Windfinders.net Review

Based on checking the website, Windfinders.net offers skippered sailing cruises in the Cyclades archipelago, primarily focusing on island hopping in Greece.

While the site presents a clear picture of their services, pricing, and positive customer testimonials, a comprehensive review reveals some areas that could be enhanced for a truly robust and transparent online presence.

Overall Review Summary:

Website Focus: Skippered sailing cruises in the Greek Cyclades.
Key Offering: Private and shared cabin charters on the sailing yacht “Cinderella.”
Pricing Transparency: Generally clear, with specific examples for private and cabin bookings.
Inclusions: Accommodation, professional skipper service, fuel reasonable use, and no security deposit.
Customer Reviews: Prominently features positive reviews from Google and Trustpilot.
Missing Elements: No visible privacy policy, terms of service, or robust contact information beyond an assumed email. Crucial legal and operational details are absent.
Recommendation: Caution advised due to the lack of essential legal and transparency documents, which are standard for trusted online businesses. While the service appears legitimate from the descriptions, the absence of these foundational elements raises questions about full operational transparency.

The website does a good job showcasing the allure of Greek island hopping and the specific services offered by Windfinders.net.

They clearly outline what’s included in their cruises, from accommodation on the “Cinderella” yacht to the professional skipper service by Istvan, and even the inclusion of fuel.

The no-security-deposit policy is a unique selling proposition that could appeal to many.

Furthermore, the numerous positive testimonials from Google and Trustpilot create a strong sense of trust and social proof, highlighting positive experiences with the skipper and the overall trip.

However, the absence of crucial legal documents like a privacy policy and comprehensive terms of service is a significant oversight that could be a red flag for potential customers seeking full transparency and legal assurance.

This lack of detailed operational and legal information prevents a full endorsement, despite the attractive offerings.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Travel and Leisure:

Intrepid Travel: Focuses on responsible travel, small group tours, and cultural immersion. Offers a variety of ethical and environmentally conscious trips worldwide.
G Adventures: Specializes in adventure travel with a strong emphasis on community support and sustainable tourism. Diverse range of tours from active adventures to cultural journeys.
Responsible Travel: A platform dedicated to ethical and responsible holidays, offering trips that prioritize local communities and environmental preservation. Features a wide array of destinations and activities.
Expedia: While a large booking site, Expedia now offers filters and options for “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” travel experiences, allowing users to find more ethically conscious options for flights, hotels, and activities.
Booking.com Sustainable Travel Badge: Booking.com has introduced a “Sustainable Travel” badge, indicating properties that meet certain sustainability criteria, making it easier to find ethical accommodation options.
REI Adventures: Known for outdoor adventures with a strong focus on conservation and responsible practices. Offers hiking, biking, kayaking, and other nature-focused trips.
National Geographic Expeditions: Provides immersive, educational travel experiences led by experts, emphasizing conservation and cultural understanding. Offers a range of trips from wildlife safaris to cultural explorations.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Windfinders.net Review & First Look

When you land on Windfinders.net, the first thing that hits you is the picturesque imagery of sailing in the Greek islands.

It paints a clear picture: you’re looking at a service that offers skippered sailing cruises in the Cyclades archipelago.

The site immediately highlights the core offering: “Island hopping on a boat under sail is probably the smartest way you can choose to explore the raw beauty of the Greek islands!” This direct appeal sets the stage for a vacation experience focused on exploration and flexibility.

Initial Impressions of Windfinders.net

The overall aesthetic is clean and inviting, with a focus on high-quality photographs that transport you to the sun-drenched Aegean Sea.

The navigation menu is straightforward, guiding you to sections like “The Yacht,” “The Skipper,” “The Cyclades,” and “Cruises 2025.” This structure suggests a well-organized presentation of information, focusing on the key components of their service.

The presence of a “What’s new in 2025?” section indicates active updates and future planning, which is a good sign of an ongoing, professional operation.

Key Offerings at a Glance

Windfinders.net primarily offers two types of sailing cruises:

Private Cruises: Where you can hire the entire yacht, “Cinderella,” for your group. This is ideal for families or friends who want an exclusive experience.
Cabin Charters: For solo travelers, couples, or small groups, where you rent a single cabin on a shared cruise with other participants. This option is presented as a nice way to meet new people and share the sailing experience.

The site also clearly states that the cruises are skippered, meaning a professional skipper, Istvan, is always on board. This is crucial information, as it removes the need for guests to have sailing experience, making the offering accessible to a wider audience. The emphasis on “no fixed itinerary, it’s 100% your trip!” also highlights a degree of customization and flexibility, which is highly appealing for a vacation.

Windfinders.net Features

Windfinders.net aims to provide a comprehensive overview of its sailing cruise services through a variety of features on its homepage.

The website’s design prioritizes visual appeal and direct communication, showcasing what potential customers can expect from their trip. Amalinst.org Review

Detailed Yacht and Skipper Information

The website dedicates sections to “The Yacht” and “The Skipper,” providing specific details about the vessel and the person who will be guiding the journey.

The Yacht “Cinderella”: Described as “just a little over 50ft in length,” it can accommodate up to 6 guests in 3 double cabins with attending bathrooms. This transparency about the boat’s capacity and amenities helps set expectations for potential guests. Knowing the size and layout is vital for travelers planning their group size and comfort levels.
The Skipper “Istvan”: The website highlights Istvan as both the skipper and owner of the yacht. This personal touch can build trust, as customers are dealing directly with the owner-operator. He is presented not just as a skipper but also as an “interlocutor and also your guide throughout your sailing cruise.” This suggests a more personal and engaging experience, which is often a key differentiator for boutique travel services.

Inclusions and Value Proposition

One of the strongest aspects of the Windfinders.net homepage is its clear articulation of what is included in the price, addressing common concerns for travelers.

Accommodation on board: Guests are assured of their living space on the yacht.
Service of a professional skipper: Reassures guests about safety and expertise.
Fuel is included: “Fuel consumption of the main engine and the engine of the dinghy are included. This is for a reasonable utilisation of 2 – 3 hours per day.” This clarity on fuel usage is a significant benefit, as unexpected fuel costs can often be a hidden expense in yacht charters.
No security deposit: This is a noteworthy advantage, as many charter companies require substantial security deposits. Windfinders.net states, “At Windfinders’ the skipper takes full responsibility of the yacht and its equipment.” This policy significantly reduces the financial burden and risk for guests.

Activity and Location Highlights

The website emphasizes the advantages of sailing with Windfinders, particularly focusing on the Cyclades and activities available.

Starting Point: “Starting in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago,” specifically from Paros, which is described as the “ideal starting point” due to its central location and accessibility. This geographical advantage is clearly marketed.
Water Sports Friendly: A unique selling point is their welcoming stance towards kitesurfing, windsurfing, and wingfoiling enthusiasts. They state, “So you are welcome to bring your equipment on board and we will take you to those hidden secret spots which are only accessible by boat.” This caters to a niche but passionate audience, though with a crucial disclaimer: “Windfinders does not provide any equipment, you have to bring your own. You have to be an independent to advanced rider able to ride upwind and familiar with all the safety procedures involved! Riding from the boat is at your own risk.” This disclaimer is important for managing expectations and liability.
Meltemi Wind: The site mentions the Meltemi wind, prevalent from June to September, turning the archipelago into “Mediterranean’s #1 sailing playground!” This appeals to experienced sailors and those looking for exhilarating conditions.

Windfinders.net Pricing

Understanding the cost is often the first priority for potential customers, and Windfinders.net makes an effort to provide clear pricing information directly on the homepage.

They distinguish between private and shared cruise options, which is helpful for budgeting and decision-making.

Cost Breakdown and Inclusions

The website provides specific price examples for their cruises:

Private Booking: “A week’s sailing on board Cinderella in high season amounts to about 1200 euros per person for a private booking.” For a full yacht that accommodates up to 6 guests, this implies a total cost of around 7200 euros for a high-season week for the entire group. This per-person framing for a private booking is a bit unusual but gives a sense of individual investment.
Cabin Only Shared Cruise:
- “2600 euros for 2 persons sharing the same cabin”
- “2200 euros for a single occupancy of the cabin”

This clearly differentiates pricing for different occupancy types within the shared cruise model.

The pricing section reiterates what is included, which is excellent for transparency and reinforces the value proposition.

This includes accommodation, professional skipper service, fuel for reasonable use, and the significant benefit of no security deposit.

However, it’s essential to note that these prices are described as “about” and for “high season,” indicating that actual costs might vary based on specific dates or other factors. Lapistolademonik.com Review

The website advises that “Further information is available on the Booking page,” suggesting more precise figures can be found there.

Value for Money Considerations

When evaluating the pricing, it’s crucial to consider the comprehensive nature of the offering. The inclusion of a professional skipper, fuel, and the absence of a security deposit adds significant value that might not be immediately apparent when comparing raw prices with bareboat charters or other travel packages. The personal touch of Istvan, the owner-skipper, also contributes to the perceived value, as highlighted in customer testimonials. However, without a detailed breakdown of what is not included e.g., food, port fees, personal expenses, flights to Greece, it’s difficult to form a complete financial picture. Travelers should assume that flights, transfers, food provisions, and any onshore activities or meals would be additional costs.

Windfinders.net Customer Reviews

The “What people say…” section on Windfinders.net’s homepage is a prominent feature, showcasing numerous positive testimonials from past guests.

This is a crucial element for building trust and credibility for any service-based business.

Leveraging Google and Trustpilot Reviews

Windfinders.net effectively utilizes external review platforms to bolster its reputation:

Google Reviews: The site displays a summary stating “Windfinders Sailing Cruises Cyclades 4.9 Based on 42 reviews powered by Google.” This immediate visual cue of a high rating from a widely recognized platform like Google is very impactful. Clicking on individual names within this section e.g., “lydie fernandes,” “Catherine Bouchard” leads directly to their respective Google Maps contributions, allowing for verification and deeper insight into the experiences.
Trustpilot Integration: Towards the bottom of the review section, there’s a link to “See more reviews on Trustpilot.” This again demonstrates a commitment to transparency by directing users to another independent, third-party review site. Trustpilot is a well-regarded platform for customer feedback, and having a presence there, especially with positive reviews, adds another layer of credibility. For instance, specific reviews linked include “A fantastic week sailing the small Cyclades” and “Perfection on the ocean waves…….”

Themes in Customer Feedback

The testimonials consistently highlight several key aspects of the Windfinders.net experience:

Exceptional Skipper Istvan: Guests frequently praise Istvan’s professionalism, knowledge, humor, flexibility, and passion for sailing and the Cyclades. Phrases like “exceptional skipper,” “very experienced and knowledgeable,” “fantastic host,” and “Istvan is just perfect!” are recurrent. Many mention his ability to tailor the trip to their needs and show them “hidden gems.”
“Cinderella” Yacht: The boat itself receives positive mentions, described as “well equipped and comfortable,” “spacious, very clean, well equipped,” and “beautiful and well maintained.”
Unforgettable Experiences: Reviewers often describe their trips as “dream weeks,” “magical cruises,” and “amazing experiences.” Activities like visiting secluded bays, cliff jumping, stargazing, and beach BBQs are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Personalized Service: The ability to customize itineraries and Istvan’s attentiveness to guest desires are repeatedly lauded, indicating a highly personalized approach to customer service.
Sense of Safety: Several reviews emphasize feeling “completely safe and secure on the boat” due to Istvan’s experience and careful navigation.

While the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, there is one notable review from “Camille” that provides a cautionary tale: “We had planned a week on a sailboat with our two-year-old children, after being reassured by the skipper about the feasibility of the project. The sailboat is not suitable for small children. We had to stop the cruise after a day of sailing.

Otherwise, for teenagers/adults, the boat is very beautiful, and the proposed itinerary looked very good.” This particular review, while still acknowledging the boat’s quality for older guests, highlights a potential mismatch in expectations regarding very young children.

Its inclusion on the homepage, despite being less positive, surprisingly adds to the authenticity of the review section, showing that not all experiences are uniformly perfect and that the feedback is unfiltered to some extent.

Windfinders.net Cons

While Windfinders.net presents an appealing service for sailing enthusiasts, a critical examination of its homepage reveals several areas where it falls short of expectations for a fully transparent and trustworthy online business, particularly from an ethical and consumer protection standpoint. Aatpi.com Review

These shortcomings primarily revolve around the absence of essential legal and operational documentation.

Lack of Legal and Transparency Documents

This is arguably the most significant drawback of Windfinders.net.

For any online service, especially one involving significant financial transactions and travel, the presence of clear legal documents is paramount.

Absence of Terms and Conditions/Service: Comprehensive terms and conditions T&Cs or terms of service ToS are crucial for outlining the rights and responsibilities of both the service provider and the customer. Without them, there is no explicit agreement on cancellation policies, refund procedures, liability, dispute resolution, or what constitutes a breach of contract. This leaves customers vulnerable and creates ambiguity in case of unforeseen circumstances or disagreements.
No Clear Refund Policy: While they mention a “Booking page” for further information, a direct and easily accessible refund policy is missing from the main offerings. This is a subset of T&Cs but critical enough to highlight separately, as travel plans can change.
No Disaster/Emergency Protocols: For a sailing trip, especially one that involves navigating open waters and potential weather changes, the absence of publicly available information on emergency procedures, safety protocols, or what happens in case of a natural disaster is concerning. While a professional skipper is present, outlining these in a formal document adds another layer of reassurance.

Limited Contact and Support Information

While the site features social media links Instagram and hints at email contact, a dedicated and robust “Contact Us” page with multiple avenues for support e.g., direct phone numbers, specific email addresses for different departments, physical address is not readily apparent on the homepage.

This can make it difficult for potential customers to get quick answers or resolve issues.

The current setup implies that most interactions would happen after a booking or inquiry is made, which might deter those seeking immediate reassurance.

Over-reliance on External Reviews

While featuring Google and Trustpilot reviews is positive for social proof, the website’s own “Reviews” section simply lists snippets without allowing for native filtering or extensive sorting.

More importantly, the critical reliance on these external platforms, without comprehensive internal information or a dedicated support system, suggests a less holistic approach to customer engagement and transparency.

The site’s own review section also points to “More reviews” which again links to the same section, hinting at a potential technical oversight or design limitation.

Windfinders.net Alternatives

Given the specific nature of Windfinders.net—skippered sailing cruises in the Greek Cyclades—finding direct, one-to-one alternatives requires looking at similar boutique sailing experiences or broader ethical travel platforms that offer personalized water-based adventures. Striped.red Review

When considering alternatives, it’s vital to prioritize those with transparent operations, clear legal documentation, and strong ethical considerations, aligning with the principles of responsible and trustworthy businesses.

Here are some alternatives that focus on ethical travel, water-based adventures, or transparent booking experiences, ensuring they are permissible and provide clear operational details:

Sailing Collective
- Key Features: Organizes bespoke sailing trips and adventures worldwide, often focusing on unique itineraries and group experiences. They emphasize community, exploration, and sustainable practices. Offers both private and cabin charters.
- Average Price: Varies widely by destination, duration, and yacht size, typically ranging from $2,000 – $5,000+ per person per week.
- Pros: Curated experiences, professional skippers, focus on community, often includes unique destinations. Website usually very transparent with inclusions and policies.
- Cons: Can be on the higher end of the price spectrum due to bespoke nature. limited to specific departure dates.
Moorings / Sunsail Skippered Charters / Sunsail
- Key Features: Two of the largest and most reputable yacht charter companies globally, offering both bareboat and skippered charters in numerous destinations, including the Mediterranean. They have standardized contracts, clear terms, and robust support.
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on yacht size, destination, season, and duration. A week on a skippered catamaran could range from $8,000 – $20,000+ for the yacht, plus skipper fees and provisions.
- Pros: Highly established, professional operations, wide range of yachts, global destinations, clear legal documentation, reliable customer support.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than independent operators. less personalized than a small, owner-operated business. may feel more “corporate.”
Dream Yacht Charter Crewed & Skippered
- Key Features: Another major player in the yacht charter industry, offering a vast fleet and options for skippered or fully crewed charters across the globe, including Greece. They provide comprehensive packages and transparent booking processes.
- Average Price: Similar to Moorings/Sunsail, pricing for a skippered charter can range from $7,000 – $18,000+ per week for the yacht, depending on specifications.
- Pros: Large fleet, diverse destinations, strong operational support, clear contractual agreements, reputable brand.
- Cons: Less of a boutique feel. pricing might be higher compared to smaller operations.
Small Ship Cruises e.g., Windstar Cruises – small ship focus, not large cruise lines
- Key Features: While more structured than a private yacht charter, small ship cruises offer an intimate experience with fewer passengers, often visiting smaller ports inaccessible to larger vessels. Windstar, for instance, operates sailing yachts. They provide clear itineraries, inclusions, and terms.
- Average Price: Varies by itinerary and cabin, but often ranges from $3,000 – $7,000+ per person per week.
- Pros: All-inclusive options, structured itineraries, professional crew, high safety standards, visits unique locations.
- Cons: Less flexibility than a private charter. not a “private yacht” experience. can be more expensive.
Ethical Travel Booking Platforms e.g., Bookmundi for tours
- Key Features: Platforms that curate and list tours, including sailing and water-based activities, often from local operators. While not solely focused on sailing, they can be filtered for specific types of experiences. The key is to check the individual operator’s transparency through these platforms.
- Average Price: Highly variable based on the specific tour and operator.
- Pros: Wide variety of options, potential to find niche local operators, some platforms highlight ethical or sustainable practices.
- Cons: Quality and transparency depend on the individual tour operator. requires careful vetting of the underlying company.
Airbnb Experiences for shorter, localized boat tours/sailing
- Key Features: Offers unique, localized experiences, including sailing trips, boat tours, and water activities hosted by locals. While often shorter day trips or a few days, some hosts offer multi-day options.
- Average Price: Typically ranges from $100 – $500+ per person for a day experience. multi-day can be higher.
- Pros: Unique local perspective, direct interaction with hosts, generally good review system on the platform, clear booking process.
- Cons: Primarily shorter experiences, may not offer full multi-week charters, transparency dependent on individual host profiles.
Responsible Travel for ethical sailing/water tours
- Key Features: This platform specifically curates holidays with a strong emphasis on sustainability, ethical practices, and benefiting local communities. They often feature smaller, specialized operators for sailing or marine-based experiences.
- Average Price: Highly variable, as it lists different operators, but generally mid-to-high range due to specialized nature.
- Pros: Vetted for ethical practices, supports local economies, focus on genuine experiences, detailed information on sustainability.
- Cons: Selection might be smaller than larger booking sites. direct booking and terms are with the underlying operator.

When choosing an alternative, always perform due diligence: check for clear privacy policies, terms of service, robust contact information, and verified reviews on independent platforms. Scripterlab.com Review

Prioritize companies that demonstrate transparency and a commitment to customer protection and ethical operations.

How to Check the Legitimacy of an Online Business General Guidelines

When evaluating any online business, especially those involving travel or significant financial commitments, a systematic approach to legitimacy is crucial.

While Windfinders.net provides good social proof through external reviews, the absence of key legal documents raises questions.

Here’s a general framework for assessing legitimacy:

Key Indicators of a Trustworthy Online Business

A truly legitimate online business will typically provide clear and accessible information across several critical areas.

Transparent Legal Documentation:
- Privacy Policy: Explains how personal data is collected, used, stored, and protected. This is non-negotiable for any website.
- Terms of Service/Conditions: Outlines the legal agreement between the business and the customer, covering everything from service delivery, payment terms, cancellation policies, intellectual property, and dispute resolution.
- Refund Policy: Clearly states the conditions under which refunds are issued, the process for requesting them, and timelines.
Comprehensive Contact Information:
- A dedicated “Contact Us” page with multiple methods: physical address if applicable, phone numbers, email addresses, and ideally, an online contact form.
- Responsiveness to inquiries.
Secure Website HTTPS: Always check for “https://” in the URL and a padlock icon in the browser, indicating a secure connection for data transmission.
Professional Website Design: While not a definitive indicator, a well-designed, functional, and regularly updated website suggests a professional operation. Broken links, typos, and outdated content can be red flags.
Clear Pricing and Inclusions/Exclusions: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees and a detailed breakdown of what is included and excluded from the service.
Positive, Verifiable Reviews: While Windfinders.net excels here, always cross-reference reviews on independent platforms Google My Business, Trustpilot, Yelp to ensure authenticity. Be wary of sites with only overwhelmingly positive or suspiciously generic reviews.
Business Registration Details: For larger entities, looking up business registration details e.g., through a company registry in their country of operation can provide an extra layer of verification.
Social Media Presence: An active and professionally managed social media presence can indicate a legitimate business that engages with its audience.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Conversely, certain indicators should prompt caution:

Missing Legal Policies: As seen with Windfinders.net, the absence of a privacy policy, terms of service, or a clear refund policy is a significant red flag.
Generic Contact Information: Only providing an email address or a non-specific contact form, without a phone number or physical address.
Grammatical Errors and Poor English: While minor errors can occur, a prevalence of mistakes can indicate a lack of professionalism or that the site was quickly put together.
Unrealistic Claims or Guarantees: Promises that seem too good to be true often are.
Pressure Tactics: High-pressure sales tactics or extremely limited-time offers designed to rush a decision without proper research.
Lack of Secure Payment Gateways: Requesting payment via unconventional methods e.g., direct bank transfer to a personal account, cryptocurrency without proper secure systems outside of standard, recognized payment processors.
New Domain Name with Little History: While every business starts somewhere, a very new domain with no online presence or reviews can be suspicious, especially for high-value services. You can use tools like WHOIS lookup to check domain registration dates.

By meticulously checking these aspects, consumers can better protect themselves and make informed decisions about the legitimacy and trustworthiness of an online business.

Windfinders.net vs. Other Sailing Charters

When comparing Windfinders.net to larger, more established sailing charter companies, it’s important to weigh its unique selling propositions against the comprehensive offerings of its competitors.

Windfinders.net operates as a smaller, owner-operated service, which inherently shapes its advantages and disadvantages.

Owner-Operated vs. Large Fleet Operators

Windfinders.net Owner-Operated:
- Pros: Highly personalized service from Istvan, the owner-skipper. deep local knowledge of the Cyclades. “no security deposit” policy. potential for more flexibility in itinerary within the framework of a single yacht. direct communication with the decision-maker. This model often leads to a more intimate and authentic experience, as highlighted by numerous positive customer reviews emphasizing Istvan’s personal touch.
- Cons: Limited fleet only “Cinderella” is mentioned. availability might be restricted due to a single skipper/yacht. less formal infrastructure for legal documentation and customer support processes compared to larger companies. This model may also imply less redundancy in case of unforeseen issues with the single yacht or skipper.
Large Fleet Operators e.g., The Moorings, Sunsail, Dream Yacht Charter:
- Pros: Extensive fleet of diverse yachts catamarans, monohulls across numerous global destinations. robust legal frameworks including clear terms, conditions, and insurance policies. dedicated customer service departments. standardized operations and safety protocols. often offer various packages bareboat, skippered, crewed and training. Their size allows for economies of scale and comprehensive support.
- Cons: Can feel less personalized. itineraries might be more structured. security deposits are typically required. communication may go through multiple layers of customer service rather than directly with the skipper/owner. some might argue the “adventure” aspect is diluted by highly commercialized operations.

Price and Value Comparison

Windfinders.net: Prices are quoted per person for private bookings e.g., “about 1200 euros per person for a private booking” in high season and per cabin for shared cruises. The clear inclusions skipper, fuel, no security deposit offer good value. However, the exact total cost for a private group needs to be calculated, and potential additional costs for food or port fees are not explicitly mentioned.
Large Fleet Operators: Pricing is typically quoted per yacht for a specific duration, with skipper fees, provisioning, fuel, and potential port fees being additional. While the base yacht rental might seem lower, the total “all-in” cost can often exceed that of smaller, inclusive operations. Their structured pricing can sometimes feel less transparent if all add-ons aren’t upfront. However, their sheer volume means competitive rates for certain yacht types or during off-peak seasons.

Transparency and Trust

Windfinders.net: Strong social proof through external reviews is a major plus. However, the critical absence of privacy policies and terms of service on the website is a significant transparency gap that undermines trust, despite positive testimonials. This lack of formal documentation puts the onus on the customer to seek clarification and relies heavily on the assumed good faith of the operator.
Large Fleet Operators: By virtue of their size and legal obligations, these companies typically have comprehensive and easily accessible legal documents privacy policies, terms & conditions, cancellation policies on their websites. This adherence to industry standards provides a much higher level of legal transparency and consumer protection, making them generally more trustworthy from a formal business standpoint.

In summary, Windfinders.net offers a charming, personalized sailing experience with a dedicated owner-skipper and clear inclusions. Eventclip.net Review

Its main competitive edge lies in this intimate, direct-to-owner model and the “no security deposit” policy.

However, for those prioritizing comprehensive legal transparency, standardized processes, and extensive fleet options, the larger charter companies might offer a more formally secure and diverse choice, albeit often at a higher overall cost and with a less personal feel.

FAQs

What services does Windfinders.net offer?

Windfinders.net primarily offers skippered sailing cruises in the Greek Cyclades archipelago, focusing on island hopping experiences.

They provide both private yacht charters and individual cabin bookings on their sailing yacht, “Cinderella.”

Where are Windfinders.net cruises based?

The cruises are based out of Paros, an island located in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago in Greece, which the website describes as an ideal starting point for exploring the region.

What kind of yacht is used for Windfinders.net cruises?

Windfinders.net uses a sailing yacht named “Cinderella,” which is just over 50 feet in length and can accommodate up to 6 guests in 3 double cabins, each with an attending bathroom.

Who is the skipper for Windfinders.net cruises?

The skipper is Istvan, who is also the owner of the sailing yacht “Cinderella.” He serves as both the skipper and a guide throughout the sailing cruise.

What is included in the price of a Windfinders.net cruise?

The price includes accommodation on board the yacht, the service of a professional skipper Istvan, and fuel consumption for reasonable utilization 2-3 hours per day for the main engine and dinghy. A key benefit is that no security deposit is required.

Does Windfinders.net require a security deposit?

No, Windfinders.net explicitly states that no security deposit is required.

The skipper takes full responsibility for the yacht and its equipment. Portraitpools.com Review

What is the cost of a private cruise with Windfinders.net?

In high season, a private booking on board Cinderella amounts to about 1200 euros per person for a week’s sailing.

What is the cost of a cabin charter on a shared cruise with Windfinders.net?

For a shared cruise, a cabin costs 2600 euros for 2 persons sharing the same cabin, or 2200 euros for a single occupancy of the cabin.

Are children allowed on Windfinders.net cruises?

While the website doesn’t explicitly prohibit children, one customer review indicates that the sailboat might not be suitable for small children e.g., two-year-olds, leading to an early departure in one instance.

It suggests the boat is more suitable for teenagers and adults.

Can I bring my own kitesurfing or windsurfing equipment on a Windfinders.net cruise?

Yes, Windfinders.net is friendly to kitesurfers, windsurfers, and wingfoilers.

You are welcome to bring your own equipment on board, and the skipper will take you to hidden spots.

However, Windfinders does not provide equipment, and you must be an independent to advanced rider.

Does Windfinders.net provide water sports equipment?

No, Windfinders.net does not provide any kitesurfing, windsurfing, or wingfoiling equipment. Guests must bring their own.

What are the main benefits of sailing with Windfinders.net?

Benefits include starting in the heart of the Cyclades Paros, easy accessibility, and being welcomed with kitesurfing, windsurfing, and wingfoiling equipment, allowing access to secret spots.

The Meltemi wind from June to September is also highlighted for sailing enthusiasts. Switchbythekase.com Review

Are there any fixed itineraries for Windfinders.net cruises?

No, Windfinders.net emphasizes that there is “no fixed itinerary, it’s 100% your trip!” This suggests a flexible and customizable sailing experience.

What are people saying about Windfinders.net?

The website features numerous positive reviews from Google and Trustpilot, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 42 Google reviews.

Customers consistently praise the skipper Istvan, the yacht “Cinderella,” and the overall magical experience.

Does Windfinders.net have a privacy policy?

Based on the website review, a visible and accessible privacy policy is not prominently displayed or linked on the Windfinders.net homepage. This is a significant omission for transparency.

Are there terms and conditions available for Windfinders.net bookings?

A comprehensive set of terms and conditions or terms of service is not readily apparent on the Windfinders.net homepage, which is a key element for consumer protection and clarity on booking policies.

How can I get more information about booking with Windfinders.net?

The website states that “Further information is available on the Booking page,” suggesting this section will provide more detailed information regarding reservations and potentially specific policies.

Does Windfinders.net have an active social media presence?

Yes, Windfinders.net is active on Instagram under the handle @windfinders_greece, where they share photos and updates from their sailing trips.

What types of cruises does Windfinders.net offer for 2025?

For 2025, they are operating both private and shared skippered sailing cruises from Paros, including specific itineraries like “May to October: Paros, Ios, Amorgos and the small Cyclades 7 days, 6 nights” and “March to May: One way Athens to Santorini via Milos and Folegandros 10 days, 10 nights.” They also offer private kitesurfing cruises upon request.

What is the “Meltemi” wind mentioned on Windfinders.net?

The “Meltemi” is a strong, dry northerly wind that blows in the Aegean Sea during the summer months June to September. Windfinders.net highlights it as making the Cyclades the “Mediterranean’s #1 sailing playground.”

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