Choosing the boat, understanding the quote, packing and leaving room for the weather: ten practical tips for those stepping aboard for the first time.

Fireworks seen from the sea, dinner on board and no crowds. Where you can do it, how it works in winter and how far ahead to book.

Space and stability, authentic sailing or speed: the real differences between a catamaran, a sailing yacht and a motor yacht, and which to choose depending on who is going.

The boat and crew are almost always included. Fuel, harbours and provisions usually are not. Here is how to read a quote and what the on-board expenses fund is.

For July and August the best boats are secured between autumn and spring. Here is how to plan month by month, and what to ask before confirming.

Imagine closing your laptop on Friday afternoon and, a few hours later, already being in port. The air changes, the pace slows.