Charter - Charter a yacht
From our years of experience, we are able to offer you extensive suggestions of your potential cruising areas on the most suitable yachts for that dream holiday you have been waiting for. To make this dream holiday a reality Octana’s charter brokers have compiled a step by step guide to help you gain a better understanding of the yacht charter process. It covers some of the most important information you need to know about chartering a yacht prior to discussing with one of our yacht charter brokers or if you already have the ultimate vacation in mind, please contact us now to book the yacht charter of your dreams.
When should I charter?
In Greece the charter seasons runs from April to November. Peak summer is considered July and August, though for the “connoisseur” the rest of the months can offer amazing cruising opportunities. Starting with the Greek Easter, where one can experience the unique, picturesque local customs, going into May and June when days are getting longer and the temperature is picking up, so you can enjoy the uncluttered waters, without getting too hot and going to mid-September and October with the kind fall temperatures and usually calm waters the choice can spoil you. Cruising in the low seasons provides plenty of advantages besides discounted fares. But of course, there are those who enjoy the social life of July and August…!
Where should I charter?
Where to charter is as important as when to charter! If you want to charter in Cyclades, avoid July and August when the meltemi blows often over 30 knows, unless of course you are a keen sailor…! If you must, choose your itinerary carefully. Head south when the meltemi is strong and head north when it is dying out. During these months choose either the Sporades or the Ionian for peace of mind. If your time is limited, the golf of Saronikos, next to Athens has places that are going to be memorable. Aegina, Poros, Hydra and Spetses are not to be missed. Nor are some hidden jewels that in Octana we know where they are…!
What does the Charter Rate cover?
This is not standard in any way. But the charter rate usually covers the boat and its insurance on bareboat charters and the crew in crewed ones. Everything else is extra, including provisions and fuel. For the smaller boats and day excursions complementary drinks and sandwiches can be included in the price. For the bigger, crewed vessels to cover expenses, an Advance Provisioning Allowance (“APA”, which generally run at 25 – 30% of the charter) is collected upfront and forwarded to the captain who is accountable for expenditures. The captain will present a detailed summary of expenditures at the end of your charter. Any unspent APA funds are refunded to you. Another expense, should you be satisfied by your experience are tips to the crew, which are customary. In any case your charter broker will confirm the expenses that will be associated with your charter and inform you of the overall true cost of your cruise.
What Charter Experience do I Want?
Think before you choose! Do you feel sporty? Then you can enjoy your sailing, wind surfing, kite surfing, kayak, paddle, snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing… but also shore activities in difficult to reach with other means places, like trekking, mountain bike, climbing or even horseback riding. Is culture important for you? Do you wish to visit ancient monuments, learn about the passed civilizations, modern art, traditional events? Do you wish to explore the monasteries and orthodox churches? And while you plan any of the above maybe you would like to combine them with a special culinary experience? Or can wine tasting is some of the oldest wineries in the world be an option for you? You simply need to tell us and we will arrange it for you.
Which Toys can I get?
Enhance your charter experience when you arrive at one of your chosen destinations to swim and use one of our exciting sea toys be it a seabob, SUP, wakeboard or water skis to mention a few. We can equip the yacht with the most entertaining sea toys of your choice to further enhance your onboard experience. You only need to name it in advance. And if you do not know how to use it we can organize and instructor for you! We welcome the challenge!
Are there any Specific Advantages to Chartering with Octana?
Octana’s charter brokers are extremely knowledgeable in the industry with a wealth of experience. They utilize industry-leading tools, assets and resources that allow them to assist you with creating the holiday of a lifetime.
