Frequent Asked Questions

What should I bring with me?
There is no need to bring bedding, sheets or towels since we provide it.
Casual wearing is recommended, and since the weather is usually sunny you will spend most of the vacation in bathing suits, so bring even a few of them. You will spend most time on board barefoot, but it's good to pack some flip-flops and a rubber soled sandals or "reef runners" for venturing ashore.
Hat, sunglasses and sunscreens with at least 20SPF are very highly recommended, as well as soothing after sun products. An extra sweater and long cotton pants for cool nights and a light foul-weather gear for the occasional rainy days. Your toiletry bag should include all the usual items and perhaps insect repellent and seasickness pill just in case.
Also, if you intend to visit monasteries and churches while in Greece, a dress or skirt to cover women is requested.
Bring your favourite reading materials and music in CDs or mp3.
If possible, pack your things in soft-sided bags, especially if chartering a small sailing boat.

Can I bring children on a yacht charter vacation?
All private crewed charter yachts are child-friendly, although the crew is busy with their responsibilities, so if your charter party includes children, you will be fully responsible for their safety, conduct and entertainment.
On bareboats you are the skipper and therefore you should decide for yourself whether or not you wish to bring children on holiday with you and parents know what is best for their children, and therefore how they wish to proceed.
Please ask for our advice, would be more than happy to assist you.

Are gratuities for the crew included in the price?
The tips for the crew are extra. At the end of every crewed or skippered charter, at your discretion, it is customary to tip the Captain and crew. If you have had a wonderful time and think it was as a result of long hours and attention to detail by the crew, then 10% of the base charter fee may be fair.

Can I bring my pet?
Pets are not allowed on board yachts. Crews have a duty to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness. Pets can be even more sensitive than humans and longer cruises can be very uncomfortable for pets.

Is smoking allowed on yachts?
Some areas allow smoking, but it is specifically strictly forbidden in cabins or state rooms. Most skippers do allow smoking on deck. If any of your guests are smokers, please advice ALTERNATVE SAILING and we will tell the crew and do our best to accommodate your wishes.

What's on the menu?
A locally based food is prepared for you in order to make you know the local cuisine and culture. If you have any preference please let us know before your trip.
It is important that the crew know in advance of any allergies or serious food aversions.

What do we do about passports and visas?
Passports must be taken, and visas, if applicable, must be secured in advance of the charter.

Might we get seasick?
Seasickness is a possibility. If you are worried about it, please check with your pharmacist for recommended medication prior to departure. If it is your first time on board a yacht, tell us and the crew and they will try to make your cruising route as comfortable as they possibly can, by looking for recommended routes in protected waters and away from bad weather.

What insurances are needed?
The boat and the passengers are insured by the owner. If you wish you can additionally insure yourself and you guests.

Can we cruise at night?
We try to ensure our clients are as safe as possible during their charter so we usually do not recommend cruising at night. However, this will be dependent on weather conditions and at the captain's discretion.

Can you arrange airport transfers?
Your journey to and from your charter should be as seamless as possible, so we will happily arrange transfer. Please inform us of your flight details and we will arrange this prior to your charter. This will be at a small extra cost.

What is the Embarkation/Disembarkation time?
Please read about our Embarkation-Disembarkation time here

For any other question you might have, please, do not hesistate to ask us.
Our email is info@alternativesailing.gr

For more general FAQ, please, visit Matt Barrett's http://www.greektravel.com/faq/index.html

Thank you