Effective date: July 20, 2025
Website: https://luxurycaribbeancharters.com
Operator: SY d.o.o., trading as Soreto Yachting
Registered address: Brnčičeva ulica 13, 1231 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Company number: 9742433000
VAT ID: SI79468756
Contact: info@soretoyachting.com
These Terms of Service govern your use of LuxuryCaribbeanCharters.com and any brokerage services provided by SY d.o.o. trading as Soreto Yachting. By using the website or engaging our brokerage services you agree to these Terms.
1. Scope and hierarchy
1.1. These Terms apply to your use of our website and to brokerage services through which we introduce you to yachts managed by central agencies or owners.
1.2. The yacht charter itself is governed by the charter agreement you sign with the yacht’s owning or managing company. This is usually the MYBA Charter Agreement or the central agent’s standard agreement. If there is any conflict between these Terms and the signed charter agreement, the charter agreement prevails for the charter. These Terms continue to govern our brokerage services and your use of the website.
2. Definitions
- Broker, we, us means SY d.o.o., trading as Soreto Yachting.
- Client, you means the person or entity making an inquiry, receiving proposals or booking a charter through us.
- Central Agent means the appointed commercial representative of a yacht.
- Charter Agreement means the legally binding contract between you and the yacht’s owning or managing company.
- APA means Advance Provisioning Allowance used to cover charter operating expenses.
3. Our role
3.1. We act as an independent yacht charter broker. We do not own, manage, or operate yachts. We facilitate introductions, coordinate proposals, hold negotiations, and support pre- and post-booking communication.
3.2. We are not a travel agency and we do not sell travel packages. All transport, accommodation, and hospitality services during the charter are delivered by the yacht’s owning or managing company and its crew.
3.3. Information about yachts, availability, equipment, and pricing is provided by central agents and owners. We present this information in good faith but cannot guarantee it is always complete or error-free. The central agent or owner remains responsible for the accuracy of yacht information.
3A. Website and information accuracy
3A.1. While we make every effort to keep yacht descriptions, specifications, availability, and pricing current, all such information is provided by central agents, owners, or other third parties and may change without notice.
3A.2. Photographs, layouts, equipment lists, sample menus, and other visual or written materials are for general guidance only and may differ from the actual yacht. Minor variations do not constitute grounds for cancellation or refund.
3A.3. In case of discrepancies, the binding details are those set out in your written proposal and the signed charter agreement. We accept no liability for errors, omissions, or changes in yacht information supplied by third parties.
3B. Third-party services
3B.1. On request, we may arrange or introduce third-party services such as transfers, hotels, restaurants, guides, events, or activities. Unless expressly stated in writing, we act only as an introducer and are not a party to those arrangements.
3B.2. All such services are subject to the terms, pricing, and availability of the third-party supplier. You are responsible for reviewing and accepting those terms directly with the supplier.
3B.3. We accept no liability for the acts, omissions, or quality of service provided by third-party suppliers.
3C. Taxes and fees
3C.1. Unless stated otherwise in writing, charter rates are exclusive of VAT, sales tax, duties, harbor dues, environmental fees, or other government-imposed charges.
3C.2. You are responsible for paying any such taxes or fees applicable to your charter, whether imposed before, during, or after the booking.
3C.3. Where an estimate is provided, it is for guidance only and the actual amount may vary based on the yacht’s itinerary, applicable laws, or changes in rates.
3D. Payment methods and settlement
3D.1. We may accept payments by bank transfer, or cryptocurrency (subject to prior agreement). Payment instructions will be stated in the charter agreement.
3D.2. Payments are deemed “received” only once cleared in our designated account in full, net of any bank, cryptocurrency processing, foreign exchange, or intermediary fees.
3D.3. For cryptocurrency payments, the agreed charter price is converted to the crypto equivalent at the time of payment request. You are responsible for any volatility between the request and settlement.
3E. No package travel
3D.1. Our brokerage services relate to the charter of a single yacht service.
3D.2. If we introduce or help you arrange other services, for example hotels, flights or transfers, these are separate services with third-party suppliers.
3D.3. Such arrangements do not create a package within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2015/2302.
4. Enquiries, options and bookings
4.1. Your inquiry is non binding. A proposal does not hold a yacht unless the central agent confirms an option. Options are granted at the central agent’s discretion and typically only when you indicate an intention to proceed to contract.
4.2. Availability can change at any time until a charter agreement is signed and the first payment is received. Prices and terms are valid only for the time stated in the proposal.
4.3. We recommend securing flights and other arrangements only after the charter agreement has been signed and the first payment confirmed.
4A. Confidentiality and Non-Circumvention
4A.1. Proposals, yacht shortlists, pricing, and availability we share with you are confidential and provided solely for evaluating a potential charter with us. You may share them only with your travel companions and professional advisers.
4A.2. For twelve (12) months from receiving any proposal, you agree not to bypass us in order to arrange a charter with any yacht, owner, or central agent introduced by us, unless we give our written consent.
4A.3. If a booking is made in breach of this clause, you agree to pay us an amount equal to the brokerage commission we would have received on that booking, plus any reasonable costs we incur to recover it.
5. Pricing, inclusions and exclusions
5.1. Unless stated otherwise, prices shown in proposals are the base charter fee for the yacht and crew for the period indicated.
5.2. The base charter fee does not include VAT, APA, fuel beyond standard generators and tenders usage where applicable, delivery or redelivery fees, berthing and shore power, customs or canal fees, provisions, drinks, communications, local taxes, gratuities, or third party services such as transfers, hotels or restaurants.
5.3. Event charters or special berths, for example at grand prix or festivals, may carry additional marina or access fees and specific security requirements.
5.4. Unless stated otherwise, prices and invoices are in euros. Quotes in other currencies are indicative only.
6. VAT and taxes
6.1. Taxes and fees are applied in accordance with the laws of the country of embarkation and the charter itinerary. In the Bahamas, a 10% VAT and a 4% charter fee usually apply. In the Caribbean, local taxes or duties may vary depending on the jurisdiction and ports visited. The exact rate for your booking depends on the yacht, its flag, licensing, and itinerary.
6.2. We will confirm the applicable taxes and fees in your written proposal and on the charter agreement.
7. APA and onboard expenses
7.1. The Advance Provisioning Allowance is usually 25 percent to 40 percent of the base charter fee. The captain uses the APA to pay variable expenses during the charter, such as fuel, berthing, customs, communications, food and beverages, and local services requested by you.
7.2. During the charter the captain can provide interim statements on request. If the APA becomes low you agree to top it up promptly. At the end of the charter the captain will present final accounts. Any remaining funds are returned to you. Any shortfall is payable by you before disembarkation.
8. Payments and security
8.1. Unless stated otherwise in the charter agreement, the payment schedule is fifty percent (50%) of the base charter fee on contract signing, and the remaining fifty percent (50%) plus VAT, APA, and any delivery or event fees thirty (30) days before embarkation. For bookings made far in advance, a three-installment schedule may apply.
8.2. Payment is by bank transfer to the account stated in the invoice. Due to the high values involved, we do not accept card or e-wallet payments. Cryptocurrency settlement may be available on request via a regulated third-party payment partner and is subject to due diligence, volatility terms, and additional conditions.
8.3. We and the central agent may require Know Your Customer (KYC) documents and source of funds confirmations. If required documents or payments are not provided on time, the yacht may be released and cancellation terms will apply.
8.4. You are responsible for all bank charges, currency conversion costs, and any shortfalls caused by exchange rate movements or correspondent bank fees.
8.5. Funds are considered “received” only when cleared in our designated account for the invoiced net amount. You are responsible for all sending, intermediary, and receiving bank fees and for covering any currency conversion differences.
8.5A. Unless expressly stated in writing, we do not hold client funds in escrow or as a fiduciary. Funds are remitted to the central agent or owner in accordance with the charter agreement and standard industry practice.
8.6. If cryptocurrency settlement is agreed, the fiat amount due is fixed in the invoice currency. Conversion costs, network fees, and volatility are borne by you. Payment is not deemed received until the full invoiced fiat amount is credited to our or the central agent’s designated account.
8.6A. Payment instructions will be stated in the charter agreement. We will not communicate changes to bank details solely by email. If you receive alternative payment instructions, you must treat them as fraudulent and verify with us by telephone using a known number before making any transfer. We are not responsible for payments made to any account other than the one stated in the charter agreement.
8.7. You may not withhold or set off any payment due to us or the central agent against any actual or alleged claim without our prior written consent.
8.8. Late payments may result in cancellation under the terms of the charter agreement. We reserve the right to charge interest on overdue amounts at the statutory rate or, if higher, at 5% per annum above the base lending rate of the European Central Bank, calculated daily until paid in full.
9. Client responsibilities
9.1. You warrant that you are at least eighteen (18) years of age and have legal authority to enter into contracts on your own behalf and on behalf of anyone you represent. You confirm that all information provided is true, complete, and not misleading.
9.2. You are responsible for valid passports, visas, vaccinations, and compliance with entry, health, and customs rules for all guests.
9.3. You agree to use the yacht, its tenders, and water toys responsibly. You will follow the captain’s instructions, respect safety procedures and local laws, and ensure that minors in your party are supervised at all times.
9.4. You must advise the captain and us of any medical conditions, mobility issues, or dietary needs in advance.
9.5. The possession or use of firearms, weapons, illegal drugs, or any other prohibited substances is not permitted on board at any time and may result in immediate termination of the charter without refund. If the presence of such items causes any legal, financial, or operational consequences, you will be solely responsible for all resulting costs, liabilities, fines, or damages.
9.6. Guests must behave with respect towards the crew at all times. Abusive, discriminatory, or illegal behaviour may result in early termination of the charter under the terms of the charter agreement without refund.
9.7. No photographs or recordings of the crew or other guests may be published for commercial purposes without their prior consent.
9A. Water toys and licensing
9A.1. Use of tenders, personal watercraft, diving equipment, and similar activities is entirely at your own risk and subject to the yacht’s safety rules.
9A.2. Where a license, qualification, or local permit is legally required for any activity, you must hold a valid license or be accompanied by a qualified instructor, as applicable. The crew may refuse use of any equipment if safety, licensing, or environmental conditions are not met.
10. Itinerary, weather and captain’s authority
10.1. All itineraries are subject to weather, safety, port authorities and the captain’s professional judgment. The captain has ultimate authority for the safety of the yacht and persons on board and may vary routes, timings and activities when necessary.
10.2. One way routes are possible on request and are subject to delivery or redelivery fees which will be shown in your proposal or charter agreement.
11. Changes and cancellations
11.1. Client initiated changes or cancellations are handled according to the charter agreement. Please review those terms carefully before signing. We will help communicate your requests but cannot guarantee approvals or refunds outside the agreement.
11.2. If a yacht becomes unavailable due to breakdown, force majeure, owner withdrawal or other covered reason, the central agent will offer a comparable substitute where possible or process refunds as stated in the charter agreement.
11A. Complaints and claims
11A.1. Any service issues should be raised immediately with the captain and recorded in the yacht’s logbook so the crew has the opportunity to address them during the charter.
11A.2. If an issue is not resolved on board, you must notify both the central agent and us in writing as soon as possible and no later than 48 hours after disembarkation.
11A.3. Formal claims relating to the charter’s performance must be sent directly to the central agent or yacht owner within 30 days of disembarkation, with copies to us. We will assist in facilitating communication, but all decisions, remedies, and any compensation are governed solely by the terms of the charter agreement.
11B. Third-party services and referrals
11B.1. We may recommend or arrange third-party services such as transfers, restaurant reservations, helicopter flights, event tickets, or similar experiences. These services are provided under the terms of the third-party supplier, and we are not a party to those agreements.
11B.2. We do not assume responsibility or liability for the acts, omissions, or service quality of third-party providers. Any issues must be addressed directly with the supplier.
12. Insurance
12.1. The yacht carries hull and third party liability insurance arranged by the owner or central agent. This does not cover your personal risks.
12.2. We strongly recommend that you arrange comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical costs, evacuation, personal effects, travel interruption, and charter cancellation. Proof of insurance may be required for certain itineraries or activities.
13. Liability
13.1. To the maximum extent permitted by law our liability to you for losses arising from our brokerage services is limited to the amount of brokerage commission we received for your booking. We are not liable for indirect or consequential loss, loss of enjoyment, loss of profit, or costs arising from third party performance, weather, port closures, or events beyond our reasonable control.
13.2. We are not responsible for the performance of the yacht, the crew or any third party suppliers. Claims relating to charter performance should be addressed to the central agent or owner under the charter agreement.
13.3. You agree to indemnify and hold us harmless from and against claims, losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising out of (a) your breach of these Terms, (b) your negligent or unlawful acts or omissions, or (c) claims by third parties caused by your conduct during the charter, except to the extent caused by our wilful misconduct or gross negligence.
14. Website use
14.1. You may use the website for lawful purposes connected with researching or booking a charter. You must not attempt to breach security, scrape data, or interfere with the website’s operation.
14.2. All website content, trademarks and materials are owned by us or our licensors. You may not copy, republish or use content except for your personal non commercial use related to a potential charter.
14.3. Our website may link to third party sites. We are not responsible for their content or availability.
14.4. Testimonials and case studies reflect individual experiences and are not guarantees of identical outcomes. Any use of third-party trademarks or images is for identification and informational purposes only.
15. Data protection
15.1. We process personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy, which forms part of these Terms. Please read it carefully.
15.2. We share necessary personal data with central agents, owners and trusted service providers for the purpose of handling your inquiry and booking.
16. Compliance
16.1. You agree to comply with applicable laws including customs, immigration, tax and maritime laws.
16.2. We reserve the right to refuse or cancel a booking if doing so would breach sanctions, anti money laundering or anti corruption laws.
17. Right of withdrawal for brokerage contracts
17.1. If you are a consumer in the European Union and you enter into a brokerage contract with us at a distance, you may withdraw from the brokerage contract within 14 days from conclusion by sending us a clear statement. This right does not apply once you sign a charter agreement with the owner or central agent, since that contract is for dated accommodation and transport services with specific cancellation terms.
18. Force majeure
18.1. Neither party is liable for failure or delay caused by events beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to severe weather, natural disasters, epidemics, strikes, port closures, government actions, power failures or communications outages. Payment obligations that have already fallen due remain payable.
19. Changes to these Terms
19.1. We may update these Terms from time to time. The version and effective date are shown at the top of this page. Changes apply from publication and do not affect existing signed charter agreements. If changes are material and affect an ongoing brokerage engagement we will notify you using the contact details you provided.
19A. General
19A.1. If a provision is found invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in effect.
19A.2. A failure to enforce a right is not a waiver of that right.
19A.3. You may not assign your rights or obligations without our prior written consent. We may assign or subcontract our rights and obligations where it does not materially reduce the level of service.
19A.4. These Terms, together with any written proposal and the charter agreement, are the entire agreement regarding our brokerage services and supersede all prior or contemporaneous understandings, communications and representations, whether oral or written, concerning the same subject. You acknowledge you have not relied on any representation not expressly set out in those documents.
19B. Notices and electronic signatures
19B.1. Notices may be given by email to the addresses used in your proposal or charter agreement and are deemed received when the email is sent, provided no delivery failure is reported.
19B.2. We accept electronic signatures. Electronic signatures and copies are legally effective as originals.
19C. Language
19C.1. These Terms are published in English. If translated, the English version prevails to the extent of any inconsistency.
20. Governing law and jurisdiction
20.1. These Terms and any non contractual obligations arising out of or in connection with them are governed by the laws of Slovenia.
20.2. The courts of Ljubljana, Slovenia have exclusive jurisdiction, without prejudice to mandatory consumer protection rights that may give you the right to bring claims in your country of residence.
20.3. If you are an EU consumer, you may use the European Commission’s Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform to resolve disputes: https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/. We are not obliged to, and do not, participate in alternative dispute resolution procedures before consumer arbitration boards.
21. Contact
For questions about these Terms or your booking, please contact:
SY d.o.o. trading as Soreto Yachting
Brnčičeva ulica 13, 1231 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Email: info@soretoyachting.com