Boat Charter Guide: 10 Things to Know Before You Sail

The idea of embarking on a sailing adventure—wind in your hair and the open sea stretching before you—is an enticing dream for many. However, if you've never set foot on a sailboat or catamaran before, renting one can feel both exhilarating and intimidating. Before setting sail, several essential factors must be considered to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. This comprehensive guide will help beginners prepare for their first sailing adventure, covering everything from selecting the right vessel to planning a safe and seamless journey. 

Caution: Reading this article may trigger an urgent desire to book your next sailing holiday. Be sure to explore Sailogy’s exceptional boat rental options and exclusive deals to start planning today!

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1. Choose the Right Boat for Your Needs

Selecting the perfect boat is the first step to a memorable sailing experience. At Sailogy, you can choose from different vessel types depending on your preferences and level of experience:

• Sailboats: Ideal for traditionalists and sailing enthusiasts, offering agility and an authentic sailing experience.

• Catamarans: Provide greater stability, more space, and comfort—perfect for beginners and larger groups.

• Motor Boats: A great option for those who prefer speed and convenience, allowing you to cover greater distances quickly and easily.

• Gulets: Spacious and luxurious, these traditional wooden yachts are great for a relaxed, crewed experience.

• Luxury Yachts: The epitome of comfort and elegance, with premium amenities and a professional crew.

Consider factors like group size, budget, and the level of sailing expertise required.

Need help choosing the right boat? Our dedicated experts at Sailogy can assist you in finding the best one for your adventure.

2. Select the Perfect Destination

Your choice of destination will shape your entire sailing experience. Are you looking for peaceful, secluded bays or vibrant coastal towns with nightlife and cultural immersion?

Popular sailing destinations include:

• The Mediterranean: Greece, Italy, Croatia, Spain—rich in history, culture, and beautiful coastlines.

• The Caribbean: The British Virgin Islands, Bahamas, and Staint Martin offer tropical paradise and crystal-clear waters.

• The Seychelles: A unique blend of pristine beaches and exotic marine life.

If you need guidance, our experts at Sailogy can recommend the best location based on your preferences and sailing skills.

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3. Do you need a Sailing License or a Skipper? 

A bareboat charter is the perfect choice for licensed sailors who want to hone their skills or for seasoned sea lovers who enjoy the thrill of independent sailing.

If you don’t have a sailing license, you can still rent a boat! Sailogy offers yacht rental with a skipper, allowing you to enjoy the trip while an experienced professional handles navigation and safety.

Hiring a skipper can enhance your experience by removing the pressure of constant responsibility. A skipper is not just a captain, but also an expert in navigation, manoeuvring, and handling the boat in all conditions. With their local knowledge, they can take you to the most beautiful hidden spots, recommend the best anchorages, and ensure a smooth sailing experience. Whether you want a relaxed holiday without the stress of sailing or need assistance with challenging manoeuvres, a skipper can be your greatest ally at sea.

If you want to learn more about the role of a skipper and how they can enhance your holiday, read here.

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4. A Smooth and Thorough Check-In

Check-in time is a crucial aspect of your sailing holiday. A thorough inspection guarantees that your boat is in optimal condition before you set off. If you have hired a skipper, they can assist by checking critical components of the boat that need inspection before departure, making the process even smoother and ensuring that everything is in order.

A comprehensive check-in involves the following:

• Inspecting all equipment and safety gear

• Verifying the inventory and fuel levels

• Understanding how to operate the navigation instruments

To streamline the process, download our Sailing Check-In Checklist from RYA Cruising Instructor Maren Christoffer here, to help ensure that nothing is missed and that you’re fully prepared before you set sail.

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5. Understand Weather Conditions

Weather plays another crucial role in your sailing experience. Consider the difference between high and low seasons:

• High season: Best weather, but higher demand and prices.

• Low season: Fewer crowds and lower prices, but be mindful of changing weather conditions.

For instance, the Meltemi winds in Greece during August are great for experienced sailors but challenging for beginners.

For more insights on reading the clouds and understanding weather patterns, check out our online guide.

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6. Plan Your Route (and have a plan B) 

Mapping out your itinerary is key to a smooth journey. It’s essential to consider what everyone in your group would like to do, ensuring a mix of activities that suit different interests—whether it’s exploring a historical site, hiking a scenic trail, discovering a secret cove, or simply relaxing on the boat all day.

If you’re sailing with a skipper, you can collaborate with them to create the perfect plan, identifying the best spots for anchoring, overnight stays, and sightseeing. 

However, always remember that the skipper is also the captain and has the final say when it comes to safety. If the weather changes unexpectedly, they will decide where to sail or anchor safely for the night. While making a plan is great, safety always comes first at sea.

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7. Learn Basic Navigation Skills

Even with a skipper on board, there’s a lot you can learn about sailing. Skippers often give small and simple tasks to the crew during the trip to help with manoeuvres, involve everyone in the holiday, and foster teamwork for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Here’s what you can easily learn on board:

• Read nautical charts

• Recognize buoy markings

• Use a compass and GPS

• Make knots with the help of a skipper or using mobile apps. 

Be mindful that, unless previously agreed, a skipper is not obliged to provide formal sailing lessons. However, they are usually happy to share their knowledge and involve you in the experience.

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8. Plan for Provisions and Meals

Stocking up on supplies is a task that takes time and organisation, as storage space on a boat is limited. Plan for about three days of provisions at a time and take advantage of coastal markets to restock along the way.

Sailogy partners with provisioning services in some specific areas of the world to make your grocery planning hassle-free:

• Foodinghy

• Jam Yacht Supply

• Paradise Foods

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9. Customise Your Experience with Extras

Enhance your trip with add-ons such as:

• A hostess or chef for onboard catering

• Outboard engine for dinghy to make shore access easier

• Transfer services, arranged by us or in partnership with Welcome Pickups

• Linen & Towels, if not included in the charter package

• Early check-in, so you can board in the morning instead of the afternoon

• SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) for exploring and having fun on the water

And more!

Sailogy provides a variety of extras to make your sailing holiday as comfortable and exciting as possible.

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10. Budgeting for Your Sailing Holiday

A sailing holiday can be tailored to fit different budgets, making it an accessible experience for many travellers. Costs are typically divided among the group, and boats can accommodate up to 12 people, making it an affordable option when shared.

The cost of a sailing holiday varies based on factors such as boat size, destination, season, and additional services. Generally speaking:

• A sailboat in high season can range from €3,000 to €6,000 per week.

• A catamaran in high season can range from €6,000 to €12,000 per week.

• A skipper is an additional cost, typically starting at €1,100 per week, but rates may vary according to seasonality and availability.

On top of that, you can personalize your holiday with as many add-ons as you need. Whether you're looking for a luxurious experience or a budget-friendly adventure, Sailogy provides flexible options to match your needs.

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Ready to Set Sail?

If this guide has inspired you to embark on your sailing adventure, don’t wait any longer!

With Sailogy, planning your first sailing holiday is simple, safe, and tailored to your needs. Contact our experts now to explore rental options, find exclusive deals, and book your dream sailing holiday today.

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