Getting Started · 6 min
Renting a boat in Mallorca without a sailing licence: the complete guide
"Can I charter a yacht in Mallorca if I've never sailed a boat before?" It's by far the most common question from first-time guests. The short answer is yes, no problem at all — but it's worth explaining why, so you arrive at the marina on the day of your charter without a shred of doubt.
The basic rule: with a skipper included, you don't need any qualification
When the charter includes a professional skipper — which is the default at Blue Mediterranean and for the vast majority of charters in Mallorca — the sailing qualification is the skipper's responsibility, not yours. You and your group come aboard as guests: you don't need to know anything about sailing, or to have ever set foot on a boat before.
This holds whether the charter is half a day or a full day, and whether there are two of you or a large group celebrating something. The skipper handles the manoeuvring in port, the route, the anchoring and reading the day's weather.
When does a sailing qualification actually apply?
Only in one case: if you want a bareboat charter, meaning no skipper, so that you (or someone in your group) pilots the boat yourselves. In that case, whoever takes the helm does need a valid sailing qualification (a PER licence or higher, depending on the boat's type and length) and genuine sailing experience.
At Blue Mediterranean every charter includes a professional skipper by default, so this situation only applies if you specifically request it — and in that case we ask for the qualification in advance to confirm the booking.
If you've never been on a boat before, that's completely normal
Many of our guests book their very first day on the water with us. There's no preparation required on your end: the skipper walks you through the essentials once you're aboard (life jackets, safe areas, how to move around while underway), and from there your only job is to enjoy the day.
If seasickness is a worry, it usually settles within the first 20-30 minutes underway. If it's your first time, a half-day charter is a comfortable way to try the experience before booking a full day.
What's worth bringing: ID for everyone on board
Even though you don't need a sailing qualification, it's standard practice to be asked for the ID or passport of the person booking (and in some cases the rest of the guests), for the crew list every rental vessel is required to carry under maritime regulations. It's a quick step that we handle ourselves before setting sail.
What a skippered charter actually includes
A qualified professional skipper, comprehensive insurance, certified safety equipment and snorkelling gear are included on every charter. From there, you set the pace of the day — one relaxed cove, or a combined route with a stop ashore for lunch — with the skipper proposing the best options based on the day's wind and sea conditions.
Ready to experience this route for yourself?
Tell us what you're after and we'll suggest the boat and itinerary that best fits your group.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any course or previous experience to charter with a skipper?+
No, none at all. The skipper handles the boat and all the technical side; all you need to do is enjoy the day.
Can I bring children or older guests with no boating experience?+
Yes, it's one of the most common situations we see. The skipper adjusts the pace and the stops based on who's on board.
What happens if I get seasick during the trip?+
The skipper carries what's needed for this and can adjust the route or speed if necessary. It usually settles within the first few minutes underway.
What if I want a bareboat charter in the future?+
That's possible as long as whoever will pilot the boat holds a valid sailing qualification (PER or higher). Let our team know and we'll confirm availability and requirements for the boat in question.