Now, while every member of the crew is vital and valued aboard a yacht, it should come as no surprise that the chef’s role is one of the most important because we all know that food is one of the key elements of a memorable holiday.
Why is the preference sheet important?
First up, let’s talk about the preference sheet. The preference sheet that gets sent to all of the clients is important because it has information like special requests and the itinerary. For the Chef, the preference sheet contains detailed information about food preferences and allergies. We understand that filling in forms is not exactly high on the list of priorities for our clients. It is tempting to leave it or not ask all of your guests for their information – but trust us when we say that it will help start your luxury sailing holiday in the best way possible.
What if we forgot to mention something on the preference sheet or change our minds?
This is absolutely normal. You can speak freely with your crew and chef on a daily basis. The crew is there to make this the holiday of a lifetime. Most wishes can be accommodated, however, just note that not all products are easily available – especially requests like international wine or specific brands, this is why we encourage you to fill out the preference sheet to the best of your ability.
What if there are conflicting dietary requests and requirements?
For large groups, it is natural that several people may have different dietary requirements, don’t worry, the chef will take all of this into consideration when creating their menu. What does this mean for you? Well, just because one person is a vegetarian, it doesn’t mean that everyone needs to eat vegetarian all week. Our chefs are all brilliantly creative and will come up with menus to keep everyone happy. Again, this is why the preference sheet is important, so the chef is prepared, as some products are harder to find on the islands.
What is ‘family-style’ dining?
Family-style dining is when the chef prepares several dishes which are served in the middle of the table, similar to a buffet. This is a good option when there are a number of dietary preferences. For example, the chef would make a few vegetarian options, fish or meat, and a mixture of sides and salads. This gives a wonderful variety and all wishes are easily met. It is a great option for families with children too, as it gives kids a selection to choose from, rather than when food is plated in modern style. From our experience, guests predominantly enjoy family-style dining, as it has a more relaxed atmosphere, and a few evenings are reserved for fine dining, to give the chef an opportunity to show what they are capable of.
What about kids?
All of our yachts love having families and children aboard. Worried about meal times? Trust us when we say that life on board is made so much simpler by our attentive and professional crew. There is always plenty of fresh fruit and snacks available throughout the day, and you are free to speak to the crew or chef at any time about your food wishes. Even if you decide you want fine dining service, the chef can still prepare special meals for the kids. The crew will ensure the children are always taken care of, so there is no drama at meal times (or in-between meal times).
Fresh and local food
One of the biggest highlights of sailing in Croatia for our guests is usually the food. Many guests come aboard with expectations about the sun, sea, and nature, but most know very little about Croatian food or the quality of our produce. Our guests always comment on how the seafood, produce, fruit, and olive oil, are some of the best they’ve ever had, and we tend to agree. The quality of fresh food and produce in Croatia is extremely high, and this is a point of pride for locals and our chefs. While our chefs base a lot of their provisioning on the preference sheet, they also shop daily for fruit, fresh produce, and often seafood – from local fish markets or a known fisherman. Craving fresh figs? They’ve got you.
Croatia also has some brilliant traditional dishes that our chefs will be happy to prepare for you, things like octopus salad, bužara, gregada, crni rižot (black risotto), and much more. So, while you may have your requests, remember to leave some space for the chef to show you their culinary skills, and be open to trying traditional Croatian cuisine.
Variety is the spice of life
After years in this business, we are still amazed at the variety of meals our chefs come up with for a 7-day yacht charter. And every year, our chefs continue to learn and upskill, adding new skills and dishes to their repertoire – surprising and delighting their return clients. And while the typical food in Croatia is the Mediterranean in style – meaning fresh seafood, vegetables, and salads, all of our chefs are adept at numerous styles of cuisine. So, no matter your taste buds or cravings, we are sure our chefs will meet (if not exceed) all of your expectations.
Sustainable Living
It is also worth mentioning that all of our chefs are professional, and hence, part of their skill set is keeping food waste to a minimum. So, no matter how many different meal requests you may have, the chefs do their best to use everything they have in a creative way to reduce food waste.
The joy of a private chef
One of the biggest reasons our chefs choose to work on yachts instead of restaurants is that they love the freedom to create which yachts provide and the intimate setting. They also love being able to speak directly to their guests, adapting to individual wishes – a challenging yet rewarding environment.
The only difficult thing about having a chef aboard is facing the reality that at the end of the yacht charter, you can’t take them home with you – though many guests have tried! In all seriousness, having a chef is one of the highlights for most of our guests. Not needing to think about food yet knowing every meal will be a gourmet delight, is a real luxury.
As always, we are happy to answer any of your questions but hope this clarifies what the chef’s role is aboard and how the preference sheet works. Contact our team for further inquiries or questions.
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Your Questions Answered
FAQs
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Timing is one of the most important factors when planning a yacht charter. Different periods of the year offer very different experiences, even in the same destination. Summer months tend to be busier, with more activity in ports and popular anchorages, while spring and autumn often feel quieter and more relaxed. Weather, sea conditions, and local events can all influence your time on board. If you have flexibility with your dates, we strongly recommend sharing that with us. It allows us to suggest alternative weeks, for you to discover more private harbors and sometimes secure better options within your budget.Click for more information
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Chartering a yacht gives you freedom, privacy, and the chance to explore coastal destinations at your own pace. You can enjoy hidden bays, local culture, and unique activities that aren’t accessible by traditional travel. With a private crew handling all the details, you can focus on relaxing, swimming, trying water sports, and discovering new towns and beaches every day. Yacht charters are ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a tailored experience on the water.
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Most yacht charters offer flexible itineraries. While there’s usually a suggested route, you can adjust it based on weather, local events, or your own preferences. Whether you want to spend extra time at a favorite beach, visit a charming town, or explore a quiet cove, your crew can help adapt the plan to make your trip just right.
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Otium Yachts provides expert guidance, a selection of carefully maintained vessels, and professional crews who know the Adriatic coast inside out. From planning your itinerary to organizing activities and ensuring smooth sailing, Otium Yachts makes yacht charters easy, enjoyable, and reliable. Guests appreciate the personal attention, detailed local knowledge, and thoughtful service that make every charter feel special.
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The cost of a yacht charter varies depending on the size of the yacht, the season, the number of guests, and the itinerary. Early summer and peak season tend to be higher, while shoulder months may offer more competitive rates. Longer charters or special requests, such as additional activities or private events, can also affect the price. Booking early and working with an experienced broker can help you find the best options for your budget.Click for more information
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The charter fee generally covers accommodation for all guests, the crew and their expenses, Wi-Fi, use of onboard recreational equipment. Exact inclusions may vary from yacht to yacht, and when you receive a quote, you will be provided with a detailed breakdown of what is included and what is not.
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APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance. It’s a deposit, usually around 25-30% of the charter fee, that covers variable expenses during the charter. This includes fuel for the yacht and tender, food and drinks, port and marina fees, national park entrances, water sports, and any extra services requested by the guests. Before the charter begins, the APA is paid upfront, and the captain or crew manages these costs throughout the trip. Any unused funds are refunded at the end, while any extra expenses beyond the allowance are billed separately. This system ensures your charter runs smoothly without surprises and gives guests flexibility to enjoy the full experience on board.Click for more information
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An all-inclusive yacht charter means that, in addition to the yacht and crew, most meals, drinks, and onboard amenities are included in the price. This can cover food, beverages, water toys, Wi-Fi, and some activities, allowing guests to enjoy the trip without worrying about extra costs during the charter. Always check the offer details, as inclusions can vary by yacht and operator.
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The base charter fee usually does not include items such as port or marina fees, national park entrances, shore excursions, special activities like scuba diving or big game fishing, transfers, or APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) for fuel, food, and drinks. Guests may also have charges for extra navigation, special equipment, or additional services requested during the trip.
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To secure your booking with Otium Yachts, the first step is signing the charter agreement and paying the initial deposit. The first instalment, which is 50% of the charter fee, is due at the time of signing. The second instalment, covering the remaining balance along with any selected food and beverage packages, is due 45 days before the charter begins. This process ensures your booking is confirmed and gives our team time to prepare everything for a smooth board experience.
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When booking a yacht, it’s important to know that there are two common types of charter agreements in the Mediterranean: Western Mediterranean Terms (WMT), also known as MYBA Terms, and Eastern Mediterranean Terms (EMT), also known as Gulet Terms. It can seem a bit confusing at first, but here’s a simple breakdown: the type of contract used depends on the yacht owner, who chooses the terms that best suit their vessel and guests. Both options are standard in the industry and provide clear guidelines for what’s included in the charter fee, what costs are extra, and how the trip is managed.Click for more information
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Yacht charters are governed by industry-standard agreements, such as the MYBA Charter Agreement, which clearly defines cancellation policies. One of the most important clauses in this contract is Clause 11, which outlines the financial consequences of canceling a charter.Click for more information
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Planning a luxury yacht charter is an exciting experience, full of anticipation. Many guests book their charters months or even a year in advance, hoping everything will go smoothly when the time arrives. But life can be unpredictable, and unexpected events may force you to cancel or postpone your trip. This is where yacht charter insurance plays a vital role, protecting your investment and ensuring your dream getaway remains secure, no matter what challenges arise.Click for more information
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VAT varies by country because each country sets its own VAT rates and tax rules. Although EU countries follow a common VAT framework, the actual rates and specific conditions differ from one jurisdiction to another. Outside the EU, VAT or similar taxes may not apply at all, or different tax systems may be in place.
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Pack light and focus on casual, comfortable clothing. Essentials include swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and non-slip deck shoes. Evenings are usually relaxed, so a few smart-casual outfits are sufficient. Don’t forget personal toiletries, medications, and travel documents. Soft luggage is recommended, as storage space on board is limited.Click for more information
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A typical day on a yacht is flexible and tailored to your preferences. Mornings often start with breakfast at anchor, followed by swimming or water activities. During the day, the yacht may cruise to a new destination, with lunch on board or ashore. Afternoons are perfect for relaxation, sightseeing, or exploring coastal towns, while evenings are usually spent dining on board or at a local restaurant.Click for more information
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Yes, itineraries are flexible and can usually be adjusted during the charter, weather and operational conditions permitting. Your captain will advise on the best options to ensure safety and comfort while accommodating your preferences as much as possible.
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Absolutely. Yacht charters are ideal for first-time guests, as the professional crew takes care of navigation, safety, and daily operations. The experience is fully guided and can be as relaxed or as active as you wish, making it suitable for all levels of experience.
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Destinations with calm seas, short cruising distances, and well-developed marina infrastructure are ideal for first-time charterers. Popular choices include the Mediterranean, such as Croatia, Greece, Italy and the French Riviera, as well as the Caribbean. These regions offer a wide variety of anchorages, beautiful scenery, and reliable services, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.Click for more information
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For a one-week charter, routes with short sailing times between destinations work best. This allows guests to enjoy a relaxed pace while still visiting several locations. Circular routes or island-hopping itineraries are especially popular, as they minimize long passages and maximize time for swimming, sightseeing, and dining ashore. Popular itineraries include Split, Hvar, Vis, Kor?ula, and Bra?, or Dubrovnik and the nearby Elaphiti Islands. These routes offer a great balance of exploration, relaxation, and time to enjoy each destination.
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A round-trip charter starts and ends at the same port, offering a simple and flexible itinerary. A one-way charter begins in one location and ends in another, allowing you to cover more distance and explore a wider area. One-way charters often involve additional fees for yacht repositioning but provide greater variety in destinations.
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Living onboard a crewed yacht is relaxed and comfortable, much like staying in a floating boutique hotel. The crew takes care of everything, from navigation and safety to meals and daily details, so you can fully unwind. Your days are shaped around your preferences, whether that means exploring new destinations, enjoying the sea, or simply relaxing on deck.
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A yacht charter offers a very high level of privacy. The yacht is exclusively yours, and the crew is trained to be discreet and respectful at all times. While they are always available when needed, they give guests plenty of space to enjoy their time onboard without interruption.
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Yes, dietary requirements can usually be accommodated. Before the charter, guests are asked to share any preferences, allergies, or special diets. The chef will tailor the menu accordingly, whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or based on specific preferences. A Guest’s preference sheet is a simple tool we use to ensure your yacht charter is tailored to your group’s needs and desires.Click for more information
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Most crewed yachts come equipped with a selection of water toys and amenities, such as snorkeling gear, paddleboards, seabobs, or jet skis, depending on the yacht. Onboard amenities often include spacious lounging areas, air-conditioned cabins, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems. The exact selection varies by yacht and will be confirmed before your charter.Click for more information
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Yes, crewed yachts come with a professional and experienced crew. Depending on the size of the yacht, this may include a captain, chef, and additional crew members. They are there to ensure your safety, comfort, and overall enjoyment throughout the charter.Click for more information
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The captain is responsible for navigating the yacht safely, planning the route, and adjusting the itinerary when needed due to weather or sea conditions. They also act as a local expert, offering recommendations for anchorages, beaches, and restaurants, while making sure your charter runs smoothly.Click for more information
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Crew gratuity is customary but always at the guest’s discretion. If you feel the crew has delivered excellent service, tipping is a nice way to show appreciation. The usual guideline is around 10-15% of the charter fee, though any amount is entirely optional.
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Embarkation typically takes place in the afternoon on the first day of the charter, while disembarkation is usually in the morning on the final day. Exact times can vary depending on the yacht and marina, and will be confirmed before your departure.
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Airport transfers are not always included by default, but they can usually be arranged upon request. Your charter broker or crew can help organize smooth transfers to and from the yacht for an additional fee.
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All our yachts come with Wi-Fi onboard, so you can stay connected while enjoying your charter. Coverage is generally good near the coast, though it may be limited in more remote areas or while cruising, depending on local signal strength.
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In case of bad weather, the captain will always prioritize safety. The itinerary may be adjusted, or the yacht may remain in a sheltered bay or marina until conditions improve. These changes are made to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience whenever possible.