Private Sailing on Lake Windermere: Skippered Yacht Charter

Take the helm of a sailboat or sit back while someone else does

A private skippered sailing experience on Lake Windermere puts you on a 23-foot Jeanneau yacht for two hours with up to three other guests. Your skipper tailors the day to your level—whether you want hands-on control of the boat or prefer to watch the lake unfold from the deck. Life jackets, water and toilet access are included; the boat carries storage for bags and has both above and below-deck seating.

The Experience

The boat leaves when you're ready, and your skipper discusses what you want from the two hours before you cast off. If you've sailed before, you can take the wheel and work the sails; if this is your first time, you'll learn as you go or simply sit back and let the skipper manage the rigging while you watch the Lake District shoreline pass. Either way, you're on the water instead of looking at it from the bank—a different angle on the fells and the villages that line Windermere.

The 23-foot Jeanneau is built for small groups and has room to move around. There's seating above deck where you can feel the wind and watch the sails, and a cabin below if the weather turns or you want to step inside. Fresh water is on board, and the toilet is accessible if you need it during the two hours. Bags have a place to stow, so you're not managing luggage while you're trying to enjoy the sailing.

Your skipper is there to make the experience work for you—not to rush through a script. If you want to understand how the boat handles, they'll teach you. If you want to drift and take in the view, that's fine too. The lake looks different from a moving boat, and the two hours gives you time to settle into it without feeling hurried.

What’s included

• Life jackets for all guests.
• fresh water.
• access to the boat's toilet and washroom.
• storage for bags and personal items.
• a skippered yacht with both above-deck and below-deck seating.
• petrol for the engine.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Sailing Windermere

Is this one for you?You're at the helm or you're relaxing—either way, you're sailing Windermere instead of watching it from shore.

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Top questions

Can I actually sail the boat myself, or does the skipper do all the work?

You can take control if you want to. Your skipper will discuss your experience level before you set sail and adjust the day accordingly—whether that means you're steering and trimming sails or learning the basics while they handle the boat.

What's the weather like on Lake Windermere, and what should I wear?

Lake Windermere is in the English Lake District, where weather changes quickly. Bring layers and a windproof jacket; the skipper will advise on conditions when you book. The boat has a cabin below deck if you need shelter.

Is this suitable for someone who's never sailed before?

Yes. The experience is tailored to suit both experienced sailors and people new to sailing. Your skipper will work with your comfort level and teach you as much or as little as you want to learn during the two hours.

How many people can fit on the yacht?

The 23-foot Jeanneau comfortably accommodates up to four guests plus the skipper, so it stays small and personal. There's plenty of space to move around both above and below deck.

What happens if I get seasick or uncomfortable?

Lake Windermere is a large freshwater lake, not the open sea, so the motion is gentler than ocean sailing. The boat has a cabin below deck where you can sit if you need to step out of the wind, and your skipper can adjust the route or pace if needed.

Is there a toilet on board?

Yes, there's toilet and washroom access on the yacht, so you don't have to cut the experience short if you need it during the two hours.