Tips to charter a sailboat

Make your next trip to the beach memorable and exciting by chartering a sailboat. See below for some tips.

Check online to see if the area you are travelling to has charters available and, if not, check surrounding areas to see if a town or city nearby has a vessel for hire. Depending on the size of your party, you may have to hire a larger vessel. If you find a boat but it can't accommodate your party, ask the captain if he knows anyone who can help you out; he may have a friend with a boat nearby.

Charters can greatly vary in price depending on where you are chartering a boat and how large the boat needs to be. While prices in the Philippines can be as low as $525 per day, in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, the charters can cost as much as $3,500.

Most boats can be chartered for a day trip, which is great if you want to sail but don't have a lot of time. For other, more adventurous sailors, multiple day trips can be organized where you sleep on the boat and see several beaches.

Even if it's your first time sailing, there is nothing to fear. Many captains will hire a "boat boy" to help with the more complicated tasks on the boat. Sometimes you may be asked to tie off a rope, for example, but the more difficult duties will be taken care of by the professionals. Don't forget to sit back and enjoy the trip!

Anyone can take their beach vacation to the next level by chartering a sailboat. Make sure the boat is right for your party and that the type of rental fits your budget and schedule. With help from the captain, anyone can find their sea legs and enjoy an extraordinary experience.