{"id":57888,"date":"2024-09-24T14:47:06","date_gmt":"2024-09-24T14:47:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/?p=57888"},"modified":"2026-01-23T13:23:45","modified_gmt":"2026-01-23T13:23:45","slug":"boat-charter-preparation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/en\/boat-charter-preparation\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Key Preparations for Your Boat Charter"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Whether you\u2019re a seasoned sailor who\u2019s a little rusty, or you\u2019re setting sail in your own charter for the first time, boat charter preparation is the key to an enjoyable, successful trip. Planning your travels by boat is all about anticipation, and thinking ahead about what will happen only makes you look forward to your holiday even more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From practical matters like having the right documents on board and checking local regulations, to more fun aspects such as planning your itinerary and booking must-visit restaurants, thorough boat charter preparation ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s true that chartering a boat can be a bucket-list experience, but if you want to make the most of every moment, don\u2019t even think about setting sail before completing proper boat charter preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Your Complete Charter Pre-Departure Checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Documentation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you go on any kind of vacation there will be a list of documentation that you need to bring. This is even truer when it comes to chartering a boat or yacht. You\u2019ll have to ensure you have any required licences, plus your boat rental documents, in addition to the usual items.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a handy, quick-reference checklist to refer to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Passport:<\/strong> Make sure this has sufficient validity remaining for all of the countries you\u2019ll visit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Visas:<\/strong> Get any traditional or electronic visas required for wherever you\u2019re heading to.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Driving licence:<\/strong> An International Driving Permit is recommended, as it\u2019s so widely recognised.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cash and debit or credit cards:<\/strong> Carry some local currency with you, as well as plastic. Inform your card issuer and check regarding charges before you travel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Travel insurance documents:<\/strong> Complete with contact details, as well as what\u2019s covered, in case of a claim.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Charter hire documents:<\/strong> Make sure you\u2019ve read the Ts &amp; Cs, and have contact details in case you need them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Boat licence(s):<\/strong> Find out what documents you\u2019ll need in this <a href=\"https:\/\/help.borrowaboat.com\/en\/articles\/168946-what-license-do-i-need\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">boat licence requirements guide<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Review local regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Check carefully regarding any local regulations. These might apply to the sort of boat licences you\u2019ll need in each country you visit. There may also be rules about matters like where and when you can sail.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXdF2c3Dm6IoGtY3gFiT2GOpUiZoWj8c1e2tKURn5uNzMr4xHihOXP4didsqulSekxIk7QCMj4qgk-8eGaic2Ah9wRI9bM2Z9MBmvdvG09O-coiKPtbbbNVKgYS7lvAchGu60NdfWkh3doTHPg5zO8EC6vHg?key=AUSqwc86gkcf2uP2ragGww\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need guidance, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\">contact the Borrow a Boat holiday planners<\/a>. Also, or alternatively, get in touch with the charter company or boat owner who will have local knowledge. Official government websites can also be a reliable source of information.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Itinerary planning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you can go any further with trip planning, thorough boat charter preparation means you first need to consider where you\u2019ll be going. Without doing this, you cannot book a table at a restaurant, check weather forecasts, or plan other activities effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to relax and enjoy your trip, don\u2019t be tempted to cram too much into a short space of time. Proper boat charter preparation includes allowing for contingencies and remembering that weather can have a huge effect on sailing times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thinking carefully about what you want to do at each stop is a key part of boat charter preparation, helping you work out how much time to spend at each destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Make reservations at popular restaurants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have your heart set on eating at a particular place, then make sure you reserve a table in advance. Restaurants in popular ports of call are understandably in huge demand, so book early to avoid disappointment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This particularly applies, of course, to Michelin-starred eateries, or restaurants run by celebrity chefs. But it may well also be true of any place to eat that\u2019s highly rated by the public, and\/or revered by critics.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXc979dCkZXm9AEnFsivo9UfPJYRG518jQjF0ax6Q0sqkU9ZpelPJGfcUBjWvpAv33l_VsuEYI39YSC_2mawWC3S5CJKXoU6lV9tDlcVLHAmSnqAg47qZZDx_ugvkMG3NwZr9R6eptu8757o8QHF2T-znQG5?key=AUSqwc86gkcf2uP2ragGww\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If it\u2019s the destination\u2019s number one restaurant on TripAdvisor, for example, then it stands to reason that many visitors are going to want to eat there. In the vast majority of cases, you\u2019ll be able to cancel without penalty if your plans do change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So you often have nothing to lose by securing your spot \u2013 and everything to gain. A fresh seafood restaurant with an ocean view might just turn out to be the most memorable meal of your life so far!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Grocery lists and shopping for food and provisions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unless your charter rental includes staff or an on-board catering service, proper boat charter preparation requires planning what you\u2019re going to eat while you\u2019re away. Before setting off, you\u2019ll need sufficient provisions to last at least until your first stop. A key part of boat charter preparation is preparing for all eventualities by taking along extra stocks of non-perishable goods, such as dried and tinned products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plan where you\u2019ll do your shopping before boarding. Go online to find the closest supermarket to the port where you\u2019ll pick up the boat. If in doubt, ask the boat owner or charter company for a recommendation. As part of your boat charter preparation, make sure to allow enough time for this between arrival in the country and check-in at the port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to create a shopping list is to think about what every person on board will eat for every meal. Don\u2019t forget to cater for children or anyone on a special diet such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free. Planning for snacks and drinks is also an important step in complete boat charter preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some ideas for non-perishable grocery items to take on board.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Breakfast cereals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tinned soup<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Baked beans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canned vegetables<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tinned tuna<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canned pasta \u2013 such as spaghetti rings, macaroni cheese, or ravioli<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tinned potatoes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pasta sauces \u2013 stir-in sauces are very quick and easy to use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tinned meals \u2013 like meaty, bean-based or vegetable chilli, stews, curries and so on<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canned pies \u2013 Fray Bentos specialises in these<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hot dogs \u2013 these come in jars or cans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Basmati rice \u2013 microwave pouches or regular packs, depending on whether there\u2019s a microwave on board<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pasta \u2013&nbsp; you might want to mix up the shapes if you\u2019ll be eating a lot of this<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Instant mash \u2013 Idahoan is a good-quality brand<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Noodles \u2013 pot noodles and\/or instant noodles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Part-baked baguettes or rolls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Salt, pepper, and other seasonings such as herbs and spices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Condiments, preserves, and sauces&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bottles, cartons, and cans of juice or other soft drinks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UHT cow\u2019s or plant-based milk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tea, coffee, and sugar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alcoholic drinks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Download helpful boating apps<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Boating apps can be really useful, whether you\u2019re a complete novice or an experienced sailor. Here are some popular ones you could take a look at.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Free boating apps:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Anchor Watch \/ Alarm:<\/strong> Position logger &amp; alert&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>KnowWake: <\/strong>Local services for sailors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Navily:<\/strong> Marinas and anchorages&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tides Chart:<\/strong> Check local tides<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>VesselFinder: <\/strong>Real-time vessel tracking&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Windfinder:<\/strong> Wind conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Windy: <\/strong>Wind, weather &amp; wave forecasts &amp; alerts&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Paid boating apps:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Animated knots:<\/strong> Tying nautical knots<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>iNavx:<\/strong> Handheld chartplotter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marine Traffic:<\/strong> Live traffic updates&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Savvy Navvy:<\/strong> For navigation&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SeaHelp:<\/strong> At-sea breakdown service&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Weather forecasts and tidal information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is something you won\u2019t be able to do very far in advance, but as part of thorough boat charter preparation, it\u2019s important to start checking forecasts about 10 days before departure to get an idea of what to expect. The closer to your departure date, the more accurate the weather forecasts will be. Including this step in your boat charter preparation also provides valuable guidance for deciding what to pack for your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Check boat condition &amp; equipment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To an extent, you can do this before leaving home, by checking the pictures and documents provided by the boat owner or charter company. Though of course you\u2019ll have to leave that close-quarters inspection until you actually collect your vessel.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXcRnocRoNob0cBPi5vefxM2x-U3EQlqy6uElREJ3bsY_OovsN_B_tFp7Wk0Xuu7uTwkhjsVm0Qp02XbkMGEl8OdsNpM81afv6dHXThRct8DKe8w52VF7NBhf0a8zgunexY8OSLqDAmffPp-KQX6BXxXMye6?key=AUSqwc86gkcf2uP2ragGww\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The charter company or boat owner should supply any necessary safety equipment. But do double-check that this is all present, correct and in full working order before departing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a brief rundown of what you should be checking for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Required items &#8211; essential<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fire Extinguisher<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flare<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Horn<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Floatation Devices \u2013 wearable and throwable<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Running Lights<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Extra safety equipment &#8211; optional<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Air Horn (spare)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bilge Pump<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Binoculars<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Distress Radio Beacon<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Emergency Raft<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flags<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flashlight &amp; Batteries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>GPS<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Navigational Charts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mobile or Satellite Phone<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oars or Paddles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>VHF Radio<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There should also be a tool kit and a first aid kit on board. Check out what these should contain with this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/en\/sailing-preparation-checklist\/\">sailing preparation checklist<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Safety protocols<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Familiarising yourself with some common sense safety protocols before your sailing trip is also a good idea. Here are some general pointers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make sure everyone on board can swim in the ocean<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learn to sail before you set off<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appoint an assistant skipper who can also sail<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the boat and all equipment is in good condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Locate and ensure all safety equipment is in working order<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always wear life jackets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand tides, wind, and other weather patterns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Know what to do in the event of an emergency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid drinking alcohol before you\u2019ll be skippering<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Check-in location and briefing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Organising your check-in is one of the most important parts of boat charter preparation. When booking the boat, you should supply your estimated time of arrival (ETA) so the owner or company can plan accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of thorough boat charter preparation, make every attempt to arrive at the marina on time. It\u2019s wise to allow a little extra time in case of delays, especially when navigating an unfamiliar destination. You may also be able to pay extra for an early check-in, but if not, the boat may not be ready immediately. If you know you\u2019re going to be late, contact the company or owner to make alternative arrangements\u2014this is a crucial detail in your boat charter preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During check-in, you should receive a briefing on safety, equipment, and operating the boat. Even though you\u2019ll be eager to set sail, listening carefully and asking questions about anything unclear is a vital part of boat charter preparation. Knowing how to operate the vessel safely could even save your life, so taking this seriously is essential.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re a seasoned sailor who\u2019s a little rusty, or you\u2019re setting sail in your own charter for the first time, boat charter preparation is the key to an enjoyable, successful trip. Planning your travels by boat is all about anticipation, and thinking ahead about what will happen only makes you look forward to your &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"10 Key Preparations for Your Boat Charter\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/en\/boat-charter-preparation\/#more-57888\" aria-label=\"More on 10 Key Preparations for Your Boat Charter\">Continue reading<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":57889,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[873],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-57888","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sailing-tips","infinite-scroll-item","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-33"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/57888","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=57888"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/57888\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/57889"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=57888"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=57888"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borrowaboat.com\/m\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=57888"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}