your journey starts here
Your Boat Tomorrow
Everything a first-timer needs to know about sailing holidays, from choosing a destination to stepping aboard.
Read the guide ↓why the sea?
There is a moment, usually on the second morning, when you realize the sea has changed something. The phone has not buzzed in hours. The horizon is unbroken. The only schedule is the wind.
A sailing holiday is not a cruise ship with a thousand strangers. It is a small boat, your people, and a coastline that unfolds one cove at a time. You wake up anchored in a bay you have never heard of, swim before breakfast, and sail to a village for lunch.
This guide exists because we believe the sea should not feel exclusive. It is closer than you think, simpler than you imagine, and more affordable than the brochures suggest. Here is everything you need to plan your first trip.
myth vs reality
Five things people get wrong about sailing
“You need a license to charter a yacht”
In many popular destinations you can hire a skipper, no license needed. Some regions like BVI and Greece are beginner-friendly.
“Sailing holidays cost a fortune”
Split between a group, a week on a yacht can cost less per person than a resort hotel. Budget options start from around 50 euros per day.
“You need sailing experience”
Skippered charters mean a professional handles the boat. You just enjoy the sea, swimming, and the islands.
“Yachts are uncomfortable”
Modern charter yachts have private cabins, hot showers, full kitchens, and more space than most hotel rooms.
“It is dangerous for children”
Family charters are extremely popular. The pace is relaxed, stops are frequent, and safety gear is standard.
how it works
Four types of charter
Bareboat
You are the captain. Rent the yacht, plan your route, and sail independently. You need a license or enough experience.
Skippered
A professional skipper sails the boat for you. You choose where to go and what to do. Perfect for beginners.
Crewed
A full crew including a cook and hostess. Luxury experience where everything is taken care of.
Flotilla
Sail in a group of boats with a lead crew. Social, guided, and ideal for first-timers who want company.
Monohull vs Catamaran
Two types of boat, two different experiences. Here's how they compare.
Monohull
- Classic sailing feel
- Better upwind performance
- Lower charter price
- Marina berths easier to find
- More authentic experience
Catamaran
- More deck space and stability
- Less heeling (tilting)
- Shallow draft for anchorages
- Better for families with children
- Spacious saloon and cabins
where to go
Best destinations for first-timers
step by step
Seven steps to your first charter
Pick your crew
Decide who is coming. A group of 4-8 is ideal for splitting costs and filling cabins.
Choose a destination
Croatia, Greece, and BVI are the most popular for first-timers. Consider season and distance.
Decide on a charter type
Bareboat if you can sail, skippered if you cannot. Crewed for luxury, flotilla for a social trip.
Set your dates and budget
High season is July-August. Shoulder months (May-June, September) offer better prices and fewer crowds.
Book early
Popular boats in peak season sell out 6-12 months ahead. Early booking means better selection and prices.
Plan provisions
Most charters offer provisioning services. Stock up before departure or arrange delivery to the marina.
Arrive and enjoy
Check-in is usually Saturday afternoon. Your skipper or the base team will walk you through the boat.
what it costs
Realistic budget breakdown
Budget
- Older monohull yacht
- Self-catering
- Anchoring (free bays)
- Shared cabin
Mid-Range
- Modern yacht or catamaran
- Professional skipper
- Mix of marinas and anchorages
- Private cabin
Comfortable
- Premium catamaran
- Full crew with cook
- Marina berths every night
- All meals included
ready?
The best time to start was yesterday
You do not need to know everything. You do not need the perfect boat or the perfect week. You just need to decide that this is the year.
Tell us where you want to go, how many people are coming, and when. We will connect you with verified charter companies who will handle the rest.