Pet-Friendly Luxury Yacht Charter

Because no one deserves to be left behind

For many of our clients, a dog is not an accessory to the household; it is part of it. So when planning a luxury yacht charter, the question is not simply can your dog come, but can it be done properly?

The answer is yes: with the right yacht, the right crew, the right itinerary, and the right planning.

A pet-friendly luxury yacht charter is absolutely possible at the highest end of the market, but it must be approached correctly. Not every yacht accepts pets; owner approval is usually required under standard charter terms, and border formalities can be just as important as the yacht itself. That is why this is not something to arrange casually at the last minute. It is something to arrange expertly.

When we organize a dog-friendly charter, our role is to make the entire experience feel effortless for you while ensuring nothing important is missed: the owner’s consent, the suitability of the yacht, the cruising area, shore access, veterinary preparation, import requirements, onboard safety equipment, and pre-provisioning for your pet’s comfort and well-being.

Are some yachts better than others for pets?

Very much so.

A yacht may allow pets in principle, but still not be the right fit in practice. We look for yachts with sensible deck flow, generous exterior space, secure movement areas, convenient tender access, and a crew that is comfortable accommodating a dog onboard. Broker guidance in the charter market specifically highlights layout, secure outdoor areas, crew adaptability, and practical setup as important considerations when selecting a yacht for guests travelling with a dog.

For this reason, the best pet-friendly yacht is rarely just the one that says “yes.” It is the one that will feel easy, safe, and natural for the entire week.

Important to know before you charter with a dog

1. Owner approval is essential

No matter how suitable the yacht may be, pet travel on charter is typically subject to the owner’s written approval under the charter agreement.

2. Early planning matters

Vaccinations, travel documentation, import permits, and route planning all take time. If a dog will be joining the charter, this should be addressed from the very beginning of the enquiry, not after the yacht has been selected.

3. Not every dog is suited to every charter

Age, health, temperament, and travel confidence matter. The AVMA notes that some pets are not good candidates for travel due to illness, injury, age, or temperament.

4. The right itinerary makes all the difference

A successful dog-friendly charter usually involves sensible cruising distances, good shore access, stable anchorages where possible, and a daily rhythm that works for both the guests and the dog. This is not about reducing luxury; it is about refining the charter around how you actually travel.

5. Greece may require additional preparation

If your charter begins in Greece, your dog may need compliant travel documentation, including microchip and rabies records, depending on where you are arriving from.

Onboard safety and wellbeing

A pet-friendly charter should feel effortless, but it should also be properly prepared.

We strongly recommend a well-fitted dog life jacket, particularly for guests planning to spend time at anchor or using the swim platform regularly. Shade, fresh drinking water, and protection from hot deck surfaces are equally important, especially in the Mediterranean summer.

We also advise keeping your dog’s onboard routine as familiar as possible, with regular shore access, a comfortable place to rest, and feeding times that work around the cruising schedule.

Medical considerations before charter

Before departure, we recommend speaking with your vet about the following:

• Seasickness support – carry vet-approved motion sickness medication if needed
• Light feeding before cruising – avoid large meals before longer passages
• Fresh drinking water – ensure constant access at all times
• Vaccinations and travel documents – arrange these well in advance
• Tick and flea prevention – keep treatment fully up to date before embarkation
• Vet-approved medication only – bring any required pain relief or antibiotics prescribed specifically for your dog
• Cooling support – cooling pads or blankets can be useful in hot weather for added comfort

Dog Friendly Charter Yachts (with Prior Approval)

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