At 1,000,000 euros per week, the charter market reaches its absolute apex: a very small number of the world most significant megayachts, vessels from 140 to 180 metres whose construction cost, crew complement and operating overhead places them in a category that exists beyond the conventional superyacht industry. In the Leeward Islands, a yacht of this scale is a rare occurrence that commands attention from every anchorage and harbour in the chain.
The Leeward Islands provide an apt setting for these vessels: a 200-nautical-mile chain of diverse islands with deep-water anchorages at St Barts, Antigua, Nevis and Guadeloupe that accommodate the longest keels and deepest drafts. The yacht covers the entire chain in a week at a comfortable speed, making the Leeward Islands one of the few Caribbean cruising grounds that keeps pace with the scale of the vessel.
At this price point, the yacht arrives with a crew of forty or more. The helicopter is a Bell or Agusta with full Caribbean routing authority. The submersible dives to 500 metres. A 1,200-bottle cellar curated by a master sommelier. A medical bay staffed by a senior physician. A spa programme run by a team of three therapists. The chef holds or has trained under Michelin stars.
The APA at this level is a comprehensive programme budget rather than a percentage: 300,000 euros or above, covering every aspect of operations from flight logistics for guests to departure gifts and the full provisioning and fuel programme.
