Private Boat Hire Rhodes — Prices, Experience and Booking Tips (2026)

This guide is part of my Best Boat Trips in Rhodes collection — where I help travellers understand not just group cruises, but also private sea experiences that can completely change how you explore the island.

Private charters are also one of the more premium experiences featured inside Best Things to Do in Rhodes and Best Experiences in Rhodes, especially for couples, families, and travellers wanting flexibility.

A very common question I hear is:

“Is private boat hire in Rhodes worth it — and how much does it actually cost?”

Because private charters sound luxurious, many travellers assume they’re only for high-end budgets — but the reality is far more flexible.

Grab my FREE Rhodes Pocket Planner (instant download) — the hidden shortcut to easy boat trip bookings, must-do experiences, and smoother holiday planning.

Quick answer

Private boat hire in Rhodes ranges widely depending on boat type, duration, and season.

Typical rough ranges:

• License free Boats → €70–€80

• small private boats → €130–€400

• mid-range private day charters → €400–€900

• catamaran and sailing charters → €900–€1,800+

• luxury yachts → €1,300–€4,500+ per day

For travellers staying around Kiotari or south Rhodes, I usually suggest Rhodes Boat Hire in Kiotari, where mentioning Looneytravels gives you €5 off per hour, or €10 off per hour on boats with skipper for up to 9 people — a really nice saving for couples and small groups considering private hire.

If you’re still deciding whether a boat trip is worth planning at all, Are Boat Trips in Rhodes Worth It? Honest Local Advice (2026) is a helpful starting point.

What private boat hire in Rhodes actually feels like

Private charters are less about sightseeing schedules and more about freedom and flexibility.

You can typically:

• choose your swimming stops

• avoid crowded bays

• control the pace of the day

• enjoy a quieter onboard atmosphere

• customise food, drinks, and route

This creates a very different emotional experience compared to group cruises.

If you’re unsure how private and shared trips compare, Private Boat Trip Rhodes vs Group Cruise – Which Is Better? (2026) helps.

Typical private boat hire price breakdown

Small boats and self-drive rentals

These are often the most affordable private option.

Prices can start from roughly €70–€339 per day depending on boat size and equipment.

These work well for:

• couples wanting independence

• short coastal exploration

• calm weather days

• travellers comfortable navigating simple boats

Mid-range private day charters

This is where most travellers land.

Private half-day or full-day trips commonly range from €400–€900 depending on duration and inclusions.

For example, some 6-hour private catamaran day cruises start around €920–€1,020 for small groups.

These often include:

• skipper

• swimming stops

• drinks or snacks

• snorkelling equipment

Catamarans and sailing experiences

Catamarans feel more spacious and romantic, but prices increase accordingly.

Across Greece, catamaran day rentals often range between roughly €500 and €1,800 depending on size and extras.

These are popular for:

• couples

• special occasions

• relaxed scenic sailing

• small groups splitting the cost

If you’re considering this upgrade, Catamaran Cruises Rhodes — Are They Worth the Extra Cost? (2026) helps.

Luxury yacht charters

Luxury yachts are the premium end of private hire.

Prices can start around €1,350 and average roughly €4,700 per day depending on yacht size and services.

These are typically chosen for:

• celebrations

• honeymoon experiences

• corporate or group events

• full-service private cruising

What usually affects the price most

Boat size and luxury level

The biggest price factor.

Duration of the trip

Half-day vs full-day dramatically changes cost.

Season

July and August are the most expensive periods.

Included extras

Food, drinks, skipper, and fuel may change the final price.

Average daily private boat rental across Rhodes is often around €500–€700 depending on these factors.

When private boat hire is genuinely worth it

Private charters feel especially valuable when:

• travelling as a couple or small group

• celebrating something special

• wanting quiet swimming locations

• preferring flexible pacing

• avoiding crowded boats

Many travellers split the cost between friends, making private hire more affordable than expected.

If romantic atmosphere matters, Boat Trips Rhodes for Couples — Best Romantic Cruise Experiences (2026) is useful.

When a group cruise may be the better choice

Private hire may feel unnecessary if:

• you enjoy social atmospheres

• budget is a priority

• you’re travelling solo

• you only want a short coastal experience

Group cruises often provide excellent value and a relaxed environment.

If you’re debating duration as well, Full Day vs Half Day Boat Trip Rhodes – What’s the Difference? (2026) helps.

Local booking tips most travellers don’t realise

Book earlier than you think in peak season
Private boats have limited availability.

Clarify fuel and skipper costs
These are sometimes excluded.

Choose departure close to your hotel
This avoids unnecessary travel stress.

If logistics matter, Rhodes Boat Trips Hotel Pickup — Do Cruises Include Transport? (2026) helps.

Split costs between friends
Private hire becomes surprisingly affordable this way.

Questions travellers often ask

Do I need a licence for private boat hire?

Not always — many boats can be rented with a skipper or without a licence depending on size.

Is private hire worth it for couples?

Often yes — especially for sunset sailing or quiet swimming experiences.

How far in advance should I book?

At least a few days ahead in summer, earlier for luxury yachts.

Is food usually included?

Sometimes — but it depends on the charter. Always check inclusions.

If food matters, Rhodes Boat Trips Food Included — Do Cruises Include Meals and Drinks? (2026) helps.

Soft next step

If private hire sounds appealing, the best next step is exploring atmosphere and cruise styles inside Best Boat Trips in Rhodes, where you can compare private and shared experiences realistically.

And if you want help planning activities, routes, and hidden swim spots alongside private sailing days, the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026 (Local, Digital, Instant Download) makes organising your trip far easier.