There isn't just one way to experience a Mediterranean sailing holiday: there are four. Which one fits you best depends mostly on your experience, who you're travelling with, and how much you want to organise yourself.
Bareboat charter: sail it yourself
If you have sailing experience and the right qualifications, you can charter a yacht and set off entirely on your own terms. You choose the route, the harbours, and how long you stay. It's the option with the most freedom, and the one where you're fully responsible for the navigation. Countries like Croatia, Greece, Italy and Turkey are ideal for this, thanks to their many islands, well-equipped marinas and generally manageable waters.
Flotilla sailing: independence with a safety net
Want to take the helm yourself without being entirely on your own? A flotilla is the perfect middle ground. You sail your own yacht, together with a group of other boats, under the guidance of an experienced flotilla leader who plans the route and is on hand for questions or problems. In the evening the whole group is often moored in the same harbour, leaving plenty of room for shared dinners and new friendships.
Join the lead boat: no sailing experience required
No sailing experience, but curious about the flotilla atmosphere? You can join as crew on the lead boat itself. There's always a skipper on board, so nothing is left up to you. You sail with the group, moor in the same harbours, and join the other crews in the evening. This option suits solo travellers, beginners, and anyone who'd rather relax than navigate.
Skippered charter: private, without the responsibility
Prefer to sail privately without handling the navigation yourself? Charter a yacht with a skipper. You sail on your own boat, with your own group, while an experienced skipper takes care of the navigation, knows the best bays, and makes sure you can relax without a second thought. This option is popular with couples, families and groups looking for comfort and privacy in equal measure.
Monohull or catamaran?
Alongside the sailing style, you'll also choose the type of yacht. A classic monohull gives the most authentic sailing feel: you notice the wind, the heel of the boat, the traditional sensation of sailing. A catamaran sits more stably in the water thanks to its twin hulls and offers considerably more living space, which makes it popular with groups and families with children.
Where can you go?
The Mediterranean is vast, and every destination has its own character, from Croatia's islands to Greece's whitewashed villages and Turkey's dramatic coastline. Whichever type of charter you choose, our search & book page lets you compare options across all our destinations.
