Planning a sailing holiday and baffled by the jargon? The first big choice is how you charter the boat: bareboat vs skippered – with a third option, the cabin charter, in between. Each suits a different kind of sailor, budget and level of experience. Here's a simple guide to the three, so you can pick the one that's right for you.
Bareboat charter: total independence
A bareboat charter means you rent the yacht and sail it yourselves, with no professional crew aboard. It's the ultimate freedom – your boat, your route, your pace – but it comes with responsibility. At least one person needs a recognised sailing licence (usually an ICC) plus real experience, because you are the skipper. Ideal for qualified, confident sailors who want to be in charge.
Skippered charter: your boat, their expertise
A skippered charter gives you a private yacht and a professional skipper to run it. You still choose the boat and broadly the route, but the skipper handles navigation, mooring and safety – and shares local knowledge on the best bays and tavernas. No licence or experience needed. Perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants a private boat without the responsibility.
Cabin charter: the sociable, affordable option
A cabin charter means booking just your cabin and sharing the boat – and the cost – with other travellers, with a skipper aboard. It's the most affordable and sociable choice, and needs no experience. Ideal for solo travellers, couples and anyone who loves meeting people. For a halfway house between bareboat and skippered, a flotilla lets you skipper your own boat with expert backup.
Not sure which suits you? Compare the options and find your trip with our trip finder.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between bareboat and skippered charter?
Bareboat means you sail the yacht yourselves (a licence and experience are required); skippered means a professional skipper runs the boat for you (no licence needed).
Do I need a licence for a skippered or cabin charter?
No – the professional skipper holds the qualifications. A licence is only needed for a bareboat charter, where you are the skipper.
Which is cheapest?
A cabin charter is usually the most affordable, since you split the boat by booking a single berth rather than the whole yacht.
Conclusion
Bareboat for independence, skippered for a private boat without the work, cabin charter for affordable and sociable – there's a way to sail for everyone. Ready to choose yours? Explore our trip finder.
