
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section for Corfu Private Boats covers the most common questions about private boat trips, from destinations and what’s included to safety, cancellations, and weather. It helps guests quickly understand how the platform works, what to expect on board, and why booking through us is the easiest, safest way to enjoy Corfu by sea.
What types of private boat trips do you offer in Corfu?
We offer a wide range of private boat trips in Corfu, including half‑day and full‑day cruises to Paleokastritsa, Paxos & Antipaxos, Sivota, Blue Caves, North East Corfu bays, and sunset cruises. You can choose from small speedboats and RIBs to yachts and catamarans, depending on your group size, budget, and preferred route.
Do I need a boating license to book with Corfu Private Boats?
For our standard private boat trips with a professional skipper, you do not need any boating license or previous experience. If you are interested in bareboat/self‑drive rentals, these do require only a valid driver's license, no skippers license is necessary.
How long are the trips and what is the typical schedule?
The boat trips range from short 2 ( sunset cruise ), half-day to 3–4 hour cruises, full‑day experiences of 6–8 hours, with morning, afternoon, and sunset options. Exact departure and return times depend on the destination and season, and will be clearly confirmed in your booking details.
What is included in the price of a private boat trip?
Typically, the price includes the boat, professional skipper, basic fuel allowance for the planned route, safety equipment, and standard cleaning/port fees. Many trips also include traditional Greek meal and drinks, and some boats offer snacks or light meals—your specific inclusions will be listed clearly in your quote. You can always amend the menu based on the allergies, preferences, or order catering services if this is a party.
Can we customize our itinerary?
Yes, most of our trips are fully customizable within the limits of safety, sea conditions, and time. You can tell us your preferred destinations, type of experience (swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, relaxing), and timing, and we will propose 2–3 tailored options to choose from.
What deposit is required and when is the balance due?
Typically, a 15% deposit is required to secure the boat, with the remaining balance payable closer to the trip date or on the day of departure before boarding, depending on the boat owner’s policy. Exact deposit percentages and payment timelines are clearly stated in your booking confirmation.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of our trip?
Safety always comes first. If the captain or port authorities decide that weather or sea conditions are unsafe, we will offer to reschedule your trip or provide a full refund if rescheduling is not possible. We monitor forecasts closely and will keep you informed in the days leading up to your cruise.
Are snorkeling or swimming equipment / SUPs provided?
Most boats include basic snorkeling masks or equipment, especially on trips to Paleokastritsa, Paxos & Antipaxos, Blue Caves, and similar clear‑water spots. If you have your own gear or special size requirements (like kids’ masks), we recommend bringing them for the best fit.
Are there toilets and shade on the boats?
Many of our larger boats and yachts have toilets and indoor or shaded seating areas, while smaller speedboats and RIBs typically offer sunshade canopies but may not have a toilet on board. Tell us your comfort needs, and we will recommend boats with the facilities that matter most to you. If some facilities are not available on board, they would be available on the beaches when we dock.
Can you arrange special events such as proposals, birthdays, or hen/stag parties?
Yes, private boats are ideal for special occasions such as romantic proposals, birthdays, anniversaries, or hen and stag parties. We can help with decorations, cakes, champagne, photographers, and custom routes to make your event truly memorable on the water.
What is your cancellation policy and what happens if the weather changes?
Our cancellation policy is clearly outlined at the time of booking and usually allows free cancellation within 30-day period before departure; after that window, partial or full charges may apply depending on how close it is to your trip date. If the captain or port authorities decide that weather or sea conditions are unsafe, we will offer to reschedule your trip to another available date or provide a refund according to our terms, as safety always comes first.
How many people can join a private boat trip?
Our fleet includes boats suitable for couples, families, and larger groups, typically ranging from 2 up to around 100 guests per boat, depending on the vessel. For bigger groups, we can arrange multiple boats or larger vessels to ensure everyone travels comfortably and safely.
What destinations can we visit on a private boat trip?
Popular destinations include Paleokastritsa and its caves, Paxos & Antipaxos, Blue Caves, Sivota, the North East Corfu coastline (Nissaki, Kassiopi, Kalami), and nearby islets. We can also suggest quieter bays and hidden coves accessible only by boat, tailored to your time and sea conditions.
From which ports do the boats depart?
Most private trips depart from Corfu Town marinas or key areas such as Gouvia, Dassia, Ipsos, Kassiopi, or Paleokastritsa, depending on your chosen route and boat type. For longer trips to Paxos & Antipaxos or Sivota - from Lefkimi Port, however the departures can be arranged from the most convenient marina to reduce travel time on the water.
What is not included in the price?
Extras that may not be included are additional fuel if you choose to extend the route, special catering, alcoholic drinks, hotel transfers, and optional add‑ons such as photographers or specific food choices. Any extra costs are discussed in advance so you know exactly what to expect before confirming your booking.
How do I make a booking?
You can send us an inquiry through our website contact form, email, or phone/WhatsApp with your preferred dates, group size, and destination. We will then send you detailed options and prices; once you choose the boat and itinerary, we confirm your reservation after receiving the agreed deposit
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms vary slightly by boat and season, but generally you may cancel free of charge within a certain period before the trip, and weather‑related cancellations decided by the captain are fully refundable or rescheduled. All conditions are explained in writing during booking so there are no surprises
Are children and elderly guests welcome on board?
Yes, families with children and elderly guests are very welcome, and many of our boats and routes are chosen with comfort and safety in mind. Normally, these would be a shade/ cabin and a WC. Please let us know if you are traveling with very young children, elderly guests, or anyone with mobility issues so we can suggest the most suitable boats and boarding points
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
In most cases, you are welcome to bring your own snacks, meals, and drinks on board, including a reasonable amount of alcohol, as long as it is consumed responsibly and allowed by the specific boat owner. If you prefer, we can also help arrange catering or suggest boats that already include food and drinks in the package.
Is travel insurance or boat insurance included?
All boats operating with us are required to carry the legally mandated boat insurance and safety equipment. However, we strongly recommend that you also have your own travel insurance to cover personal belongings, medical issues, and trip cancellations beyond our control.
Why should we book with Corfu Private Boats ( charter broker ) instead of going directly to a boat owner?
Corfu Private Boats brings together a carefully selected range of local boats across the island, giving you more choice and impartial advice from one trusted team. We work only with vetted partners, provide multiple tailored options per inquiry, and support you before, during, and after your trip so your experience is smooth, safe, and carefree from first contact to final swim.
Is there safety equipment on board the boats?
Yes, all boats we work with carry the legally required safety equipment, including life jackets, signaling devices, and other mandatory gear checked regularly according to Greek maritime regulations. Your skipper will also give a short safety briefing before departure so everyone on board knows where the equipment is located and what to do in case of an emergency.


