Woman-Owned · NYC-Born · Industry-Leader

New York deserved a better way to experience the water.

Big Apple Charters is New York City's leading private luxury yacht charter — founded by Amal Salameh and built on a belief that every moment on the water should feel effortless.

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Our Story

Built on integrity. Guided by love of the harbor.

Amal Salameh founded Big Apple Charters to share New York's nautical magic — with residents and visitors alike. Her own life was changed by experiences on the water, and she saw an opportunity to correct what was broken in the NYC charter industry: outdated vessels, inconsistent service, and operations that took advantage of guests.

What began with one boat grew into New York City's leading private luxury yacht charter fleet — by choosing integrity over shortcuts, and hospitality over volume. Today, Big Apple Charters sets the standard: licensed, insured, USCG-compliant, and trusted by the city's finest hotels, corporations and most discerning guests.

"Discipline first, delight second. True luxury exists only when both are present."
— Amal Salameh, Founder

What We Stand For

Our Mission & Values

Safety Without Compromise

USCG-licensed, fully insured, and professionally crewed on every charter. Safety is felt, not announced — through calm execution and the steady presence of an expert captain.

Integrity Over Shortcuts

We don't take the faster or cheaper path if it undermines safety, transparency, or trust. No hidden fees, no bait-and-switch, no pressure-based selling. Ever.

Hospitality Over Volume

Each charter is approached with the mindset of a five-star hotel. Guests aren't processed — they're hosted. Growth is never pursued at the expense of attentiveness.

Joy on the Water

Boating changes how people feel — relaxed, inspired, connected, and cared for. Every charter is designed to deliver a memory that endures long after guests return to shore.

The Team

The crew is the experience.

At Big Apple Charters, our captains and crew members aren't a supporting detail — they're a key reason guests come back. Selected for both technical expertise and genuine warmth, every crew member is trained to anticipate what guests need, before they ask.

Professionalism, experience and attention to detail makes it feel easy — leaving only the feeling that everything has been handled. When guests say "the crew was just amazing," - that's the mission fulfilled.

5★

Rated on every platform

#1

Google Ranked NYC Charter Company

100+

Proposals completed

Press & Recognition

As Seen In

Big Apple Charters has been recognized by the city's leading voices on luxury living, food, and recreation.

Robb Report

“.New York's most refined on-water experience”

The New York Times

“T standout in New York City's private charter landscape.”

At The Helm

Boatsetter Featured Owner
"In the business of making magical memories."

Preferred by

New York's finest hotels & concierge teams · Corporate event planners · VIP travel coordinators

Trusted by New York's finest

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Chelsea Piers · Pier 59 · Hudson River

See you on the water.

Every charter begins with a conversation. Tell us what you're celebrating, and we'll take care of everything else.

212-401-4031 · bigapplecharters.com