When planning a sailing holiday, one of the first questions is usually very simple: how much does it cost to rent a boat, and isn’t this just an expensive, hard‑to‑access type of vacation? The reality is more straightforward. In 2026, a bareboat charter in the Mediterranean typically costs around €2,500–4,000 per week — and in many cases it’s a very realistic option.
This price usually applies to a 40–46 ft sailing yacht or catamaran that comfortably fits a group of 6–12 people. It’s the base charter price; the final budget is typically about 30–50% higher once you add fuel, marina/port fees, food, and other extras.
Quick facts
- Bareboat charter: €2,500–4,000 / week
- People: 6–12
- Region: Mediterranean Sea
- Additional costs: +30–50%
- Best value months: June and September
Important: a valid skipper license is mandatory for bareboat charter. Without it, bareboat charter is not allowed — in that case you need to choose a yacht with a skipper.
What is a bareboat charter?
Bareboat is a type of yacht charter where you rent only the boat itself — without a skipper and without crew. In other words, you sail the yacht yourself (or one of your crew members does).
Bareboat is most often chosen by people who have sailed with a skipper at least once before, families or groups of friends, and travelers who want more freedom and a lower overall cost.
It’s important to understand: bareboat isn’t meant for complete beginners, but it’s also not professional sport sailing. Many Mediterranean routes are calm, distances are short, and there are plenty of safe bays and marinas.
Is a skipper license required for bareboat charter?
Yes — a skipper license is required for bareboat charter. Without a valid license, bareboat charter is not allowed in Greece, Croatia, Italy, or other Mediterranean countries.
Because bareboat means there is no skipper on board, one crew member officially becomes the skipper and must present a recognized license (most commonly ICC or an equivalent certificate).
If you don’t have a skipper license, you won’t be able to choose bareboat — the alternative is a skippered charter, which does not require a license.
“This is one of the most common mistakes — people assume bareboat works like renting a car. Unfortunately, it doesn’t. No license — no bareboat.”
— Captain Giedrius
Why is bareboat considered the most affordable sailing option?
Bareboat usually costs less because you don’t pay for a skipper, there are no crew accommodation or catering costs, you plan your own route and pace, and you can choose to anchor in free bays instead of staying in marinas.
For these reasons, bareboat is typically the cheapest way to sail in the Mediterranean — if you have the required experience and license.
How much does a bareboat charter cost in 2026?
Below are typical market prices for one week. They best match groups of 6–12 people looking for a realistic budget (not luxury).
What’s included in the bareboat price?
Usually included:
- The yacht itself
- Standard safety equipment
- Dinghy (tender boat to get to shore)
- Bed linen
- Insurance
- Final cleaning
Not included:
- Fuel
- Marina and port fees
- Food and drinks
- Security deposit (refundable)
- Optional extras (SUP, Wi‑Fi, etc.)
- Additional insurance
These additional costs most often add up to +30–50% on top of the base charter price.
Real example: how much does bareboat cost for 8 people?
“When people calculate the cost per person, they often realize it’s very similar to a regular vacation — only the experience is completely different.”
— Captain Giedrius
How does seasonality affect yacht charter prices?
If your target is a €2,500–4,000 bareboat charter per week, the best value is usually in June or September.
Bareboat or skippered charter — which is cheaper?
Bareboat is almost always cheaper because you don’t pay for a skipper. A skipper typically costs €1,200–1,600 per week.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I rent a bareboat yacht without a skipper license?
No. A skipper license is mandatory for bareboat charter. Without it, the charter company will not release the yacht without a skipper. The alternative is a yacht with a skipper.
Is bareboat really the cheapest option?
Yes — if you have a license and basic experience, bareboat is typically the most affordable way to sail.
How many people is optimal on a bareboat yacht?
For most groups, 6–8 people is the best balance between price and comfort.
Is bareboat suitable for families?
Yes, especially in calm regions and with the right yacht size.
Summary
Bareboat charter in the Mediterranean in 2026 is a realistic, accessible, and flexible holiday option — if you have a valid skipper license.
This is a good fit if you:
- Travel with 6–10 people
- Want more freedom and privacy
- Are looking for an alternative to hotels
Ready to plan a bareboat trip?
If you want to better understand whether bareboat is right for you and estimate a realistic trip budget, contact us — we’ll help you find the best option.
Related articles
- Travel tips: https://www.travel-boat.com/en/blog/
- Where to sail in the Mediterranean?: https://www.travel-boat.com/en/blog/where-to-sail-in-the-mediterranean/
- Your first sailing trip: what to know: https://www.travel-boat.com/en/blog/boat-charter-for-beginners/