A bareboat charter offers the maximum in freedom and possibilities.
In the Florida Keys for the most part you enjoy line of sight cruising with very few open water issues, steady breeze and sunshine - a bareboat yachting ideal.
The charter company typically requires evidence that the skipper has previous charter experience or is a boat owner of a similar size sailing ship.
Operating a sailing shipbareboat charter sailing ship handover (yacht orientation) will usually take about an hour. You should be as familiar with the vessel as possible before leaving the dock. As a minimum, the skipper and at least one other member of the crew should be shown:
The wherabouts and safe operationof all the safety equipment including, fire extinguisher, life jackets and first aid kit.
The safe handling of the cooking and refrigeration systems.
Correct handling of the heads.
Engine handling and regular checks.
handling of the VHF system including mayday instructions.
The wherabouts and handling of all the instruments, including the GPS when applicable .
The position of all charts and pilot books.
The wherabouts and operation of all the halyards, winches, reefing lines and other sail controls.
The anchoring system.
Any other systems peculiar to that vessel or not covered above.
It is
important not to rush the sailing ship orientation and don't be afraid to ask questions! If there is anything you are not sure of or want to know more about, an extra 15 minutes at the start of your charter could save you hours of down time during your holiday. The charter company would prefer you to feel 100% confident before you leave the marina.
If you are not comfortable with the cruising area, the charter company could meet with you for full chart briefing which takes approximately an hour. If you are familiar with the cruising waters, you'll most likely receive an simple chart briefing.
