The APA.

APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance. It is a cash deposit you wire to the broker before the charter begins (typically 30–35% of the base rate) which the captain then spends on board for fuel, port fees, food, drinks, communications, and routine consumables during the trip. At the end of the charter, you receive a line-itemed reconciliation; you pay any overage, or receive any underspend back.

What it covers

• Fuel and water
• Port fees, mooring charges, customs
• Provisioning — groceries, alcohol, cigars, flowers
• Crew gratuity for outside contractors (helicopter, dive instructor, etc.)
• Communications (sat phone, Wi-Fi when not included)
• Laundry, dry cleaning, courier services

What it doesn't cover

• The base charter rate
• Crew gratuity (separate, 10–15% of base, paid in cash at the end)
• VAT or other charter taxes
• Guest medical, evacuation, or repatriation costs

How big should the APA be?

30% is the conservative starting point for a Mediterranean week with average activity. 35% if you're moving harbours daily, hosting onboard dinners for guests beyond capacity, or planning long passages. 40%+ for explorer-class itineraries (remote provisioning is materially more expensive). Your broker recommends; the captain confirms once they have your itinerary draft.

Reading the reconciliation

The reconciliation arrives within 30 days of disembarkation. It's itemised by category with receipts attached. Common questions: provisioning sometimes includes prep cost (chef hours buying ashore); fuel includes generator hours; port fees in St Tropez and Monaco can be eye-watering — ask up front. Disputes go through the broker; the desk reviews if you want a second opinion.

APA is not a fee. It is your money, spent on your behalf, with receipts. The brokers in our network handle APA reconciliations multiple times a season and will walk you through any line you want explained.