Yacht Charter: Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does yacht charter work through Travel Boat?
Travel Boat is a yacht charter broker — we select the best offers from trusted boat owners and charter companies worldwide and present them to you. You don't need to browse dozens of websites or compare options yourself. Simply tell us where you want to sail, when, and how many of you there will be — we'll find the most suitable yacht and handle the entire booking process.
2. How much does yacht charter cost?
Yacht charter for a week starts from a few hundred euros per person when travelling as a group without a skipper — the more people, the lower the cost per person. The exact price depends on the type and size of the yacht, destination, season and duration. You can get an accurate quote by sending an enquiry — we respond quickly and with no obligation.
3. What is included in the price and what additional costs should I expect?
The base charter price typically includes one week's yacht rental and standard equipment. Additional costs usually cover: skipper services (if you choose to sail with a skipper), final cleaning, marina fees, fuel, insurance and food. Before booking, we always provide a full cost breakdown — no unpleasant surprises.
4. When is the best time to book to get the most favourable price?
The earlier you book, the better the price and the wider the choice. The most popular boats for the summer season (July–August) are reserved as early as January–March. Last-minute offers do come up, but the selection is much more limited.
5. How does the booking and payment process work?
Booking takes three steps: you send an enquiry → we prepare an offer → you confirm, and the yacht is yours. Payment is made in instalments: a deposit at the time of booking and the remaining balance before departure.
6. Can I cancel a reservation?
Cancellation conditions depend on the specific boat owner or charter company and are always stated in the contract before payment. We recommend considering travel insurance with cancellation cover — this provides additional security in unexpected situations.
7. Do I need experience or a licence to charter a yacht?
With a skipper — no, no experience or licence is required. The skipper handles the boat and you simply enjoy the trip. If you want to sail independently (bareboat charter), a recognised sailing licence and practical experience are required.
8. What is a skipper and is one necessary?
A skipper is a professional yacht helmsman who sails with your group — navigating the boat, knowing the best anchorages and taking care of safety. Hiring a skipper is not mandatory if you hold a sailing licence, but for first-time sailors it is the best choice: the trip is completely hassle-free and you can simply enjoy your holiday.
9. What is the difference between a sailing yacht, a catamaran and a motor yacht?
A sailing yacht — an authentic experience and a classic for those who want the true feeling of sailing. A catamaran — wider, more stable and more spacious; ideal for families and those for whom comfort is a priority. A motor yacht — faster and more luxurious; suited to those who want to cover more destinations in less time.
10. How many people does a yacht accommodate?
An average sailing yacht accommodates 6–8 people; a catamaran up to 10–12. The charter price is usually for the whole boat, not per person — so the more people sailing, the lower the cost per head.
11. Are there storms in the Mediterranean?
The summer season (June–August) is the calmest time to sail in the Mediterranean — summer storms are rare and short-lived. Stronger winds and waves are more common in spring and autumn. The skipper constantly monitors weather forecasts and always knows where to find shelter if needed.
12. What happens if the weather deteriorates?
The skipper monitors weather forecasts and plans the route accordingly. If worse weather is approaching, the boat stops in a safe harbour or bay until it passes. This is normal seamanship practice and part of the journey.
13. Is yacht travel safe?
Yes — yacht travel with an experienced skipper is safe. All our offered yachts meet safety requirements and are equipped with life jackets, life rafts and navigation equipment. The skipper is trained to know what to do in dangerous situations and how to manage them.
14. What does a typical day on board look like?
Every day is different — that's the best part of the trip. In the morning you wake up in a bay or small harbour town, have breakfast on board, sail to a new spot and swim directly from the deck. In the afternoon — a new anchorage, a walk, dinner at a restaurant ashore. In the evening — back to the boat.
15. Can you cook on board? Where do you sleep?
Yes — every yacht has a galley with all the necessary equipment. Most travellers combine both options: cooking breakfast on board and dining at restaurants ashore in the evenings. Sleeping is in cabins — each couple has a separate cabin with a bed, storage and ventilation.
16. Is there WiFi on board?
Some yachts have WiFi, others don't. In marinas you can usually connect to public WiFi. Most of our clients return saying that disconnecting from their phone and the internet was one of the best parts of the trip.
17. Is yacht travel suitable for beginners?
Yes — with a skipper, yacht travel is perfectly suitable with no prior experience. You don't need to know or learn anything about sailing: the skipper handles everything and you simply enjoy yourself. Many of our clients board a yacht for the first time with a touch of nerves, and return already planning their next trip.
18. Is a yacht trip suitable for families with children?
Yes — a yacht with children is safe and comfortable. Children usually fall in love with the boat from day one: swimming directly from the deck, fishing, exploring new ports. For families we recommend a catamaran — more spacious and stable. It's important to discuss the children's ages and the route in advance so we can find the most suitable option.
19. Is a yacht suitable for a couple or a special occasion?
A yacht is one of the most romantic holiday formats for couples: privacy, sunsets on deck, dinner in a fishing village. For birthdays, anniversaries, wedding anniversaries — a yacht gives any special occasion a feeling you won't recreate on a typical holiday. If you're planning something special — let us know in advance and we'll help make it unforgettable.
20. Is it cheaper to travel by yacht as a group?
Yes — significantly cheaper. The charter price is for the whole boat, not per person. A group of 6–8 people often pays less per head than a standard hotel room in peak season — and gets a private yacht, a skipper and an unforgettable experience.
Still have questions?
Whether this is your first yacht trip or you already know where you want to sail — we're here to help. Send us an enquiry and we'll get back to you quickly, in a friendly way and with no obligation.
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