There are many variables to consider when advising clients on how far they can expect to sail during a yacht charter. It depends entirely on the crew, the yacht, weather conditions, and of course, personal preferences.

At Hinde & Kitch, we generally recommend sailing between 3 to 5 hours per day, with an average cruising speed of around 6 knots. This allows you to cover roughly 18–30 nautical miles per day, which works out to approximately 126–210 nautical miles over a week-long charter.

Naturally, this varies depending on the availability of anchorages and marinas, and how much time the crew wishes to spend under sail each day.

Typical Cruising Speeds by Yacht Type

  • Sailing Monohull: Average 5–7 knots

  • Catamaran: Average 6–9 knots – more stable and often faster, ideal for covering more distance

  • Motor Yacht: 15–25+ knots – much faster, best suited for longer-range itineraries

Key Factors Affecting Sailing Distances

There’s more to planning a route than just boat speed. Here are some important considerations:

  • Wind & Weather: Sailing depends heavily on wind conditions. Too much wind—or too little—can restrict your progress.

  • Route Style: Linear routes (point A to point B) typically cover more ground. Circular or island-hopping routes involve shorter daily passages.

  • Crewed vs Bareboat: Professional crews tend to sail further, thanks to their experience and in-depth local knowledge.

  • Guest Preferences: Some guests prefer a leisurely 2–3 hours of sailing per day, while others may enjoy longer days at sea.

  • Night Sailing: Generally not permitted on most charters unless you’re on a fully crewed yacht with overnight passage capability.

Daily Sailing vs Shore Time

If you plan to spend part of each day exploring ashore—whether wandering through villages or swimming in secluded bays—here’s a rough idea of how much distance you can cover during your remaining sailing hours:

Charter Duration Average Distance Typical Range (NM)
1 Day 20–30 NM Short coastal passages
3 Days 60–100 NM 2–4 island or port stops
7 Days 126–210 NM 4–7 islands or ports of call
14 Days 200–400+ NM Broader regional itineraries