What is a Preference Sheet?

A preference sheet is your direct line to the chef before you board your crewed charter. It's a detailed questionnaire covering food likes, dislikes, allergies, favourite cuisines, and beverage preferences for every guest in your party.

Think of it as a culinary blueprint. The more detail you share, the better your onboard dining experience becomes. Love truffle pasta? Note it. Can't stand cilantro? Say so. Prefer your steak medium-rare? Write it down.

Often mistaken as annoying admin, the form is actually the key to a really fabulous charter - it exists to make sure that you have the most enjoyable vacation experience possible. A well thought out preference sheet means that the bar will be stocked with your top tipples, and all of your meals will be crafted to meet and exceed your expectations.

If you want to eat ashore one night, or if you'd like a beach barbecue for lunch one day, put it on the sheet and the crew will make it happen!

Your captain will create an itinerary that fits in with your desires, while the crew can create water or land based excursions, experiences and games to keep everybody happy.

Your crew will use your preference sheet to ensure that all guests' needs and requirements are catered for and ensures that there are no unpleasant surprises during the charter.

The preference sheet is an important part of the crewed yacht charter experience, as it allows the crew to tailor the charter to the specific needs and desires of the guests.

Exceptional food is the absolute backbone of a successful and memorable charter, so taking a little time to fill out your food preferences will pay dividends. Being honest about what you love (and what you don't!) can steer the provisioning and help the crew plan and prepare for your charter.

The chef will study any allergies or favoured foods and build a bespoke menu based around these. The sample menus you'll see on yacht listings will only be a guide to the chef's usual cooking style - they will be able to adapt to suit your desires and requirements, crafting dishes to delight even the most discerning palates.

Cover everything from breakfast habits to late-night snacks. Specify whether you prefer formal dinners or casual buffets on deck. Note any favourite dishes you'd love the chef to attempt, and mention cuisines you've been wanting to try.

Include timing preferences too. If you like coffee at 7am and dinner at 8pm, your crew will have everything ready without you asking. Special occasions matter as well. Birthdays, anniversaries, or celebrations give your chef the chance to create something memorable.

Here are some of the things that are typically included on a preference sheet:

• Food and beverage preferences: This includes dietary restrictions, favourite foods and drinks, and any special requests. These preferences can help craft a unique menu for your charter.
• Medical conditions: The crew needs to be aware of any medical conditions that guests may have, so that they can be prepared to provide assistance if necessary.
• Activity preferences: This includes what guests enjoy doing on a yacht, such as water sports, fishing, or exploring local attractions.
• Itinerary preferences: This includes where guests would like to go and what they would like to see during the charter.
• Other preferences: This could include anything else that guests would like the crew to know, such as your preferred sleeping arrangements, toiletry brands or your favourite music to listen to at different times of day.

The preference sheet is typically completed before the charter begins, but it can also be updated during the charter if guests' needs or preferences change.

By completing the preference sheet, guests can help to ensure that they have a relaxing and enjoyable charter experience.

Submit your preference sheet at least two weeks before your charter. This gives the chef adequate time to plan menus, source specialty ingredients, and coordinate with local suppliers.

For guests with complex dietary requirements, earlier submission allows for more thorough preparation.

Your HELM broker will send you the preference sheet as part of your pre-charter documents and can answer any questions about what to include.

You're always free to explore local restaurants during your charter. Simply inform your captain or chief steward in advance so the chef can adjust meal planning accordingly. This prevents food waste and allows the crew to recommend excellent local dining options.

Your crew's regional knowledge is invaluable here. They know which waterfront restaurants are worth the visit and can handle reservations on your behalf, often securing tables that would otherwise be difficult to book.

Additional tips for completing a preference sheet:

• Be as specific as possible when listing your preferences. The more information you provide, the better the crew will be able to cater to your needs.If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to list them in detail.
• If you have any medical conditions, be sure to list them as well. The crew may need to make special arrangements to accommodate your condition.
• Are you avid scuba divers? Water sports fanatics? If you have any specific activity preferences, be sure to list them. Your crew will be able to source equipment, arrange rendezvous dives, and know to have all the toys ready at each anchorage.
• Is there anywhere you really want to visit? The crew will be happy to help you plan your itinerary and create unique excursions to take in any sights, towns, beach bars or activities you wish to include.
• If you have any other preferences, be sure to list them. The crew will do their best to accommodate your requests. Is there a birthday, anniversary or special occasion while you're on board? Let the crew know via the preference sheet so they can plan accordingly.
• Get your preferences to your HELM broker as soon as you can. The more time your crew have to prepare for your arrival, the smoother your charter will go, and the easier it is for the crew to go the extra mile for you!

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your crewed yacht charter is a truly memorable experience.

What is a preference sheet and why does it matter for catering?

A preference sheet is a detailed questionnaire you complete before your charter, covering food preferences, allergies, favourite cuisines, and beverage choices for every guest. HELM sends this document as part of your pre-charter preparation. Your chef uses it to plan menus, source ingredients, and create a personalised dining experience tailored exactly to your group.

Is food included in the charter fee?

For most crewed charters, food and beverages are covered separately through the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), not the base charter fee. This system gives you complete control over menu quality and allows your chef to source exactly what you prefer. HELM's brokers explain how APA works for your specific yacht before booking.

Can yacht chefs accommodate severe food allergies?

Yes. Professional yacht chefs are trained to handle severe allergies with appropriate safety protocols. You must detail allergens, reaction types, and emergency procedures on your preference sheet. The chef will take precautions including dedicated preparation surfaces, separate utensils, and careful ingredient sourcing to ensure your safety onboard.

How much should I budget for food on a yacht charter?

For a week-long Mediterranean charter, €1,000-€1,500 per person covers high-quality meals, good wines, and standard beverages. This varies based on your preferences. Groups requesting daily premium items like lobster or vintage champagne will spend more. Your HELM broker can help estimate costs based on your specific requests and charter destination.

When should I submit my preference sheet?

Submit your preference sheet at least two weeks before your charter begins. This gives the chef time to plan menus, source specialty ingredients, and coordinate with local suppliers. For guests with complex dietary requirements, submitting earlier allows more thorough preparation. HELM sends reminders as your charter date approaches.

Can I request specific wines or ingredients?

Absolutely. Note your preferred wine regions, specific labels, or favourite ingredients on the preference sheet. Your crew will source these items using APA funds. For rare wines or specialty products, communicate requests early so the crew can arrange availability. HELM can coordinate with the yacht to ensure your specific requests are accommodated.