What is bareboat charter?
A bareboat charter means you hire the boat without crew — you are the skipper. Maximum flexibility and independence: go where you want, when you want, eat what you like.
What is crewed charter?
A crewed charter means the boat comes with a professional captain (and often a chef/hostess). You're a guest, not the skipper — the sailing equivalent of a boutique hotel.
Cost comparison
A crewed charter costs the base rate plus crew fees ($770–$1,650/day for skipper and hostess), plus APA (25–35% on top). On a like-for-like basis, a crewed charter costs roughly 2–3x a bareboat.
Experience required
Bareboat requires a sailing qualification. Crewed requires only a budget — anyone can enjoy a crewed charter regardless of sailing experience.
Which is right for you?
Choose bareboat if you're qualified, value independence, and want the hands-on sailing experience. Choose crewed if you're celebrating something special, travelling with non-sailors, or simply want luxury without effort.