Pros & Cons: Chartering vs owning a boat

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.