Bareboat, skippered or crewed catamaran charter: which is right for you?

A catamaran charter in Greece, including a week in the Ionian from Lefkada, comes in three forms. On a bareboat charter you sail the catamaran yourself. On a skippered charter a professional local skipper sails it for you. On a crewed charter a skipper and a host or cook look after sailing, meals and cleaning. The right choice depends on your sailing experience, your budget and how much you want to relax.

What is the difference at a glance?

Who should choose a bareboat charter?

A bareboat charter suits crews with real sailing experience who want full freedom over their route and schedule. Greek rules require the skipper to hold a recognised sailing licence, such as an ICC, and a second crew member with sailing experience. You are responsible for navigation, weather decisions, anchoring and mooring stern-to in busy harbours. In the Ionian around Lefkada this is manageable for crews with moderate experience: the Inland Sea around Meganisi is sheltered, and the north-westerly maistro typically blows Force 3 to 5 in the afternoon. Open-water passages to Kefalonia, Ithaca or Paxos ask more of the crew, especially when the afternoon breeze is fresh.

Why do most families choose a skippered charter?

A skippered charter is the most popular option for families and groups of friends because it combines privacy with local expertise. The skipper sails the catamaran, plans each day around the forecast, finds sheltered anchorages and handles every mooring, while you swim, explore and learn as much sailing as you like. Local skippers also know the best tavernas, quiet bays and harbours that still have space in the evening. The skipper sleeps on board in a separate cabin or crew berth, which slightly reduces guest space.

When is a crewed charter worth it?

A crewed charter adds a host or cook to the skipper (on our catamaran Solanna, a hostess for €190 per night alongside the skipper for €210 per night), so breakfast, lunch and often dinner are prepared on board and the cabins are kept tidy. It is the right choice for special occasions, for groups who want a true holiday without chores, or for anyone who values time over budget. Meals can be adapted to allergies and preferences, and provisioning is arranged before you arrive.

How do I decide?

Start with experience: without a licence and an experienced second crew member, choose skippered or crewed. Then consider the area: the sheltered Inland Sea around Lefkada and Meganisi is friendly to bareboat crews, while longer passages to Kefalonia, Ithaca or Paxos reward a local skipper. Finally, think about comfort and budget. Solanna, our Bali 4.2 based in Marina Perigiali, Lefkada, can be chartered bareboat, with a skipper or fully crewed — see the catamaran page for her cabins, equipment and 2026 extras. If you are unsure, send us your dates and group size and we will recommend the option that fits you best.