What Is a Skippered Charter?
A skippered yacht charter offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure by including a professional skipper who takes care of the sailing, navigation, and safety of the yacht. This allows you to fully enjoy your time on the water without stress while benefiting from the skipper’s expert guidance and local insights.
The skipper stays aboard the yacht for the duration of your journey, ensuring the operation runs smoothly and providing additional peace of mind for new sailors or those unfamiliar with the destination. Even seasoned sailors may choose a skippered charter to relax completely or gain insider knowledge about must-see spots and hidden gems.
What Is the Average Price for a Skippered Yacht Charter?
If you’re considering a skippered yacht charter, one of the first questions is likely, “How much will it cost?” Understanding the pricing can help you plan your dream sailing vacation while staying within your budget.
In general, the average cost of hiring a skipper for your yacht charter is around €160 to €200 per day what gives €1200 – €1600 per week of yacht charter. This rate has remained consistent over the years and provides excellent value for the expertise and peace of mind a skipper brings to your sailing experience.
Plan Your Skippered Yacht Charter with Ease
A skippered yacht charter combines the thrill of sailing with the comfort and confidence of having an experienced professional on board. Whether you hire a skipper for the full trip or just a few days, the additional expertise enhances your journey.
Here are some of the key benefits of a skippered yacht charter:
- Relax on deck as your skipper expertly navigates serene waters, taking all the stress out of sailing.
- Gain access to your skipper’s extensive knowledge about the best diving spots, secluded beaches, and hidden treasures at your destination.
- Explore exclusive locations that are off the beaten path, from private coves to uninhabited islands.
- Maintain the freedom to curate your itinerary while having the convenience of an experienced sailor at the helm.
- Enjoy privacy whenever you want it – our skippers are discreet and respectful.
- Take the opportunity to learn sailing techniques and tips from a seasoned professional.
Skipper’s out of responsibility activities and actions
When chartering a yacht with a skipper, it’s important to understand their role and responsibilities to ensure clear expectations. Skippers are highly skilled professionals focused on the safety, navigation, and management of the yacht. However, there are limits to what you can expect from them.
1. Pay for the Security Deposit: The security deposit for the yacht is your responsibility as the charterer. In some cases, the deposit might be reduced by choosing that type of the charter. While skippers are responsible for safe navigation, they are not liable for damages caused by unforeseen incidents, such as extreme weather conditions. If damage occurs due to the skipper’s negligence (e.g., during docking), they may cover the cost, but this is not guaranteed. The yacht’s insurance typically covers most scenarios, but it’s important to clarify these details beforehand.
2. Cook Meals: While some skippers are excellent cooks, this is not part of their standard responsibilities. If You would like to have meals prepared on board, consider hiring additional crew members, such as a cook or hostess. Communicate your preferences early with your charter agent to arrange the right setup for your vacation.
3. Serve Food or Drinks: Skippers are not responsible for serving meals or beverages. However, you should provide them an adequate food and drink during the charter. This doesn’t need to match your own meals but should meet basic requirements.
4. Sail in Unsafe Conditions: The skipper has the final say regarding whether it’s safe to sail. Their primary concern is the safety of the crew, passengers, and vessel. If weather conditions are dangerous or impractical, they will not risk setting sail, even if it disrupts the planned itinerary.
5. Perform Household Duties: Your skipper will take care of their own dishes and personal tidying but will not handle general housekeeping tasks like doing dishes for the group or cleaning the yacht. They focus on practical matters, such as stowing waste, but it’s your responsibility to dispose of it onshore when needed.
6. Run Late-Night Tender Trips: The skipper may transport passengers to shore using the tender during the day. They are not required to make late-night runs. Plan your evening activities accordingly to avoid inconvenience.
7. Handle Provisioning: Skippers do not manage food or drink provisioning for the trip. If you need assistance with this, consider hiring a hostess or cook. Alternatively, many charter agencies offer provisioning services where groceries are delivered directly to the yacht. This allows you to skip the hassle of local shopping.
Additional Notes on Skipper Responsibilities
- Working Hours: A skipper typically works up to 8 hours per day. Skippers remain available to assist while moored or docked. They are not expected to work nonstop.
- Pre-Charter Support: Skippers focus on preparing the yacht and itinerary closer to the start of your charter. Most pre-charter arrangements and questions should go through your agent or operator to avoid distracting the crew.
By understanding these boundaries, you can ensure a stress-free, enjoyable yacht charter experience. If you need additional services, speak with your charter agent to arrange for a more comprehensive crew to meet your needs.
Who Should Consider a Skippered Yacht Charter?
A skippered charter is an excellent choice for a wide range of travelers, from novices to seasoned adventurers.
- First-Time Sailors: If you’re new to sailing or exploring a specific destination for the first time, a skipper can provide expert guidance, helping you feel confident and safe on the water.
- Families: Focus on spending quality time together while the skipper handles the logistics. Whether it’s playing games or simply enjoying the adventure, you’ll create unforgettable memories.
- Couples: Relax and enjoy the romance of sailing without the stress of managing the yacht, sipping cocktails on deck while taking in the stunning views.
- Adventurers: Experience the thrill of exploration with the flexibility to take the helm or let the skipper guide you to secret destinations.
- Sunseekers: Sit back, soak up the sun, and let your skipper handle the sailing as you unwind completely.
Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the Mediterranean, Caribbean, or beyond, a skippered charter ensures your journey is as enjoyable and worry-free as possible.