Yacht charters have become one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the Gulf Coast — combining adventure, comfort, and privacy in one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a deep-sea fishing trip, or a weeklong cruise, this guide to yacht charters covers everything you need to know before you book.
With Up Above Adventures, you can enjoy a luxury Galveston fishing charter on a fully equipped yacht captained by local professionals who know these waters inside and out.
Understanding Yacht Charters: How the Process Works
A yacht charter gives you exclusive use of a professionally operated yacht for a set period — from a few hours to several days. When you book with a trusted operator like Up Above Adventures, everything is handled for you, including your itinerary, crew, and on-board experience.
You’ll just show up, step aboard, and start your adventure.
Do You Need a Charter Broker?
For Galveston yacht charters, you usually don’t need a broker — you can book directly with a trusted local company like Up Above Adventures. We handle everything in-house, from your itinerary and crew to meals and fishing plans, so you can skip the middleman and start your trip with confidence.
That said, if you’re planning an extended or international yacht charter, working with a charter broker can be helpful. A broker acts as a matchmaker between guests and yacht owners, helping arrange the right vessel, crew, and itinerary to fit your goals.
When using a broker, look for someone affiliated with a professional organization such as:
Not all charter brokers work the same way. Some operate only within a region and focus on smaller client lists, while others manage large fleets or specialize in luxury travel experiences. If you’re planning an extended or customized trip, a charter broker can help you navigate all the options — from selecting the right vessel to planning your onboard activities.
When choosing a brokerage, look for professionals affiliated with trusted industry organizations such as:
- Worldwide Yachting Association
- International Yacht Brokers Association
- Charter Yacht Broker Association (CYBA)
These associations uphold standards for transparency, contracts, and professionalism. You can also rely on recommendations from friends or other boaters who’ve had positive experiences.
Whether you book directly or through a broker, communication is key. Be clear about your wishes — from preferred meals and activities to fishing priorities — so your crew can craft a custom experience that fits you perfectly.
How Much Does a Yacht Charter Cost?
While luxury yacht vacations can run upward of $40,000 a week, Up Above Adventures offers private Galveston yacht charters at far more accessible prices. Whether you’re looking for a short coastal cruise or a multi-day deep-sea adventure, each trip includes a licensed captain, professional crew, and a personalized itinerary for up to six guests.
All of our yacht charter packages include fuel, air conditioning, WiFi & live TV, with the option to add on chef-prepared meals and a video package.
Package Options:
- 4–6 Hour Pleasure Cruises ($2,000-$2,900): Enjoy a relaxing day on the water exploring Galveston Bay, Kemah, or The Golden Nugget. Perfect for sightseeing, celebrations, or sunset gatherings with friends and family.
- 12-Hour Offshore Fishing Trips ($6,850): Head into the Gulf for a full day of deep-sea fishing targeting red snapper, mahi mahi, kingfish, ling, and shark. Ideal for anglers ready to spend the day chasing big catches.
- 36–48 Hour Deep Sea Adventures ($12,750-$17,500): Overnight and two-day offshore charters are ideal for extended celebrations or for guests seeking a more comprehensive adventure a sea.
- Weekly Yacht Charters (call for pricing): Fully customized itineraries across the Gulf Coast for those looking for the ultimate yachting experience.
Additional Expenses
A good rule of thumb is to budget an extra 30 percent on top of a baseline charter figure for certain extras, as that may go into a fund that is known as Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA). It is also customary to tip your captain and crew for excellent service.
A 25% deposit is required to reserve your trip, with payment due in full before departure. Up Above Adventures accepts all major credit cards, cash, and payment apps.
Cancellations made 20 days or more before your trip are fully refundable, and you can reschedule up to seven days before departure without losing your deposit. If a customer does not cancel or reschedule or show up on the date of the trip, they are still charged the full price of the trip booked.
Best Destinations for First-Time Charterers
Up Above Adventures is based in the magical waters of Galveston Bay all year round. Located just minutes from the Gulf of Mexico and right off the Galveston Ship Channel, Galveston Yacht Marina serves boating enthusiasts and avid anglers visiting to explore the endless gulf coast inshore and offshore fishing.
Whether you’re after fishing, cruising, or island-hopping, these Gulf Coast locations are top picks for first-time yacht charter guests:
- Corpus Christi, Texas — Corpus Christi’s beaches in the Texas Gulf Region include the Bayfront beaches, McGee Beach, and North Beach.
- Destin, Florida — Destin is in the Florida Panhandle and offers fishing opportunities, charming shops, and many family-friendly activities, as well as public beaches.
- Galveston Island, Texas — The Galveston Bay Area has such attractions as Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, the Kemah Boardwalk, and miles of beaches along the Bolivar Peninsula and Galveston Island.
- Grand Isle, Louisiana — Take advantage of beaches closest to New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
- Gulf Shores, Alabama — Explore 32 full miles of Alabama coastline.
- Mustang Island, Texas — Numerous outdoor activities await you here, such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming. You can also enjoy the island’s seaside golf course or visit restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries in Port Aransas.
- Ocean Springs, Mississippi — The Mississippi coast allows for camping, boating, hiking, fishing, and biking. You can also visit Front Beach, which is a white sand beach right next to the town’s yacht club.
- Orange Beach, Alabama — Orange Beach area has over 30 miles of white sand beaches and sea oat-covered dunes. You can also explore the 90-mile-long Civil War Trail and visit the Fort Morgan State Historic Site, which both have ties to the Battle of Mobile Bay.
- South Padre Island, Texas — A common site for many on Spring Break, this area is also a popular family vacation destination because South Padre has wide sandy beaches and sparkling blue water with several activities for kids of all ages.
Know Your Cruising Companions
The crew plays a huge role in making your yacht charter experience memorable. From navigating to cooking to helping you land your next big catch, they handle every detail. At Up Above Adventures, our experienced captains and crew are passionate anglers and hospitality pros who make you feel right at home on the water.
You should also think carefully about who else you want on board your yacht. Because yachts are designed to be intimate and exclusive, make sure you only choose people you like and can enjoy the water with for a week or more.
How to Prepare for Your Yacht Charter
Before departure:
- Confirm your itinerary and packing list.
- Share any dietary restrictions or special requests.
- Bring sunscreen, non-slip shoes, and a waterproof bag for personal items.
- Arrive 15–30 minutes before departure for a safety briefing and boarding.
Ready to plan your trip?
If you want to book your own Galveston fishing yacht charter, get in touch with Up Above Adventures. You can call (409) 761-5550 or contact us online today to find out more about our booking options.
