Why Book a Skipper for Your Sailing Holiday?

Many people dream of a sailing holiday on the Greek islands but hesitate because they have never sailed. The solution is simple: book a professional skipper. No course needed, no licence, no prior knowledge. Just step aboard and enjoy.

What does a skipper actually do?

A skipper handles everything related to the safety and navigation of the boat. He monitors the weather, plans the daily route, manoeuvres in harbour, sets the anchor, handles the sails and ensures everyone on board is safe. If something goes technically wrong — a line jamming, an engine issue, a weather change — he responds calmly and routinely. You need to know none of it.

No sailing experience required

Every year guests step aboard with us who have never been on a boat before. After one day they feel at home. The Bavaria C57 is large enough to live on comfortably and stable enough that anxiety never arises. The skipper takes all responsibility — you take the decision to enjoy.

Learn as much or as little as you like

With a skipper on board you can learn as much or as little as you want. Some guests ask to take the helm by day two. Others put their feet up, order a cold drink and read a book on the aft deck. Both are equally fine. The boat sails either way.

Local knowledge no guidebook has

A good skipper who knows the Sporades inside out is worth more than any travel book. He knows:

- Which bays stay sheltered when the meltemi picks up in the afternoon

- Where sea turtles swim around Alonissos

- Which taverna in Glossa serves the freshest fish

- How to reach Lalaria beach before the excursion boats arrive

- Which anchorage at Peristera is shallow enough for the dinghy

That knowledge is not on Google Maps. It lives in years of experience on the same water.

Safety above all

The Aegean is a safe sailing area — but only if you know what you are doing. The meltemi wind can build quickly to Force 5–6 in summer. Anchoring on a rocky seabed requires technique. Manoeuvring in a busy harbour with other sailing boats demands routine. A professional skipper handles all these situations without stress. For you, it is a holiday. For him, it is his daily work.

Our skippers

Hellenic Yacht Charter skippers are experienced sailors holding RYA or Greek certification, with extensive knowledge of the Sporades and a natural ability to put people at ease. They speak English, some also Dutch. They are not just helmsmen — they are the finest local guides you can have.

The skipper costs you nothing extra

At Hellenic Yacht Charter the skipper is included in our mandatory pack of €2,300. No separate searching, no rate negotiation. Book the yacht, the skipper is included. For a group of 8 to 10 people that is less than €250 per person for a professional companion for the entire week.

Can I take the helm myself?

Absolutely, if you want to. The skipper is required on board for safety, but that does not mean you cannot participate. Anyone who wants to sail, steer, anchor or navigate — the skipper explains and lets you join in. It is his boat and his responsibility, but you are very welcome at the helm.