Would you like to set sail without worrying about navigation? A yacht charter with Skipper is the ideal solution to fully enjoy your cruise. At GlobeSailor, as a leading agency specialising in boat bookings all over the world, we work exclusively with professional charter companies and qualified Skippers to guarantee you a safe and high-quality experience.
GlobeSailor: quality above all else
Since its creation, GlobeSailor has established itself as a key player in yacht charter and sailing cruises. We carefully select our partners, choosing only recognised and certified professional shipowners and rental companies. This means you can be sure that you are renting a catamaran or sailboat that is perfectly maintained, equipped and compliant with safety standards.
The quality of the crew is just as important. That’s why we only use professional Skippers who hold the necessary qualifications (Captain 200, Yachtmaster Offshore, etc.), have solid sailing experience and excellent knowledge of the sailing areas.
Who Should Consider Hiring a Skipper?
A Skipper is ideal for guests who lack sailing experience or simply want to relax without the stress of navigation. Whether you’re a family with children, a group of friends, or a couple seeking a hassle-free getaway, a professional Skipper ensures safety and peace of mind.
However, experienced sailors who only need occasional assistance, such as docking in tricky marinas or navigating unfamiliar waters, may opt for a Skipper on select days rather than the entire trip. If you value privacy and prefer to captain the yacht yourself most of the time, hiring a Skipper only for specific manoeuvres or as a backup can be a flexible, cost-effective solution.
The role of the Skipper on board
Choosing a boat rental with Skipper gives you the freedom to discover the most beautiful anchorages without having to worry about navigation or safety. The Skipper takes care of:
- Steering the sailing boat or catamaran;
- Manoeuvring in port and at anchor;
- Monitoring weather conditions and adapting the itinerary based on sailing conditions and your preferences;
- And, of course, ensuring your safety on board at all times.
Your Skipper is more than a captain; they’re your local guide. They’ll share hidden gems like secluded coves for swimming, recommend authentic restaurants, and adjust the itinerary to your preferences, whether you want more time for snorkelling or exploring ashore. Skippers generally speak the local language as well as English, ensuring smooth communication.
While the Skipper manages navigation and technical operations, guests typically handle grocery shopping and meal preparation unless otherwise arranged. Clarify in advance if the Skipper will join meals or eat separately, and agree on a basic daily schedule (e.g., wake-up times and sailing hours). Guests are responsible for cleaning their cabins and common areas, but Skippers appreciate help with small tasks like mooring lines to create a collaborative atmosphere.
Consider to book a Host/ess or Cook
It is not the Skipper’s job to take care of the catering or washing up. A Host/ess and/or Cook can be ordered on request. The Host/ess ensures that the ship is always clean and tidy, prepares breakfast and sometimes lighter meals, and serves dinner prepared by the Cook. In addition to cooking, the Cook is also responsible for purchasing food and beverages on board. Don’t forget to let them know your preferences and food intolerances in advance!
All crew members are open-minded people who enjoy meeting new people, but are also happy to spend time on their own. This allows you to enjoy a completely relaxed and wonderful holiday while making new friends.
Trained and qualified Skippers for all sailing areas
Another major advantage of choosing a professional Skipper with GlobeSailor is their comprehensive training and sailing licences. All our Skippers have the international certifications and licences required to sail in the most regulated areas, a considerable asset for certain destinations such as Croatia, where a boat licence is mandatory, as well as a VHF radio licence. Thanks to their experience and knowledge of local regulations, they ensure a cruise free of administrative constraints, in full compliance and safety with the maritime rules specific to each country.
Organisation of life on board with a Skipper
A Skipper sleeps on board. They therefore need a private cabin (or bow space) on the boat to get their rest, so ensure your boat has adequate sleeping arrangements when booking. As for meals, it is customary to provide food for the Skipper, as for the rest of the Crew. If you have chartered your yacht with a Skipper (and/or Crew), you can of course ask them if they would like to join you for dinner in the evening. If you would like a little more privacy and would prefer to spend an evening with just your family or friends, that is no problem either – but you should leave supplies on board or leave them some cash for food so that they can buy something to eat for themselves.
To ensure a smooth experience, discuss meal preferences, daily schedules, and any special requests (like water sports or excursions) upfront. While the Skipper manages navigation and safety, guests are expected to assist with small tasks like handling mooring lines or keeping the deck tidy. Respect their off-duty time; most Skippers retreat to their cabin for privacy. A quick daily debriefing with your Skipper helps align plans and prevents misunderstandings. If you’re chartering with a Host/ess or Cook, clarify their sleeping arrangements in advance, as many crews prefer the privacy of a separate cabin, especially during busy seasons.
Flexibility and Guest Involvement
With a Skipper on board, you retain control over your itinerary. Most Skippers welcome input and will adapt the route to your preferences, whether it’s anchoring in secluded bays, extending a stop for snorkelling, or adjusting sailing times. Open communication is key. Share your must-see spots and activities in advance, but also be receptive to the Skipper’s local expertise. They can suggest hidden gems or alternative plans if weather conditions change. For groups with diverse interests, a good Skipper will balance everyone’s wishes while ensuring a smooth sailing experience.
How much does a Skipper cost?
The cost of a Skipper generally varies between €180 and €300 per day, depending on the destination and type of boat. This fee is added to the cost of renting the boat, but it is a very worthwhile investment for a peaceful, tailor-made charter.
How much tip is customary? Of course, it is up to you to decide how much the service provided by your Crew was worth to you, but normally around 10 to 15% of the Crew’s remuneration is offered as a tip at the end of the trip.
Contact information
Please note that due to ongoing charters, you may not receive your crew’s contact details until 3 days before your trip. But don’t worry, the operator will ensure that all your requirements are communicated to the crew before sending you their contact details.
Yacht charter with Skipper in summary
Chartering a boat with a Skipper allows you to relieve yourself of the stress of managing the boat, especially for those who do not have a boat licence or lack experience in offshore sailing. Whether you are a couple, a family or a group of friends, you can set sail with peace of mind with a professional Skipper at the helm. Explore the most beautiful destinations aboard a sailboat or catamaran, and let yourself be guided!
Choosing GlobeSailor for your yacht charter with a Skipper ensures a safe, comfortable and tailor-made sailing experience, supervised by passionate professionals who are attentive to the expectations of each traveller.
Contact our advisors now to book your next holiday at sea.
