Methodology
Every rating is earned through an independent, standardised assessment conducted by experienced professionals. No yacht can buy, negotiate, or influence their rating. The process is designed to be rigorous, fair, and completely independent.
Scores are supported by direct observations, service demonstrations, documented procedures, and crew interviews collected during the scheduled visit.
No yacht owner, management company, or broker has any influence over the assessment process or outcome. Ratings cannot be purchased.
Every yacht is evaluated against the same 72 standards using the same methodology. Consistency is maintained through calibration and peer review.
The Process
Eligible yachts agree a practical assessment window with their owner, central agent, or management company. Visits are normally arranged while the yacht is dockside or during a scheduled operational turnaround.
A trained assessor attends the yacht at the agreed location and works through the published evidence framework with the designated crew or management contact. The process does not require a paid charter booking.
Assessors evaluate 72 service standards across 8 weighted categories using direct observation, service demonstrations, documentation, crew interviews, and evidence from normal operating procedures.
Assessment reports are reviewed by a minimum of two senior evaluators who were not present during the visit. Scores are calibrated against the published framework to ensure consistency. Any disputed score triggers an evidence review or follow-up assessment.
Final ratings are assigned based on aggregate scores across all categories. The rating is communicated to the yacht's management company along with a detailed feedback report highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
What We Evaluate
Each category carries a specific weight reflecting its importance to the overall charter experience. Service delivery is weighted most heavily because it is the single greatest differentiator between good and exceptional yachts.
Rating Scale
Service that consistently exceeds expectations across every category. Anticipatory, personalised, and flawless in execution. Represents the highest standard achievable in superyacht charter.
Service that exceeds expectations in most categories with only minor inconsistencies. Demonstrates genuine hospitality instinct and strong operational standards.
Service that meets high professional standards with moments of distinction. Reliable, well-trained crew delivering consistent quality across the charter.
Service that meets basic professional standards but lacks the refinement and anticipation expected at the highest levels. Competent but not distinguished.
Our Assessors
Our assessors are former senior crew members — chief stewardesses, pursers, and hotel managers — with a minimum of ten years' experience on 50m+ superyachts. They understand service excellence because they have delivered it themselves.
All assessors complete a proprietary training programme and are calibrated against the same standards before conducting independent assessments. Their identities are never disclosed to the yachts they evaluate.
Yacht owners and management companies can request an assessment for their vessel. Assessments are conducted at our discretion and cannot be influenced by payment.
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