Understanding the MYBA Charter Agreement
The MYBA Charter Agreement is the international gold standard for yacht charter contracts, used by the vast majority of professional charter companies worldwide. As MYBA E-Contract subscribers, Bluebnc Yachting uses the latest digital version of this widely recognised agreement. Understanding its key provisions will help you approach your charter with confidence.
What Is MYBA?
MYBA — the Worldwide Yachting Association (formerly the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) — is the leading international organisation representing the professional yacht charter and brokerage industry. The MYBA Charter Agreement, first introduced decades ago and regularly updated, provides a balanced legal framework that protects both charterer and owner.
Key Provisions
Charter Period: The contract specifies the exact dates and times of your charter, including the delivery port (where you board) and redelivery port (where you disembark). These may be the same or different locations.
Charter Fee and Payment Schedule: The total charter fee is clearly stated, along with the payment schedule. Typically, a 50% deposit is due upon signing, with the balance due 4–6 weeks before the charter start date.
APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance): The contract specifies the APA amount (typically 25–35% of the charter fee) and the terms for its management and accounting.
Cancellation Terms: The contract outlines cancellation policies for both charterer and owner. Charterer cancellation typically results in forfeiture of the deposit, though charter cancellation insurance can protect against this.
Insurance: The contract requires the owner to maintain comprehensive insurance (hull, P&I, and charter liability). Bluebnc's charters are insured through Lloyd's of London to the highest MYBA standards.
Responsibilities: The contract clearly defines the responsibilities of both parties — the owner provides a seaworthy yacht with professional crew, while the charterer agrees to use the yacht responsibly and within the agreed cruising area.
Dispute Resolution: The MYBA contract includes provisions for dispute resolution, typically through London arbitration under English law.
Why the MYBA Contract Matters
The MYBA contract provides:
1. Transparency: Every cost, responsibility, and condition is clearly documented
2. Protection: Both charterer and owner are protected by balanced, industry-standard terms
3. Professionalism: Using the MYBA contract signals that you are dealing with a professional charter company
4. Consistency: The same contract is used worldwide, providing a familiar framework regardless of destination
Bluebnc's Approach
At Bluebnc Yachting, your charter agent will walk you through every clause of the MYBA contract, ensuring you understand your rights and obligations before signing. We believe that transparency is the foundation of trust, and we want every client to feel fully informed and confident in their charter arrangements.
If you have questions about the charter contract process, contact our team at any time.
