Sailing yacht rental

What is a Sailing Yacht?

A sailing yacht is a type of boat that's primarily powered by sails, designed for both performance and leisure. While all yachts are boats, not all boats are yachts, sailboats form a broader category that includes both simple sailboats and luxury sailing yachts, with yachts typically offering more amenities and size.

Unlike motorized vessels, sailing yachts rely on the wind to navigate, with sails serving as the primary propulsion method. That said, most also feature auxiliary propulsion systems, such as diesel engines, for additional power when you need it. They often feature sleek hulls, with hull design and construction having evolved from traditional wood to modern composites and metals, enhancing durability, performance, and aesthetics. Construction techniques and materials play a crucial role in the yacht's seaworthiness and longevity.

Sailing yachts come in various sizes, with length often starting at around 10 meters (33 feet) to be considered a true yacht, and larger vessels offering increased comfort and capability. Expansive decks and comfortable cabins are standard, with layouts typically including distinct fore and aft areas, the fore for sail handling and rigging, the aft for entertainment, swim platforms, and storage.

The sail plan is central to performance and leisure, with the mainsail and various rigs, such as sloops, playing key roles in handling and speed. Sloops are among the most common rig types, but other rigs are also popular. Sailing yachts offer experiences for solo sailors, families, and groups alike, with owners often customizing and managing their vessels to suit personal preferences and enhance exclusivity.

These yachts are perfect for extended cruising or weekend adventures, and catamarans multihull sailboats are a popular alternative, offering exceptional stability, space, and comfort. Catamaran construction and design further expand the options available for those seeking a unique sailing experience. Owning a sailing yacht fosters a closer connection with nature, including opportunities to see wildlife such as dolphins and whales.

Why Choose a Sailing Yacht for Your Next Adventure?

Experience the Joy of Sailing: Chartering a sailing yacht lets you harness the wind and enjoy a unique sense of freedom at sea. Sailing holidays offer the thrill of exploring beautiful destinations across different countries, making each journey a new adventure. It's the most natural and peaceful way to travel, without the constant hum of engines.

However, we'll be honest: travelling by sailing yacht is generally slower and more dependent on weather conditions, which can result in longer travel times. But here's the upside, sailing is also more cost-effective than motor yachts due to the free resource of wind for propulsion.

Elegant Comfort: Modern sailing yachts balance performance with luxury beautifully. You can expect spacious salons, private cabins, and large deck areas that are ideal for sunbathing, dining, or watching the sunset as you glide over the waves.

For those seeking speed and excitement, performance yachts are available, designed for optimal sailing and racing experiences. Racing yachts typically emphasize performance over comfort and have high-performance rigs for aerodynamic efficiency. However, it's worth noting that sailboats often have less interior space and can be less comfortable than motor yachts, prioritizing outdoor living instead.

Access to Hidden Gems: Thanks to their relatively shallow draft, sailing yachts can anchor closer to beaches, secluded coves, and quiet harbours that larger motor yachts can't reach. This near-shore access allows you to discover untouched corners of the coast during your sailing holiday and enjoy the tranquillity of the shoreline.

Perfect for Groups and Families: Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a corporate retreat, a sailing yacht charter offers plenty of room and comfort for everyone on board. Our company maintains a diverse fleet of sailboats and yachts, and you can request specific amenities or arrangements to personalize your experience.

Ideal for All Skill Levels: Today's sailing yachts are designed for easy handling. You can rent a bareboat charter if you prefer to captain your own yacht, though certain destinations may require official sailing qualifications. Bareboat sailing offers the freedom of having your own yacht, allowing you to explore at your own pace and create a personalized itinerary.

Types of Sailing Yachts You Can Rent

Cruising Sailing Yachts: These yachts are built for comfort and long-distance cruising. Perfect for families or small groups, they combine ease of handling with cosy interiors and all the essentials for a relaxing voyage.

Cruising sail yachts often feature popular rigs such as sloops, which utilize a single mast and a mainsail, making them straightforward to handle. Other common rigs include cutters and ketches, each offering unique sail plans for different sailing preferences. The hull design of cruising yachts is optimized for stability and comfort, and propulsion is typically provided by both sails and auxiliary engines for versatility.

No sailing licence or qualifications are necessary to charter an Oyster yacht, as the crew is responsible for sailing, making it an accessible option for all. Oyster Charter provides fully crewed luxury sailboat charters exclusively on Oyster yachts, ensuring a premium experience for all guests.

Luxury Sailing Yachts: For those who want to experience the sea in style, luxury sailing yachts come fully crewed and equipped with high-end amenities: gourmet kitchens, multiple cabins, and elegant entertainment areas. They're ideal for a premium yacht charter experience.

For those seeking speed and advanced design, performance yachts are available, offering specialized hull shapes and rigging for optimal sailing. All sailing yacht charters within the fleet display renowned exquisite craftsmanship and seamanlike qualities.

Chartering an Oyster yacht offers a unique opportunity to experience the world's finest sailing yachts, combining luxury, performance, and impeccable service. Oyster Charter represents a fleet of impeccably maintained luxury 50- to 130-foot yachts, ensuring a top-tier experience for all guests.

Popular Sailing Yacht Models to Charter

Our extensive fleet of sailing yachts includes a wide range of models to suit every preference, from family-friendly cruisers to high-performance yachts. Yacht owners often choose specific brands for their unique customization options and personal connection to their vessels.

Beneteau Sailing Yachts: Known for their sleek design, innovation, and balance of comfort and performance, Beneteau models are a favourite choice for yacht charters. Their efficient hulls and shallow drafts allow you to explore various anchorages with ease. Beneteau offers a range of hull construction techniques and materials, with models available in various length options to match your sailing needs.

Bavaria Sailing Yachts: Famous for German engineering, reliability, and safety, Bavaria sailing yachts are excellent for long-distance cruising and family adventures. Their strong build and generous interiors make them ideal for extended sailing holidays. Bavaria offers different classes of yachts and various rigs, allowing sailors to choose the configuration that best fits their style and experience.

Dufour Sailing Yachts: Dufour yachts are loved for their stability, smooth handling, and elegant comfort. Perfect for both experienced sailors and casual vacationers, these yachts offer a true blend of performance and luxury at sea. Dufour also features performance yachts with advanced sail plans and mainsail configurations, designed for optimal speed and handling.

Top Destinations for Sailing Yacht Charters

Embarking on a sailing yacht charter opens up a world of breathtaking destinations, each offering its own unique charm and adventure.

The Caribbean, with its turquoise waters and steady trade winds, is a favourite among sailors seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement. The British Virgin Islands stand out for their sheltered bays, vibrant marine life, and lively beach bars, perfect for both seasoned sailors and families looking for a memorable cruise. The British Virgin Islands have steady trade winds and gentle currents, making them ideal for first-time charterers. The Windward Islands are named for their trade winds and are considered ideal cruising grounds.

For those drawn to history and culture, the Mediterranean is a treasure trove of iconic sailing destinations. Greece invites you to explore its sun-drenched islands, ancient ruins, and welcoming harbours, while Croatia's stunning coastline is dotted with medieval towns, crystal-clear coves, and a rich maritime heritage. The Greek Ionian Islands are known for their stunning white sand beaches and lush greenery, offering a picturesque backdrop for your sailing adventure.

Each location offers various luxury sailing yachts, ensuring you find the right sailing yacht with the ideal number of cabins, amenities, and performance features for your crew. Whether you dream of anchoring in a secluded bay, discovering hidden beaches, or enjoying vibrant nightlife ashore, a sailing yacht charter gives you the freedom to craft your perfect itinerary. With so many world-class destinations to choose from, your next sailing adventure is limited only by your imagination.

Bareboat or skippered options 

A bareboat yacht charter puts you in charge of your sailing holiday. You can opt to sail suggested itineraries or create your own during a bareboat sailing holiday. You receive a thorough chart briefing upon arrival for your bareboat sailing charter, ensuring you're well-prepared for your journey.

If you don't have the necessary qualifications, our company provides fully qualified skippers and crew to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, so you can opt for a skippered yacht charter to let a professional crew take care of navigation while you unwind. 

You can easily search for the right sailing yacht or sailing holiday to match your preferences and desired destinations.

Onboard Amenities: What to Expect

When you step aboard a luxury sailing yacht, you'll discover a world of comfort and convenience designed to elevate your charter experience. Modern sailing yachts are equipped with a wide selection of amenities to suit every guest, from spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms to a fully equipped galley where gourmet meals can be prepared.

Each yacht has beautifully appointed en-suite cabins featuring all the comforts of home, ensuring a relaxing and luxurious stay. Expansive decks provide the perfect setting for sunbathing, alfresco dining, or simply relaxing as you take in panoramic sea views. Charter yachts typically carry a range of water sports gear, TVs, sound systems, and Wi-Fi (where available), ensuring entertainment and connectivity throughout your journey.

Many yachts feature advanced sailing technology, such as in-mast furling systems and multiple masts, making it easy to adjust sails and enjoy smooth cruising. Modern sailing yachts are equipped with various electronics for navigation, communication, and measurement of surroundings.

For those seeking extra indulgence, some luxury sailing yachts offer additional facilities like Jacuzzis, entertainment systems, and even onboard gyms. Whether you're planning a family holiday or a getaway with friends, you'll find that every detail from the layout of the cockpit to the quality of the amenities has been thoughtfully designed to ensure your comfort and relaxation.

Choosing the perfect yacht means considering which amenities matter most to you and your guests. With so many options available, you can tailor your charter to create an unforgettable sailing holiday, complete with all the comforts of home and the thrill of life at sea.

Your Crew and Staff: Service at Sea

A dedicated crew is at the heart of every exceptional yacht charter, ensuring your journey is smooth, safe, and truly memorable. From the experienced skipper who expertly navigates your vessel to the attentive hospitality team who cater to your every need, the crew's commitment to service transforms your sailing holiday into a five-star experience.

Your crew is more than just staff, they're your guides to the best destinations, sharing insider tips on hidden anchorages, local cuisine, and must-see sights. Whether you need help with sailing, want to learn the ropes, or simply wish to relax while everything is taken care of, your team is there to make your charter effortless.

The skipper's knowledge of the region ensures you visit the most beautiful ports and anchorages, while the rest of the crew handles everything from meal preparation to keeping the yacht in pristine condition. With a professional crew on board, you can focus on enjoying your adventure, knowing that every detail is managed by a passionate and experienced team. Whether you're exploring new destinations or revisiting favourite shores, the service at sea makes every moment special.

Budget and Cost Considerations

Planning your sailing yacht charter involves finding the perfect balance between your dream experience and your budget. The cost of chartering a yacht can vary widely, depending on factors such as the size and class of the yacht, the destination, and the season.

Luxury sailing yachts with premium amenities and larger cabins typically come at a higher price, but they also offer an unparalleled charter experience for families and groups of friends. It's worth noting that sailing requires a significant commitment of time for maintenance, repairs, and learning necessary skills. High costs associated with owning a sailing yacht include maintenance, repairs, fuel, insurance, and marina fees. Additionally, yachts can depreciate significantly in value over time, similar to other large investments, making chartering an attractive alternative for many.

A crew gratuity of 10% to 20% of the charter fee is customary at the end of the charter, reflecting appreciation for the exceptional service provided. The charter fee includes the yacht and crew, but not shoreside transport, food and beverages, fuel, dockage, port fees, or cruising taxes, so it's important to plan your budget accordingly.

To secure the perfect yacht for your adventure, it's important to compare options and consider what's included in the price such as onboard amenities, crew services, and equipment. Don't forget to factor in additional expenses like fuel, provisions, and port fees, which can vary by destination. Many charter companies, including Tubber, offer flexible options and transparent pricing to help you find a yacht that fits your needs and budget.

By planning ahead and understanding the full cost of your sailing holiday, you can relax and enjoy your time on the water, knowing you've made a smart and secure choice. Whether you're seeking a luxury escape or a more budget-friendly adventure, there's a sailing yacht charter out there to suit every traveller and every dream.

Ready to Book Your Sailing Yacht for Charter?

Whether you're dreaming of gliding through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, island-hopping in Greece, or exploring the Adriatic coast of Croatia, a sailing yacht for charter offers freedom like no other adventure. You can search for the perfect sailing holiday, tailoring your trip to your preferences and desired destinations.

At Tubber, our company provides access to a diverse fleet of verified yachts, ensuring you find the ideal vessel for your needs. You can also request special arrangements or amenities to personalize your sailing holiday. Wherever your journey leads, a sailing yacht rental combines comfort, sustainability, and discovery for an unforgettable experience on the open sea.