A bareboat charter offers the most in freedom and possibilities. In the Caribbean for the most part you benefit from line of sight yachting with very few open water hazards, steady breeze and sunshine - a bareboat yachting paradise.



The charter company typically requires proof that the skipper has previous charter experience or is a boat owner of a similar size yacht. Operating a sailing shipbareboat charter vessel 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 position and safe functioningof all the safety equipment including, fire extinguisher, life jackets and first aid kit.

The safe handling of the cooking and refrigeration systems.

Correct functioning of the heads.

Engine operation and regular checks.

handling of the VHF system including mayday instructions.

The position and operation of all the instruments, including the GPS when applicable .

The location of all charts and pilot books.

The position 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 vessel 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 vacation. The charter company would prefer you to feel 100% confident before you leave the land.

If you are not comfortable with the cruising area, the charter company could meet with you for full chart briefing which takes about one hour. If you are familiar with the cruising zone, you'll most likely receive an shortened chart briefing.