Yacht hire - Frequently Asked Question'S (FAQS)

Welcome to our Frequently Asked QuestionS page where you will find most answers to common questions. If you cannot find your answer please contact us.

What qualifications do I need to Charter a bareboat? We have to abide by the recommended safe manning guidelines of the MCA for your safety and our insurers and therefore the minimum qualifications for hire start at RYA Day Skipper that will be allowed to navigate within 3 miles from the coast around Mounts Bay from Lands End to the Lizard. RYA Coastal Skippers can navigate up to 20 miles from a safe haven on the South Coast between Penzance and Dover. Coastal Skippers with at least three seasons of experience will be allowed to make a journey to the Isles of Scilly or a cross channel passage to Cherbourg and Channel Islands. RYA Yachtmasters can navigate up to 60 miles from a safe haven anywhere within the realms of our insurance cover territorial limits. In addition to the Skippers experience, a member of the crew must be declared to hold either a RYA Competent Crew certificate or at least have 1 years experience in the position.

I am not qualified what can I hire? You can still hire the boat accompanied by one of our Commercial Skippers or try a trial day. Trial days are also an opportunity where those of you who have been sailing for years and are not qualified academically can demonstrate to us your abilities and experience combined with a written statement and may lead to you being able to Charter in the future with us as a 'known' ability. Please indicate that this is your intention upon booking.

What happens if there is an accident or damage to the yacht? Only the yacht is fully insured for serious damage and total loss. If there is any damage to any other boat or pontoon etc that is covered under third party. Third party does not include anybody aboard the yacht at the time or any personal effects etc. The security deposit paid is used as the policy excess should a claim arise. Insurance forms will need to be completed and we expect full co-operation in assisting us to recover our losses. If the damage is less than the policy excess, a deduction will be made for the repair and the balance will be returned. Please note that ALL incidents must be reported however slight.

What do I need to bring with me for a skippered day trip? You will need non-marking soft soled shoes preferably deck shoes but trainers will usually do. Wellington or sailing boots are great for poor weather. Bring a COMPLETE set of spare warm clothes with you (underwear, socks etc) plus extra jumpers and waterproof jacket/trousers. If you do fall in or get wet there is nothing worse than wet clothes rubbing against your skin. Bring plenty of snack food and drinks (as your fellow mates love sharing!) A short stay is sometimes made around midday where you can dinghy off the boat and go for a hot lunch if you wish.

What do I need to bring for a skippered overnight stay on board? In addition to the above paragraph, a pillow and freshly laundered case is provided by us but by all means bring your own if you want to. You will need your own bedding, sleeping bag, quilt etc. as well as toiletries, towel and other personal effects etc. Please note that whilst on board your personal effects are not insured under our insurance policy. Marina fees are not included and are payable separately. Most fees need to be budgeted at around £ 25.00 per night for the yacht irrespective of how many are on board up to the maximum of 8 including the skipper. The hirer pays for the skippers share.

Can I use my own qualified skipper? You are very welcome to employ your own qualified skipper, however you will still need to pay the full security deposit. We do not charge a security deposit for our skippers.

* A note on Prescription Medication.* Please notify us at the time of booking if you are under any prescription medication and what it is for. We will also need to know the quantity and times to be taken and that it is stored in a suitable child proof container. We also need the contact details of your GP should advice be necessary depending on your condition. When you have taken your dosage, notify the skipper that you have done so. It is in your own interests as well as ours that we best know how to assist you if required to do so.