Boat Rentals, Bareboat Charters, and Skippered Adventures: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever looked into sailing in the San Francisco Bay, you’ve probably seen a whole mix of terms: bareboat charters, boat rentals, yacht charters, sailboat rentals, yachts for rent, and maybe even skippered charters. They all sound similar—but what do they really mean?
At Spinnaker Sailing, we offer both bareboat and skippered charters, and we’re here to help you navigate the language (and the water!).
Bareboat Charters vs. Bareboat Rentals
These two terms are essentially the same. A bareboat charter or rental means you’re getting the boat “bare”—no captain, no crew. You (or someone in your group) must be qualified to skipper the vessel. This is ideal for sailors who’ve completed ASA 103 or 104 with us—or have equivalent experience.
So why two terms? “Charter” is a bit more nautical and traditional, while “rental” is the more common term people use when searching online. Either way, if you're ready to take the helm, a bareboat charter gives you the freedom to explore the Bay on your own terms.
Skippered Charters or Boat Rentals with a Captain 
Not ready to sail solo? No problem. That’s where skippered charters come in. A skippered charter (or boat rental with a captain) means we provide one of our experienced, USCG-licensed captains to handle the sailing—while you relax and enjoy the view.
Skippered charters are a great option for:
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Visitors to San Francisco who want a unique experience on the Bay
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Groups celebrating birthdays, proposals, or corporate events
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New sailors who want to observe, learn, or build confidence before chartering bareboat
At Spinnaker Sailing, we offer captained charters aboard our sailboats for half-day, full-day, or custom experiences. You’ll still feel the magic of the wind and waves—but with the added peace of mind of a professional at the helm.
Boat Rentals vs. Yacht Charters
“Boat rental” is a broad, everyday search term. It can mean anything from a small dinghy to a luxury sailboat. “Yacht charter” tends to sound more upscale, and may imply a larger, more comfortable vessel. While some associate “yacht” with powerboats or mega-yachts, the term can apply to sailboats too—especially in the 30- to 50-foot range.
At Spinnaker, our charter fleet includes well-equipped sailing yachts perfect for both casual daysails and multi-day coastal trips. Whether you’re looking for a hands-on experience or a skippered cruise, we’ve got options. Yukon Jack is our larger 20 passenger sailing yacht that comes with Captain AND Crew.
Sailboat Charters & Yachts for Rent
“Sailboat charter” is more specific and often used by experienced sailors. If you know you're looking for a sailing vessel, not a powerboat, this is the term to use.
“Yachts for rent” is a more informal phrase, usually used by newer sailors or travelers. It may not be technical—but it still leads people to the right place!
What’s Right for You?
No matter how you phrase it—bareboat, skippered, charter, or rental—we’re here to match you with the right sailing experience.
Want to sail the Bay yourself? Check out our bareboat charter fleet.
Prefer to relax while someone else takes the helm? Explore our captained charters.
Either way, you’re in good hands with Spinnaker Sailing. Come sail with us—and experience the best of the Bay.
