To Be Accepted Into C.Y.B.A., a Broker Has To:

* agree to conform to a specific code of ethics.

* have visited at least two charter shows each year.

* have a thorough knowledge of boats and crews.

* be truthful in all advertising and product descriptions.

* conduct any business in a fiscally responsible manner.

* place charterer's funds in a separate escrow account when applicable.

* use an appropriate contract and be able to explain its ramifications.

CYBA BENEFITS

You work hard all year, and now it's time to play! If you're like most of us, you only have two or three weeks a year to relax and unwind, so this time is extremely valuable to you, and you certainly don't want to waste either it, or your hard-earned money, by choosing the wrong charter yacht and crew.

There are hundreds of charter yachts to choose from, many of which you can find on the Internet. But how to choose? One looks just as nice as the next, but, is that what they really look like today, or what they looked like 5 years ago, when the photo was taken? And, what about the crew? Are they the kind of people that you'll want to spend a week with?

These are important questions which cannot be answered by looking at an Internet website, or browsing through brochures. You need the advice of someone who has actually seen the yacht and met the crew, and who knows not only that yacht and crew, but the other yachts and crews as well. Such a person is called a charter broker, and can help you to compare yachts to find your very best choice. But, just like the boats, there are good brokers and not-so-good brokers. So, how do you choose the right broker?

Look for the CYBA logo in the brokers's advertisement or on their website, and ask the person that you talk with if they are a CYBA member. Dealing with a CYBA member gives you a level of assurance that you are dealing with a charter professional.

Each CYBA applicant must meet rigid membership requirements, including experience in the field, proper use of charter documents, ethical business practices, attendance at charter yacht shows to see yacht and meet the crews, and a review by his or her peers, prior to acceptance.

CYBA members are required to place your charter deposit in an independent escrow account, and to follow through with your charter arrangements after the yacht is chosen, to assure you of a satisfying vacation experience - perhaps the best vacation you've ever had!