What is a last-minute yacht charter?
A last-minute charter is a boat week that is still unbooked close to departure — typically within 2–8 weeks. Charter fleets would rather sail the boat at a lower price than leave it at the dock, so these weeks are often discounted 15–30% below the published price.
How does SailNow get discounts?
We are a booking agent. Charter operators pay agents a commission, typically 15–20% on bareboat charters. On last-minute and off-peak weeks we combine operator-authorised discounts with part of our own commission, so you pay less than the list price and the operator fills an otherwise empty week.
Who actually provides the boat?
Every boat is owned or managed by an independent, licensed charter operator — the same fleets you would find at the marina. They prepare the boat, run check-in and hold the security deposit. SailNow finds the deal, handles the booking and stays your point of contact.
Do I need a sailing licence?
For a bareboat charter (no crew), at least one person usually needs a recognised qualification such as the ICC, RYA Day Skipper or an equivalent national licence, plus a sailing résumé; Croatia also requires a VHF radio certificate. ASA certificates alone are often not accepted in the Mediterranean. No licence? Choose a skippered or fully crewed charter.
What is the difference between bareboat, skippered and crewed?
Bareboat: you sail the boat yourself. Skippered: a professional skipper sails with you (their fee and food are extra). Crewed: skipper plus a host or chef, usually on a larger catamaran or yacht, often with an all-inclusive or APA pricing model.
What is not included in the charter price?
It varies by operator, but extras commonly include fuel, marina and mooring fees, end-cleaning, transit log, tourist tax, outboard engine, bed linen packs and optional items like paddleboards. We show the operator's mandatory extras before you pay.
Is there a security deposit?
Yes. Operators take a refundable security deposit at check-in, typically from about $2,000 to $8,000 depending on the boat and region. Many offer a non-refundable damage-waiver that reduces it.
Can I cancel a last-minute booking?
Last-minute charters are usually paid in full and are often non-refundable because the operator cannot resell the week. We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.
When is the best time to find a deal?
Shoulder seasons — May–June and September–October in the Mediterranean, early December and May in the Caribbean, November and April in Thailand — combine good sailing with the most unbooked weeks. Join Deal Alerts to hear first.
Still wondering? Ask us anything.