Hiring someone to sail your yacht or sailboat can be a stressful decision. There are many considerations to think about. How experienced are they? Have they sailed a boat similar to mine? Will they be professional and maintain the boat on the water? How much is too much for sailboat delivery captain rates? As with anything, price dictates value. If you are going to find the cheapest captain out there, you will probably end up the cheapest level of service. Below are a few things to keep in mind when negotiating pricing with a sailboat delivery captain:
1.) How Long is the Trip?
- Will the captain have to hire a crew for a multi-week trip or will it be a few days? The length of time out at sea will dramatically affect the total cost. If you are asking them to sail from Boston the the Cape, expect a cost of around $200 for the day, plus expenses.
2.) Is this an International Trip?
- If you are asking someone to leave the country and sail through international waters, they will expect compensation equal to the challenge. For particularly long trips overseas, expect anywhere from $300-400 a day plus expenses.
3.) What Kind of Condition Is Your Boat In?
- Will your captain have to worry about the boat breaking down or taking on water? Will they have to do constant repairs while out at sea? If your boat is in dire shape or looks like it will be dangerous to sail, many captains will not take the risk. Price is heavily dependent on how much work the boat will require and whether the captain considers it safe to sail on.
4.) Will You Be Accompanying Them?
- If you plan on accompanying them you might be able to get a bit of a discount...or not, depending on the captain. Some like the company, others may not. Get a feel for the captain you are speaking with and negotiate from there.
Final Word: You can expect anywhere from $200-400 a day plus expenses for an experienced sailboat delivery captain rates, be wary of anything below that.
Looking for a new boat? Check out our favorite boats of 2016.