We approach the subject of what to watch out for when chartering a positive: what to look for! Here are some guidelines by an experienced blue water sailor, charterer, and now captain of the charter.
1 The size of the ship. Many people think bigger is better, not necessarily. classic long ship, Herreschoff-type, is unquestionably a beautiful but small inside. old Morgan Outislander inside the cavernous and quite tired out. Specify how you want the room - bunk beds per person, double beds (remember this is a ship that is likely to even roll at anchor), do you want (? necessary) separate head / shower, how much stowage require (calculated diving equipment, if you bring it)?, and common areas, such as the main lounge and kitchen. Some of your calculations should determine where you charter: in the colder air, You May want more space for stacking. If you plan to be tied to the dock most of the evening, and then a larger boat could be argued for. Finally, as with my Herreschoff / Morgan example, overall length (LOA) is not a determinant of internal space.
2 Vessel type. Building in the first place, you should bear in mind the type of ship you want: a true classic that reeks of past, when sailors dressed properly and women knew their place (and the crew spent most of his time putting on another layer of varnish on brightwork). At the other extreme are the production of ships as Hunters (fortunately there are few available for rent) or Beneteaus and Jeanneaus. It can be nice to be finished and in its early years, very acceptable for rent - a lot of space, good sailing skills, a huge cockpit, beautiful ending (before it starts to peel), and functional. There are many between these two extremes, but not from large ships an agency which understandably must have a very recent production of all the ships of the same type with the same equipment to keep them in service.
3 Other charter parties. It is absolutely necessary to determine in advance, the larger yachts, charter, if the other party other than yourself can be on board at the same time. This can prevent some of the most unfortunate misunderstandings.
4 The captain and crew. It is extremely important that, regardless of the size of the ship, there will be constant and often intense interaction with the captain and crew, if any. I would like to think that the most responsible - for both sides and charter boat - Captain owners / captains because they have made large investments in both financial and expertise to their work charter companies. the other end of the spectrum is the "pick-up captain" who rented their services with large agencies, which have nothing at stake: he / she is likely to show until I can find a permanent position in the mega-yachts and vintage. S / he needs to make ends meet and satisfy the owners of vintage yachts when in port. In addition, it is difficult, even impossible, to determine in advance if you have the right "chemistry" with the crew or captain, except through a statement of the previous charterers, who are naturally more accessible for the owner / captain of the Captain-in-a-concert .
5 Food and drink. One of the wonderful things about traveling is experiencing new and unexpected flavors and you should take this opportunity to welcome onboard charter yachts. Having said that, you should volunteer - if the captain does not ask in advance - your preferences and distastes (and they should!): Garlic? Indignation? Carbs? Meat or, for many, the pork? Seafood? Breakfast setting? Tea? Cocktails? Wines - Dry Ross? Dry red, with or without tanning?
6 Sailing yachts. Crewed charter, you will not have to do anything while on board - booking, cooking, washing, anchor, or sailing. But You May look forward to participating in its entirety, or only a little. Please do all a favor and let your wishes be known before signing the charter, as some captains may be very arrogant (unsafe?), and not let someone else take the helm, for example, or stack package, or tend BBQ. If you want to fully participate, then your choice may be severely reduced.