Think sailing is only for millionaires? Think again.
Once seen as the playground of the rich and famous, sailing has undergone a sea change. Thanks to platforms like Borrow A Boat, sailing on a budget is no longer just a dream, it’s a smart, stylish, and surprisingly affordable way to travel. Whether you’re planning a friends’ getaway, a romantic escape, or a full-blown family holiday, there’s a way to set sail without sinking your savings.
Let’s bust the myths and dive into how you can enjoy sailing on a budget in 2025 — one with all the beauty of luxury travel, minus the sky-high costs.
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Is Sailing Actually Affordable? (Spoiler: Yes, Here’s Why)
Still think “yacht charter” equals private jets and celebrity price tags? Here’s why that’s no longer the case:
- Chartering ≠ yacht ownership. When you charter, you skip all the expensive parts: no maintenance, no mooring fees, no insurance worries.
- Chartering ≠ yacht ownership. When you charter, you skip all the expensive parts: no maintenance, no mooring fees, no insurance worries.
- Costs are shared. Bring your friends or family and divide the total. Suddenly, you’re looking at low-cost boat rentals for less than a hotel stay.
- Flexibility is everything. You decide the route, the pace, and the extras. Budget sailing doesn’t mean compromise — it means making smart choices.
- With the right boat and travel dates, you can go sailing on a budget for under €250/week per person.
Best Budget-Friendly Boats to Charter in 2025
If you want to get the most out of your money, choosing the right boat is essential. Here’s what to know:
- Sailboats vs Catamarans:
Sailboats tend to be cheaper and offer a traditional experience. Catamarans are roomier — ideal for groups — and often provide better value per person.
- Shared vs Private Charters:
Skipping the skipper? Going bareboat (if you’re qualified) will save you hundreds. Or, consider a shared charter to keep things ultra-affordable.
- Featured Listings on Borrow a Boat:
| Rent a Sailboat in Greece Beneteau Oceanis 37 | Rent a Catamaran in Croatia Lagoon 450 |
| Location: Lefkada (Greece) Guests: 8 Cabins: 3 Total cost: 1938 Euro (travel dates in this example: July 23rd – July 30th) Cost per person: 242 Euro If you rent this boat including a captain, you can travel with a crew of 7 and the cost per person will be 427 Euro | Location: Dubrovnik (Croatia) Guests: 12 Cabins: 6 Total cost: 5007 Euro (travel dates in this example: June 1st – June 8th) Cost per person: 417 Euro If you rent this boat including a captain, you pay an additional 200 Euro per day. |
Need a cheap yacht charter with flexible options? Filter by size, destination, and amenities to find your ideal match on Borrow A Boat.
Top Affordable Sailing Destinations for 2025
Dreaming of white-sand beaches, island hopping, or historic coastlines? These sailing on a budget destinations deliver beauty and affordability in equal measure.
Croatia on a Budget
Croatia continues to reign as Europe’s sailing on a budget destination. With its close-knit archipelago and short sailing distances between islands like Hvar, Vis, and Brač, you’ll save both time and fuel. Budget anchorages are easy to find, and the fresh seafood and local wine at family-run konobas won’t stretch your wallet. Whether you’re island-hopping or soaking up Dubrovnik’s charm from the water, sailing on a budget here feels anything but cheap just smart.
Greek islands for Less
The Greek Islands offer a timeless blend of history, culture, and coastline, all without a hefty price tag. Affordable marinas and free mooring spots are common, especially in the Cyclades or Dodecanese. Stop off at small harbors with charming tavernas serving delicious food at a fraction of tourist prices. Short charters between close-by islands like Paros, Naxos, and Syros make this region ideal for sailing on a budget and enjoying magical sunsets.
Caribbean on a Budget
Think the Caribbean is out of your price range?. Beyond the glitzy resorts of the Virgin Islands lies a collection of lesser-known gems like Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Grenada where sailing on a budget is entirely possible. Visit during the shoulder seasons May to June or September to November and you’ll score incredible yacht charter deals. With vibrant local culture, empty beaches, and calm anchorages, the Caribbean proves you don’t need billionaire status to enjoy paradise.
Thailand (Bonus Budget Pick)
For those seeking long-haul adventure without the long-haul price tag, Thailand is also part of the sailing on a budget dream. The Andaman Sea, dotted with limestone cliffs and turquoise bays, is perfect for first-timers and experienced sailors alike. Daily expenses are incredibly low, think beachside meals for under €5 and low mooring fees. Whether you’re exploring the Phi Phi Islands or hidden lagoons around Krabi, Thailand delivers luxury landscapes on a budget.
Planning a Family Sailing Holiday Without Breaking the Bank
One of the easiest ways to make sailing on a budget work for families is to go bigger with your boat. More cabins means you can split the total cost across more people, lowering the price per head. Mealtimes are another opportunity to save: skip the tourist restaurants and cook onboard using fresh local ingredients from markets along the way. Not only is it cheaper, but it’s part of the adventure.
You’ll also find that some of the best family fun is completely free such as snorkelling in crystal-clear bays, paddleboarding near the coast, or simply swimming and sunbathing together. For even more savings, sail during the shoulder season (May, June, or September) when prices are lower, and popular destinations are far less crowded. Calm-sea areas like Greece’s Ionian Islands or Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast are perfect for family-friendly routes with short sailing distances and plenty to explore.
Insider Tips to Keep Your Charter Costs Down
Sailing on a budget doesn’t mean cutting corners because it’s about making smart decisions that stretch your money further. One of the best ways to save is to book early, when there’s more choice and often better prices. Alternatively, if you’re flexible, keep an eye out for last-minute deals that can offer serious discounts.
Packing light is another underrated tip. Fewer bags mean fewer airline fees and less to provision for once onboard. Speaking of provisioning it is best to skip the tourist supermarkets and stock up at local farmers’ markets or small village stores for fresher, cheaper goods. Finally, don’t feel pressured to opt for every onboard extra. Unless you absolutely need Wi-Fi, it’s often better (and more relaxing) to unplug and enjoy life offline. With these simple tips, affordable sailing holidays are completely within reach!
Have we changed your Mind? Discover hundreds of affordable charters on Borrow A Boat and turn your next trip into a story worth telling — for less than you’d expect.