenities

Most rentals include essential items like water, ice, a sound system, and access to indoor lounges or deck seating. Higher-end yachts may come with sun decks, grills, or even hot tubs. 

  1. Fuel (Sometimes)

Some hourly rates include fuel for local cruising, especially for short trips. For longer distances or high-speed cruising, fuel may be billed separately based on usage. 

  1. Docking Fees

If the yacht is docked at a private marina or travels to a premium location, docking fees may be included in the rate — or billed as a separate line item. 

  1. Crew for Large Yachts

Luxury vessels often come with a full crew, including deckhands, stewards, and sometimes chefs. For smaller boats, it’s usually just the captain. 

Even with these inclusions, always double-check with your provider. Some services may appear standard but come at an additional charge — especially during peak season or for customized trips.