Top tips for chartering a boat and what to expect!
Here is a list of TOP TIPS when thinking about chartering a boat.
Packing your bags - Ensure you use soft collapsable bags, stowing them will be much easier onboard later. Remember that the sun is reflected off the water so ensure you have a Hat - Sunglasses and Sunscreen.
Legal Documents - Carry with you the essentials - Depending on your origin bring all documents you may need in an emergency. These could include passport, visa & medical insurance.
Money Talks - Remember that local currency can go a long way in getting you a better price when bartering. Your Credit Card may not be accepted in more remote locations.
Location - The more popular locations will fill up during peak seasons. Think about going further afield if you are looking for peace and quiet.
Transportation from the Airport to the Marina - Check with the skipper to see if they include transportation as part of the charter. Ask what their rate is, it may be cheaper than dealing with taxis or the local bus system! Factor in the time it will take to transfer from the airport to the marina, it may include ferry trips.
Type and condition of boats - Think about what kind of boat you want to charter. Larger boats may look better at first glance but you may need a special certificate to operate it. Conditions of boats can vary from skipper to skipper but all abide by the local coast guard regulations to be part of this site.
What is Included - On some boats the price includes everthing and others it does not. Check the fine print and ask questions about what is included so you are compairing like with like.
Shared cost - Remember that you can share the cost of the charter with friends. Adding $50 more per person can make the difference between having a good time or doing maintenance on a boat that is not yours.
Sailing with Children - There needs to be a life jacket for everyone on the boat before you leave the marina. If your child is under 7 we suggest you bring a proper sized jacket that fits and they enjoy wearing. Remind children that the skippers command must be obeyed without question and quickly. If you have a dinghy with an outboard, special attention must be made to ensure children are wearing a lifejacket while traveling in it. Remind dinghy operators to not operate the craft where people are swimming.
Living Aboard - It is essential that all people on the boat know how to operate the marine toilet. Remember the rule: Don't put anything in the toilet that has not been eaten first. Try to use the facilities ashore whenever possible. Don't be to ambitious with your passage making. Allow for sections that last 3-4 hours and stop for lunch and some time to swim. Participate in sailing tasks to help keep interested in what is going on - Sharing the helm and steering for a point on land or by the compass, watching for buoys & crab traps, tending the dinghy, recording in the ships log and practising knots are all great activities.
Plan Ahead - In some remote locations it may be hard to find fresh items like bread. Some planning ahead like bringing some premixed flour can really make a special morning. It is important to research the area and ask locals and read blogs on what others have found and would suggest.
