A sailing yacht is the older, quieter cousin of the motor fleet. Crews are smaller (typically 4–6 on a 40m sailer vs. 10+ on the equivalent motor yacht), the anchorages are calmer, and the carbon footprint is a small fraction of the same trip under power. The desk's favourite for couples, repeat charterers, and anyone for whom the journey itself is the point.

What they cost, all-in

Sailing yachts charter for less than equivalent-LOA motor yachts. Entry (30–35m) from €15,000–€30,000 per week base. Mid (45–55m, e.g. a Perini Navi or Royal Huisman) €75,000–€150,000 per week. Top (60m+ classic ketches and modern J-class) €180,000+ per week. APA still applies (~25%, lower than motor) and gratuity (~10%).

Who sailing yachts suit

Couples and small groups (4–8 guests). Repeat charterers who've already done the motor-yacht thing. Sailors who want to actually sail (some classic charters let guests on the helm). Anyone planning quieter cruising grounds — the Sporades, the Grenadines, French Polynesia.

Who they don't suit

Large groups (12+) where the deck space matters. First-time charterers who want every comfort and a five-knot sea-state — sailing yachts heel; motor yachts don't. Anyone running a tight itinerary by the day, where wind dependence is a risk.