Do you need a boating licence to charter a yacht?

Whether a boating licence is required depends on the type of charter and the rules of the country where the trip begins. On a crewed yacht – meaning a professional captain and, if applicable, a first mate are on board – guests never need a boating licence. The crew is responsible for navigation, steering and safety, while guests simply enjoy the trip and choose their destinations.

Bareboat charters are different. Here the yacht is rented without crew, which means the guest becomes the skipper and is legally responsible for handling the vessel. In this case a recognised boating licence is mandatory. Some countries accept national certificates, while others have stricter requirements.

A short overview of international differences:

• Crewed charter: no licence required
• Bareboat charter: licence always required
• Croatia: boating licence mandatory for all bareboat charters
• Greece: skipper and co skipper both need documented qualifications
• Some regions: may also require an SRC radio certificate

Even if a guest has practical boating experience, this is not enough when chartering without crew. Official qualifications are required to meet legal and insurance standards, and charter companies cannot release the yacht without them.

Guests who simply want to try steering during a crewed charter can still do so. Captains often allow supervised helm time in calm conditions, while keeping full responsibility. This gives guests a safe and enjoyable introduction to yacht handling.

Those who want more independence in the future can obtain a licence through recognised training centres. It opens new possibilities, especially for travellers who prefer to explore without crew.

In summary, a boating licence is only required if you want to operate the yacht yourself. Crewed charters do not require any certification, while bareboat charters always do. Regulations differ by country, but the core principle remains that anyone taking command must hold an appropriate licence.

Possible destinations for your next charter trip

Yacht charter in Turkey

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Yacht charter in Croatia

Discover the unparalleled beauty of the Croatian coast with our exclusive yacht charter service. From picturesque fishing villages to vibrant coastal cities, Croatia offers a variety of destinations waiting to be explored. Our top-notch sailing yachts are ready for your unforgettable sailing adventure, whether on an elegant sailboat or a luxurious motorboat. Experience the freedom of the sea and the fascinating history along the Adriatic coast with our premium yacht charter in Croatia. Hire a yacht in Croatia-Hire a boat from Split-Discover Croatia with a catamaran charter

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Yacht charter in Greece

Experience the ultimate sailing adventure with our yacht charter service in Greece. Dive into the turquoise waters of the Aegean and discover the countless islands and bays that this fascinating country has to offer. From luxurious catamarans to classic sailing ships, our fleet of high-quality luxury yachts is ready for you. Enjoy unforgettable moments on board as you experience the beauty and charm of Greece from the water.-Request a yacht charter in Greece -Hire a catamaran and explore Greece

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Yacht charter in Italy

Your dream holiday begins with the organisation of your yacht charter and consists of finding the perfect offer for you, whether motor yacht, sailing yacht, catamaran or gulet, we offer you a large selection that meets your wishes and ideas. Discover your dream yacht for yourself on our portal! We will also be happy to advise you and recommend the ideal yacht charter for your needs. If the yacht of your dreams is not listed on the website, we also have other alternative offers. Due to the large number of sailing yachts, motorboats and catamarans, we can only offer a fraction of the charter yachts we offer online.

In order to find the ideal yacht for you, we only need the most important factors such as the size of your travel group, your approximate budget, your preferred destination and the desired travel time. We will then send you a suitable selection of yacht charters and fulfill your wishes so that you can embark on your dream trip. Enjoy unforgettable experiences on your luxury yacht charter holiday, tailor-made for you at Best Choice Yachting.

At Best Choice Yachting - Yachtvermietung, our goal is to exceed our customers' expectations. The experiences of our delighted customers last a lifetime. You are welcome to read some of our customers' reviews. Yachts are our passion and we have made this passion our job. That is why we are convinced that we can offer you the best luxury yacht charter experience in various countries.

Most Popular Yacht Charter Questions

How much does it actually cost to charter a yacht?

The price of a yacht charter depends on the yacht’s size, build, destination, and season. Smaller motor yachts may start around €1,000–€2,500 per day, while a high-end superyacht can exceed €100,000 per day. These prices generally include the yacht, crew, and standard onboard services, but exclude costs such as fuel, provisioning, and marina fees.

Where is the cheapest country to charter a yacht?

Countries like Turkey, Croatia, and certain parts of Greece offer some of the best value in the yacht charter market. Their lower operating costs and competitive fleets make them attractive without sacrificing service or destination quality.

How much to charter a yacht in Europe?

In Europe, prices range from about €3,000 per week for smaller sailing yachts to well over €250,000 per week for luxury superyachts. The Mediterranean is the top choice, with peak prices in July and August due to high demand.

How much is 3 days on a super yacht?

Three days aboard a superyacht can range from €50,000 to €500,000, depending on the yacht’s size, design, and the cruising area. These rates typically do not include extras such as fuel, berthing, or gourmet catering.

How much to hire a yacht for a day?

Daily yacht rental starts at around €1,000 for smaller vessels and can exceed €50,000 for top-tier luxury yachts. Prices vary by yacht type, location, and whether the booking is during high or low season.

What is a charter on a yacht?

A yacht charter is the rental of a yacht for a fixed period, ranging from a day to several weeks. It may be crewed, offering full-service luxury, or bareboat, giving you full control of the vessel. Most charters come with tailored itineraries for a completely private travel experience.

What is the difference between a charter yacht and a private yacht?

A charter yacht is available for hire by guests for short-term use, often fully crewed and equipped for hospitality. A private yacht is owned by an individual or entity for personal use and is not regularly available for commercial charter.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Croatia?

Small yachts in Croatia can start at €500 per day, while larger, crewed yachts range from €5,000 to €20,000 per day. A week yacht charter usually offers better value, especially outside of the peak summer season.

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