The main benefit of having us source your skipper is that we hand-pick someone we’ve had consistently good experiences with and match them to your group and the style of trip you want.

If you go with a charter company skipper, they will usually assign someone from their available pool. You often will not be involved in the selection and may only learn who your skipper is just before departure.

With a 45D skipper, we are looking at more than competence. We are looking for the right fit for your week — your group, your pace, your confidence level and the kind of experience you want to have.

You also have the wider 45D team behind the scenes if anything needs support during the charter.

We look at the style of trip you want, who is in your group, how confident you are on the water and the overall atmosphere you are after, then match you with a skipper we believe is the best fit.

Some are better suited to families and first-timers, others to more active itineraries or guests wanting to learn along the way.

Yes. One of the benefits of booking a 45D skipper is that you are not left meeting them completely cold on arrival day.

We aim to confirm your skipper in advance so you know who you are sailing with and can feel more comfortable before the charter begins.

Yes.

In the lead-up to your charter, we will set up a WhatsApp group with you, your skipper and the 45D team so you can ask questions, discuss preferences and connect before your week starts. It makes the whole experience feel more personal and far less last-minute.

Your skipper is responsible for the safe operation of the yacht, route planning, weather decisions, marina manoeuvres and the overall flow of the charter on the water.

A good skipper also helps shape the week in a way that feels smooth and enjoyable — suggesting stops, guiding timing, adapting to conditions and helping your group feel confident and looked after throughout the trip.

Absolutely.

That is one of the biggest advantages of having the right skipper in Croatia. The best route is rarely something you lock in once and follow exactly. Weather, marina availability, crowds and your group’s energy all play a part. A good skipper helps shape the week in real time so it feels natural and well judged.

Yes — and often that is part of what makes the week better.

Conditions on the water, berth availability and your group’s mood can all affect what makes sense on any given day. A good skipper knows when to stay flexible and when to change the plan to keep the week running smoothly. Remember too your skipper is the one that will make the call on the day to keep the yacht, the crew and everyone onboard safe.

Yes — and that is part of the matching process.

Some skippers are especially good with families and first-time charter guests. Others suit more active groups or guests wanting more sailing. We take all of that into account when recommending the right person for your week.

The skipper is responsible for the yacht, navigation, safety and the overall running of the charter on the water.

A hostess focuses on the guest experience onboard. Depending on the setup, that can include preparing breakfasts or light lunches, helping with provisioning, keeping the interior tidy and creating a warm, comfortable atmosphere throughout the week.

Not always, but for many groups it makes a big difference.

If you want a more relaxed holiday where meals, tidiness and guest comfort are better looked after, a hostess can transform the experience. This is especially helpful for families, celebrations, mixed-age groups or anyone wanting the week to feel more like a holiday and less like self-catering on a yacht.

A skipper’s main role is the safe running of the yacht and the overall flow of the charter, not full guest service.

Some skippers are happy to help with bits and pieces, and if you want meals, more support with onboard comfort or a smoother hosted experience, adding a hostess is usually the better option.

This can be arranged as many of our skippers are happy to share knowledge as you go.

If you want to build confidence or learn more while sailing, let us know early. We can then match you with someone who suits that style of trip.

We do not expect our skippers to be onboard training you full time during your week for this you need a specialised training skipper and the appropriate fees will be charged for their expertise and knowledge.

No. And if you have seen a profile you like or have sailed with someone before, tell us. If they are available and the fit is right for your group and the 45D team, we will look at making that happen.

Yes.

We only work with skippers who hold the appropriate qualifications and have experience operating in Croatia. Just as importantly, we look for skippers who communicate well, make calm decisions and know how to help guests enjoy a great week, not just sail the yacht safely.

We are there to support you and your skipper/crew.

Because your skipper sits within the wider 45D experience, we can step in if something needs solving, help with communication and support you if conditions change or an issue comes up during the charter. Along with assisting with on land logistics if needed.

Yes most times our 45D Skippers and Hostesses will be more expensive than a Charter company skipper.

The real value is not just in the daily rate. It is in the matching, the communication, the support around the charter and the fact that you are not simply being assigned whoever happens to be available.

If you have already booked your yacht and want the 45D team to help source the right skipper or crew for you, we can often assist. It depends on timing, the charter company involved and availability. It is definitely worth asking.

Remember though on this point you will need to ensure that your skipper/crew have a guest cabin and direct access to a bathroom as a minimum requirement for a 45D skipper or crew.

No, gratuities are not included.

If you feel your skipper or crew have done a great job and helped make your week especially enjoyable, a gratuity is always appreciated, and it is entirely at your discretion. The amount, if any, is up to you and should reflect your experience onboard.