Bareboat Charter
Your Boat, Your Rules, Your Adventure
What Is a Bareboat Charter?
A bareboat charter puts you in full command of a sailing yacht with no crew on board. You receive the vessel in seaworthy condition with all required safety equipment, navigation instruments, and basic provisioning supplies. From the moment you step aboard, every decision — from the route you sail to the anchorage you choose for the night — is entirely yours.
This is the purest form of sailing charter. You handle sail trim, navigation, anchoring, and docking yourself, which makes it a deeply rewarding experience for competent sailors. Most charter companies require proof of sailing qualifications such as an ASA 104, RYA Day Skipper, or ICC certificate, along with a documented sailing resume demonstrating offshore or coastal passage experience.
Bareboat fleets typically range from 32-foot monohulls ideal for couples to 50-foot-plus catamarans that comfortably accommodate families or groups of friends. Boats are maintained to high standards and come equipped with autopilot, GPS chartplotters, dinghy with outboard, snorkeling gear, and a fully equipped galley. You provision before departure and manage your own meals, giving you complete control over your budget and dining preferences.
Who It's For
Bareboat charters are designed for experienced sailors who hold recognized sailing certifications and have logged meaningful time at the helm. If you are someone who finds joy in reading the wind, trimming sails, and navigating by chart, this is your charter type. It appeals to independent-minded sailors who want total freedom without the structure of a crewed experience.
It is also an excellent choice for sailing clubs, groups of friends with combined experience, or couples looking for an intimate adventure on the water. If you have the skills and want the most cost-effective way to charter a yacht, bareboat delivers unmatched value and autonomy.
Key Features
Complete Freedom
Choose your own itinerary, set your own pace, and anchor wherever the wind takes you with no fixed schedule.
Flexible Itineraries
Change plans on the fly based on weather, mood, or a local recommendation — no need to coordinate with crew.
Best Value
Without crew costs, bareboat charters offer the most affordable way to get a quality yacht for your vacation.
Well-Maintained Fleets
Charter yachts are professionally maintained, surveyed annually, and equipped with modern safety and navigation gear.
Self-Provisioned
Stock the galley with exactly what you want. Cook onboard or eat ashore — your budget, your choice.
Wide Yacht Selection
Choose from monohulls, catamarans, and performance cruisers across a range of sizes to match your crew and comfort needs.
Typically Included
- Yacht with full safety equipment and navigation instruments
- Dinghy with outboard engine
- Bed linens, towels, and basic galley equipment
- Snorkeling gear
- Autopilot and GPS chartplotter
- Charter briefing and local cruising guide
- Mooring lines, fenders, and anchoring equipment
Usually Not Included
- Provisioning (food, drinks, and cooking supplies)
- Fuel and marina fees
- Travel insurance and optional damage waiver
- Port and national park fees
- Outboard fuel for dinghy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
- Experienceintermediate
- Price Range$1,500 - $8,000
- Unitweek
Price varies by yacht size, model year, season, and destination. Catamarans typically command a 30-50% premium over monohulls of similar length.
Book a Bareboat Charter
Affiliate links -- we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Ready for a Bareboat Charter?
Take our 2-minute quiz to match your travel style and budget with the perfect destination and charter type.