Bareboat vs Crewed Charter: What You Need to Know
Deciding between taking the helm yourself or hiring a captain and chef alters the cost and the entirely dynamic of your trip. Here is the unvarnished difference.
The Cost Difference
Hiring a skipper is not just their daily rate. You also pay for their food and sacrifice a cabin.
| Requirement | Bareboat | Crewed (Skipper) |
|---|---|---|
| Skipper Fee | €0 | €180 - €250/day |
| Deposit Risk | Full (€3,000+) | Reduced (or €0) |
| Space Lost | None | 1 Cabin / 1 Head |
See our Cost Calculator to run the exact numbers.
Liability and Qualifications
In the Mediterranean (especially Croatia), a valid ICC (International Certificate of Competence) and VHF license are mandatory for bareboat. In the BVI, a sailing resume is often enough.
Common Mistakes
- Treating the skipper like a servant: They are there for safety, not to mix drinks, unless you book a full-service crew.
FAQ
- Do we pay for the skipper's food?
- Yes. It is an industry standard that the charterer provisions for the crew. See our Provisioning Guide.