Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before you book

The Basics

Do I need a sailing licence or any experience?

None whatsoever. All our cruises in Halkidiki operate with a professional skipper on board. You simply relax and enjoy the journey — the sailing is taken care of.

What if I get seasick?

Our vessels are stable and the waters around Halkidiki are generally calm, but if you’re sensitive, we recommend a light breakfast and a seasickness tablet 30 minutes before boarding. Let the skipper know and he’ll choose calmer routes and anchorages.

Is the cruise suitable for young children?

Absolutely. Sailing is one of the best experiences you can give a child. We carry life jackets for all ages and our vessels have safety netting where needed. Children are always welcome on board.

Is there a toilet on board?

Yes — all Halkidiki Sailing — Babasails Yachting vessels have a fully equipped marine toilet (heads) and a freshwater deck shower.

How many guests can come on board?

Our sailing yachts accommodate up to 11 guests and our catamaran up to 12 guests — small enough to feel private, large enough for a group.

On Board Experience

Is food and drink included in the price?

Most of our cruises include snacks, seasonal fruit, soft drinks and local wine. For a full meal, we can arrange catering on board or a stop at a waterfront taverna — just let us know when booking.

Can we bring our own food and drinks?

Of course. We have a fridge on board to keep your snacks and drinks cold throughout the day.

Is there shade on the boat?

Yes — there is a large bimini awning covering the cockpit (where you sit), so you can move in and out of the sun whenever you like.

Can we play our own music?

Yes! All vessels have a Bluetooth sound system — come with your Spotify playlist ready. 🎶

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, we provide masks, snorkels and fins at no extra charge so you can explore the crystal-clear waters of Halkidiki properly.

Location & Route

Where does the boat depart from?

We operate from four departure points: Paliouri Chrousso Pier (Kassandra), Porto Carras Marina (Sithonia), Ammoa Marina, Nikiti (Sithonia) and Latoura Marina, Ormos Panagias (Sithonia). Choose the base closest to where you’re staying.

Which places will we visit?

Routes typically include Kelyfos Island, the Spalathronisia archipelago, the secret coves of Porto Carras, or the Diaporos Blue Lagoon. The exact route is flexible depending on conditions and what you’d like to see.

Can we choose where to stop?

That’s the beauty of a private cruise. In agreement with the skipper, you can spend more time at an anchorage you love — there’s no fixed timetable to follow.

Preparation & Policies

What should I bring?

Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat — and your best mood. A light windproof layer is useful for afternoon and sunset cruises when the sea breeze picks up.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Your safety is our priority. If conditions don’t allow us to depart, we reschedule to another date or refund 100% of your deposit. We never sail in unsafe conditions.

How far in advance should I book?

For July and August, we recommend booking at least 2–3 weeks ahead. Sunset cruises in particular fill up very quickly — the earlier the better.

Are pets allowed on board?

We love four-legged guests! Small, well-behaved dogs are welcome by prior arrangement. 🐾

What’s the difference between a morning and a sunset cruise?

The morning and half-day cruises focus on swimming and snorkeling — the water is at its clearest and the anchorages are quietest. The sunset cruise is more relaxed and atmospheric, with wine included and the full Halkidiki sunset as the backdrop.

Is there somewhere to charge my phone?

Yes — there are USB charging points in the cabin for keeping devices topped up throughout the day.

Technical & Equipment

What type of boats do you operate?

Our fleet consists of classic sailing yachts (monohulls) from well-regarded builders including Bavaria Yachts, plus a Lavezzi 40 catamaran — all chosen for their performance, comfort at anchor, and character.

What safety equipment is on board?

All vessels meet the strictest Greek Coast Guard requirements: life raft, EPIRB, life jackets for all guests, flares, first aid kit and VHF radio. The skipper conducts a safety briefing before departure.

Does the Meltemi wind affect cruises in Halkidiki?

The Meltemi in Halkidiki is significantly milder than in the Cyclades. Our routes are always planned to take advantage of sheltered coastlines, so swimming conditions remain calm even on windier days.

Do you actually sail, or just motor?

We sail whenever the wind allows — typically above 8–10 knots. The engine is used in harbour and on flat-calm days. On a full day cruise, there’s almost always time for both.

Can I help sail the boat?

Absolutely — our skippers are happy to share their knowledge. You’re welcome to trim the sails, take the helm, or simply watch and learn. No experience needed.

Special Requests & Events

Can you organise team building or bachelor/bachelorette events?

We specialise in custom sailing events. We can coordinate a fleet of multiple vessels for larger groups of up to 100 guests sailing together — contact us to discuss your requirements.

What’s the footwear policy on board?

To protect the deck, we ask guests to wear clean soft-soled shoes (boat shoes) or go barefoot. Street shoes stay on the dock.

Is smoking allowed on board?

Smoking is permitted only in the cockpit (rear of the vessel) and never below deck, for safety and comfort reasons.

How eco-friendly is a sailing cruise?

Sailing is the most environmentally responsible form of marine tourism. We minimise single-use plastics on board and prioritise sailing over motoring wherever possible — zero carbon when the wind is up.

Why choose Halkidiki Sailing — Babasails Yachting?

We bring 20 years of local experience, a well-maintained modern fleet, an unwavering focus on safety, and the kind of genuine Greek hospitality that turns a boat trip into something you’ll talk about for years. 🇬🇷☀️

Ready to Sail?

Book your cruise in Halkidiki today