Sail Into Forever: Playa del Carmen Yacht Wedding Packages (2026 Guide)

All‑Inclusive Wedding Packages: What’s Covered on Board

Luxury yacht weddings in Playa del Carmen are marketed as “all‑inclusive” to simplify planning and guarantee a seamless experience for the couple and guests. In 2026 the typical all‑inclusive charter includes a defined set of services and amenities that are bundled into a single per‑guest or per‑boat rate. The following items are standard across most reputable operators and form the baseline of the package price.

1. Charter Duration and Vessel Use

• Full‑day charter (up to 12 hours) or sunset‑only charter (approximately 4 hours).
• Unlimited access to all interior and exterior spaces, including the main deck, sundeck, aft lounge, and bridal suite.
• On‑board navigation and piloting by a licensed captain for the entire duration.

2. Professional Crew

• Captain and first‑mate for navigation and safety compliance.
• Two to four crew members for hospitality, including a maître d’, a steward/ess, and a deckhand.
• Head chef and sous‑chef (or a dedicated catering team) for food preparation and service.
• All crew salaries, gratuities, and overtime are covered.

3. Catering and Beverages

• Custom wedding menu featuring a multi‑course plated dinner or buffet, with options for Mexican, Mediterranean, and international cuisines.
• Unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, and a curated selection of premium wines, champagne, spirits, and signature cocktails.
• Coffee service, tea, and after‑dinner desserts such as wedding cake, petit fours, and fresh fruit platters.
• Dietary‑restriction accommodations (vegetarian, gluten‑free, kosher, halal) are included at no extra charge when requested at least 30 days in advance.

4. Wedding Coordination and Planning

• Dedicated on‑board wedding coordinator who manages the timeline, vendor arrivals, and ceremony logistics.
• Assistance with legal paperwork for civil ceremonies conducted on the yacht, including liaison with local authorities for marriage licenses and permits.
• Pre‑wedding site visit (typically within 30 days of the event) for layout planning and décor placement.

5. Decor and Styling

• Standard décor package: white drapery, floral centerpieces for the ceremony arch and reception tables, aisle runner, and bridal backdrop.
• Lighting package comprising ambient LED uplighting, string lights, and a dance‑floor spotlight system.
• Basic tableware, glassware, linens, and flatware in a coordinated color palette.
• Upgrades such as custom floral arrangements, themed décor, or premium linens are offered as add‑ons.

6. Entertainment and Audio‑Visual

• Professional sound system with microphones for vows, speeches, and music playback.
• DJ services or live acoustic performer (choice of two 3‑hour sets).
• Projection screen and basic video‑mixing equipment for slideshow or live streaming.
• Optional upgrades include a full band, laser lighting, or fireworks (subject to local regulations).

7. Photography and Videography

• On‑board photographer for a minimum of 6 hours, delivering a curated gallery of edited high‑resolution images.
• Videographer covering ceremony, reception, and highlights reel (approximately 5‑minute edited video).
• Drone footage of the yacht and surrounding coastline, weather permitting.

8. Permits, Taxes, and Insurance

• All required maritime permits for wedding ceremonies in the Riviera Maya region.
• Value‑added tax (VAT) and any applicable tourism taxes are incorporated into the package price.
• Comprehensive public liability insurance covering guests, crew, and the vessel for the duration of the event.

9. Guest Amenities

• Welcome cocktail and hors d’oeuvres upon boarding.
• Complimentary Wi‑Fi throughout the vessel.
• Toiletries, towels, and basic spa amenities in the bridal suite.
• Transportation to and from the marina for the wedding party (up to two vehicles) is often included; additional transfers are billed separately.

10. Post‑Event Services

• Cleanup and waste disposal in accordance with Mexican environmental regulations.
• Return of any rented décor items, audio‑visual equipment, or special furniture.
• Final accounting and receipt detailing all inclusive items and any optional upgrades selected.

Pricing Implications

The inclusion of the items above typically results in a per‑guest rate ranging from USD 250 to USD 450 for a full‑day charter and USD 150 to USD 250 for a sunset‑only charter. Larger vessels (30–40 guests) exhibit economies of scale, while ultra‑luxury super‑yachts (up to 12 guests) command premium rates due to higher crew ratios and bespoke amenities. Optional upgrades—such as premium décor, live bands, or extended entertainment—add between USD 500 and USD 2,500 to the total package, depending on the scope.

Understanding the exact composition of an all‑inclusive package enables couples to compare offers transparently and allocate budget to the elements that matter most for their celebration.

Customizable Add‑Ons and Their 2026 Pricing (Catering, Décor, Entertainment)

*Overview*

Luxury yachts in Playa del Carmen now offer a menu of à‑la‑carte wedding enhancements that allow couples to tailor the ceremony and reception to their vision. Pricing reflects the premium nature of the market, the seasonality of the Riviera Maya, and the level of personalization required. The figures below represent typical 2026 rates for full‑service packages on 70‑ to 120‑foot vessels that accommodate 30‑120 guests. Prices are quoted in U.S. dollars and include labor, equipment, and basic taxes; optional upgrades are listed separately.

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1. Catering

*Pricing assumes a mid‑season charter (mid‑May to early‑October). Peak‑season (December‑April) adds 12‑18 % to the per‑guest rate; off‑peak (November) may reduce rates by 8‑10 %.*

Add‑On Enhancements

• Champagne toast (premium brut, 1 L per 10 guests): $1,200‑$1,800 total.
• Cake & dessert station (custom design, up to 12 flavors): $1,500‑$2,300 total.
• Live cooking stations (sushi bar, teppanyaki, ceviche counter): $800‑$1,400 per station.

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2. Décor

*All décor packages include professional setup and teardown crew, secure anchoring of structures, and compliance with yacht safety regulations. Peak‑season surcharges of 10‑15 % apply; off‑peak discounts of 5‑8 % are common.*

Optional Upgrades

• Premium floral design (exotic orchids, roses, lilies; designer‑led): +$3,000‑$5,500.
• Interactive décor (photo booth with backdrop, digital guest‑book kiosk): +$1,200‑$2,000.
• Special lighting (projection mapping, fiber‑optic strands): +$2,000‑$4,000.

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3. Entertainment

*Entertainment fees include performer fees, travel, insurance, and on‑board technical support. Peak‑season adds 12 % to total cost; weekday (Tuesday‑Thursday) bookings may receive a 7‑10 % reduction.*

Supplementary Options

• Silent disco headphones (up to 120 sets): $1,200 total.
• Fireworks display (deck‑approved, limited to 2 min burst): $2,800‑$3,600.
• Professional MC/host (bilingual, script writing): $1,000‑$1,500.

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4. Bundling Incentives

Yacht operators frequently bundle two or more add‑ons to provide a cohesive experience and reduce overall spend. Typical bundle discounts for 2026 are:

• Catering + Décor: 8‑12 % off combined total when both are booked simultaneously.
• Décor + Entertainment: 6‑10 % off when a full décor package is paired with any live entertainment tier.
• All‑Three Package (Catering, Décor, Entertainment): 15‑20 % discount on the aggregate price, plus a complimentary welcome cocktail reception for up to 20 guests.

Discounts are applied before taxes and are contingent upon a minimum 30‑day lead time for design finalization and logistical coordination.

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Key Takeaway

In 2026, Playa del Carmen luxury yacht weddings can be fully customized through a tiered menu of catering, décor, and entertainment add‑ons. Couples should budget $150‑$350 per guest for food, $7,500‑$22,000 for décor, and $2,000‑$9,000 for entertainment, with the option to achieve up to a 20 % saving through strategic bundling and off‑peak scheduling. Precise quotations require a detailed brief and confirmation of the charter date, as rates fluctuate with seasonal demand and availability of premium vendors.

Fuel and Crew Surcharges by Yacht Size

In 2026 the cost structure for luxury yacht charters in Playa del Carmen continues to be driven primarily by two variable components: fuel consumption and crew compensation. Both elements are calculated as surcharges on the base charter rate and vary according to the vessel’s length overall (LOA) and the operational profile of a wedding itinerary. The following breakdown presents typical surcharge ranges for three size categories—mid‑size (40‑60 ft), large (61‑80 ft) and mega (81‑120 ft)—and illustrates how they translate into total wedding‑day expenses.

Fuel consumption is expressed in gallons per nautical mile (gal/nm) and is influenced by hull design, engine power and cruising speed. Mid‑size yachts averaging 50 ft LOA consume roughly 3.5 gal/nm at a steady 12 knots. Assuming a standard wedding route that includes a 30‑nm offshore ceremony positioning, a 45‑minute sunset cruise, and a return leg, total mileage typically reaches 70 nm. At the 2026 average diesel price of US$4.20 per gallon, the fuel surcharge for a mid‑size vessel calculates to 70 nm × 3.5 gal/nm × US$4.20 ≈ US$1,029. Large yachts in the 70‑ft range average 5.2 gal/nm under the same speed profile, producing a fuel surcharge of 70 nm × 5.2 gal/nm × US$4.20 ≈ US$1,528. Mega‑yachts, typically 100 ft, burn 7.8 gal/nm, resulting in a surcharge of 70 nm × 7.8 gal/nm × US$4.20 ≈ US$2,287. Operators frequently apply a 5 % fuel‑price buffer to accommodate fluctuations in market rates, adding US$51, US$76 and US$114 respectively.

Crew surcharges reflect both the number of personnel required for safe operation and the level of service expected during a wedding celebration. A mid‑size charter normally employs a captain, a first mate, and two deckhands, plus a chef and a stewardess for catering and guest assistance. The baseline crew wage package is US$350 per day for the captain, US$250 for the first mate, US$150 per deckhand, US$300 for the chef, and US$200 for the stewardess. Total crew cost equals US$1,400. Charter agreements typically add a 20 % service surcharge to cover gratuities, overtime, and insurance, bringing the crew surcharge to US$1,680.

Large yachts require a captain, first mate, three deckhands, a sous‑chef, a pastry chef, and two stewards, raising the base wage total to US$2,250. Applying the same 20 % service surcharge yields a crew surcharge of US$2,700. Mega‑yachts often carry a captain, first officer, four deckhands, a culinary team of three (executive chef, sous‑chef, pastry chef), two dedicated bartenders, and three stewards. Base wages sum to US$3,850, and the 20 % surcharge results in a crew surcharge of US$4,620.

When combined, fuel and crew surcharges represent a significant portion of the overall wedding charter budget. For a typical 8‑hour wedding event, the total variable surcharge is approximately US$2,709 for a mid‑size yacht, US$3,306 for a large yacht, and US$6,907 for a mega‑yacht. Clients planning a ceremony should allocate 12‑15 % of the advertised base rate to cover these surcharges, ensuring that the final invoice aligns with the 2026 market expectations. In addition, Mexican port authority fees and mandatory insurance premiums typically add a flat rate of US$300 to US$500 per charter, a cost that should be incorporated into the overall wedding budgeting calculations and ensure a seamless celebration today.

Deposit Requirements and Cancellation Policies for 2026 Bookings

Deposit Requirements and Cancellation Policies for 2026 Yacht Wedding Bookings in Playa del Carmen

When securing a luxury yacht for a wedding in Playa del Carmen during 2026, operators typically structure deposits and cancellation terms to protect both the client’s investment and the vessel’s availability. Understanding the common parameters helps couples budget accurately and avoid unexpected penalties.

Standard Deposit Structure

• Initial Reservation Deposit: Most charter companies require a non‑refundable deposit of 15 % to 20 % of the total charter price at the time of booking. This amount secures the yacht, crew, and any bespoke wedding amenities (catering, décor, entertainment). The deposit is usually payable by credit card or bank transfer within 5 business days of contract signing.
• Second Installment (Mid‑Term Payment): For charters scheduled more than 90 days in advance, a second payment of 30 % to 40 % is due 30 days before the event. This installment may be refundable only under strict conditions outlined in the cancellation clause.
• Final Balance: The remaining 40 % to 55 % is due 7 days prior to the wedding date. Some operators waive the final‑day balance if the charter is confirmed within 48 hours of departure, but this is rare for high‑season weddings.

Peak‑Season Adjustments

During the high‑demand period (December – April and July – August), deposits often rise to 25 % of the total price, reflecting limited vessel availability. In these windows, the second installment may be advanced to 45 days before the event, and the final balance may be required 14 days in advance.

Refundable vs. Non‑Refundable Deposits

• Non‑Refundable Portion: The initial deposit is almost universally non‑refundable, even if the couple cancels for personal reasons. This covers administrative costs, crew scheduling, and opportunity loss.
• Refundable Portion: The second installment may be refundable if cancellation occurs within the “free‑cancellation window” (see below). Refunds are processed as a credit toward a future charter or as a direct reimbursement, depending on the operator’s policy.

Cancellation Windows and Penalties

Force‑Majeure and Exceptional Circumstances

Most contracts include a force‑majeure clause covering natural disasters, government travel bans, or pandemic‑related restrictions. If a qualifying event occurs, the operator may offer:

• A full refund of all payments, including the non‑refundable deposit, provided the event is officially declared by a recognized authority.
• A rescheduling option with no additional deposit required, provided the new date falls within 12 months of the original booking.

Documentation (e.g., government notices, airline cancellations) must be submitted within 48 hours of the incident to qualify.

Credit‑Card Holds and Insurance

Some charter firms place a temporary hold on the client’s credit card equal to the total charter amount at the time of booking. The hold is released after the final balance is paid, but any refunds are processed to the same card. Travel or event insurance covering cancellation is strongly recommended; policies typically reimburse the non‑refundable deposit if the cause falls under covered events.

Rescheduling Policies

If the couple wishes to move the wedding to a later date rather than cancel, most operators allow a single reschedule with no additional deposit, provided the new date is confirmed at least 30 days before the original event. A second reschedule incurs a 15 % surcharge on the total charter price.

Key Takeaways for 2026 Planners

1. Budget for a 15 %–25 % non‑refundable deposit up front.

2. Verify the exact cancellation windows and associated penalties in the contract.

3. Consider purchasing comprehensive event insurance to mitigate the risk of losing the deposit.

4. Pay close attention to peak‑season deposit increases and tighter cancellation timelines.

5. Document any force‑majeure circumstances promptly to preserve refund eligibility.

By aligning expectations with these standard deposit and cancellation frameworks, couples can secure their luxury yacht venue in Playa del Carmen with confidence, ensuring that financial commitments are transparent and manageable throughout the 2026 wedding planning process.

Permits, Dockage Fees, and Local Taxes for Wedding Charters

1. Event‑Related Permits

All charter operators that host wedding ceremonies on the water must obtain a civil ceremony permit from the Municipal Office of Solidaridad. The 2026 fee schedule is USD 150 per event for vessels with a capacity of up to 30 guests; vessels exceeding this limit are charged USD 250. The permit must be submitted at least ten business days before the charter date and includes a mandatory safety briefing for the couple and officiant. If the ceremony is to be held on a public beach or within the protected zone of the Mesoamerican Reef, an additional environmental use permit is required. This permit costs MXN 3,200 (~USD 160) and requires a detailed waste‑management plan approved by the National Commission for Protected Natural Areas (CONANP). Failure to secure either permit can result in fines of up to USD 2,000 and immediate suspension of the charter.

2. Dockage and Mooring Fees

Dockage rates are administered by the Puerto de Playa del Carmen Authority. In 2026 the standard daily dockage fee for luxury yachts up to 30 m LOA (Length Overall) is MXN 4,500 (~USD 225). For vessels between 30 m and 50 m the rate rises to MXN 7,200 (~USD 360) per day. A one‑time berth reservation surcharge of MXN 1,200 (~USD 60) applies to events that require exclusive use of a slip for a wedding ceremony. If the charter plans to anchor in the open water rather than use a dock, a mooring fee of MXN 2,800 (~USD 140) per night is charged, plus a mandatory pilot‑boat escort fee of USD 120 per hour for the duration of the anchorage. All dockage and mooring fees are payable in advance and are non‑refundable after the reservation is confirmed.

3. Local Taxes and Surcharges

The IVA is calculated on the combined subtotal of charter hire, crew wages, fuel, and any ancillary services (catering, photography, décor). The TDT is levied per passenger for each night the yacht remains in Mexican territorial waters; for a typical wedding charter with 20 guests and a one‑night stay, the tax equals MXN 200 (~USD 10). The environmental conservation surcharge is a flat fee intended to fund reef‑monitoring programs and is payable at the time of permit issuance.

4. Payment Timeline and Documentation

1. Initial Quote – Includes base charter rate, estimated fuel, crew, and a provisional permit fee.

2. Deposit (30 % of total) – Due upon signing the charter contract; covers reservation of dockage and preliminary permit processing.

3. Permit Confirmation – Issued by the Municipal Office and CONANP; must be presented to the port authority on the day of embarkation.

4. Final Settlement (70 %) – Paid 48 hours before departure; includes IVA, TDT, dockage, mooring, and any approved surcharges.

5. Post‑Charter Invoice – Adjustments for actual fuel consumption, extra crew overtime, or additional services are reflected within 15 days of the event.

5. Compliance Checklist for Wedding Charters

• Submit civil ceremony permit application ≥ 10 business days before event.
• Obtain environmental use permit if ceremony occurs within reef‑protected zones.
• Reserve dockage or mooring slot and pay associated fees in advance.
• Calculate and budget for IVA (16 %), TDT (MXN 10 per passenger/night), and environmental surcharge (MXN 500).
• Retain copies of all permits, dockage receipts, and tax invoices for customs and accounting purposes.

Adhering to the 2026 regulatory framework ensures a seamless wedding charter experience, eliminates the risk of punitive fines, and supports the sustainable operation of Playa del Carmen’s luxury yachting sector.

Comparison of 2026 Rates: Classic Catamarans vs. Mega‑Yachts

Cost Structure Overview

Classic Catamarans remain the most cost‑effective option for intimate weddings. The base day rate covers the hull, navigation equipment, and basic amenities such as sun decks, shaded lounge areas, and restroom facilities. Crew costs are limited to a licensed captain; an additional stewardess can be added for US $300 per day to manage service flow and guest assistance. Fuel consumption for a typical 4‑hour ceremony cruise averages 30 gallons, resulting in a modest surcharge. Catering is usually offered through partnered local providers, with buffet‑style menus priced per head. The overall per‑guest cost, inclusive of food, basic alcohol, and minimal décor, falls between US $350 and US $460.

Mega‑Yachts target larger parties and high‑end experiences. Base rates reflect the vessel’s size, premium interiors, and extensive onboard facilities (multiple decks, jacuzzi, private suites, and climate‑controlled banquet halls). Crew complements are larger, providing full service from navigation to culinary execution. Fuel consumption rises sharply; a 6‑hour itinerary can consume 250‑300 gallons, driving the surcharge upward. Catering is handled by an in‑house chef, offering customized multi‑course menus with premium ingredients; the per‑person price includes plated service, fine china, and tableware. Alcohol packages feature top‑shelf spirits and curated wine lists. Additional expenditures for bespoke décor, professional lighting rigs, and high‑fidelity sound systems can significantly increase the final invoice. The per‑guest cost for a full‑service mega‑yacht wedding typically ranges from US $450 to US $900, depending on the level of personalization.

Value Drivers

1. Guest Count – Catamarans become less economical as guest numbers exceed 20, due to limited seating and the need for multiple vessels. Mega‑yachts maintain a stable per‑guest rate up to 80 guests, after which a second vessel may be required.

2. Customization – Mega‑yachts provide dedicated design teams capable of executing thematic concepts, while catamarans rely on off‑site vendors for décor.

3. Service Level – The inclusion of a chef, sommelier, and full service staff on mega‑yachts reduces the need for external contractors, consolidating costs.

4. Seasonality – Peak tourism months (December–April) can add 10‑15 % to base rates for both categories; off‑season discounts of 5‑12 % are common for catamarans, while mega‑yachts may offer limited promotional packages.

Bottom‑Line Comparison

For couples prioritizing intimacy, budget sensitivity, and a relaxed atmosphere, classic catamarans deliver a complete wedding experience at roughly one‑quarter the price of a comparable mega‑yacht. Conversely, weddings requiring extensive guest accommodation, high‑end gastronomy, and elaborate production value find the mega‑yacht’s higher upfront cost justified by the breadth of included services and the prestige associated with larger luxury vessels. Decision‑makers should align vessel selection with desired guest capacity, level of customization, and overall budget envelope to achieve optimal value in the 2026 Playa del Carmen wedding yacht market.

Sample Budget Spreadsheet for a Full‑Day Luxury Yacht Wedding in Playa del Carmen.

Sample Budget Spreadsheet for a Full‑Day Luxury Yacht Wedding in Playa del Carmen (2026)

How to Use the Spreadsheet

1. Adjust Guest Count – Multiply the per‑person line items (catering, beverage, floral, attire) by the actual number of guests to instantly see the impact on the overall budget.

2. Swap Service Levels – Replace the gourmet menu with a premium buffet (≈ $100 / person) or downgrade the entertainment to a solo DJ (≈ $350) to reduce costs.

3. Customize Décor – Opt for a minimalist décor package (≈ $70 / person) or add extra elements such as a fireworks display (additional $1,200).

4. Re‑calculate Gratuities – If you negotiate a flat crew tip, replace the 15 % line with the agreed amount.

5. Update Fuel Surcharge – Adjust nautical miles based on the chosen itinerary; a longer cruise to Isla Mujeres adds roughly $0.75 per extra mile.

Key Assumptions Behind the Sample

• Date & Season: Mid‑December 2026 (high‑season rates). Prices may drop 10‑15 % during the shoulder months of May–June or October–November.
• Yacht Size: 120‑foot luxury motor yacht, the most common class for intimate weddings in Playa del Carmen. Larger vessels (150‑ft) can increase charter fees by 30‑45 %.
• Guest List: 12‑15 guests, the typical capacity for a full‑day private charter while maintaining an exclusive feel.
• Duration: 8‑10 hours on the water, including a 2‑hour ceremony and reception, plus time for cruising and sunset views.
• Currency: All figures quoted in U.S. dollars; local taxes and exchange rate fluctuations are incorporated into the contingency line.

By copying the table into a spreadsheet program (Excel, Google Sheets, or Numbers) and linking the quantity cells to the per‑person cost columns, couples can instantly model “what‑if” scenarios. The built‑in 10 % contingency safeguards against the 2026 market’s expected 5‑8 % inflation in marine fuel and hospitality services, ensuring the final invoice remains within the projected budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical price range for a full‑day luxury yacht charter for a wedding in Playa del Carmen in 2026?

The average cost ranges from USD $4,500 to $9,500 per day, depending on vessel size, amenities, and the season.

How does the high season (December – April) affect yacht rental rates for weddings?

Prices increase by 20‑35 % during high season; a yacht that costs $5,000 per day in low season may rise to $6,000‑$6,750 in high season.

Are there additional fees for wedding-specific services such as décor, catering, and a ceremony coordinator?

Yes. Décor packages start at $800, catering averages $120‑$180 per guest, and a professional wedding coordinator adds $500‑$1,200 per event.

What is the minimum guest capacity required for a luxury yacht to be considered suitable for a wedding ceremony?

Most operators recommend a minimum of 30‑40 guests to justify the charter, though smaller yachts can accommodate intimate ceremonies of 15‑20 guests.

How far in advance should a wedding yacht be booked for the 2026 season?

Booking 9‑12 months ahead secures the preferred vessel and date; last‑minute availability is limited and may incur a 15‑20 % premium.

What fuel and crew costs are typically included in the quoted price?

Standard quotes include crew salaries (captain, deckhand, chef, and service staff) and fuel for the planned itinerary up to 6 hours of cruising. Excess mileage or extended sailing time incurs additional fuel charges of $2‑$3 per nautical mile.

Are there any government permits or fees required for holding a wedding ceremony on a yacht in the Riviera Maya?

A civil ceremony on a private vessel does not require a special permit, but a religious ceremony may need a temporary event permit from the local tourism authority, costing approximately $150‑$250.

What is the typical cancellation policy for wedding yacht rentals in 2026?

Most contracts require a 30‑day notice for a 50 % refund of the deposit; cancellations within 30 days of the event result in forfeiture of the deposit, and cancellations within 7 days may incur a full charge.

Can the yacht itinerary be customized to include stops at nearby attractions such as Cozumel or Akumal?

Yes. Custom itineraries are common and usually included in the base price; however, any additional port fees or anchorage permits are billed separately, averaging $100‑$250 per stop.

What insurance coverage is provided with a luxury yacht wedding charter?

Operators typically provide third‑party liability insurance up to $2 million and vessel hull insurance covering accidental damage. Clients may purchase optional personal event insurance for additional protection.