November 19, 2025
Yacht Weddings: The Pros and Cons You Should Know
Pros
- Unmatched views and a unique, changing atmosphere
- One venue for ceremony and reception
- An intimate, exclusive experience with a controlled guest list
Cons
- Weather dependency — most vessels have an enclosed backup space, but it can mean reduced capacity
- Guest capacity and accessibility limits vary significantly by vessel class
Planning timeline
12–18 months out: vessel selection and deposit. 6–9 months out: caterer, entertainment, photographer confirmed. 8–6 weeks out: guest list finalized. 72–48 hours out: headcount and logistics confirmed.
Legal notes
A ship's captain isn't automatically authorized to perform a legal wedding ceremony in NYC unless registered — the officiant needs to be properly registered and the license returned to the City Clerk within the required window.
Budget
- Vessel charter (2–4 hrs): $1,500–$15,000+
- Catering (per guest): $75–$250
- AV/lighting/DJ: $800–$6,000
- Permits/insurance: $200–$2,000
- Photographer/videographer: $2,500–$8,000
