To ensure you can set sail with peace of mind, we’ve put together everything you need to know – from booking and requirements to the sailing area and safety on board.
To confirm your booking, we require proof of payment of the agreed price and a form of identification showing your current address. If you are resident in Italy, we also require your personal tax number (Codice Fiscale).
Plans can change. Should you need to cancel your booking, the following terms and conditions apply to ensure a fair and transparent process:
Yes, but only for bookings without a skipper. Please also note the current legal requirements in this regard. If you book a boat with a skipper, you do not need your own sailing licence.
You must be at least 18 years old.
In the event of official weather warnings or strong winds, sailing is prohibited. In this case, you are welcome to rebook free of charge or receive a voucher.
Yes. When you check in, our staff will hand the boat over to you and show you everything you need to know.
In principle, anywhere. However, the shallower waters in the south of the lake harbour some dangerous shoals. Furthermore, clear zoning and distance rules apply across the entire lake.
At night, anchoring, mooring to buoys, and berthing at jetties and in private harbours are prohibited. To stay overnight outside the home port of Porto San Nicolò, you must present proof of a pre-booked berth at check-in.
The two best-known winds on Lake Garda are the Pelér and the Ora. They are caused by temperature differences between the lake and the surrounding mountains.
The Pelér is the characteristic morning wind from the north, which usually sets in early and provides fresh, lively sailing conditions. It brings clear air and a brisk breeze, ideal for anyone who wants to start the day actively on the water.
The Ora is the well-known afternoon breeze from the south, which blows reliably and pleasantly between midday and early evening. It offers steady, relaxed conditions – perfect for enjoyable sailing trips on Lake Garda.
Our meeting point is at the Porto San Nicolò harbour in Riva del Garda. If you look out towards the lake, you’ll see an old fortified building with white pitched roofs on your left. Our staff will be waiting for you by the large metal boxes in front of it, bearing the Gardasee Charter logo.
Please make sure you arrive at the harbour 10 minutes before check-in.
For unaccompanied charter contracts, a security deposit will be pre-authorised on your bank or credit card during check-in. The amount depends on the type of boat you have hired. Provided the boat is returned undamaged, the amount will be released during check-out.
A member of staff will help you with the docking manoeuvre and carry out the check-out procedure with you. Provided the boat is returned undamaged, the security deposit will be released back onto your credit card.
Suitable clothing appropriate for the weather – the ‘layered look’ has proved its worth. Don’t forget your swimwear, sunglasses, a hat and sun cream.
Yes, your pet is welcome on board. We charge a one-off fee of €20 for this. If you’re unsure whether this is suitable for your pet or the trip in question, please do get in touch with us to check.
One reserved parking space per boat (without liability and for the duration of the hire) within the harbour grounds is included in the charter price. There are further paid and free parking spaces nearby.
Of course! We also recommend that customers with sailing experience have someone accompany them on their first trip, so they can get to know the sailing area.
At Gardasee Charter, you can also book mini-cruises, half-day trips or full-day trips with a skipper. We also offer sunset tours with an aperitif and team-building events for companies.
Yes, children are allowed on board.
We provide suitable life jackets for children aged 4 and over. For children under 4, we recommend that you bring your own swimming aids.
Yes! Please contact us by phone or email – we’ll tailor each voucher to your specific requirements and needs.
Yes, you are also allowed to bring your own drinks. Please note the following regarding alcoholic drinks: the legal alcohol limit is 0.5 per mille for the skipper and anyone actively helping with the sailing.
Absolutely! Lake Garda boasts excellent water quality, and a refreshing swim is highly recommended, especially during the summer months.
No, Gardasee Charter does not have any motorboats. Riva del Garda is situated in a nature reserve where motorboating is prohibited.
If you are not staying overnight in Porto San Nicolò, you must have pre-booked a berth at another harbour or marina upon arrival. Overnight stays at buoys, jetties or at anchor are not permitted.
Even with the utmost care, damage can sometimes occur – please let us know about it at check-out. Our team will assess the damage with you and document everything carefully with photos. The security deposit you’ve paid will be retained for the time being. Our experts will then examine the damage in detail and determine the exact repair costs. As soon as we have the assessment, we’ll let you know the extent of the damage and the next steps.
Whether it’s a sunset tour, a day’s sailing or a bespoke experience: we’ll put together your voucher personally to suit the occasion.