These terms explain how iBoat International (“we”, “us”), the trading name of iBoat International LLC, a company registered in Malta (VAT number MT 2303 5034), with its registered office at Suite 12, Portomaso Marina, St Julian’s, Malta, works with clients who charter or buy yachts through us. By asking us to secure a yacht for you, you accept these terms.

1. Our role

iBoat International acts solely as a broker. We help you find and book a suitable yacht, but we do not own or operate the yachts we offer. Every yacht is owned and operated by a third party.

Your charter contract is made directly between you and the yacht’s owner (or their representative), usually on the standard MYBA Charter Agreement or an equivalent contract. The terms of that contract govern the charter itself, and they take priority over these terms if the two differ.

2. Enquiries, proposals and booking

• Yachts, prices, availability and specifications shown on this website or in our proposals are for guidance only and may change until a contract is signed.
• A yacht can only be held for you with the owner’s agreement, for a limited time.
• Your charter is confirmed only once the charter contract has been signed by both parties and the first payment has been received.

3. Payments

Your payment schedule is set out in your charter contract. Under standard MYBA terms it is normally:

• 50% of the charter fee when the contract is signed; and
• the remaining 50%, together with the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), VAT and any delivery fees, no later than 30 days before the charter starts.

For bookings made within 30 days of the start date, full payment is normally due on signing. Payments are made by bank transfer to the account named in your contract. Bank charges are payable by the sender.

4. Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA)

On most Mediterranean charters, the charter fee covers the yacht and crew only. The APA, usually a percentage of the charter fee, is paid in advance to the captain to cover running costs such as fuel, food, drinks, berthing and communications. The captain keeps a full record of spending and receipts. Any unused balance is refunded at the end of the charter, and any shortfall is payable on board.

5. Cancellation

Cancellation terms are set out in your charter contract. Under standard MYBA terms, payments already made are generally not refundable if you cancel, unless the yacht can be re-chartered for the same period on the same terms. We strongly recommend charter cancellation and travel insurance.

The captain may cancel or shorten a day’s cruising, or change the itinerary, because of weather, sea conditions or safety concerns. These changes do not entitle you to a refund unless your contract says otherwise.

6. On board

• The captain is responsible for the safety of the yacht and everyone on board, and their decision on safety matters is final.
• The number of guests may not exceed the number stated in the contract.
• Guests must follow the captain’s instructions and local laws, including laws on drugs and on swimming, diving and water toys.
• Damage caused by guests beyond normal wear and tear may be charged to the charterer.
• Crew gratuities are not included in the charter fee and are at your discretion. As a guide, 10–15% of the charter fee is customary in the Mediterranean and 15–20% in the Caribbean.

7. Yacht sales

Yachts listed for sale are offered on behalf of their owners. Specifications, prices and availability come from the owner or their representatives and are given in good faith, but are not guaranteed. Buyers should rely on their own survey, sea trial and legal advice before buying. Any sale is governed by the sale agreement signed between buyer and seller.

8. Liability

As a broker, we are not responsible for the operation or condition of the yacht, the acts of the owner, captain or crew, or events outside our control such as weather, strikes, port closures or illness. Our liability to you is limited to the commission we receive for your booking. Nothing in these terms limits liability that cannot be limited under applicable law.

9. Governing law

These terms are governed by the laws of Malta, and the courts of Malta have jurisdiction. Your charter or sale contract may be governed by a different law, as stated in that contract.