Yacht Charter FAQ — Everything You Need to Know Before Booking

General Charter Questions

Do I need any sailing experience to charter a yacht?

No. On a crewed charter, your professional captain handles all sailing. You don't need any knowledge — just enjoy the experience. For bareboat charters (where you are the skipper), a valid sailing licence and demonstrable experience are required.

Is the yacht exclusively ours, or do we share with other guests?

Your yacht is always exclusively yours. You will never be placed with strangers. Whether it's a couple on a small sailing yacht or 20 guests on a large gulet — the entire vessel is reserved for your group alone.

What is the difference between crewed and bareboat charter?

Crewed charter: Professional captain and chef are included. You have no sailing responsibilities. Best for families, first-timers, and those who want to fully relax. Bareboat: You are the skipper and responsible for the yacht. Requires a sailing licence. Full independence over routing and schedule.

How many people can a yacht accommodate?

It varies widely by vessel. Our fleet ranges from intimate yachts for 2 guests to large gulets for 20 guests. The standard is 8–12 guests on a classic gulet or catamaran.

How long in advance should I book?

For high season (July–August): 6–9 months in advance is recommended. For shoulder season (June, September): 3–6 months ahead. For low season (May, October): 4–8 weeks ahead is usually sufficient, though popular yachts can book early year-round.

Pricing & Payment Questions

How much does a Bodrum yacht charter cost?

Prices range from approximately €2,000/week for a small sailing yacht to €60,000+/week for a luxury gulet in high season. The most popular range for a comfortable 8–12 guest crewed charter is €6,000–15,000/week all-inclusive. Read our full pricing guide for a complete breakdown.

What is included in the charter price?

Standard all-inclusive crewed charters include: the yacht, professional crew (captain, chef, deckhand), full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), non-alcoholic beverages, water sports equipment (paddleboards, kayaks, snorkelling gear), fuel for the standard itinerary, bed linen and towels, and comprehensive insurance.

What costs extra?

Typical additional costs include: alcoholic beverages, extra marina fees at ports beyond home base, optional activities (jet ski, scuba diving), airport/hotel transfers, and crew gratuity (optional, customary at 10–15%).

How do I pay?

50% deposit is due at booking. The remaining 50% is due 4 weeks before departure. Accepted payment methods: bank transfer (most common), Visa/Mastercard, PayPal (small fee applies).

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

Our standard cancellation policy: 60+ days before departure = full deposit refund. 30–60 days = 50% refund. Under 30 days = no refund. Full details are in your charter agreement. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.

Onboard Life Questions

What food is served on board?

Your chef prepares fresh, daily meals using local Aegean produce, fish, and seasonal vegetables. A typical day includes a full breakfast, light lunch (often mezze, salads, and fresh-caught fish), and a four-course dinner. You can share dietary requirements and preferences during the pre-charter consultation and we will tailor the menu accordingly.

Can we bring our own food and drinks on board?

Yes, absolutely. You can supplement provisioning with your own food and drinks. Alcoholic beverages are not included in most charter prices — many guests purchase wine and spirits before departure (Bodrum has excellent local shops and a duty-free airport).

What water sports equipment is included?

Most crewed charters include: paddleboards, kayaks, snorkelling masks and fins, fishing equipment, and a tender/dinghy. Jet skis, sea bobs, and scuba diving are typically available as optional extras at an additional cost.

Is there Wi-Fi on board?

Most modern charter yachts have Starlink or standard marine Wi-Fi. Coverage is generally good within sight of land but may be limited in remote anchorages. We recommend treating your charter as an opportunity to disconnect — Bodrum's anchorages are best appreciated without a screen.

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Practical & Safety Questions

What happens if the weather is bad?

Your captain monitors weather forecasts continuously. Turkey's Aegean coast has excellent sailing conditions from May to October. The main wind is the Meltemi — a reliable northerly that makes for excellent sailing but occasionally requires seeking shelter in the afternoons. If conditions are uncomfortable, your captain will anchor in a sheltered bay — there is always a beautiful alternative. Safety is always the primary priority.

Can we change the itinerary during the charter?

Yes. The daily plan is discussed each morning with your captain. You can suggest changes, stay longer in a bay you love, or add a spontaneous stop. The captain advises on safety, timing, and weather — but ultimately the itinerary is yours.

What should we do in an emergency?

Your captain is fully qualified in first aid and maritime safety. Emergency equipment on board includes life jackets, life rafts, flares, fire extinguishers, and EPIRB. The Turkish coast guard responds rapidly. Before departure, your captain will conduct a full safety briefing explaining all emergency procedures.

Is the yacht insured?

Yes. All our charter yachts carry comprehensive third-party liability insurance. This covers damage to third-party vessels and property. Your personal belongings are your own responsibility — we recommend personal travel and valuables insurance.

Are children welcome on charter yachts?

Absolutely. Many of our most memorable charters are family voyages. We recommend catamarans for families with young children — they offer exceptional stability, more deck space, and a safer platform for kids. Safety rails (jacklines) are fitted and life jackets are available in all sizes. Please inform us of children's ages when booking so we can recommend the most appropriate vessel and any necessary safety equipment.

Destination Questions

Where do you sail from Bodrum?

Bodrum is one of the best charter bases in Turkey, with access to the Gökova Gulf (Kerme Gulf), the Datça Peninsula, and the Greek Dodecanese islands (pending the appropriate licence). Top anchorages include Orak Island, Cleopatra's Bay (Sedir Island), English Harbour, Longöz Bay, Kara Ada, Knidos, and the Seven Islands. Read our destinations guide for more.

What is the best time of year to charter in Bodrum?

May–October is the charter season. July and August are high season — warmest water, longest days, most events, but also highest prices and busiest anchorages. June and September offer nearly identical conditions with 20–30% lower prices, fewer crowds, and better availability. May and October are ideal for those seeking peace, lower prices, and beautiful colours, though water temperatures are cooler.

Can we sail to Greek islands?

Yes, subject to the appropriate cruising permit and charter licence. Bodrum is very close to the Dodecanese, and a combined Turkey-Greece itinerary is a spectacular option. We handle all the paperwork — just let us know during the booking process.

Booking Process Questions

What do I need to bring?

A valid passport (essential). Light summer clothing, multiple swimsuits, high-factor sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a light jacket for evenings, and deck shoes with non-slip soles. Use a soft bag rather than a hard suitcase (easier to store in your cabin). Full packing list is provided with your pre-charter documentation.

What time do we board and leave the yacht?

Standard check-in: Saturday 16:00. Standard checkout: Following Saturday 09:00. This may vary by yacht and arrangement — your charter documents will confirm your specific times.

Do we need to tip the crew?

Tipping is optional but customary and deeply appreciated. The standard is 10–15% of the base charter price, paid in cash at the end of the charter. It is an important part of crew income and a direct reflection of the service you received.

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