Tag: skipper

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

Charting the Right Boat for a Vacation

One of the first steps that need to be taken in the process of deciding on the type of sailing vacation is to match the circumstances to know more about the available sailing options, including the services provided and the types of boats available.

Boat Vacation

Depending on the specific requirements, a sailing adventure is likely to be that much more enjoyable if able to make the right choices in relation to the type of boat hired; Sailing, Motorboat or Catamaran. The size of the vessel is likely to relate to the group budget and the number of people on board. Even if you are very limited in relation to practical sailing experience, a yacht can be chartered with a full time skipper on board who can take complete control of the navigating, while you are left to completely relax and enjoy the experience.

Choices of boat include:

Catamaran

A highly popular choice for the sailing holidays, a multi-hull like the catamaran is available to hire in a wide range of sizes and shapes from the large size cruising boats to be much smaller and easier to manage boats. A catamaran is likely to offer a very exhilarating and fast sailing experience. Many of the catamarans are likely to require at least two experienced sailors on board to manage and navigate them.

Keelboat

A keelboat is certain to be able to offer a very smooth and pleasant experience on a sailing holiday. A charter sailing boat is available in a wide range of sizes and configurations to make certain you are always able to hire the most appropriate type of boat to match the needs. They are very comfortable to sail by a skipper and one or more crew and likely to feature a range of comforts including the bathroom (head), toilet, kitchen (galley) area, and sufficient beds (bunks).

Motorboat

If you’re searching for a charter boat able to offer easy handling and higher speed performance, a motorized boat is certain to be the more desirable option. A motorboat offers a perfect opportunity to explore the local coastal waters at home or in an exotic destination and able to offer a variety of comforts for a day trip.

Canal Boat

A memorable journey is certain to be had on the fabulous rivers and canals throughout continental Europe, UK, and Ireland. A canal boat is among the easiest to control, while also being cost-effective, self-contained, and comfortable. It is a very versatile option and perfect for singles to groups and honeymoons to families. A high-end canal boat can be luxurious inside and come complete with a fully fitted galley, air conditioning, central heating, satellite navigation, comfortable cabins, and similar comforts expected at home.

Sport Fishing Yacht

A purpose-make sports fishing yacht is certain to make it possible to enjoy the unrivaled thrills that come with the epic battles against the ocean fish. A specially equipped boat will make it easy to get to the best fishing sites fast and outfitted with the proper supplies (bait, lures, line, reels, rods, etc.)

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

When Is It Necessary To Hire A Professional Skipper?

If you are looking at going on a sailing vacation there might occasions where it is necessary to hire the services of a professional skipper and crew.

Boat CharterIf a charter company isn’t willing to accept the details supplied relating to your competence as a skipper, the only alternative to hiring a sailing charter is to use the services of a local skipper.

Why hire a professional skipper?

In order to successfully charter a sailing boat it is a requirement for the skipper to clearly illustrate (provide relevant certificates) that they have the competence to handle the rental boat. Also, in certain countries such as Greece it is generally a requirement that at least two qualified people are on board. If you’re in a situation where you aren’t able to supply any official certificates of sailing competence issued in your own country, it might be possible to provide alternative documentation, like a written reference from a local sailing club where you are a member. Beyond just the sailing certificates, some of the charter companies might also require a full sailing CV to illustrate your sailing experience in the last five years.

A charter company is always likely to insist that a professional skipper is hired for the duration of a charter when they deem the existing sailing skills aren’t adequate for the type and class of the vessel being hired.

Enjoying a relaxed boating experience

Elsewhere, in many situations it can be quite common for the qualified skipper to rely on the services of the professionals in order to create a more relaxed and carefree sailing holiday. A further quality to relying on the hired skipper is that they are more familiar with the local customs and unique places to explore.

What are the likely costs involved?

Many of the hire companies are able to steer you in the right direction to hiring the services of the qualified professional skipper to match the specific period and that you will require the services. If planning on hiring a skipper it will be necessary to work this into the budget since their services can be quite expensive on an extended break. They might cost in the region of $125 to $150 per day for a sailing holiday in the Mediterranean for instance.

What to take on a sailing adventure

When going on a short break on a motor-driven or sail boat, make sure to pack the essentials like medications, towels, personal hygiene, clothes, etc. Plus, a high-quality selection of waterproof jackets and clothing should be included in episodes of bad weather. Also, the shoes worn on board should be appropriate for the type of boat. A well-planned assortment of food and drink is also a must-have to have on the boat.

Where will the skipper sleep and do I cover the costs of food or similar expenses

Most vessels that require the services of a professional skipper have a cabin available to rest when not laid-up or moored for the evening. Plus, the cost of food or similar expenses should is usually covered by the person that has hired the boat.

Categories
Safety at Sea

11 Safety Tips to Using Inflatable Rafts, Canoes & Kayaks

Inflatable boats such as white water rafts, canoes, kayaks, etc. are extensively available and made water sports a mainstream activity.

Inflatable Kayak for White Water RaftingWhile a reliable and high-quality boat can be helpful it is also critical to practice safety and take precautionary measures with an inflatable to avoid accidents. Mishaps at sea are easily caused by ill-preparedness, ignorance, and negligence.

Here are eleven tips for staying safe while in control of the inflatable boat:

1 – Alert skipper

Similar to road vehicles, avoid operating the inflatable when under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or at times of illness. Controlling the boat on rough waters can require an alert and quick mind so make sure the skipper is always in a position to instantly make the proper handling decision.

2 – Boat safety course

A practical method to enhance the boating knowledge and navigation skills is to complete a boat safety course. An in-class or online course can teach everything there is to know about the safety operation of the boat.

3 – Boat skills

Be familiar with the all-round handling skills of the inflatable before venturing out on the water. Get experienced before taking charge of the inflatable and rely on those with experience or use less challenging and shallow water to get a full appreciation of using the boat.

4 – Life jackets

To comply with local rules and regulations make sure a life jacket is made available for each person on board the inflatable. Plus, the life jackets should be at the correct size (adult or child) to match those on the boat.

5 – Outboard motor

Give the outboard motor a test and visual inspection before setting off to ensure it is fully operational. Also, ensure there is enough fuel (with some spare) to complete the intended trip.

6 – Safety equipment

Make sure the inflatable boat is outfitted with the essential safety equipment before leaving port. Compile a checklist of safety equipment that can be quickly checked before setting off. Essential safety equipment includes:

  • Emergency repair kit
  • First aid kit
  • Flares
  • Flashlight
  • Handheld radio
  • Life jackets
  • Maps
  • Mobile phone
  • Personal floatation device

7 – Seated position

Passengers should stay in a seated position while the inflatable is moving to increase safety and avoid falling overboard.

8 – Shore party

Let a nominated person know the intended itinerary, how long you expect to be out, and personal details of those on-board.

9 – Swimmers

Avoid unsafe areas such as those that attract swimmers or other water sport activities. If it is necessary to pass through an area with swimmers make sure to keep a watchful eye on the water to avoid any mishaps.

10 – Taking passengers

A backup skipper or at least someone with knowledge of operating an inflatable is certain to benefit when passengers are on board. A nominated person should be available to take control of the boat in the event something happens to the skipper.

11 – Water regulations

Make sure to have a practical understanding of the local water regulations for the body of water that you intend on using. Check with the local authorities if you aren’t entirely sure of what is involved.