The difference between a bareboat charter and a skippered bareboat charter lies in the level of responsibility and service provided onboard.

A bareboat charter is ideal for experienced sailors, where at least one person in your party must hold a valid skipper’s licence, and a second crew member must be competent enough to assist with sailing duties. You are entirely responsible for navigating, anchoring, mooring, and managing the yacht, as well as provisioning, route planning, and handling any onboard issues. This option offers the greatest sense of independence and is best suited to confident, qualified sailors.

In a skippered bareboat charter, the yacht is the same, but a professional, licensed skipper is provided by the charter company or arranged through your broker. The skipper takes full responsibility for the safe operation and navigation of the yacht, including mooring, route advice, and weather decisions. This allows you and your crew to relax, enjoy the experience, and explore the destination without the pressure of skippering—while still having the option to learn from the skipper if you're looking to build your sailing skills.

While day-to-day tasks like provisioning, cooking, and cleaning typically remain the responsibility of the guests, the presence of a skipper brings peace of mind, especially in areas with more challenging conditions like the Greek Cyclades Islands. The skipper may also share local knowledge on hidden anchorages, tavernas, and must-see sights you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

Occasionally, we can offer a charter on a yacht with a permanent crew of one — the skipper. There is no additional crew onboard. We'll discuss in advance the scope of the skipper’s duties aboard, but the key distinction is this: unlike a skippered bareboat charter where the charterer holds overall responsibility for the vessel and its operation, here the permanent skipper assumes that role. You are welcomed as their guests aboard, and the skipper remains in charge throughout the journey.

At Sail Connections, we can match you with a trusted and personable skipper, ensuring a smooth, supported, and enjoyable sailing holiday—whether you’re learning the ropes or just looking to unwind.

Related FAQs

What sailing qualifications are required to bareboat charter in the Caribbean?

Most Caribbean destinations do not require a formal sailing licence to charter a bareboat. Continue Reading...

Am I responsible for damage to my chartered boat?

From time to time, damage can occur during a yacht charter. Continue Reading...

When should I book a charter boat in the Caribbean and Bahamas?

The best time to charter in the Caribbean and Bahamas is from December through July Continue Reading...

What do you recommend about boat chartering in the Caribbean?

Chartering a boat in the Caribbean is one of the most rewarding sailing experiences Continue Reading...

What are your favourite Mediterranean sailing spots?

When it comes to sailing in the Mediterranean, we're totally sold! Continue Reading...

When should I book a charter boat in the Mediterranean?

For the Mediterranean It’s best to book 6 to 12 months in advance. Continue Reading...

When is the sailing season in the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean sailing season generally runs from April to October Continue Reading...

What types of boat can be chartered with skipper or fully crewed?

A wide range of yacht types is available for both skippered and fully crewed charters Continue Reading...

What level of service is provided in a fully crewed luxury yacht charter?

Tis charter type offers the highest level of service available at sea Continue Reading...

Is it best to book a Greece sailing holiday through a broker or directly with an operator?

Using a reputable broker is almost always the better choice Continue Reading...