What is the step-by-step process of chartering a boat?

From our series on skippered boats — learn what is expected of you, what we do, and the step-by-step process from booking to your holiday

Curious about how to book a boat for your next holiday? Whether you’re unsure about the booking process, accepting offers, making payments, or other formalities, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Don't worry — our sales team is here to help every step of the way. Plus, you have the option to hire a professional captain!

From boat selection to departure: your journey explained

1. Choosing a boat and making an enquiry

This is where your adventure begins! Set your sailing dates and choose from a variety of global destinations, and boat types that suit your needs. Our website provides detailed descriptions of boats and their amenities, such as air conditioning, barbecue, and bathing platforms. Think about what will make your holiday enjoyable and comfortable.

Need a captain?

Are you interested in a skippered boat, where you are accompanied by a professional captain? Use our "Charter type" filter on the left column in our boat finder to search for crewed charter. These are typically longer vessels requiring more than a regular skipper's licence or are owned by captains who prefer to oversee their boat's operation.

You can also hire a skipper from a charter company, ensuring you check language compatibility in advance. Alternatively, ask our sales team for recommendations.

Insurance and price packages

For your added comfort, we offer a comprehensive range of insurance options: whether it's boat deposit insurance, trip cancellation insurance or travel insurance.

Consider selecting one of our price packages. Based on your preferred level of insurance, down payment, and deposit cover, you can choose from Economy, Premium, or Exclusive packages.

I'm not sure how to choose a boat

If you're unsure about how to choose a boat, don't hesitate to reach out to our sales department or customer service at any time. They can help guide you through selecting the right boat, destination, equipment, and insurance. Our team will address any uncertainties, discuss your itinerary, and explore all the possibilities for an enjoyable holiday at sea.

I've made my choice. Now what?

Once you have selected a boat and date using our search portal, we will receive your enquiry in our system. Our team will then email you specific boat offers. At this stage, everything is non-binding, so you can explore different options freely.

2. Accepting the offer

Are you satisfied with the offer you received?

If so, simply confirm the specific boat by phone or email. If you have any special requirements (e.g., earlier check-in, additional engine, child safety net), let us know right away when you confirm the offer so we can arrange everything in time.

Once your offer is approved, we will pre-book the boat with the charter company and send you a draft contract. This pre-booking (called an option) is only possible for a limited period, during which a deposit must be paid.

Would you like to receive further offers?

If so, contact our sales team, and we will adjust the offer according to your requirements. These can change during the boat selection process. At this stage, everything is non-binding, so we can modify the destination, date, price package, and the boat itself to better suit your needs.

3. Contract

You confirm the contract by paying the deposit — no paperwork or personal signing of contracts is required, as everything is handled online. The deposit is always due on the same day as the pre-booking, so it's important to keep an eye on this date.

After making the payment, send us a confirmation of the deposit. We will then confirm everything with the charter company.

Need more time to pay the deposit?

Let us know and we'll extend the reservation.

Contract data

Our sales team will gather all the basic information when you book your boat. The contract will then be prepared according to the chosen price package. If you have our BASIC deposit insurance included in the price of the boat, or if you are purchasing EXTRA deposit insurance, we will need you to provide the following additional details:

  • Your address
  • Your birth number
  • Name of the skipper (captain)

Read more about skippered boats and boat holidays:

4. What happens after the deposit is paid?

  • You most likely have a boat ticket split into multiple payments. We will notify you of the next payment 14 days before it is due. Typically, payments are split into 50% deposit and 50% balance (though this may vary). The second instalment is normally due six weeks before sailing.
  • Once we receive the second instalment, we will send the remaining funds to the charter company.
  • After the total amount is paid, customer service will contact you to request a skipper's licence (if you have hired a skipper, they will send it to us) and a completed crew list. Please check the validity of the captain's licences in each country.
  • Approximately two weeks before departure, customer service will send you the documents needed for check-in and the base info (marina information) provided by the charter companies.
  • All that remains is to start packing and looking forward to your holiday!

5. I've arrived at the marina. What do I need to show?

  • Your skipper's licence and, if applicable, your radio-telephonist's licence (if you have a hired skipper, they must provide these).
  • A cash or credit card deposit for the boat in the amount stated in the contract.
  • Funding for extras listed on the contract.
  • If you redeem the discount voucher, you do not need to take it with you.

6. Who should I contact for further requirements and questions?

Our customer service is available from Monday to Friday, 9:00-17:00, and during the season (May-October), also on Saturdays from 8:30-12:00 and 14:00-18:30.

You can also contact us by phone (+420 222 528 222) or by e-mail at support@yachting.com

7. Additional useful information on our website


Read more about skippered boats and boat holidays:

Ever gazed at those boating holiday photos where everyone is basking in azure waters, like a page from a fairy tale?

From our series on skippered boats — What are the costs associated with a yachting holiday and what to budget for? Check out our guide.

From our series on skippered boats. If you're new to boating and curious about what it's like to step aboard, this guide is for you.

Curious about a typical day on a skippered charter boat? While every day is as unique as you make it, our guide will give you a clear idea of what to expect, from morning to night.

Take advantage of the potential freedom and space that a boat holiday offers. Plenty of water, natural beauty and culture are within easy reach.

Wondering where in the world you can rent a boat and experience an amazing, unique summer? There are countless possibilities, and we’re happy to guide you through them.

Being on a boat can test all. Choose your crew carefully.

Which boat will provide the best holiday experience for you and your crew? Let’s answer some key questions.

From our series on skippered boats — learn what is expected of you, what we do, and the step-by-step process from booking to your holiday.

What you shouldn't forget if you are going on a yachting holiday.

There’s a lot of talk about sailing that might make you hesitant about your dream holiday. We're here to set the record straight and help you distinguish between fact and fiction.

Contact details

Choose a date *

Feel free to contact me at any time with your questions.

Denisa Kliner Nguyenová

Denisa Kliner Nguyenová

Sales Consultant

+420 730 188 100denisa.nguyenova@yachting.com