Common questions, frequently asked questions for bare boat, skippered and fully crewed yachts with Istion Yachting Greece

What is the bareboat charter?

Bare boats are offered for private charters with no crew. The charterers need the appropriate qualifications, as they navigate and handle the yacht. Sailing yachts, catamarans and a limited number of motor boats up to 20 meters (65 feet) are offered for bare boat charters. They can accommodate up to 10/12 persons. The "per person" cost of a bare boat charter is usually at or below the cost of a resort vacation, without the crowds! Find out for yourself how affordable this unique adventure is with Istion Yachting.

Skippered yacht charters?

Bare boats can be offered with crew (skipper, hostess, cook) for skippered (or assisted) charters. These charters are recommended for people who are not qualified or for those who do not have enough experience to handle a yacht themselves. Istion yachting will put together the right yacht type and the Skipper who will handle the yacht for you. On top you may hire a hostess or a cook who will be at your service.

Crewed yacht charters?

These yachts are offered with dedicated – professional crew. A variety of sailing yachts, motor yachts, catamarans, motor sailers and Super yachts is available for dream vacations worldwide. Pricing varies as well, starting low up to high rates for exclusive luxury.

What qualifications do I need to charter a bareboat sailing yacht in Greece?

The Greek Authorities require minimum one sailing license/certification and one experienced crew member, as co-skipper for bare boat charters. ASA & RYA certifications are fully recognized. Sailing license or certification is meant the appropriate documentation officially recognized in the charterer's country. A sailing experience declaration may be required by the local port authorities for the skipper and co-skipper.

What kind of yacht should I charter?

That all depends on you. Istion Yachting experts will recommend the best choice for your needs. Your Istion Yachting vacation can be tailored to fit your party and your preferences. How many people are you sailing with? Are they couples traveling together or do you need single cabins for some guests? How much space and comfort would you like? Whatever your needs, Istion Yachting is sure to offer you a yacht that is right for you.

How do I book my vacation?

Who decides the sailing itinerary?

This is the beauty of the private yacht experience. On a bare boat you will decide your itinerary. We will provide our suggestions. A chart briefing will take place, too. In case you choose a yacht with crew, the captain will sit down with you and develop an itinerary based on your desires – or you can leave it all up to your experienced captain. Weather permitting, the itinerary can be changed at any time if you wish to spend more or less time in any area. This is truly a private yacht at your command.

What are usually the weather conditions in Greece during spring /summer/autumn?

The climate in Greece is typical of the Mediterranean climate: mild and rainy winters, relatively warm and dry summers and, generally, extended periods of sunshine throughout most of the year. A great variety of climate subtypes, always within the Mediterranean climate frame, are encountered in several regions of Greece. This is due to the influence of topography (great mountain chains along the central part and other mountainous bodies) on the air masses coming from the moisture sources of the central Mediterranean Sea. During the warm and dry period the weather is usually stable, the sky is clear, the sun is bright and there is generally no rainfall. There are, however, infrequent and brief intervals of rapid rain chiefly over mainland areas. The warm period starts in April and ends end of October with and average air temperature from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The warmest period occurs during June, July and August, when the mean maximum temperature lies between 29.0 and 35.0 degrees Celsius. During the warm period the high temperatures are tempered by fresh sea breezes in the coastal areas of the country and from the north winds, known as 'Meltemi', blowing mainly in the Aegean.

What type of clothing should we pack?

The keynote is simplicity. The minimum possible quantity. Casual and breezy beach attire is certainly the order of the day on deck, though for evenings ashore, slacks or a sundress are appropriate. Rubber soled shoes as opposed to hard soles are recommended aboard our yachts, so wear boat shoes or tennis shoes. You may find aquatic shoes convenient for beachcombing. Above all, protection from the sun is vital – lots of suntan lotion, wide-brimmed hats or sailing caps, and loose-fitting cotton cover-ups. For cool or windy evenings, a windbreaker comes in handy. Don't forget to pack in soft shell baggage to be stored easily onboard.

Are children welcome?

Our crewed yachts offer a fantastic family vacation experience. Our crews will provide guidance in using the snorkeling gear, kayaks and other water toys and are experienced in serving families with children. The chef will design a menu to accommodate the preferences of both children and adults.

What should we tip our crew?

The quality of service should dictate the gratuity. It is customary and at the discretion of the charterer. As a guideline, we suggest an average of 10-15% of the charter cost.

What is the Advanced Provisioning Allowance, APA?

The APA amount is used to cover expenses incurred during the course of the charter such as fuel, food, beverages, mooring fee and other expenses not included in the Charter Fee. The captain of the yacht is responsible for accounting for all APA expenses during the charter, and the breakdown will be presented to you in a clear manner at the end of the charter. If the costs incurred during the course of the charter are less than the APA deposit, then the difference will be refunded to the Charterer at the end of the charter. If the costs incurred during the course of the charter that are over and above the APA deposit then this difference will be payable by the Charterer at the end of the charter.

Will I be able to order special diet menus or request favorite beverages?

Yes, you will be supplied with preference sheets to complete prior to your charter. On our crewed yachts, the chef accommodates special diets (salt free, low fat, etc.). Meals will be planned according to your preference sheet selections. An ample supply of the beverages you request will also be stocked.