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When making plans there is a lot to consider, sailing destination, time of year, motor yacht or sailing yacht and how many people will be joining you. These are all considerations that need to be thought through before choosing the right yacht charters and crew. Compass Point Yacht Charters will help you take your time in the selection of both the type of yachting vacation you may desire whether you want to sail your own yacht or relax and have someone else take the helm and prepare meals for you and your crew. Let us know what your expectations are and we will walk you through the many options and customize your yacht charters your way.
Be flexible and consider options for itinerary. Are you looking for a relaxing no frills sailing vacation lounging on one of many yachts and dining ashore each night with exciting nightlife. Maybe you are into a more adventurous vacation, seeking local historic landscapes along with hiking and exploring each island. Possibly your adventurous spirit wants to spend most of your time, snorkeling or kayaking, learning to sail or even taking diving lessons, all of these options can be decided by you and your crew and Compass Point Yacht Charters will assist in planning the perfect cruising itinerary for luxury yachts.
Selecting yacht charters and destinations can be a bit overwhelming at times as there are so many beautiful sailing destinations to choose from. Before your selection consider the amount of time you have to charter, and flight costs. If you only have a week for your yacht charter you may want to stay closer to home. Ten days or more, consider traveling to the Mediterranean, Asia and other exotic cruising areas. Compass Point will assist you with your decision and yacht choice.
When choosing a yacht you may want to relax on your vacation and have someone one else do the cooking and sailing, we suggest crewed yachts. Bare boating will allow complete privacy, only if you are qualified to sail or motor the yacht yourself. Compass Point highly recommends hiring a skipper for the first day no matter what your experience level. This will allow first-hand knowledge and to pick up some local tips from the local skipper you may not get in a routine boat and chart briefing at the base.
- Luxury motor or sailing yacht, Captain and Chef hostess will be onboard catering to all your needs.
- Bareboat you will have to skipper the yacht yourself. Note that you require at least two competent crew before a company can rent you a bareboat. Besides this little obstacle it is of course the most elegant way (no privacy invasions from strangers) to explore the Greek waters.
- Flotillas, when in doubt of your capabilities or just a little rusty, a flotilla might be a nice compromise. This way you sail along with other boats, yet you are still the captain of your own boat but can turn to an “admiral” for advice if you want to. Most, take place in the Saronic, the Ionian, and to a lesser extend the Argolida.
- Skipper for Hire: You charter the yacht and have a skipper help navigate the islands.
- Cabin for Hire; You can rent a cabin and sail with others, this is a great option for the budget conscious and looking to meet other like minded sailing enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a crewed, captain only, cabin cruise, and a bareboat charter?
Q: How do we choose the best crewed or bareboat charter?
Q: What kind of activities or specifications should we look for in a yacht charter?
Q: Why charter a yacht vacation with Compass Point Yacht Charters?
Q: What should we bring?
Q: How much does the average yacht charter vacation cost?
Q: How do I book a trip?
Q: Do we need travel insurance?
Q: Do I need a passport?
Frequently Asked Questions About Bareboating
Q: What is a Bareboat?
Q: How do I know if I am qualified to Charter a Bareboat Yacht?
Q: What will be on a bareboat?
Q: Will there be additional charges?
Q: What can we expect upon arrival at the base?
Q: What is the difference between a crewed, captain only, cabin cruise, and bareboat charter?
A: When opting to charter a sailing or motor yacht there are several options to consider. Compass Point Yacht Charters will help you decide which is the best option for you, but here are some basic distinctions. Please feel free to call us to discuss more thoroughly.
Crewed charter: These are private charters with at least two crew members to serve you and your guests. There is a captain and chef/mate on yachts under 75 feet and more crew on larger yachts. Chartering a Crewed yacht caters to your needs while underway including preparing your meals, drinks etc. Compass Point Yacht Charters can help you design the itinerary with the crew. We can offer you our personal experience upon which to base your decisions. The expenses for these trips vary and depend on the yacht, type of service you may desire and the port of destination.
Most rates will include three meals a day, snacks and beverages including a standard ships bar. On most larger yachts both motor and sail there is an APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) which is about 30-35% on top of the charter rate. Our Charter Consultants will explain this is great detail.
Captain only charter: This is a charter with a captain, but a mate is included if the yacht is large enough to require it. No chef is provided, your are responsible for preparing meals and beverages and all provisions are paid by guests. Captain only yacht charters offers a relaxed time aboard with the option to be at the helm if desired. In fact, many crewed charters will offer a less costly captain-only option. This is a great option if you want to do your own cooking and eat at local restaurants. It can be a way to try the sailing lifestyle with a captain who knows the cruising area while keeping expenses slightly lower.
Bareboat Charter: A bareboat yacht charter means you are the captain. Of course, you may hire a skipper for a day or even the entire trip is you chose to do so but to qualify for this option you must have a fairly robust sailing resume. Once approved by the yacht's owner, you are one step closer to your bareboat sailing charter vacation. If you have some experience, but it's been a while since you've sailed, most yacht owners will put a "friendly skipper" aboard for a day or two to familiarize you with the yacht and cruising area. If you prefer to hire your own skipper, prices range from $125 to $250 per day. Our Charter Consultants will guide you here, we have a great list of Captains we use exclusively for out guests..
Q: How do we choose the best crewed or bareboat charter for us?
A. Compass Point Yacht Charters will listen to what you want, what you like to eat, where you want to travel, how you like to have fun with your family or friends and we match those preferences with the right yacht and crew. We will ask you a lot of questions to help us such as the reason for the trip. Is this a special event, an anniversary? Do you like the night life or are you an early morning riser who would prefer dinner on the yacht with a nice glass of wine at sunset? Are you interested in diving, snorkeling or learning how to sail yourself? We factor in everything, you tell us what you want to do and we do the search for the right yacht and crew. This is what we do every day and we base our recommendations on hands-on, on the ground experience. We have been to these ports, sailed these yachts ourselves, dinned in these restaurants and snorkeled with the best of them. You get to take advantage of our experience and our brand. Bareboat: If you are looking to bareboat charter, we can discuss the condition of the yacht you have selected with you. With each yacht, there is a different level of service and execution, we can tell you about both of these factors. Let us do all the work we will search and make calls that otherwise will overwhelm the average sailor trying to find the right yacht at the right price. There is no extra charge for our service, we lobby for the best prices for our customers and pass the savings on to you.We visit the yachts and crews every year, sometimes more, to stay up to date with the condition of the yacht and what's new with the crew. We are aware of each yacht and crew's specialties and quirks.,
A:Water toys: You might see these listed on the site. The term refers to inner tubes, water skis, wake boards, and the like. The common denominator here is that these toys require a dinghy with at least 25hp or better 40hp to pull adults.
SCUBA: Some yachts specialize in diving and allow for diving directly from the yacht. Check the price as some add a fee for this. If the yacht does not allow for diving directly from the yacht, they will arrange for a rendezvous with a professional diving boat at the guest's expense.
Amenities: When you are looking at the yachts online, make sure you check cabin configurations, number of heads (bathrooms), and deck space for lounging, outdoor dining space and so forth to ensure a good match for the number of guests you will be bringing along. It is important to understand how tall you are for the headroom of certain yachts varies greatly. Of course, Compass Point Yachts can help you with these issues and more - berth size and storage, types of toilets; manual vs. electric (the latter is easier), water maker (allows more liberal use of water, as it is produced on board through reverse osmosis), deck shower (nice to wash off salt water after a quick dip), access to water (ladder, swim platform), Wet vs. Dry shower accommodations - dry is a separate shower area while wet means the shower is nozzle from sink - AC off dock, electronics - TV, iPod docking, Wi-Fi internet, satellite communications and so on.
Crew: The importance of the crew should never be underestimated. WE have stressed this throughout this site because the chemistry between you and your crew is a crucial factor in your enjoyment. When making these decisions without the guidance of our Charter Consutlatnt , read the crew profile and cook/chef's menu to see if all sounds both complementary and good to you. It is at this stage that our brokers will be of considerable help as they interview the crews every year, talk to guests every day to gather reports, and often hire these crews for other opportunities within our sailing company. In short, we know these folks and that is good news for you because we want you to be matched with a crew that is, for instance, family friendly, gay friendly, offers high-end silver service or casual family style, are water-sports enthusiasts, sailing instruction pros, love to be part of the party crowd or are more active or mellow. The crews represent a vast array of backgrounds, come from around the world, speak a variety of languages, and have a variety of talents and skills. Please ask us to help you here.
Q: Why charter a yacht vacation with Compass Point Yacht Charters?
A: Compass Point Yacht Charters is a leader crewed and bareboat knowledge and sales. We offer expert advice on the different types and styles of yachts based on our experience in the marine industry.. We have over 15 years of hands on experience working for the largest sailing companies in the world at both a base and Corporate level.
Crewed: Compass Point Yacht Charters offers crewed Motor Yachts and sailing charters based on what you tell us about your expectations and group make up. We go out of our way to find what is truly unique and outstanding about each yacht and its crew. Whether you crave an enriching learning experience, a water-sports adventure, or ultra-luxury and relaxation with lots of TLC, we will find the charter for you. We have created many specialty charters based on what the crew love to do most, or have categorized charters according to their strengths. So not only are you getting quality cuisine, service and accommodations, but you are getting the benefit of our international experience. It is a hard combination to beat!
Q: What should we bring? 
A: First, only bring soft-sided luggage, such as a duffle bag, since space is limited and storage is easier with this sort of luggage. For clothing in the Caribbean and warm climates in general bring casual wear, mostly shorts and T-shirts, and of course swimsuits. A few of the more formal restaurants require long pants and collared shirts for the men and a nice sun dress for women, but "smart casual" is the norm. Bring sunglasses, polarized are especially recommended on the water, and don't forget sun glasses for children and caps to further protect from the hot rays of the sun. Flip flops or other casual beach shoes are fine most of the time. If you plan to hike the trails you may want to bring some closed-toed shoes, depending on how serious you plan to get about your walks. You may need some long pants, long sleeves and jackets in cooler climates. Inquire if you are unsure as to the weather patterns.
You can bring your own mask and snorkel if you are so inclined, but all yachts carry an assortment of sizes. If you are expecting to scuba dive, check with your broker to make sure of the available equipment on board the yacht. Most yachts carry sunscreen of the type they prefer, so generally it is on board. But, we recommend that you bring your own and plenty of it especially if you are traveling with children. In many locations your proximity to the Equator will make the sun strong and young skin can get especially burned. We recommend that you do not oily lotions as it stains the yachts upholstery and can make the decks and hand holds slippery.
Q: What is the average yacht charter vacation cost?
A: Prices vary depending on time of year, type and size of yacht, bareboat or crewed, and number of people traveling. You might be surprised to know that an all-inclusive week long charters can be as low $800 per person for a group of 4 or more or $1,800 per person for a couple. All inclusive means you get a private yacht, captain and chef - with additional crew members if necessary- all food (including 3 meals/day plus snacks) and all drinks (including bottled water, juices, sodas, beer, wine and liquor). You also have access to several water toys - all of which varies with each yacht - to enjoy when you please at no extra expense. Or you can charter a Captain Only charter and pay less for the yacht and incur higher running expenses. Bareboat will cost less, but you must be confident operating one and all expenses are extra. But, the bottom line is that prices vary depending on what you want. You may also find some great deals on By The Cabin Charters. In that case you would charter a cabin on a catamaran power yacht which usually cost more than catamaran sailing yachts (because of the cost of fuel) and the latter are not always all inclusive. Prices for each of our trips are clearly stated on our web site and are often less during off season months and 10% more during Christmas and New Years.The listed prices do not include a gratuity for the crew if you were pleased with the service. Remember, crew serve as your captain, chef, maid, bartender, water taxi driver, tour guide and in many cases instructor and are on duty 24/7. Customarily, 10-20% of the gross cost of the trip would be handed to the crew in an envelope at the conclusion of the charter. If we do our jobs right, by the end of the charter you will have become very good friends with your crew.
A: The easiest way is to call or e-mail us. We will guide you as you browse the many possible charter destinations and itinerary options listed on our website. Or, you can start there and call us once you have narrowed your options. At this point, you will need to consult with one of our brokers for availability and expert advice. Also keep in mind that many yachts are often booked months in advance. As such, if you are interested in a particular yacht and have an idea of when you want to charter, you should call or e-mail one of our brokers right away so we can help find the best charter for you, check on yacht availability and let you know about any special deals. This is especially true if you want to charter around the holidays when availability is linited. Once you have decided on the perfect yacht and cruising destination call us and we place the yacht on hold. See booking Procedures
A: We do recommend that you purchase trip insurance in case of unexpected delays, cancellations or unforeseen events, but it is not absolutely necessary. We recommend: Global Care, Access America or Travel Guard as these reliable companies provide good service at fair prices. You can compare policies here: QuoteWright. If you choose not to purchase trip insurance we will ask you to indicate this on your charter yacht agreement. Cancellation insurance is highly recommended and may be required during hurricane season by some owners.
Q: Do I need a passport?A: Yes, you will need a passport to travel to your charter destination. However, visitors from some countries may need Visas. Check with immigration for your particular destination well before you travel.
Q: What is a Bareboat?A:Bareboat yacht chartering means you are the skipper of your own yacht. It allows you and your crew to have complete control over the sailing and handling of the yacht. Bareboat chartering either a sailing yacht or motor yacht will allow you the ultimate private sailing vacation, and is more affordable than other options. When choosing a bareboat vacation you charter the yacht and you and your crew sails or motors the yacht yourselves.
Q: How do I know if I am qualified to Charter a Bareboat Yacht?
A:Compass Point Yacht Charter can tell you if have enough experience to bareboat charter, we listen to your past and present chartering experience. Ultimately, the Bareboat Charter company makes the final decision, although we will be able to determine if they will allow you to skipper your own yacht.. We will request you fill out a resume for review, once approved we will call or e-mail you and we can proceed to the next step. If it has been awhile since you have skippered or you have never sailed the desired destination we may suggest hiring a skipper for the day...
A:Your bareboat yacht will be fully equipped with full galley complete with dishes, silverware and everything you need, sheets, towels and basic cleaning products as well as toiletries All yachts will have charts of the area on board. The bareboat yacht will also be equipped with a dinghy and an engine, in most cases at no extra charge. Here are some of the other basics you will find on board:
- Flashlights
- Charts and pilot books
- Utensils, cutlery, and pots and pans
- Standard starter pack consisting of paper towels, toilet paper dish soap and sponges.
- Towels, pillow and linens
A: Most companies will request a security deposit to be taken at the base by credit card, this can range in price but is fully refundable upon return of yacht with no damages. Bareboat companies will charge a daily insurance rate that is non refundable and is from $35.00 to $55.00. This fee can lower your security deposit amount. Depending on your destination, you may have mooring fees as well. Customs and immigration, dockage fees, and provisioning, fuel and water are also part of the journey. Please call our office so we can go over all additional expenses on your vacation. See additional costs.
Q: What can we expect upon arrival at the base?A:Once you arrive at the base, expect to be greeted by a staff member who will introduce you to your yacht. Once you get settled, a check out skipper will spend about two hours reviewing the yacht mechanisms with you and perform a chart briefing for the crew.
When deciding on a yacht, consider your comfort level at sea and the number of other adults and children that you will have on board. The choices vary from a catamaran stability while underway, roomy deck space and a large main salon. Sleeping quarters can be somewhat tight depending on the size of the Catamaran.
Monohulls will offer a large Master Cabin with less salon space and outside deck area. Once again depending on the yacht you chose. Sailing on a monohull is exciting and can really offer the satisfaction of being at sea. The movement of the yacht while underway is susceptible to healing but offers an exhilarating experience, usually motor yachts will make you feel as though you are in a five star hotel with your own personal view of the ocean. The master cabins are exquisite offering VIP cabins as well. Masterly designed main salons, and inside dining quarters. Top side on selection yachts you will find your own personal sun deck with a bar and Jacuzzi.
Depending on your desires and budget we may help suggest which option to choose. Please contact us or e-mail and we will be happy of offer our assistance.
Selection of a Yacht. When working with Compass Point Yacht Charter we will help you choose the best yacht for your needs. We have over 250 crewed and bareboat options to choose from.- We will check Availability. When you select a yacht either from our data base or our recommendation, we will check availability for your desired dates and destination of travel. This is important as the yachts book up very quickly during high season.
- Working Hold. If the dates are available and you are ready to book but do not have flights or other details ironed out, Compass Point Yacht Charters will place a “working hold” on the yacht for your desired dates. As soon as we place this hold on the yacht, you have two weeks for crewed yachts and 48 hours for bareboats in which to settle your final details and send your deposit to reserve the charter. However, please be aware that another charter party can challenge you on crewed charters for these dates. If that happens, you will have only 48 hours from the time of the “challenge” to secure your reservation with a deposit. As we have said, the high season is highly competitive for the yachts and top crews. Because we are a well-respected company, we are given some leeway here, but you must still recognize that the fast-moving marketplace requires a commitment at some point to secure the yacht.
- Deposit. When you make your selection more than six months in advance we will need a 25% deposit to hold the yacht. Another 25% is due six-month prior to the departure date. If you book within six months of the charter start we collect 50% of the charter fee to confirm your charter. Compass Point Yacht Charters accept credit cards bank wire transfer, personal check or certified check.
- Charter Agreement and Preference Forms. Once a deposit is made we will e-mail you a Yacht Charter Agreement to sign and a Preferences Form to fill in for crewed charters. The preference form help they help us ensure your meals and beverages are just what you want. For a bareboat we will e-mail you the required sailing resume form and other charter documents. Mail, e-mail or fax those back to us as soon as possible.
Captain or Bareboat Company Signs Charter Agreement. At this stage, the charter documents are forwarded to the yacht captain or bareboat company. We make sure that you receive a signed copy for your records and any other information you need. - Confirmation. When your deposit clears the bank you will receive a confirmation number by e-mail from your charter representative. At this point, your charter is officially booked.
- Crew or Bareboat Company Contact. Prior to your vacation, the crew of your chosen yacht will contact you to discuss your meal and activities preferences, and itinerary. It is important that they reach out to you and personalize your trip. It is as important to the crew and to Compass Point your yacht charter goes smooth. When booking with a bareboat company we will work directly to make sure all paper work and All details are met.
- Final Payment. Most crewed and bareboat yachts require final payment to be made 45-60 days prior to departure by any of the methods described above.
- Booking. When you book your yacht, you may want to make flight arrangements and hotel reservations especially if you intend to arrive early. We will be happy to offer options and our recommendations. As we travel and sail these areas regularly, we have collected tips on the best hotels, grocery stores, dinning and more that you will find helpful.
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