Bareboat Charter or Skippered Sailing?

Any person looking to cruise around Sydney debates, at some point, on whether to take up a skippered yacht charter or a bareboat charter. If you are reading this, you probably have asked yourself which is best suited for you. Indeed, in order to fully enjoy your cruises, you have to understand that the best type of sailing depends entirely on you. Here are a couple of things you should think about when making your choice:

1. Sailing Experience

The first thing you have to cross off the list is your sailing experience. If you know how to sail and can handle yourself well on the water, then you can consider taking up bareboat sailing. With bareboat sailing, you will have the yacht all to yourself. It is important that you are able to cruise through different weather conditions on your own. On the other hand, if you have little or no experience, then do take up the skippered sailing offer. In skippered sailing, a professional skipper will take care of the navigation and handling of the yacht.

If you are a tourist visiting Sydney, you do not necessarily have to have a license. It helps, but a demonstration of your skills is more important.

2. Local Knowledge

Another factor that will be considered if you are looking at bareboat sailing is your local knowledge of the Harbour. There are a few reefs in the Harbour and some well-known treacherous spots. It is important that you are aware of these spots to avoid running aground. After all, your aim is to enjoy yourself. If you are not confident with your local knowledge then you’re probably better off taking up the skippered sailing package.

3. Type of Event/Cruise

The type of cruise you are looking into will also determine whether you should take up the skippered sailing or bareboat sailing offers. If you are having a big event, then skippered sailing is your best bet as the crew will help you with your guests. If you are having an event with a few family and friends, then you can take up bareboat sailing. The seawind 1000 for example can host up to 20 guests on a skippered charter however, is limited to 12 guests on a bareboat charter.

4. Time

The duration of the boat hire is also very important to consider. You would prefer bareboat sailing if your cruise is long. For overnight and extended charters for example, it would be impractical to have a skipper on board. On the other hand, in order to completely enjoy a short cruise, consider taking up the skippered sailing offer. If you are only looking at being out on the water for 4-8 hours, then the skippered sailing packages will give you the freedom to sit back, relax and enjoy everything that Sydney has to offer!

Another option you may want to consider is a private cruise on a luxury yacht or catamaran. Agents such as Any Boat and Luxury Boat Hire specialise in private Harbour cruises.