Frequently Asked Questions: Your Guide to Sailing and Catamaran Holidays with MySailCruise.com

Are you dreaming of endless blue horizons and the adventure of a boundless journey? This section of Frequently Asked Questions on Sailing and Catamaran Holidays is your compass to navigate every curiosity. Here, as your certified professional skipper and trusted Cruise Planner, I’ll answer all your questions. Get ready to discover everything you need to know about your next sailing and catamaran holiday, guiding you towards a dream cruise in complete serenity. Our goal is to offer you transparency and clarity, first and foremost, making your sailing and catamaran holiday experience perfect from the planning stage.

Planning Your Sailing and Catamaran Holiday: Essential Questions

What is the minimum duration for a sailing or catamaran cruise?

This is one of the most common Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays. Generally, in the Mediterranean, yacht and catamaran charters operate with embarkations and disembarkations from Saturday to Saturday, for a minimum duration of one week. However, during the low season (from October to May), we are more flexible and can organize shorter stays, such as long weekends or mid-week breaks for your sailing holiday. Conversely, in high season (from May to October), it is less likely to find availability for periods other than the classic “Saturday-to-Saturday”. Outside the Mediterranean, charter companies often offer more flexibility on duration and start dates for your unforgettable sailing and catamaran holiday.

How large should the boat or catamaran I intend to charter be for my cruise?

The ideal size depends on your group. For a couple, any boat over 30 feet is sufficient, but you will need at least two cabins: one for you and one for the potential skipper. For groups of up to 12 people (the general limit for charter boats), you will need a boat with three to five cabins. Always remember to include the skipper (if you need one) in the passenger count, and ideally, the skipper should have their own dedicated cabin to ensure maximum comfort for everyone on board your next sailing and catamaran holiday.

Do I need a boating license for my yacht or catamaran trip?

No, not necessarily. A boat or catamaran can be chartered with or without a skipper. If you hold a valid boating license, you can skipper the vessel yourself. Otherwise, the presence of a certified professional skipper on board is mandatory by law and for your safety during your sailing and catamaran holiday.

What types of boating licenses are accepted for charter (among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays, this is less commonly known)?

Each country has its own regulations, so the validity of your boating license depends on the sailing area you choose. Please note that holding a valid boating license and all other personal documents is the exclusive responsibility of each client. We strongly advise you to check which licenses are accepted in your chosen area before booking and/or embarking. In any case, our Travel Consultants are always at your disposal to verify with the boat provider the validity of your license for the desired country and boat for your sailing holiday.

How much does it cost to charter a boat or catamaran for a holiday?

Perhaps the most common of the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays. Prices are set by boat providers (charter companies) and vary based on several factors: the type of vessel (sailing boat, catamaran, motor yacht), the destination, the duration of the sailing holiday, and the season. Furthermore, it is essential to consider the price of mandatory extras and the amount of the security deposit. For a precise and personalized quote for your sailing and catamaran holiday, we invite you to contact us directly.

What is included in the individual fee for a typical sailing holiday?

The individual fee includes: the boat with skipper, water, cabin rental, gas, bed linen, pillowcases, pillows, a personal bath towel, blankets, and the dinghy with outboard engine, essential for your excursions and swims. All to make your sailing and catamaran holiday more comfortable and carefree.

What is excluded from the cruise participation fee?

The fee excludes provisions (food), fuel, park entrance fees (if applicable), and moorings outside the departure and arrival base. For these expenses, a common fund will be set up (approximately 20/30 euros per day per person), and the skipper is exempt from these expenses. This is fundamental for clear management of your sailing and catamaran holiday.

Who will manage the common fund on board during the holiday?

A common wallet with money to manage will be used. Each guest can use it to buy or pay for daily expenses and moorings. Receipts will be kept to ensure clear accounts and maximum transparency during your sailing holiday.

The Role of the Skipper and Crew in Your Cruise

Do I need a skipper for my next sailing or catamaran holiday (This is one of the most frequently asked questions for Sailing and Catamaran Holidays)?

The choice depends on many factors: your boating license, your sailing experience, the crew, the type of boat, or the sailing area. If your goal is a truly carefree holiday, with relaxation and fun first and foremost, entrusting yourself to a professional skipper is the ideal choice for your sailing and catamaran holiday. Skippers do not just sail; they are fully responsible for the boat and passenger safety. The captain’s word is final for the entire duration of the voyage, ensuring the success of your sailing holiday.

How much does it cost to have a skipper on board for the holiday?

The skipper’s cost varies based on the provider, area, size, and type of boat. Usually, prices start from 150€ per day, excluding weekly provisions. The skipper is often paid in cash at the base on the day of departure, but it is always advisable to check the specific payment method on the boat’s page, as some require online prepayment for your sailing and catamaran holiday.

What are the skipper’s duties during the sailing holiday?

Perhaps the most important of the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays. The skipper is responsible for the safety of the crew and the handling of the boat. It is essential to always listen to their advice and instructions, as their choices will always be for your interest and safety. Their duty does not include internal boat cleaning, except for external cleaning which they will do daily if possible. Final cleaning will be carried out by our fleet staff upon return from the cruise. It is always good practice to keep the boat tidy and clean for a serene sailing and catamaran holiday.

Where does the skipper sleep on board during the holiday?

Where provided, the skipper will sleep in their dedicated cabin. Otherwise, to ensure maximum comfort for guests, they may sleep in the boat’s saloon or, as often happens, even outside in the cockpit, under the stars. Their rest is important to ensure the safety and success of your sailing and catamaran holiday.

Can I steer the boat or does the skipper not allow it?

Absolutely yes! Our skippers are all professional sailing instructors. Our and their primary Mission is to be available to guests who want to have fun and learn to skipper a sailboat. For this reason, everyone can participate in maneuvers and boat handling, always under the careful supervision of the captain. This is a unique opportunity to learn and experience the sea more deeply during your sailing and catamaran holiday.

Is it possible to bring animals on board during the cruise?

Only in the case of exclusive charter for groups or families is it possible to bring an animal on board with prior authorization. It is important to always check the possibility in advance, as not all charter companies allow it. If it is possible, the charter company will require an additional cost for the final cleaning. A frequent question for your sailing holiday.

Logistics and Preparation for Your Cruise: The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions for Sailing and Catamaran Holidays

How are guest groups formed on board for a sailing holiday?

It’s not always easy to organize a group, but don’t worry about that! Generally, we always manage to form a well-assorted group by age type. For couples, we will form groups of couples, for friends the same, and likewise for singles and families with children. In the case of unique groups of 6/8/10 people, you will have an entire boat available for your unforgettable sailing and catamaran holiday.

How can I charter a sailboat or catamaran exclusively for my holiday?

It’s very simple: just form a group of 4/6/8 people, who can be single friends, couples, relatives, or families, to have your boat exclusively with 3-4 or 5 cabins with a skipper. The advantage is that you can sail independently and choose to vary the itinerary as you please, always under the supervision of the skipper who knows all the islands, the weather, and the best places to stop. For a quick quote for your sailing and catamaran holiday, visit our website www.mysailcruise.com.

H3: Who takes care of provisions (food) on board for the cruise?

Generally, the skipper, with their many years of experience, works with the guests to compile the shopping list, following everyone’s preferences. Subsequently, they will guide you to the best markets, both at departure and at various stops, to ensure the quality and freshness of the food during your sailing and catamaran holiday. In the case of organized groups, you can also bring some provisions from home.

Who cooks on board during the holiday?

Among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays, this is not insignificant. The skipper generally does not directly assist with cooking, except in cases where skippers are particularly passionate about it. If a hostess is planned to be on board, she will prepare breakfast, aperitifs, lunches, and dinners, often with the guests’ collaboration. Some skippers, if passionate, will offer their sea and land recipes, but they are not assigned the role of cook on board. Each guest is encouraged to take turns participating in the kitchen management and tidying up. If a hostess is present, kitchen tidying will be her exclusive task for your sailing holiday.

What is the Security Deposit for yacht and catamaran charter?

All our vessels are part of professional fleets and are fully insured. The security deposit represents the insurance deductible for the vessel. This amount covers any accidental damage caused by you or your crew and ensures compliance with contractual obligations. It is handed over to the charter company at the base before embarkation and is fully refunded at the end of the trip, after the boat inspection and confirmation that no damage has occurred. In some cases, the amount may be requested via a secure online payment link a few days before departure. Our consultants will inform you promptly. The security deposit exclusively covers damage to the vessel; any damage to accessories (outboard engine, dinghy) or third parties will be calculated separately. A crucial point for your sailing and catamaran holiday.

Can I insure the security deposit for my sailing holiday?

Certainly! If you do not already have external private insurance, you have the option to insure the security deposit through an insurance association with which we have collaborated for years. It is important to know that, even if you insure the deposit, you will still need to pay the amount to the charter company upon embarkation. Subsequently, in the event of proven damage, the insurance will cover the cost. This is one of the Frequently Asked Questions Sailing and Catamaran Holidays to which we always provide clear answers.

Is travel insurance necessary for a sailing holiday?

Among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays, this is extremely important. Our boats are covered by third-party liability (RC) and hull (Kasko) insurance policies. In any case, for greater peace of mind, personal travel insurance costs approximately 4/5 euros per day. Although none of our guests have ever had problems, for information you can click here. Europe Assistance is one of the most recommended for those traveling and going on a sailing and catamaran holiday. For further info check here.

What should I pack for a sailing holiday?

You should bring only the essentials, also because most of the time you’ll be in swimwear. Essentials: simple boat shoes or tennis shoes (with light soles), beach towel, rubber flip-flops, sunglasses, non-greasy protective cream, hat, personal effects, and camera, 220V or 12V mobile phone charger. Clothing: Bermuda shorts, t-shirts, polo shirts, a sweatshirt for the evening or a tracksuit. If your luggage weighs more than 10 kg, it means you have brought too many things, and we assure you they will not be used. It is strongly recommended to use soft bags or duffel bags as luggage, as they are less bulky and easy to stow in the limited spaces of your sailing and catamaran holiday.

When is embarkation scheduled for your cruise?

The meeting point for embarkation is from 5:00 PM onwards. The skipper will coordinate embarkation, the initial briefing, provisions organization, and the arrangement of your luggage in the cabins. If possible, we depart immediately; otherwise, departure will be the following morning as usual for your sailing holiday.

When is disembarkation scheduled from the sailing holiday?

Return to the base is always on Friday by 6:00 PM, unless otherwise planned or arranged. Disembarkation, like all charters in the Mediterranean, is scheduled for Saturday morning by 10:00 AM.

H3: Can I leave my car at the port at the departure base?

Yes, it is possible to leave your car in guarded parking lots adjacent to the departure base or in the marina’s parking lot. Generally, the cost varies between 5 and 8 euros per day.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays: Daily Cruising

“How does a sailing cruise unfold for your dream holiday?”

MORNING:

The queen among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays. In the morning, we wake up with the sunlight, and after a good breakfast, we start with a wonderful swim in sheltered anchorages or bays. Subsequently, we set sail for a 2/3 hour cruise. For those who wish, you can steer the boat and participate in maneuvers during the day. Those who want to relax can enjoy the coastal landscapes, sunbathe on deck or in the shade, read a good book, or listen to music until we reach the next destination.

AFTERNOON:

As soon as we arrive, we drop anchor for more swims, dives, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, visiting small beaches to discover new places. After lunch, another relaxing break, and then, if possible and desired, we’ll sail again to reach a sheltered spot in the late afternoon, a beach inaccessible by land where you can still enjoy the sun and sea, and then moor in a small port, or stay at anchor waiting for the evening and night.

EVENING:

Every day we will discover new islands, where we can spend the evening visiting ancient towns, a fishing village, dining on board enjoying a magical evening under the stars, or going ashore to a typical local tavern. Where possible, the skipper also organizes hiking, mountain biking, scooter, and car excursions with affiliated rentals. This is the heart of a sailing holiday: synonymous with the freedom to choose together what to do every day, the adventure of always discovering new places and doing different things, making your sailing and catamaran holiday a dynamic and unforgettable experience.

Is the itinerary as planned or can it change during the sailing holiday?

For the itinerary, we always try to stick to the program, although it may be modified based on the weather and wind direction. The skipper will always seek, in agreement with the guests, the best solutions and alternatives, as they know the places and the weather evolution well. The skipper’s objective is to conduct a good cruise to ensure everyone has fun in relaxation and safety. Remember that the skipper is also the Commander of the unit and a Recreational Officer, civilly and criminally responsible for the boat and crew. According to the navigation code, commands cannot be given to the skipper; their choices will always be for your interest and safety during your sailing and catamaran holiday.

What happens in case of bad weather during the sailing holiday?

Imagine you have booked a holiday in a hotel or tourist village, and in the location where you are, the weather is bad for a few days or the entire week. This is not the case for a sailing holiday, as we move from one island to another every day. Generally, on the islands, bad weather never lasts for prolonged periods; it may happen that we postpone departure from our current location for a few hours or at most half a day. In this and other cases, we organize land excursions by bicycle, swims in nearby coves, gastronomic or cultural visits, scooter rentals, and many other interesting things to do. Always ask the skipper, who will organize everything for you in the best possible way for your sailing and catamaran holiday. For reliable weather forecasts you can check here.

Are all comforts available on board the boat, and what are the cabins like?

The boat is like a home; nothing is missing! You’ll find all the essential comforts: from a fully equipped kitchen to a living area, bathrooms with showers, hot and cold water, and both 12V and 220V power. There’s a stereo system with CD and USB, Wi-Fi internet, and TV. The cabins are double, with queen-size or bunk beds, and all have their own wardrobes for conveniently storing all personal items and clothes during your sailing and catamaran holiday.

Among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays, here is another common one: What does “cabin charter” mean for a sailing holiday?

This is a simple, economical, and fun formula (the most popular for this type of holiday) that allows you to participate in a sailing cruise without having to charter an entire boat yourself. You will have your own double, queen-size, or bunk cabin, sharing the experience with other sea enthusiasts and making your sailing holiday accessible to everyone.

Are there bathrooms for each cabin, and how do they work on a sailing holiday (It may not seem like it, but among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays, this is not insignificant)?

Some boats may have bathrooms with showers for each cabin, but it often happens to have a boat, for example, with 4 cabins and two bathrooms. In any case, great care must be taken to sanitize the bathroom after each use with products like bleach or similar, so that every time you enter, you find it always clean and sanitized. Before departure, the skipper will explain in detail the use of the bathrooms, as almost all boats have a manual sea discharge pump. While staying in ports, it is advisable to use the services offered by the marina, also because it is forbidden to discharge in port. Cleanliness and respect for common spaces are fundamental for a pleasant sailing and catamaran holiday.

What happens if the boat has a breakdown during the holiday?

All our boats, every week before departure and upon return from the cruise, are inspected by our fleet staff with a thorough check-in and check-out to ensure everything is always in order. In case of breakdowns, repairs are carried out immediately, limiting departure delays to only a few hours. Furthermore, in case of breakdown at sea or in distant locations, we have a dedicated mobile phone on board to call the base manager and affiliated assistance, who will promptly intervene for repairs, which are always at the company’s expense. In case of prolonged breakdown, either at departure or during the cruise, the boat will be replaced with one of equal or higher level, guaranteeing your sailing and catamaran holiday without interruptions.

Where do we sleep during the boat cruise (this is a very important one among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays)?

Obviously on the boat, in your cabins. Also in this case, we have maximum freedom to choose whether to stay at anchor to enjoy the peace and quiet, away from noise, immersed in nature (we have the dinghy with an outboard engine to go ashore), or to moor in a small fishing port, or in a marina where all the infrastructures and comforts of land life are available. Each option offers a unique experience for your sailing and catamaran holiday.

Can I bring personal diving and fishing equipment during the sailing holiday?

It is possible, in fact, it is recommended to bring a mask and fins for snorkeling. For fishing, you can bring some rods or a speargun; some of our skippers already have them on board for your sailing and catamaran holiday.

Among the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays, there is also the following: Is experience necessary? Is there an age limit for a sailing holiday?

This is one of the Frequently Asked Questions about Sailing and Catamaran Holidays that is easiest to answer. No specific experience or preparation is necessary, just a passion for the sea! The average age of participants is usually between 25 and 60, although there is no age limit. In fact, we have had guests on board from 3 to 75 years old, demonstrating that it is a sailing and catamaran holiday suitable for everyone.

Are sailing cruises suitable for families?

Absolutely yes! A cruise with MySailCruise.com represents a truly complete and exciting sailing and catamaran holiday for families and children of all ages. Generally, we form groups for the same type of guests, or one or more families can request the boat or catamaran exclusively. For life on board, the skipper will help you choose itineraries, with easy sailing trips between islands, many stops for swimming in bays, small beaches reachable by outboard dinghy, fishing on board which children enjoy very much, grocery shopping in small farmers’ and fishermen’s markets. In the evening, you can choose whether to moor in port or at anchor in safe places where you can go ashore with the dinghy to visit and also have dinner in typical local places we know. In summary, it is a customizable and unforgettable experience for your sailing and catamaran holiday.