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Before you sail

A calm first day starts before you reach the marina.

Use this planning sequence to avoid the common last-minute problems around documents, provisioning, arrival and yacht handover.

4–8 weeks

Documents & crew

  • Confirm skipper evidence acceptance if bareboat.
  • Complete crew-list information requested by the supplier.
  • Check passports, entry rules and travel-insurance cover.
  • Read the operator's charter terms and base information.
1–3 weeks

Arrival & provisioning

  • Confirm flight/transfer times and marina/base location.
  • Arrange provisioning or supermarket plan.
  • Book optional equipment before stock runs out.
  • Check the supplier's late-arrival procedure.
48 hours

Weather & practicalities

  • Start reviewing reputable marine forecasts.
  • Re-check check-in time and base contact details.
  • Keep booking documents and certificates accessible.
  • Do not lock the itinerary before you know the conditions.
Handover

Inspect before departure

  • Take part in the yacht and safety briefing.
  • Check known damage is recorded.
  • Locate safety equipment and understand key systems.
  • Ask about local hazards, restricted areas and return procedures.
Yacht deck prepared for charter
Your first afternoon

Do not rush the handover.

The most expensive yacht in the marina is no use if the crew does not understand its systems or the skipper misses an existing defect.

✓
Inventory & damage
Record concerns before leaving the base.
✓
Safety equipment
Know where lifejackets, extinguishers, emergency gear and shut-offs are located.
✓
Yacht systems
Understand batteries, water, heads, engine checks, shore power and any generator.
✓
Local briefing
Ask what the base team would avoid, book ahead or watch carefully.
Still planning?

Start with the right area and charter style.

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