Extra yachting services: What to book for more comfort and fun

Booking the boat is just the beginning. To make your sailing holiday as smooth and enjoyable as possible, yachting.com offers a variety of extra services in cooperation with trusted long-term partners. From comfort upgrades to practical add-ons, these optional extras can make your voyage easier, more relaxing, and more memorable. So — what can you book, why is it worth it, and how much does it cost?

One of the most frequently booked extras is the auxiliary (outboard) engine. Almost every charter boat includes a small inflatable dinghy, used either as a safety backup or to reach the shore when anchored in a bay. While these dinghies come with paddles, rowing in the midday heat — or after dinner — isn't exactly appealing. That’s why many sailors opt to add a motor for ease and comfort.

In partnership with trusted providers Allianz and Uniqa, yachting.com offers tailored insurance products designed specifically for sailors. These optional policies help protect both your plans and your finances — so you can relax and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Life happens — and sometimes it means you or a crew member can’t make the trip. Cancellation insurance covers you in case of illness, injury, or serious personal situations such as a family bereavement. It ensures you won’t lose your entire booking if the unexpected gets in the way.

We strongly recommend that most captains take out deposit insurance. Even the most careful sailors can run into unexpected situations at sea — and minor damage can quickly lead to costly repairs. Whether it’s a scratched gelcoat, torn sail, or damaged equipment, deposit insurance protects your security deposit from being withheld by the charter company.

Want to make the most of your time on board? Many sailors choose to extend their trip by booking early check-in or late check-out — giving you a few extra hours to settle in or enjoy a relaxed final morning. Just ask our sales team when booking if adjusted timings are available for your charter.

A yacht holiday isn’t just about sailing — it’s also about having fun on the water, especially if you’re travelling with children. Adults love it too: sunrise yoga on a paddleboard or an afternoon ride on a seabob adds something special to the trip.

When booking your boat, ask our sales team what water toys are available at your chosen location. Many charter companies offer paddleboards, jet skis, snorkelling gear, fins, and even floating mattresses — perfect for all ages.

There are plenty of good reasons to hire a professional skipper. Maybe you’re a beginner looking for support, you’d prefer to relax with your family without managing the boat yourself, or you want to benefit from a local expert’s knowledge of hidden bays and sailing conditions.

Whatever your reason, sailing with a skipper means less stress, more comfort, and the chance to enjoy the journey fully. Ask our sales team about the options available for your chosen destination.

In addition to hiring a professional skipper, you can also arrange for a cook, hostess, or cleaning staff on board. They’ll handle everything from meals to tidying up, so you can focus entirely on relaxing and enjoying your holiday. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a truly carefree, comfortable sailing experience.

Don’t feel like haggling with taxi drivers or navigating unfamiliar public transport after landing? Many major charter companies offer a direct transfer service from the airport to the marina for you and your crew. It’s a hassle-free way to start your holiday — no searching for offices, no surprises, just a smooth ride straight to your boat.

magine stepping onto your boat and finding the fridge already stocked — no need to rush to the shops or carry heavy bags of water, snacks, and essentials. With our on-board provisioning service, your holiday starts the moment you arrive.