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Lesson 1 - Yacht Charter Process

Overview

  • In this first lesson of our 5-part Yacht Care series, we break down the five essential steps to properly checking in your yacht. A thorough check-in ensures a smooth, stress-free charter experience and helps you avoid unnecessary costs.

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By the end of this lesson, you’ll understand:

  • Why a proper check-in is crucial for your charter.

  • The key paperwork and procedures involved.

  • How to inspect your yacht to avoid costly damage claims.

  • The technical checks you need before setting sail.

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Step 1: The Office – Smiles and Signatures

Before you even step on board, the check-in process starts at the charter office.

  • Who goes in? Only the lead booker and skipper. Bringing the whole crew will slow things down.

  • What do you need? License, passport, and VHF certificate – no documents, no boat!

  • What happens? The contract is signed, a security deposit is paid, and you receive the yacht's inventory checklist.

  • Pro Tip: Be polite! The office staff can be your best friends or biggest headaches if issues arise later.

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Step 2: Damage & Inventory Check – The Pre-Sail Detective Work

Before boarding, take a good look at the yacht from the dock. If you spot scratches, dents, or damage, take photos as proof.

 

Inspect these areas carefully:

  • Hull & deck – Check for scratches, dings, or other damage.

  • Interior fittings – Look for loose hinges, stuck drawers, or damage to woodwork.

  • Heads (toilets) – Any foul odors now will only get worse later!

  • Safety equipment & inventory – Ensure all items (life jackets, fenders, snorkels, etc.) are accounted for.

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Why is this important? If you don’t note damage or missing equipment before sailing, you could be held responsible at check-out.

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Step 3: The Technical Induction – Your 10-Minute Crash Course

Now, a charter technician will give you a rapid-fire rundown of the yacht’s systems. Key systems to check:

  • Water tank changeover valves – No one wants to run out of water mid-shower.

  • Battery switches – Power management is critical.

  • Anchor & bow thruster – Make sure you know how these work.

  • Roller furling systems – Improper use can lead to costly jams.

  • Bathing platform – These can be tricky (and expensive to fix!).

  • Pro Tip: The technician is often rushed—so have a list of important questions ready and take notes.

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Step 4: Inventory Signoff & Boat Papers – Your Golden Ticket

After the check, you’ll receive the boat’s legal documents—don’t lose these! Before leaving the dock, do a final "4P" check:

  • Power – Shore power cable unplugged?

  • People – Everyone on board?

  • Papers – Got the boat documents?

  • Plank – Don’t forget the gangway if you have one!

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Step 5: The First Sail Check – What Can’t Be Tested in the Marina

Once you leave the marina, do these checks immediately:

  • Sails – Any rips, tears, or furling issues?

  • Engine & propeller – Feel for vibrations. If something’s wrong, check underneath.

  • Steering & navigation instruments – Make sure everything functions smoothly.

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Pro Tip: If you find an issue, call the charter company within the first hour. Reporting early means they’re more likely to accept that it wasn’t your fault.

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Key Takeaways

  • Skipping check-in steps could lead to expensive surprises at the end of your charter.

  • Document damage before setting sail—photos are your best defense.

  • Learn your yacht’s quirks during the technical handover—it will save you headaches later.

  • Report any issues immediately to avoid being blamed later

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