APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) is a prepaid fund of 30–35% of the base charter rate, held by the captain to cover fuel, food, port fees, and crew gratuity. Unused APA is refunded at the end of the charter.
What is APA on a Charter Yacht?
Every superyacht charter quotation shows a base rate — the weekly fee for the yacht and crew. Below it, you will see APA. Understanding what APA covers is essential to budgeting your full charter cost accurately.
How APA works
Paid before departure
APA is transferred to the captain before the charter begins, typically at the same time as the charter balance. It sits in a dedicated fund.
Spent during the charter
The captain uses APA to pay for fuel, provisioning, marina fees, and other running costs as they arise. You review and approve major expenditures.
Accounted for daily
A daily ledger tracks every expense. You can request a summary at any time. Receipts are provided for all items.
Reconciled at the end
On the final day, the captain presents a full statement. Any remaining balance is refunded. If APA runs short — common on fuel-heavy itineraries — a top-up is requested.
Typical APA breakdown — €100,000/week motor yacht
| Expense | Typical range | % of APA |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | €12,000–€18,000 | 40–55% |
| Provisions & drinks | €5,000–€8,000 | 18–25% |
| Marina & port fees | €2,000–€5,000 | 8–15% |
| Crew gratuity | €15,000–€20,000 | included separately |
| Miscellaneous | €1,000–€3,000 | 5–10% |
| Total APA (30%) | €30,000 | — |
APA — frequently asked questions
What does APA stand for in yacht charter?
APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance. It is a prepaid cash fund held by the captain to cover all running expenses during your charter — fuel, food and beverages, dockage, harbour dues, and crew gratuity. At the end of the charter, unused APA is refunded.
How much is APA on a superyacht charter?
APA is typically 30–35% of the base charter rate per week. On a €100,000/week yacht, expect to budget €30,000–€35,000 in APA. Fuel is the largest variable — a 50m motor yacht burns roughly 400–600 litres per hour at cruising speed.
Is APA the same as the charter rate?
No. The charter rate covers the yacht and crew's time. APA is a separate, additional fund. Your total trip cost is: base rate + APA + VAT (where applicable) + delivery/repositioning fees if any.
What is APA spent on exactly?
The captain maintains a detailed APA ledger. Typical line items: fuel (usually 50–70% of APA on a motor yacht), provisions and drinks, marina fees, tender fuel, park permits, crew gratuity (15–20% of base rate is customary), and any extra services requested.
Do sailing yachts also charge APA?
Yes, though APA is typically lower for sailing yachts — 25–30% of base rate — because fuel costs are significantly lower. Provisioning and port fees apply regardless of hull type.
What happens to unspent APA?
Any unused APA balance is returned to you in cash or transferred back to your designated account at the end of the charter. The captain provides a full itemised statement.