How to Charter a Yacht Overseas
What you need to bareboat charter in Croatia, Greece, the Caribbean and beyond — and how to get qualified in Auckland.
Chartering a yacht overseas is one of the best holidays a sailor can have. But before a charter company hands you the keys to a "bareboat" — a yacht with no professional skipper — they will want proof that you can handle it. Here is what you will need, and how to get it from Auckland.
What is a bareboat charter?
A bareboat charter means you hire the yacht and skipper it yourself: you are responsible for the boat, the crew, navigation and safety. The alternative is a skippered charter, where the company provides a professional skipper at extra cost.
What charter companies ask for
Skipper certificate
e.g. IYT Bareboat Skipper
A recognised skipper qualification showing you can command a yacht.
ICC
International Certificate of Competence
Commonly requested in Europe and especially around the Mediterranean.
VHF certificate
Radio operator
Often required for the skipper or a crew member.
Sailing CV
Logbook of experience
Miles sailed, days at sea and the types of boats you have handled.
Some destinations also require a second crew member with sailing experience. Always check the exact requirements with your charter company and the local authorities before you book.
Requirements by region (general guide)
Mediterranean (Croatia, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey): expect to show a recognised licence such as the ICC, often plus a VHF certificate.
Caribbean and other popular charter areas: companies often assess your sailing CV and experience — a recognised certificate makes this much easier.
Australia and the Pacific: requirements differ by operator; some accept experience plus a briefing, others ask for a certificate.
Rules change, so treat this as a starting point and confirm with your charter operator.
Get qualified from Auckland
Bareboat Skipper & ICC
5 days · from $2,395
Earn both the IYT International Bareboat Skipper certificate and the ICC in one course: five days on the water from Westhaven Marina plus online theory. Requires 200nm logged, 10 days at sea, a VHF certificate and International Crew or equivalent.
View courseMediterranean Skipper
6 hours · from $1,995
The biggest surprise in the Med is "med mooring" — reversing stern-to into a crowded quay. Our private course covers med mooring, anchoring, local rules and passage planning.
View courseNot ready yet?
Build your experience
Start with Intro to Sailing or International Crew and build up your logged miles towards Bareboat Skipper.
Which course do I need?Frequently asked questions
Is the ICC a licence?
The ICC is an internationally recognised certificate of competence for skippers of pleasure craft, widely accepted as proof of competence — particularly in Europe.
Can I charter without a qualification?
Some operators accept strong documented experience, but many — particularly in Europe — require a recognised certificate. Without one, you may need to hire a skipper.
Does my crew need qualifications?
Usually only the skipper does, though some destinations want a second experienced crew member. Crew who have done International Crew make a big difference on board.
Ready to charter?
Tell us where and when you are planning to sail and we will help you plan your training. Call 0800 145 215, email contact@yachttraining.co.nz or send us a message.