The Core Question

You’re planning a boat day in Skiathos. You can rent the boat yourself (cheaper) or add a professional local skipper (more expensive). Is the skipper worth the extra cost?

The honest answer: it depends entirely on what you want from the day.

What Does a Skipper Actually Do?

Our skippers are licensed, experienced local mariners who have been navigating these waters since they were kids. Here’s what they actually do on a typical booking:

Handle all navigation, engine operation, and anchoring
Know every secret beach, cave, and anchorage on the island
Monitor weather and make real-time routing decisions
Take photos of your group at the perfect spots
Can recommend and arrange spontaneous additions (swimming stops, taverna lunches)
Allow every adult on board to fully relax and enjoy the journey

The Cost Breakdown

Self-drive Compass 165 (50HP), full day: €130 + fuel deposit (~€40) Same boat + skipper, full day: €250 total

Skipper premium: approximately €80–120 depending on season and duration.

For a group of 5: Skipper option adds ~€16–24 per person. That’s the price of two coffees in Skiathos.

Who Should Choose a Skipper?

Here’s our honest assessment — no upsell, just what we tell people who walk into our office asking the same question:

Choose WITH skipper if you:

Have never operated a boat
Want to drink alcohol on board (legally, the skipper handles all responsibility)
Are planning a long-distance crossing to Skopelos or Alonissos
Have very young children
Want maximum relaxation — no driving stress
Are celebrating (anniversary, birthday, proposal)

Choose self-drive if you:

Are a confident, licensed boater
Prefer total independence with no schedule
Want to go off-piste without asking permission
Are on a tighter budget

Our Honest Take

For first-timers, couples on a special occasion, or anyone crossing to another island: the skipper pays for itself in stress reduction and local knowledge alone. You get to enjoy the day instead of managing it. For experienced boaters who know exactly where they want to go and are comfortable with Aegean conditions: self-drive every time — it’s cheaper and you get total control of the day. Book with a skipper →