What is the yacht charter preference sheet, and why is it so important?

Martina Asmus
Yacht charter broker, DMA Yachting

The preference sheet is one of the most important parts of a crewed yacht charter. This is the document that tells the captain and crew how to prepare the charter around you before you even step on board.

It covers far more than allergies or food. This is where you share the details that shape the whole week: coffee and breakfast habits, favorite wines, how you like your steak cooked, birthdays and celebrations, beach clubs versus quiet bays, anchoring versus docking, water toys, music, pace, and the overall atmosphere you want on board.

The more specific you are, the better. Ideally the lead charterer gathers input from every guest, because missing dietary needs, medical issues, or style preferences are exactly the kind of details that can make the difference between a generic charter and one that feels properly tailored.