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What Is a Charter?
A charter is a cruise where some or all of the cruise ship is bought out by a single entity. Most often, a charter involves a group buying out a ship for the purpose of having their own private sailing. These charter sailings are commonly held by groups for the purpose of a theme cruise. In addition, companies or celebrities will host a charter cruise. These sailings are not available to book through the cruise line directly, but can sometimes be purchased through the group that organized the charter. Charter sailings often come with different rules and entertainment onboard, including special events or closing certain venues depending on the agreement between the group and the cruise line.
Key Takeaways
- A charter cruise is a sailing where part or all of the sailing is bought out by a group or person.
- Charter cruises must be purchased through the organizer, and will not be bookable directly through the cruise line.
- Often charters are set up for the purpose of a theme cruise.
Understanding a cruise ship charter
A charter cruise is when a specific sailing is bought out, either entirely or partially, by someone for the purpose of enjoying the ship to themselves.
When a ship is completely bought out, it is usually for a theme cruise. These themed cruises can centered around a specific celebrity, music style, band or media network. Group charters are a popular way to allow fans to spend time with the hosts and/or celebrities.
In addition, some companies will charter a cruise ship for a company retreat, meeting, or giveback for their employees.
If a ship is completely bought out for a charter, it is usually not available to be booked by the general public.
In the case of a partial charter, the group is sharing the ship with regular guests, certain venues may be rented out temporarily during the cruise for the group. The venues are closed for a short period of time and generally does not greatly impact other guests, although some guests are annoyed by the fact it happens at all.
Most cruise lines will not "warn" or inform guests if there is a partial charter or group on their cruise.
How much would it cost to charter a cruise ship?
The exact cost of a charter will vary from cruise line to cruise line, and ship to ship. In addition, the cost will depend on what special add-ons or services the group requests.
Generally, cruise lines will charge the double occupancy rate for all cabins, in addition to gratuities, taxes, fees and more.
Charter prices will depend on ship, sail date, itinerary and level of customization.
You will find the lowest prices for a charter during off peak times of the calendar, such as September, October, early December and/or January. Prices for a charter tend to be higher at peak times, such as between May and August.
More exotic itineraries will see higher prices as well.