Crewed or bareboat — which charter is right for you?
A crewed charter includes a captain (and typically a chef) who run the boat for you. You wake up, decide where you'd like to go and what you'd like to eat, and someone else makes it happen.
Bareboat means you're the skipper. You need an appropriate qualification (RYA Day Skipper or equivalent, ICC, ASA 104) and recent experience on a similar yacht. You provision, navigate, anchor, and cook yourself.
Both are great holidays. Bareboat is cheaper per cabin and gives you total flexibility. Crewed is genuinely a holiday — no chores, local knowledge from the captain, and a chef who knows the islands' produce.
If you're unsure which way to go, talk to us. We charter both kinds every week and will tell you honestly which we'd recommend for your group.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a crewed charter worth the extra cost?
- For most guests, yes — a captain and chef mean zero chores, local knowledge, and genuinely restful days. Per-cabin cost is often only 30–40% more than bareboat once you factor provisioning and fuel.
- What qualifications do I need for bareboat?
- RYA Day Skipper, ICC, ASA 104, or an equivalent national qualification, plus recent experience on a similar-size yacht.
- Can I take a skipper without a full crew?
- Yes — a skippered charter gives you the boat and a captain, and you self-cater. It's popular as a first step before bareboating.