The difference between Elmár Sailing and Others

The difference between
Elmár Sailing and other companies

Booking & onboarding

Most operators allow direct online booking with instant confirmation. A few boutique brands offer pre-trip calls or group chats shortly before departure.

Every guest has a short video call or interview with the captain before joining to ensure safety, comfort, and shared values.

Group size & atmosphere

Festival-style flotillas: large groups of up to 50+ yachts and hundreds of guests.

Boutique sailing trips: smaller groups of around 8–10 guests per yacht and 2–6 yachts per flotilla

Small, connected groups of about 6–8 guests per yacht. Occasionally two yachts sail the same route together. For flotillas there are about 9 yachts sailing together.

Type of travellers

Ranges from partygoers and social travelers to sailors seeking skill development.

Conscious, relaxed travelers looking for connection, new experiences, and time to unwind — not party-focused tourism.

Daily rhythm

Most trips follow a fixed route and itinerary. Party operators include scheduled nightlife stops, while others focus on sailing lessons or sightseeing.

Flexible daily flow with around 4–6 hours of sailing per day, balanced with swimming, hiking, and exploring coastal towns or hidden bays.

On-board culture

Depends on the operator: some emphasise parties and social events; others offer skill-based or purely leisure sailing.

Calm, social, and intentional. Guests can learn to sail, cook together, share stories, or simply relax and enjoy the sea.

Participation in sailing

Some companies expect guests to help with sails and onboard duties; others handle everything for them.

Participation is optional. Guests can steer, help with sails, or just enjoy the moment — always guided by the captain.

Food & dining

Varies from self-catering to restaurant stops or private chefs on premium routes.

Shared cooking and cleaning for a communal atmosphere. In select destinations (like Seychelles), a chef is included.

Safety & weather policy

Operators typically check forecasts; most avoid heavy storms but may continue through light winds or rain to stay on schedule.

Safety-first approach. Captains check forecasts multiple times a day and avoid sailing in storm conditions, adjusting routes as needed for comfort and safety.

Alcohol & vibe

Many large flotilla brands offer party or nightlife routes; smaller operators are more moderate.

Relaxed and mindful. Guests may enjoy a drink, but the focus is on connection, laughter, and the calm of the sea — never a “party trip.”

Community before trip

Most companies send automated emails or create group chats only a few days before the trip

Guests are added to a WhatsApp group before departure to share travel details, connect, and coordinate rides or shared accommodation.

Post-trip community

Community often ends once the trip is over; a few maintain small alumni groups.

Strong alumni community — 60–70% of first-time guests return for another sailing trip and remain connected afterwards.

Destinations

Common routes include Greece, Croatia, and Ibiza, often repeated each season.

Curated routes across Greece, Seychelles, Azores, Mallorca, Thailand, Ibiza, Caribbean, and more — blending adventure with relaxation.

Pricing & what’s included

Pricing models differ widely. Many operators list a base price and add extra fees for fuel, cleaning, port taxes, or skipper.

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. The price includes the yacht, captain, accommodation, safety gear, fuel, cleaning, bed linen, and towels. Food is either shared-cost or chef-included depending on the destination.