How much Sailing Experience do you need before you can Bareboat Charter

SailBreeze Marine Yacht Charter
16 hours ago
2 min read

While requirements vary, bareboat charter companies typically require at least 10 to 20 days as skipper (or 200–400 nautical miles) on a similar-sized vessel. A solid sailing resume, including experience with anchoring, docking, and boat systems, is essential, often supplemented by certifications like ASA 104, RYA Day Skipper, IYT Bareboat Skipper or an ICC.

Key Requirements and Recommendations

Experience Requirements: Many companies look for at least 10 days as skipper for easier areas (e.g., Bahamas, St. Martin) and 20 days for more challenging areas (e.g., Seychelles, French Polynesia).
Sailing Resume: A detailed resume detailing your experience, including types of boats, locations, and roles (skipper/crew), is essential, notes.
Certifications: While not always mandatory, having a certification like ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising, RYA Day Skipper or IYT Bareboat Skipper is often required or strongly recommended to demonstrate competency.
Vessel Size: The experience must be on a vessel of similar size to the one you plan to charter (typically 30–55 feet).
Alternative Option: If you lack the required experience, you can hire a professional skipper for the first day to verify your skills or for the entire trip.

Requirements and Recommended for Thailand

Bareboat sailing in Thailand generally requires the skipper to hold a recognised sailing qualification equivalent to the RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate or International Certificate of Competence (ICC). Charter companies typically require at least 10 days or 200 nautical miles of experience as skipper on a similar-sized yacht, along with a competent crew member over 18.

Key Requirements and Qualifications

Certifications: While formal qualifications are not always mandatory, they are highly recommended (e.g., RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104, or IYT Bareboat Skipper).
Experience: You must be proficient in docking, navigation, and anchoring in tropical conditions.
VHF License: A VHF radio operator's license is frequently required for chartered vessels.
Alternatives: If you lack the required experience, many providers, such as ourselves, offer the option to hire a local skipper.

Sailing Areas & Seasonality

Phuket (South West): Ideal in the dry season (November–April) with light to moderate winds.
Koh Samui (Gulf of Thailand): Best during the drier months, roughly May to September, although safe for much of the year.'
Koh Chang (Gulf of Thailand): Best during the cooler months, roughly October to March, although safe for much of the year.'

Required Documentation

Most companies will require a sailing resume (CV) outlining your experience and a copy of your license prior to booking.

Additional Resources

If you're eager to learn more about sailing certifications, check out these helpful links:

"Everything You Wanted to Know About Sailing Licenses or Certificates":
Read more here
"About the Certification Systems of the Different Sailing and Yachting Schools": Learn more here
"What is the Difference Between a Sailing License and a Sailing Certificate?": Discover more here
"RYA vs IYT: Unleashing the Power of Unparalleled Sailing Education": Explore here
"How To Become A Ship Captain in the Merchant Navy": Find out here
"Why Do RYA Certificates Have No Expiry Dates, While IYT Has to Be Renewed Every 5 Years?": Click here for details
Why Do RYA Certificates Have No Expiry Dates, While IYT Has to Be Renewed Every 5 Years? Click here to know why.