Yacht Charters

Giżycko has the largest number of yacht-charter agencies in the area, and accordingly offers the widest choice of boats. The town is also a recognised centre for disabled sailors, with regular national regattas, and many companies provide specialist equipment, advice and training.

With yachting such a huge business here, the boat-charter market is highly volatile and operators often change. The tourist office is likely to have the current list of agents (sometimes up to 40) and can provide advice. It's also worth getting a copy of the monthly yachting magazine Żagle, in which plenty of firms advertise, or the multi-lingual Informator Źeglarski.

Finding anything in July and August without advance booking can be difficult. Securing a boat in early June or late September is much easier, but shop around, as prices and conditions vary substantially and bargaining is possible with some agents.

In July and August, expect to pay somewhere between around zl180 and around zl400 per day for a sailing boat large enough to sleep around four to five people. Prices depend on the size of cabins, toilet and kitchen facilities and so on. Prices are significantly lower in June and September - often half of the high-season prices. You pay for your own petrol, though most firms throw in a few litres for free. A boat with skipper included costs on average around zl250 per day.

Check the state of the boat and its equipment carefully, and report every deficiency and bit of damage in advance to avoid hassles when returning the boat. Come prepared with your own equipment, such as sleeping bag, sturdy rain gear and torch.