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Sailing from cove to cove on a yacht gliding through the deep blue waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean is a dream for many holidaymakers. In recent years, yacht charter services have become increasingly popular, emerging as a top choice for those seeking a personalized vacation experience away from crowds and immersed in nature. But what exactly does "charter" mean? And what options are available for those looking to enjoy this service?
In this article, we’ll explain the concept of chartering in detail and then compare different types of yacht charters to help you find the best option for your blue cruise. Get ready to experience the ultimate freedom of meeting the sea!
What Is a Charter? The word "charter" literally means "rental" and, in the maritime industry, refers to the leasing of a boat or yacht for a specific period and purpose. A charter service allows individuals or groups to use a vessel for vacation, travel, or private events.
Also known as yacht chartering, this system offers freedom, privacy, and flexibility—unlike traditional vacation options. It allows people to spend time on the sea without owning a yacht, giving them the opportunity to choose the route, duration, and service details. This method, commonly used in regions like Bodrum, Marmaris, and Göcek in Türkiye, is an ideal holiday alternative for both experienced sailors and those new to the sea. As vacation preferences shift toward a more nature-connected, tranquil, and luxurious experience, the charter concept is becoming increasingly popular. What Is the Charter Concept? Unlike traditional vacation models, the charter concept offers you a personalized travel experience. Instead of staying in a hotel, you spend your holiday surrounded only by your loved ones—right in the heart of the sea. You can set your own route, explore hidden coves with a captain if you wish, or simply relax and enjoy the sun and sea. Combining freedom, privacy, comfort, and a deep connection with nature, the charter concept provides a truly unique holiday—especially in the hidden paradises of the Aegean and Mediterranean.
What Are the Types of Yacht Charters? The world of yacht charters offers a wide range of options to suit different expectations and levels of experience. When planning your holiday, it's important to choose the charter type that best matches factors such as your desired travel region, number of guests, budget, and sailing experience. Of course, your travel dates and the availability of the charter boats that the company offers during those dates will also influence your decision. Here are some of the most common types of yacht charters:
1. Bareboat Charter: Preferred by individuals who hold a sailing license (such as an amateur skipper certificate), this type of charter involves renting the yacht without any crew. The boat is handed over to you, and you're responsible for navigating, planning the route, choosing stopovers, and managing your sailing schedule. Offering complete independence and freedom, a bareboat charter is an appealing option for holidaymakers with sailing experience.
2. Crewed Charter: A crewed charter includes a captain, a chef, and other service personnel. You don't need any technical knowledge—just sit back and enjoy your holiday. If you're planning a relaxing vacation with your family or a group of friends, this is the most comfortable option.
3. Skippered Charter: Ideal for those with little or no sailing experience, or for anyone simply looking to relax, a skippered charter comes with a professional captain who navigates the yacht for you. The captain ensures safe sailing and, thanks to their knowledge of the area, can guide you to hidden coves and special stops along the route. This type of journey enhances both safety and comfort at sea. You can choose to hire only a skipper or opt for a full crew as well.
Each charter type caters to different preferences. While some may prefer to set their own course, others might enjoy a fully planned holiday handled by a professional crew. That’s why, before making your decision, it’s essential to define the kind of experience you want to have.
Which Charter Type Is Right for You? When choosing the right yacht charter type, you need to consider a few key factors. Your sailing knowledge and experience play a significant role in this decision. If you have a valid sailing license, a bareboat charter allows you to captain the yacht yourself and freely set your own route. However, if you don’t have such a license or experience, opting for a skippered or crewed charter will be a safer and more comfortable choice. You should also take the number of people in your group into account when planning your holiday. For large groups of friends or extended families, catamarans—which offer more spacious living areas—can be ideal. On the other hand, motor yachts are a more practical and faster option for smaller groups or couples.
Budget is another key factor when selecting a yacht charter type. If you’re planning a more economical holiday, you can opt for shared options such as cabin charters. On the other hand, if you have a higher budget, a luxury yacht charter will allow you to enjoy five-star comfort on the water. Finally, your expectations from the holiday will also shape your decision. Are you looking for an adventurous and active experience at sea, or do you simply want to relax and enjoy the sun and waves? The answer to this question will play a crucial role in determining the most suitable charter type for you.
Popular Blue Cruise Routes in Türkiye Once you’ve decided to charter a yacht, the next step is to plan your route through Türkiye’s stunning bays. Here are some of the most popular blue cruise itineraries:
What’s the Best Option for a Blue Cruise? If you’re considering a Blue Cruise to explore the unique bays of the Aegean and Mediterranean, you’ve already chosen a vacation that promises peace and freedom. To make the most of this unforgettable experience, selecting the right yacht and the appropriate charter type is essential.
If you're setting sail with your family or a large group of friends, catamarans are an ideal choice thanks to their spacious living areas and greater stability at sea, offering both safety and comfort. For smaller groups, monohull yachts provide a more practical and streamlined option.
In terms of charter type, if you have sailing experience and a valid license, and you want complete freedom to set your own itinerary, bareboat chartering is likely the best fit for you. However, if your priority is to relax and enjoy time with your loved ones, a skippered charter would be a more suitable option. For those who value comfort and want to spend their holiday completely at ease, we recommend choosing a crewed charter with a skipper.
At this point, it's important to revisit your expectations from the Blue Cruise. If your main goal is to relax and enjoy the scenery, sea, and sunshine, we suggest opting for both a skipper and crew so that you can fully unwind without worrying about daily tasks. With the right choices, your Blue Cruise can turn into a once-in-a-lifetime sea adventure.
With options for bareboat, skippered, and fully crewed charters, and a young and luxurious fleet consisting of monohulls and catamarans, Asmira Marine has been part of countless unforgettable adventures for years. Asmira Marine also supports you with additional services such as provisioning, Gennaker rental (depending on yacht availability), water sports equipment, and Wi-Fi internet access, all to ensure the most comfortable vacation for you and your guests. To plan your holiday or reach our offices, contact details, and latest news, visit our website: www.asmiramarine.com/en/
With a sense of responsibility for developing marine tourism by introducing more people to our country's unique bays, Asmira Marine meets the needs and demands of its customers with a fleet of boats of different sizes and equipment.