Have you ever dreamt of a luxury yacht charter vacation but don’t want to be separated from your beloved four-legged companion? Dogs have not traditionally been popular on yachts, with many owners and captains not wanting to risk damage to decking and interior furnishings from sharp claws and teeth, plus there is the problem of unwanted smells. These days, yachts are willing to accept dogs on board, making it possible – if a little more challenging – to charter with your pet. Once you find a yacht willing to accept Fido on board, there are practical, legal and health conditions to consider.
The most important thing is to communicate clearly and honestly with your charter broker, ensuring you understand all the yacht’s rules and the legal requirements at all your ports of call. You will likely incur a substantial security deposit or even be asked for a reference from a previous vacation.
Legal and health requirements
Most countries have laws regarding visiting animals that help prevent the spread of diseases. Most require dogs to be microchipped and vaccinated and have paperwork to support their health status. The European Pet Passport scheme—covering most of the Mediterranean charter region—requires up-to-date vaccines for rabies, amongst other diseases. First doses of the rabies vaccine often need to be administered a few months in advance, so make sure you plan carefully.
The Caribbean islands issue pet permits dependent on health tests and certifications, except for the British Virgin Islands, which also require your pet to be examined by a vet at the port of entry. For entry into the USA, proof of a rabies vaccine is expected, while further afield in Australia and New Zealand you will be charged a fee, and your pet will need to be quarantined upon arrival – making a short charter somewhat impractical.
Also important to consider is how your pet will get to the yacht. International flights often expect animals to travel in the cargo hold. An alternative is a private jet, but for some, the cost may be prohibitive.
Well-being and safety on board
Although a week on board a luxury charter yacht might be your idea of heaven, for your dog it might be uncomfortable and stressful. Dogs can suffer from motion-sickness, which will be difficult for you to predict, cause them distress and be messy to clean up – meaning the loss of your deposit.
If you are chartering to make the most of the warm weather, sun-drenched and secluded beaches plus fascinating destinations, think carefully about how your dog will cope. Dogs can overheat much more quickly than humans, can easily burn their paws on the hot deck or sand and will probably not enjoy sightseeing. You may not be familiar with local laws regarding when and where dogs are welcome, and you should not expect the crew to look after your pet while you visit local attractions. Use apps like AllTrails to scope out dog-friendly walks in the areas you are visiting so you can enjoy your time together without any worry.
Even if your dog is toilet trained, they might find the unfamiliar surroundings confusing and choose to toilet inappropriately. It is possible to bring a ‘doggie pottie’, puppy pads or even a patch of artificial grass – you’ll probably need to train your dog to use them in advance. You will need to keep a close eye out if your dog likes to scent mark – this can easily happen when your back is turned.
That brings us to the subject of safety: are you certain your pet won’t try to jump ship? They might be strong swimmers in their local lake or beach, but deep water can be different, and it is difficult to rescue a dog from the water while underway, and they will likely cause damage if they try to scramble back on board. Dog-sized lifejackets can be brought on board, but your dog might find them uncomfortable and hot, and they can be bulky to pack.
For active dogs, a yacht environment might be restrictive, and they may easily become bored if they can’t stretch their legs enough. Bored dogs can be more destructive, so ensure you disembark regularly to exercise them properly. Remember that their health and wellbeing is your responsibility, not that of the captain or crew.
Once you’ve considered all the safety issues, for water-loving dogs, there could be nothing better than a ride on a paddleboard with the warm crystal-clear waters being just as appealing as they are to you.
Searching for the right yacht
A professional yacht charter broker will likely know which yachts allow dogs on board or can research in your preferred location. Even for yachts which welcome pets, you will need specific prior approval for your dog before you embark, and certain conditions will be included in your charter contract. If your dog has letters of reference, show them to the broker in advance and ensure you understand the border controls at your destination.
Whether you prefer a motor or sailing yacht, there are other things to consider if you have a dog with you. Will they manage steep stairs? Is there shade for them on deck? And how will they get on and off the yacht? A catamaran might be more stable than a single hull sailing yacht, and will have wide gangways making it safer for a dog around the yacht, while a flybridge motor yacht with a hard roof and shaded aft deck might be more comfortable than a sport style open yacht.
Owners and captains will always ask for information about your dog’s breed, weight and health and will likely prefer smaller, less busy dogs than larger, energetic breeds. Once on board, you must always follow the captain and crew’s instructions and be responsible for your dog’s needs including feeding, exercising and toileting.
With careful thought and planning, it is possible to emBARK on a fabulous yacht charter vacation with your dog – teaching them to balance on a paddleboard or running with them across a white sandy beach. And if all goes well, you will have your security deposit returned in full, be welcomed back with open arms and given an invaluable 5-star doggie reference for your next charter vacation!
Trina Howes
Trina Howes is a Director of CharterWorld America. CharterWorld America is a luxury private yacht charter company that creates outstanding vacations with excellent yachts at amazing prices – worldwide. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
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