Cruising the seas on a private yacht is many people’s idea of a dream vacation. But, when that dream finally comes true, what exactly should you expect onboard? Discover how to perfectly plan your holiday week on board and tips on what to bring with you.
3 Different Types of Charter Yacht
The first thing you need to decide before chartering a boat is what type of package you want. These different types of charter dictate the atmosphere and ambience during your trip. Here are a quick description of your 3 options:
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Bareboat charter
Bareboat Charter is an agreement between a Yacht Owner or a Fleet Operator (chartering the boat on the owner’s behalf) that gives the charterer full utility of the charter yacht, together with responsibility, for the boat, in return for payment. As you can imagine, this option is ideal for guests looking for a little extra privacy during their trip, or groups with experienced sailors who would relish a hands-on holiday, giving you freedom and letting you self explore at maximum.
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Crewed charter
On a crewed yacht charter, you simply rent a yacht complete with a crew. This usually includes a skipper, a host or hostess who takes care of the cleaning, cooking and making sure everybody is comfortable, and any other personnel needed to complete your journey in maximum comfort, including a chef in the most luxurious options. Crewed charters allow guests to simply sit back and enjoy the ride, without having to actually get involved in running the yacht. It is all about customer service, personalised attention and your skipper will make sure the itinerary is expertly-organised.
Each of these two charter types are more common in different parts of the world. Yacht charters in Greece, for example, is usually done with a skipper and a hostess, ensuring you have a good and worry less time on board.
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All-inclusive charter
A crewed charter is not all inclusive as any other activity you would like to do during your week will be at extra costs, such as the use of water sport equipment or any on-land activity. This is something that an all-inclusive charter will integrate. Think scuba diving, jet ski, paddle board, hiking tours on the different islands you will visit but also premium drinks or other luxuries. If you’re looking for the complete luxury charter yacht experience, an all-inclusive itinerary might be right for you.
What should you bring with you?
When chartering a boat, you should keep in mind that most of the equipment you will need are already provided, so no need to over-pack. In most cases, kitchen appliances and utensils, bed and linens, TVs or projectors and also water sport equipment are included. Keep also in mind that on board, space is usually reduced so whatever you bring should be essential to your week.
Moreover, a good charter experience is all about simplicity and you will probably be sailing through warm water and where the sun is shining. That will most likely be the case if you charter your boat in Greece. Therefore, bring casual and breezy beach attire and swimsuits of course. Nevertheless, you never know how the sea will behave during your week so make sure to also have some warmer and waterproof clothes, such as a windbreaker jacket. Regarding shoes, bring a pair with rubber soles to be able to wear them on deck as well as during excursions on land.
Adequate sun protection is vital aboard your charter yacht trip, ensuring you can spend as much time as possible above deck, enjoying the surrounding ocean and spectacular scenery under the Greek summer sun. So bring a good sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats and a light and loose-fitting cover-ups if your skin is fragile. Plenty of reef-safe sunscreen is a must, as well as sunglasses, sun hats and breezy, loose-fitting cover-ups.
While simplicity is key, if you’re planning on participating in any activities, such as scuba diving or surfing, you may need to pack your own equipment, depending on the vessel’s facilities.
What to do during your week on board?
While direct access to the ocean and sun-soaked decks with stunning vistas should be plenty to keep you entertained, most charter boats come equipped with facilities to pass the time. Complimentary stand-up paddleboards or kayaks are often included in the price, allowing for some exploration whenever the boat is moored. Usually, snorkelling equipment including masks, snorkels and fins are also offered so make sure you explore the blue and transparent waters around you. Some boats will also have equipment for fishing if you want to feel like you have earned your dinner!
Except for water activities, in case of a crewed charter, your skipper and crew will generally suggest some excursions on land to take during your trip and will most likely have the right contacts on the different islands you will visit to ensure you have a quality time. Whether it is treks through natural ad stunning areas, visits of villages, cultural tours, etc. Your crew will also most probably have some secrets spots to share with you and you should definitely follow their advice!