Overview
A sailing holiday budget has four main components: the charter fee, provisioning, marina/anchorage fees, and travel to/from the charter base.
Charter fee
The charter fee is the largest single cost. A 40ft bareboat monohull split six ways in shoulder season might cost $390–$550 per person for the week. See our charter cost guide for 2026 pricing by boat type.
Provisioning
Budget $110–$165 per day for a group of 6. This covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the boat, plus drinks. Provisioning at the charter base supermarket is always cheaper than at island shops.
Marina fees
Marina fees vary widely: a small Greek harbour quay might be free; a berth in Mykonos marina costs $90–$130/night. Budget $33–$66/night on average, or plan more anchoring to reduce costs significantly.
Hidden costs
Don't forget: fuel ($165–$330/week), charter permit/tax ($110–$330), damage deposit (or waiver at $220–$440), flights, and airport transfers.
How to save money
Travel in shoulder season, choose a monohull over a catamaran, fill the boat to maximum capacity, anchor rather than marina-berth wherever possible, provision at the departure port.