book2sail-tips 3

Fret not being environmentally conscious does not mean you have to do without global travel. In honor of World Environment Day, we’ve put together our top 5 tips and ideas on how you can care for our sailing environment

1. Reduce your sewage

Whilst we understand that this is not always feasible If possible try to avoid using toilets on board and head for shore where sewage is properly treated and processed. If you’re a boat owner and you have access to a pump-out station ashore, install a holding tank on your boat so that the sewage can be disposed of properly.

2. Rent an eco-powered yacht

This is a great option if you’re into sustainable travel and are seeking a luxurious vacation. If this is not possible, try and lessen your impact and reduce your fuel consumption by using the wind to power up your sails.

3. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

We’ve all heard of the common adage Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. So, instead of binning your disposable plastic bottle why not refill it? Better yet, avoid bottled water and use refillable water bottles instead. This will reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our environment.

4. Don’t dump waste into the sea

Just don’t… According to a recent study 20% of marine litter comes from human activities carried out at sea. Whether it’s cigarette butts, food, and beverage packaging or fishing nets, make sure that you don’t dump any garbage overboard.  Instead, keep any rubbish in the boat until you can dispose of it properly. Which brings us to the next point…

5. Be aware of your impact on marine life

A huge percentage of seabirds and sea turtles die each year because of ingestion of marine litter.  Proper waste disposal is essential, but so is navigating carefully around wildlife.  Make sure that you don’t disturb marine life by keeping anchors away from coral reefs, and avoid dragging anchors which could harm sensitive areas such as sea grass.

Start with these top tips and you’ll be doing your bit for our sailing environment.

(Image Source: Pexels.com)

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Charter a yacht with Book2Sail

Book2Sail makes you feel that when it comes to chartering a boat, there is no limitation. You can choose any form of boat at any time and anywhere (catamaran, sailboat, motorboat, jet ski). Whether you’re sailing in August with a catamaran to explore the Dalmatian coastline or spending Easter holidays in the French Riviera, you will find your dream boat.

Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

Get in touch now and Book2Sail today.