book2sail-power yacht vs sailing yacht

How to Choose the Ideal Yacht for Your Sailing Adventure

You might wonder why anyone would need help choosing between a sailing yacht and a power yacht. It’s easy, you might say: it depends on the kind of person you are. If you want to be involved in the actual experience, choose a sailing yacht. If you’re more interested in getting that tan, choose a power yacht. Yes… and no. The truth is, with strides in yacht technology and design, some lines between both have become blurred. This is just what we wish to do with this article today: sharpen the differences between both and highlight what makes each yacht type unique and memorable. So the next time you charter a yacht, you pick the one which best suits your sailing holiday expectancies.

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  1. Journey vs. Destination

In all fairness, we might have chosen the most difficult of differences to start off with. Reason being that, while this might have been relevant in the past, both a power yacht and a sailing yacht today offer enough commodities to be able to enjoy both the destination and the time it takes to get there. Traditionally, however, since a power yacht is by definition a more powerful vessel, it should be your preferred choice if you’re interested in getting to your destination as quickly as possible. With a sailing yacht, you can take your sweet time, relying on just the wind to carry you forward. So if time is of no consequence, you might wish to give the sailing yacht a thought.

  1. Comfort vs. Intimacy

There is no denying the fact that a power yacht will be bigger and therefore more comfortable. The cabins are larger and the deck is ideally designed to entertain larger groups. A sailing boat is more constrained in this regard, with smaller cabins (though some of the larger sailing yachts really challenge this statement) and a more intimate deck area. It makes it ideal for families and close friends, though it could offer challenges if you’re trying to avoid your aunt who is constantly bemoaning her darling Coco (the annoying Chihuahua) who got left behind. To each his own.

  1. Involvement vs. Detachment

While many holiday-goers will charter a yacht so they can relax and fully detach from having any kind of responsibilities, others look forward to really getting their hands dirty. If you’re all for sipping cocktails and flipping through your latest read while the sun slowly turns your skin to a divine bronze, then it’s safe to assume that a power yacht will be your best bet. If you really want to participate in getting your yacht to its destination, then a sailing yacht will satisfy your sailor-cravings best. Just make sure you discuss this when chartering your yacht.

The type of yacht you choose will be largely dictated by the type of holiday you’re looking to have. There is obviously no right or wrong in this – it all boils down to preferences. Make sure you know what you’re in for when you choose either of the two: if you’re the type to tire of a novelty early on, you might find that a sailing boat will test your patience a few days in. If on the other hand, you think happiness is in the journey and not the destination, then you might find that a power yacht speeds through at a faster rate than you’d care to enjoy. Think of it this way: the yacht is in many ways a reflection of yourself. When you come to deciding moment, charter the yacht which speaks to your moods most.

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

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