How to choose a yacht in Dubai: 8 checks before you book
Over a decade in luxury hospitality and the yacht industry, planning private yacht events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Short answer: Choose by guest count first, with room to spare, then by occasion and budget. Check what is included, where the yacht boards, whether it has shade or an indoor salon for the season, and the booking terms. And always ask for recent photos of the actual yacht you are booking.
1. Capacity, with room to spare
The number on a yacht is its licensed maximum, and it counts everyone on board, including the catering team and staff you bring. For comfort, pick a yacht licensed for about 20% more than your guest list: 30 guests on a yacht for 40 feels relaxed; 30 guests on a yacht for 30 feels full.
2. A layout that fits the occasion
A party wants one big open deck where everyone stays together. A dinner wants a table that seats your group on one level. A client event wants a quiet salon for conversations. A family day wants shade, a swim platform and easy steps. Look at the deck plan, not just the length.
3. A realistic budget
Multiply the hourly rate by the hours, usually 4, then add 5% VAT. Then decide on food and drinks: bring your own at no extra cost, add a simple BBQ package, or go for a chef’s canapé menu (from AED 350 per guest) and an open bar (from AED 450 per guest). Our price guide has worked examples.
4. Where it boards
Boarding at Dubai Harbour puts you at sea in minutes, close to Ain Dubai, the Palm and the Burj Al Arab. A yacht that starts deep in Dubai Marina spends part of a short charter in the canal. See Dubai Marina vs Dubai Harbour.
5. Shade, air conditioning and the season
From May to September, a shaded deck and an air-conditioned salon are essential, and a jacuzzi helps. In winter evenings, an indoor space keeps guests comfortable after sunset. Match the yacht to the month.
6. What is really included
Ask for the full list in writing. On every Odyssia yacht: captain and crew, fuel, soft drinks, water, ice, towels and a sound system. Check how catering, alcohol, decorations, a DJ and water toys are priced, so the final bill holds no surprises.
7. The crew and the service
A good crew makes the charter. Ask who will be on board, whether there is a host or stewardess for larger groups, and who coordinates the catering on the day. With Odyssia, one team handles the yacht, the food, the staff and the timing from first message to last guest.
8. Clear booking terms
Read how the hold, deposit, balance and weather work before you pay. Ours are simple: reply “I confirm” and we hold the yacht for 24 hours, a 50% deposit confirms it, and the balance is due 7 days before the charter.
Red flags to avoid
- Photos that look like brochure renders, or no photos of the actual yacht
- A price far below others for the same size and date
- No written list of what is included
- Pressure to pay in full on the spot, outside peak dates
- No named contact for the day itself
Quick answers
What size yacht do I need for 20 guests in Dubai?
A yacht licensed for 25 or more, such as Signature 62 or Signature 63, gives 20 guests room to move. For a seated dinner, pick a yacht with one table for 20.
Is a bigger yacht always better?
No. A yacht that is too big can feel empty and costs more. Pick the size that fits your guest list with about 20% to spare, then spend the difference on food and experience.
What should I ask before booking a yacht in Dubai?
The licensed capacity, the boarding marina, the full list of what is included, the price of extras, who will be on board, and the deposit, balance and weather terms.
Alicia McKay, founder of Odyssia
Alicia has spent over a decade in luxury hospitality and the yacht industry. With her team she plans and runs private yacht events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for brands, companies and private clients, from sunset dinners to Grand Prix hospitality.
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