Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the questions we hear most often about catamaran charters in Greece.
Planning your charter
What is a catamaran charter?
A catamaran charter is the rental of a sailing catamaran for a holiday, usually for one week. You can sail it yourself (bareboat), hire a skipper who sails it for you (skippered), or add a host or cook as well (crewed). A catamaran has two hulls, which makes it stable, spacious and comfortable at anchor.
What is the difference between bareboat, skippered and crewed charters?
On a bareboat charter you sail the catamaran yourself and need a recognised sailing licence plus an experienced second crew member. On a skippered charter a professional local skipper sails the boat, plans the route and handles mooring. A crewed charter adds a host or cook, so meals and cleaning are taken care of as well.
Do I need a sailing licence to charter a catamaran in Greece?
Only for a bareboat charter. Greek rules require the skipper to hold a recognised sailing licence, such as an ICC or an equivalent national certificate, and a second crew member with sailing experience. If nobody in your group has a licence, choose a skippered charter: the professional skipper is responsible for the boat.
When is the best time for a catamaran charter in the Ionian?
June and September are the best months for most groups sailing from Lefkada: warm sea, fewer crowds and steady afternoon breezes. July and August are hotter and busier, while May and October are quieter, with cooler evenings. The Ionian has no meltemi; the north-westerly maistro typically blows Force 3 to 5 in the afternoon and is often calm in the morning.
On board
How many people can sail on your catamaran?
Solanna, our Bali 4.2, sleeps up to 12 guests in 6 cabins: 4 double cabins and 2 single bow cabins, with 12 berths when the saloon converts into a double, and 4 bathrooms with WC and shower. Most groups are more comfortable with 8 to 10 people. If you add a skipper or hostess, they need berths on board too, which reduces the places for guests.
Can the catamaran be stocked with food before we arrive?
Yes. We can arrange provisioning so the catamaran is stocked with drinks, breakfast items and basic groceries when you arrive. Send us your shopping list with your booking. Many groups provision for breakfasts and lunches on board and eat dinner in harbour tavernas.
Will I get seasick on a catamaran?
Seasickness is much less common on a catamaran than on a monohull, because a catamaran does not heel and rolls less at anchor. Short daily legs in calm areas like the Ionian also help. If you are sensitive, choose sheltered routes, sit in the fresh air during crossings and bring your usual remedy.
Booking and costs
What is included in the charter price?
The charter price includes Solanna and her equipment, such as the dinghy with outboard, snorkelling gear, air conditioning and a watermaker. For the 2026 season, end cleaning (€350) is mandatory and a refundable security deposit of €700 is required, with a €400 damage waiver also offered. Fuel, marina fees, provisions, the skipper (€210 per night), the hostess (€190 per night) and extras such as Wi-Fi or SUP rental are paid separately. Your written quote lists the final price.
How does booking and payment work?
Send us an inquiry with your dates and group size. We reply with a quote within one business day. A charter is confirmed when both parties sign the charter agreement and the deposit is paid; the balance is due before departure. A refundable security deposit, or a damage waiver, is arranged at check-in.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Summer weather in Greece is usually excellent, but strong winds can occur. Your skipper or the base will adapt the route to the forecast, for example by choosing sheltered bays or staying an extra night in harbour. Safety decisions come first; the charter itself continues as planned.
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