Pricing & Value · Guide 04
What Does a Private Yacht Charter in Honolulu Actually Cost?
A transparent, honest breakdown of what you'll pay, what's included, and how to get the most value from your charter dollar.
The Honest Numbers
Island Jewel charters at $550 per hour (plus 4.712% Hawaii sales tax and a 6% processing fee), with a 2-hour minimum. The rate covers the boat, captain, and crew — and accommodates up to 13 guests.
$550
Per Hour
2hr
Minimum
13
Guests Max
Charter Rate Breakdown
Approximate Total Costs (Including Tax & Fees)
- ✓ 2 hours — approximately $1,218
- ✓ 3 hours — approximately $1,877
- ✓ 4 hours — approximately $2,436
- ✓ 5 hours — approximately $3,045
- ✓ 6 hours — approximately $3,654
What's Included in the Rate
The charter rate is not just "boat rental." Here is everything that comes standard:
- The Island Jewel — a 2022 Excess 12 40' private sailing catamaran
- Licensed captain and crew (from Captain & Crew Aloha LLC)
- Snorkel gear for all guests (12 sets)
- 12 beach towels
- Sun chairs and ocean floats
- Light snacks and beverages
- Full-service kitchen access
- GoPro onboard — complimentary photos
- Shoe basket, safety equipment, all standard charter provisions
💡 Per-Person Math
With 10 guests on a 3-hour charter, you're looking at approximately $188 per person — comparable to a mid-range dinner reservation in Waikiki, for an experience that will be remembered for years.
What's Not Included
- Gratuity — not required, but 15–20% is the industry standard and warmly appreciated
- Additional food and drinks beyond the light provisions (you can bring your own — no glass)
- Fuel surcharge if the charter runs significantly beyond scheduled hours
- Optional upgrades — catering, photographer, special decorations for occasions
How Does This Compare?
It's worth putting the cost in perspective. A private yacht charter in Honolulu is almost always compared unfairly to shared "tour boat" experiences. The difference is significant:
- A shared snorkel cruise fits 49–100+ strangers and runs on a fixed schedule
- A private charter is your boat, your crew, your itinerary, your pace
For a couple celebrating a honeymoon, a family of five on vacation, or a group of friends splitting the cost, the per-person value of a private charter often rivals — and exceeds — the experience you'd get from any fixed-price tour.
How to Book
Contact the Island Jewel team directly at (808) 807-4800 or through the booking form on the website. A deposit is typically required to hold your date. The team is responsive and happy to answer any questions before you commit.
📅 Booking Note
Peak season (December–April and June–August) fills quickly. If you have a specific date in mind — especially for a holiday, proposal, or milestone occasion — book as early as possible.
— You Deserve to Be on a Yacht in Hawaii —
Ready to Book Your Charter?
The Island Jewel is waiting at Kewalo Basin Harbor. Contact us today to make it happen.