Skippered Yacht Charter: The Easiest Way to Sail Like a Pro

Dreaming of a sailing adventure but don't have the right sailing licence? Maybe you're lacking experience? Don't worry at all!

A yacht charter with a skipper is honestly the perfect solution for you, as it lets everyone enjoy an unforgettable sailing trip. Come aboard and experience the ease and pure joy of a skippered yacht charter. Think this style of sailing might suit you? Keep reading, as we'll share everything you need to know about sailing with a skipper on board!

What is a Yacht Charter with a Skipper?

Experienced or not, literally anyone can embark on a sailing trip by renting a yacht with a skipper. When you choose this option, a professional skipper will be on board throughout your sailing trip. This way, you can truly enjoy your time on the water with the rest of the group without any worries. Put your feet up and relax!

When booking a skippered charter, you can choose from our diverse fleet of well-maintained yachts, ensuring the right vessel for your exact needs and preferences.

You might initially think that a yacht charter with a skipper costs more than a bareboat charter. However, this doesn't have to be the case at all. To get an initial idea of the prices, you can request a quote from one of our friendly Tubber experts.

Who Can Rent a Yacht with a Skipper?

Absolutely everyone!

The skipper handles everything related to sailing, so you only need to decide if you want to swim, sunbathe, or grab a drink!

Rent a yacht with a skipper if you…

… have no sailing experience whatsoever, but still want to explore the seas.

… want to truly relax and enjoy time with friends and/or family.

… have a specific destination but don't have the necessary sailing licence to rent a yacht without a skipper (bareboat).

… as a beginner, want to learn directly from a professional skipper and gain real experience.

… on a first visit, want to learn more about the area and the unique waters of a particular destination.

… are even experienced sailors or a seasoned sailor who simply want to relax and let someone else take the helm.

With a skipper, you can plan your ideal sailing holiday without stressing about the technicalities of navigation.

The Advantages of a Skipper

First things first, our skippers are fully qualified, licensed, and have extensive sailing experience behind them.

Our skippers are often local sailors in the destination area. Therefore, you can learn tons from them about the area, such as the best excursion destinations, anchorage spots, amazing restaurants, and local weather patterns. You can also learn so much about sailing itself.

In other words: you're in perfect hands. Safety, navigation, and comfort are absolutely paramount. Start your wonderfully relaxing sailing trip! With a skippered yacht charter, you can simply unwind and enjoy a true paradise on the water, as every single detail is expertly taken care of for you.

The Difference Between a Bareboat Yacht Charter And a Yacht Charter with a Skipper

Here's a quick overview of the differences between both yacht charters:

A bareboat charter is perfect for those who want complete independence on the water. You have the freedom to set your own pace and course, choosing exactly where to go and when to stop, making every journey truly your own. With no professional skipper on board, you're controlling the yacht and your itinerary, allowing for a completely personalized adventure.

On the other hand, a skippered charter is ideal for those who'd prefer to relax while an experienced captain handles the navigation and sailing. While you may not have sailed your own yacht in beautiful destinations yourself, you can still enjoy the journey and learn from the skipper's expertise. This option is particularly great for beginners or those who want a genuinely stress-free holiday.

Bareboat charter

If you book a bareboat sailing trip to one of the many beautiful destinations, you and your crew are completely, fully responsible. This means you're responsible for finding anchorage spots and anchoring. You also handle the navigation, sailing, and all the background organization. To book a bareboat sailing trip, it's required that you or a member of your crew have the appropriate sailing licence. This depends on the chosen boat and the specific sailing destination. Each country has different requirements and accepted sailing qualifications.

Rent a boat with a skipper

If you book a sailing yacht with a skipper, you can choose the perfect yacht for your specific needs—whether you prefer spacious, stable catamarans or classic, high-performance monohulls. The skipper steers the boat, navigates, anchors, and finds ideal anchorage spots. Additionally, the skipper provides helpful tips on the best excursion destinations and a possible route. You bear much less responsibility, and the absolute best part is: anyone can rent a yacht with a skipper.

Destinations for Sailing

Choosing the perfect destination is honestly the first step to an unforgettable sailing holiday. For those seeking a bareboat yacht charter, the British Virgin Islands are a top pick, offering a wonderful blend of steady winds, sheltered anchorages, and stunning crystal clear waters—ideal for both seasoned sailors and those relatively new to sailing. Greece and Croatia are also favourites, with their picturesque coastlines, historic ports, and vibrant local cultures making every single sailing adventure unique. The Mediterranean , including Italy and Croatia, is renowned for its mix of scenic beauty, rich history, and absolutely world-class cuisine, providing endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

If you're planning your first sailing holiday, destinations with gentle seas and short distances between islands, such as the Bahamas or certain parts of the Mediterranean, are perfect for a relaxed voyage. The Caribbean , with its laid-back vibe and turquoise waters, is another fantastic choice for both bareboat and skippered yacht charters. Whether you dream of dropping anchor in a secluded bay, discovering charming island villages, or embarking on an action-packed sailing adventure, there's a destination to match every single sailor's wish list. With so many incredible destinations to choose from, your next sailing holiday can be as adventurous or as tranquil as you desire.

Safety and Emergency Procedures

Safety is at the heart of every successful sailing holiday, whether you're embarking on a bareboat charter or sailing with a qualified skipper. Before setting sail, it's essential to get acquainted with your yacht's systems, including the outboard engine, navigation tools, and all safety equipment. Most destinations require that at least one crew member holds an international certificate or proof of sailing skills, especially for bareboat charters. This ensures you're prepared to handle the yacht and navigate the cruising area confidently.

Understanding emergency procedures is just as important as knowing how to sail. This includes knowing how to drop anchor safely, respond to changing weather conditions, and act quickly in case of an emergency. Many charter companies and sailing schools offer courses and pre-departure briefings to help sailors—both beginners and experienced—brush up on essential skills and safety protocols. By taking these steps, you can set off on your sailing journey with peace of mind, ready to enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

Onboard Activities and Amenities

A sailing holiday is about more than just moving from port to port—it's about making the most of every moment onboard. Today's yacht charters, whether you choose a sleek monohull or a spacious catamaran, offer a full range of amenities designed to enhance your sailing adventure. Many vessels come equipped with water toys like paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkelling gear, perfect for exploring the world beneath the waves at your chosen destination.

Onboard, you'll find comfortable living spaces for relaxing with family or friends, well-appointed kitchens for preparing delicious meals, and sun-drenched decks for soaking up the sun. Whether you want to discover hidden coves, try your hand at sailing, or simply unwind with a good book, there's something for everyone. With so many activities and amenities available, your sailing holiday can be as active or as laid-back as you wish, ensuring a memorable journey for all.

Budgeting for Your Charter

Planning your sailing holiday budget is key to making the most of your adventure. The charter price of your yacht will depend on several factors, including the destination, the type of vessel (monohull or catamaran), and the time of year. For example, sailing in the Mediterranean or Caribbean during peak season typically comes at a premium, while off-season charters can offer significant savings. Don't forget to factor in additional costs such as provisioning, fuel, and the option to hire a professional skipper.

If you're looking for value, consider flotilla sailing holidays , where you can join a group of yachts for a fun and social experience—often at a more affordable rate. Many charter companies also offer special deals for longer bookings or early reservations. By understanding what's included in your charter price and planning for extras, you can tailor your sailing holiday to fit your budget and enjoy a worry-free adventure on the water.

Onboard Etiquette

Good onboard etiquette is essential for a smooth and enjoyable sailing journey, especially when sharing a yacht with others. Respecting the yacht's systems and keeping communal areas tidy helps maintain a pleasant environment for everyone. On bareboat charters, it's important to follow any guidelines set by the charter company and to work together as a crew, sharing tasks and responsibilities.

When sailing with a skipper, understanding their role and communicating openly about plans and preferences can make the experience even better. Simple courtesies—like being mindful of noise levels, especially in quiet anchorages, and giving everyone space to relax—go a long way toward creating a harmonious atmosphere. By practicing good etiquette, you'll help ensure that your sailing holiday is enjoyable for all, leaving everyone with great memories of their time at sea.

Skippered Sailing Holidays with Tubber

You might be wondering where you can sail if you want to book a yacht charter with a skipper.

The answer is: Everywhere!

Tubber offers skippered yacht charters to many destinations. You can explore the stunning shores of destinations worldwide, including the exotic South Pacific, for a truly memorable sailing experience. At all destinations, you can choose between a monohull or a catamaran, with a skipper and/or crew or without!

In short: A yacht charter with a skipper ensures that everyone can have a completely relaxed sailing trip!