book2sail-Fountaine Pajot Athena 38

There is something inherently graceful in La Rochelle’s Fountaine Pajot’s Catamarans and the Athena 38 is no exception. Second smallest in their five-cat range, the Athena 38 packs quite a punch. With a sleek soft design and a strength which belies its appearance, this catamaran can make all your sailing fantasies come to life. And where better to test this sleek vessel, than on the beguiling Turkish coast? A gorgeous backdrop to suit the Athena.

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Party on a boat, anyone?

book2sail-charter Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 in turkey

source: Happycharter

The Athena 38 is great for couple owners but can accommodate four couples comfortably. The stern has enough space to sit 12 people, a great number for a party if we do say so ourselves. It is 10 feet wide, ideal even for stand-up parties where the group can mingle, either lounging on the seats around the rim area or standing in the middle of the cockpit. The table at the port corner is perfect for more intimate gatherings, able to sit 6 people.

Practical & Dynamic

book2sail-25159

source: www.kiriacoulis.com

The helmsperson sits closer to the sails, so higher up than what is considered normal but with better views come to a sense of better engagement with the whole cat. The hassles and difficulties of anchor deployment are a thing of the past with the Athena 38.  A cleverer way has been devised, and the dropping of the anchor is simply a matter of releasing the windlass brake. There is ample storage space on the main deck for deck gear, running rigging and even diving gear can be stowed away. The locker can also hold the sails and fenders and is 3 feet by 3 feet, next to the chain locker. The dinghy is neatly stored between the hulls and is ten feet long.

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The Interiors

book2sail-athena 38 catamaran interior

source: Splash-Catamaranes

Since there is no going down on this sailing boat, the interiors are bright, airy and a continuation of the deck. The design is simple, spacious and above all, easy to maintain. The overhang shade keeps much of the heat out and the master cabins each have their own dressing area. The designers knew that to keep the interiors from looking cavernous, they needed all the play of light they could master. To that effect, the Athena 38 does not disappoint.

Sailing & Engine Prowess

book2sail-saailing with Fountaine Pajot Athena 38

source: Windtrips

The engines of this mighty craft are accessible by removal of the aft cabin berth cushion and underlying panel. The Athena cruises at 71/2 knots on flat water at 2600 RPMs. With sails, the Athena does not perform very well in low breezes but can jump to 10 knots in a short matter of time, with only a slight heel.

This catamaran makes it ideal for coastal cruising, which is why it has become so popular for charters in Turkey. From the coasts of Spain to the Turquoise beaches of Turkey, the Athena 38 will make for an excellent ride. It is no wonder, really, that it is named after the fierce warrior goddess of ancient Greece; the Athena 38 has the strength and the beauty to challenge every assumption.

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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