One of the key decisions you’ll have to make when organizing a sailing trip is whether to go for a bareboat or a crewed charter. At Sailyachts, we recognize that both options are popular among our clients, but they offer distinctly different experiences that cater to different preferences and sailing styles.
Don’t worry if you’re unsure about which option suits you best! The team at Sailyachts.com has crafted a comprehensive guide on bareboat and crewed charters, providing you with all the insights and information you need to make an informed decision.
What Is a Bareboat Charter?
A bareboat charter is a type of vessel you can hire with Sailyachts.com that doesn’t come with any crew members. The renter is the captain; they’re fully responsible for the navigation, route planning, and every decision on the open water.
What Is a Crewed Charter?
A crewed charter is the total opposite of a bareboat; they come with a fully experienced crew onboard, including a captain, chef, deckhand, and any additional crew you’d like. With this option, the crew takes full command of the vessel, letting you relax and enjoy every moment on the water.
Bareboat vs Crewed Similarities & Differences
Similarities
You Can Any Type of Boat Regardless of the Option You Go With
Whether you go for a bareboat or a crewed charter, you’re free to pick the vessel that best suits your journey. It can be anything from a huge luxurious catamaran that has a holding capacity for ten people to a classic small-sized monohull with available space for four. Choosing a charter type is simply an added option to complete your booking. Think of it this way: first, you pick your ideal boat, then you decide if you want the thrill of captaining yourself or the ease of a skilled crew to guide you.
Itinerary Customization
Both bareboat and crewed charters offer you the freedom to customize your itinerary, but they deliver that flexibility in different ways. With a bareboat charter, you’re the navigator and captain, giving you the ultimate independence to set your course. On a crewed charter, you’ll still have full control over your itinerary, but you’ll share your plans with the captain in advance so they can map out the best route for the trip. If you want to add a few extra stops or enhance the experience with options like kayaks, water sports equipment, or other fun upgrades, we’ve got you covered. All these extras can be arranged in advance before you embark on your trip.
Differences
Crewed Charters Are More Expensive
In terms of pricing, bareboat charters are the cheaper option of the two, starting at around €3,500 per week, as you’re only paying for the vessel itself without any added crew costs. In contrast, crewed charters provide a more luxurious experience but come at a higher price point. Not only do you have to cover the bareboat fee, but you also need to factor in €220 per day for a skilled captain (skippered charter price) and €170 per day for each additional crew member. That can add up to a lot if you have a large group.
A Sailing License Is Required for a Bareboat Charter
One of the main aspects of a bareboat charter is that the renter steps into the role of captain. However, this independence comes with responsibilities; you’ll need to hold a valid sailing license to legally be able to sail. Unlike crewed charters, where a dedicated team handles everything while you relax, a bareboat charter puts the reins in your hands. Additionally, depending on the country you’re sailing in, you might be subject to other requirements based on the rules and regulations.
You Have More Autonomy Over Your Trip With a Bareboat Charter
Freedom is everything out on the open sea, and bareboat charters provide just that. With no crew members on board telling you what to do, you have the power to make your own decisions. Fancy dropping an anchor near an island you’ve just spotted or feeling spontaneous and want to take a refreshing dip? The choice is entirely yours! In contrast, a crewed charter comes with a set schedule that you’ll need to adhere to even if the weather and sailing conditions are poor, allowing less room for impromptu stops and spontaneous detours.
Crewed Charters Provide a More Relaxing Experience
Choosing a crewed charter means you get a team on board to do all the work for you, from sailing the vessel from A to B to cooking your meals while you kick back and enjoy the ride. On the flip side, a bareboat charter offers a different kind of adventure as there’s much more work involved, and you’ll be in charge of everything, not just the sailing aspect. Think of the little jobs like keeping an eye on the weather and the stress of trying to find a place moor for the night; it’s all on you.
Pros and Cons of Bareboat Charters
Pros
- You get full independence on your trip to go wherever you want at your own pace.
- Unmatched privacy with only yourself and your chosen companions on board.
- Cuts out the need to pay for additional crew members, making it a budget-friendly solution.
- Adds a sense of adventure to your trip, giving you a more hands-on experience.
Cons
- More work is involved as you’re in charge of everything, and every decision is up to you.
- It can be a tiring trip without much rest as you’ll be sailing a lot.
- A license and sailing experience are required to confirm a bareboat charter, so it’s not an option everyone can avail of.
Pros and Cons of Crewed Charters
Pros
- An experienced crew who knows the ocean well will take care of you for your trip, so you’re in safe hands.
- No sailing license or prior experience is required, as you’ll just be a passenger.
- You can design your own itinerary in advance, allowing you to see the places you want.
- Thanks to the skilled team on board, you’ll get an incredible insight into the sailing operation.
Cons
- Crewed charters are more expensive than bareboat charters.
- Fewer opportunities for unplanned stops at locations along the way.
- If the weather and sailing conditions are poor on one of your days, you might have to miss out on certain stops.
- Lack of privacy since there’s an entire crew on board.
Why Choose Each?
Bareboat Charters
- Appreciate the freedom of sailing without any limits and get an exhilarating thrill at the same time.
- Looking to cut costs and have an affordable sailing vacation without breaking the bank.
Crewed Charters
- More convenience that allows you to get the most out of your sailing trip and fully unwind.
- Added safety by knowing that those in charge are licensed to do the job and get you through your vacation safe and sound.
Which Is Better?
There’s no better option with bareboat and crewed charters, but rather, each type caters to a certain type of person. Bareboat charters are ideal for adventurous spirits who want to take on the challenge of sailing independently. While crewed charters are perfect for those seeking a more relaxing getaway, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the boating experience without having any responsibilities.
No matter which option you prefer, Sailyachts.com is here to help you make the right choice. Contact us today via email, phone, or our online inquiry form, and a member of our team will be in touch to assist you.
