Stolen photos
They post images of real yachts on social media, posing as professional charter companies.
Fraud alert · Baja
A "luxury yacht" for 25 people, 8 hours, drinks included — for $20,000 MXN? Fake charter ads are costing real tourists real money in La Paz and Los Cabos. Here is how to spot them.
By Carlos Esquer · Updated Jul 2025 · 3 min read
The playbook
They post images of real yachts on social media, posing as professional charter companies.
An impossible price, then a request for $3,000–$5,000 pesos to "secure your date".
After payment: no yacht, no refund, no response. The account blocks you and reposts.
Do the math
This is what a real 8-hour charter actually costs to operate — before any profit, permits or marina fees.
Operating cost alone: $25,000+ MXN. A real charter at $20,000 MXN for 25 people simply cannot exist.
Real 8-hour charter costs
Before you pay
Thirty seconds of checking beats losing your deposit. If any of these fails, walk away.
How to verify a charter company →The safe way
Every vessel documented, registered and inspected.
Bilingual captains and crew on every charter.
Espíritu Santo, Balandra, San Francisquito and more.
Personalized experiences, premium service, real receipts.
Quick answers
A price far below market — like $20,000 MXN for 25 people, 8 hours with drinks — is the biggest red flag. Real operating costs alone exceed $25,000 MXN.
A contract, the boat registration and recent photos with the vessel name visible. A real operator provides all three without hesitation.
Yes. Send us the offer by WhatsApp or email and we will help you verify it before you lose your money.
Crew, fuel, food, marina fees, insurance and park permits are real costs. An 8-hour charter costs over $25,000 MXN to operate before any profit.
Have doubts? Let us help
If someone offered you a yacht at a suspicious price, send us a message. We will verify it with you — free.