Who we are
Wind & Compass is a UK based travel company on a mission to make time on the water easy, relaxed and memorable.
We provide professional yacht skippering and hostess services for private sailing holidays in Croatia and Greece, giving you the freedom to enjoy the experience without worrying about the details. From confident navigation and smooth boat handling to onboard hosting and day-to-day organisation, we’re there to make life on board effortless.
We work alongside established charter companies and private yacht owners, stepping in where an experienced skipper and a dedicated hostess add real value, whether that’s local knowledge, handling busy marinas, preparing light meals, or simply keeping everything running smoothly.
Our approach is flexible. No rigid schedules, no unnecessary formality, just good seamanship, thoughtful hosting, and a professional presence that lets everyone relax and enjoy the journey.
You focus on the sailing, the places, and the people. We’ll take care of the rest.
I joined Wind & Compass in 2025. Working as a skipper since 2019 I decided it was time to put my knowledge of the charter industry to good use, and with a small team we have put a company together which provides the best experiences for hopeful travellers. Wind & Compass will help you realise your great adventure, as well as providing continuous guidance throughout.
Joel Leader - Wind & Compass
I joined Wind & Compass in 2025 after swapping mountain landscapes for the open waters. With a background in luxury hospitality, I bring a wealth of experience in creating a refined, personalised service. At Wind & Compass we combine a love of the sea and discovering hidden places with a passion for delivering lasting, memorable experiences that make every trip unique and unforgettable.
Jess Ormston, Head of Hospitality - Wind & Compass
“What a week we’ve all just had with Joel our Skipper we went on our first Catamaran cruise round Croatia, we were a group of family and friends 2 boys aged 13 and up to the age of 60 he made the whole trip fantastic, he is very professional and highly skilled. He also takes time into learning about all the Islands you are visiting and can answer the 50 million questions he received on a daily basis, we all definitely got the bug and already looking to re book with one special request of having Joel again.”
“Just got back from the most amazing Croatia sailing holiday with Skipper Joel. A party of 8, family and friends of varying ages loved every minute of being onboard our catamaran. We felt completely safe in Joel’s hands from the outset. He was very happy to share his technical knowledge and his passion for sailing made for a memorable week. We enjoyed learning about sailing and even being able to lend a hand at some points! We visited some amazing places which Joel was able to provide interesting facts about. We wouldn’t hesitate to sail with Joel again and hope to do so soon!”
“Had a great week with Joel our skipper, felt safe at all times he was calm and confident in all aspects, and very knowledgeable in the local areas he’s took us to. Very easy to get on with and generally a top guy.”
“Just spent a top week with Joel being skipper on our catamaran in Croatia. Apart from being an all round great human and good fun his knowledge and boatmanship was amazing he took us to some amazing places both in ports and secluded bays. He made sure we had the best week ever. Thank you Joel hope to sail with you again soon.
Regards KELLY”