How chartering works
Everything a first-timer needs to know, in plain English.
What is a bareboat or skippered charter?
You rent a whole yacht for a week. On a bareboat charter you sail it yourselves, so someone needs a licence. On a skippered charter a professional skipper sails it and you choose where to go, swim, eat and relax. A skipper also knows the best bays and restaurants.
Where do we sleep?
Yachts have private double cabins and bathrooms. A skipper or chef needs a berth too: many catamarans have a separate crew cabin in the bow; on smaller yachts they use a guest cabin or the saloon. We show how many guests fit once crew are aboard.
What does the price include?
Our weekly price includes the yacht, the crew you chose and any compulsory charges paid through us. Some charges are paid at the base on arrival (often final cleaning and a transit log). We show those separately so there are no surprises. Fuel, marina fees, food and the crew's meals are extra.
The security deposit
The charter company holds a refundable security deposit on a card at check-in. Many offer a damage waiver that reduces it; we show it when it's available.
How payment works
Pay a deposit to book, and the balance a few weeks before you sail. Bank transfer is the cheapest way to pay. Your booking is confirmed with the charter company once the deposit arrives.
Who we are
Nautical Nomads is a booking agent. Your charter contract is with the charter company that owns the yacht; we find the right yacht, handle the booking and look after you throughout.
Licences by destination
- Croatia
- To sail without a skipper, one person needs a sailing licence (such as the ICC or RYA Day Skipper) and a VHF radio licence.
- Greece
- To sail without a skipper, the skipper needs a sailing licence (such as the ICC or RYA Day Skipper) and a second crew member needs sailing experience.
- Sardinia
- To sail without a skipper, one person needs a sailing licence such as the ICC or RYA Day Skipper.
- British Virgin Islands
- To sail without a skipper, you need a sailing résumé showing experience as skipper of a similar yacht.
No licence? No problem. Add a skipper and they handle the sailing while you relax.
Questions we're often asked
Can we charter with no sailing experience?
Yes. Add a skipper and you don't need any experience at all.
What is a 24-hour hold?
We ask the charter company to reserve the yacht for you for a day, free. If you don't book in that time it's released.
Can we bring children?
Absolutely. Life jackets in children's sizes can be requested from the charter company.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Your skipper or the base will advise. Charters go ahead in normal weather; plans change to stay sheltered.