Frequently Asked Questions about Chartering a Yacht
Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about Chartering a Yacht
IS VAT APPLICABLE ON THE CHARTER FEE?
VAT (Value Added Tax) is usually charged on the Charter Fee in European territorial waters. Rates can vary according to the place of embarkation and the chosen itinerary. Your broker will be able to advise you on the latest tax situation for any country you wish to visit.
AM I COVERED BY INSURANCE?
We strongly recommend that charterers take out Cancellation and Curtailment Insurance to protect their investment if unforeseen circumstances prevent or curtail their charter. Additionally, all members of the charter party should be covered by Personal Accident and Medical Insurance, and their personal effects should be insured against theft, loss or damage. Other forms of insurance, such as Charterer’s Liability may also be prudent. Our brokers will be pleased to assist with arranging any policy not covered by the basic Charter Agreement. Please check the pdf file Charter Insurance on our web site.
CAN I SMOKE ON BOARD THE YACHT?
Smoking is not permitted inside most yachts. For safety reasons, smoking in cabins and staterooms is prohibited on all yachts. All yachts will allow smoking in designated outdoor areas.
Should we bring the kids?
ABSOLUTELY! A yacht vacation is great for families. Children have a blast snorkeling, running on the beach with water toys and swimming. Just bear in mind that the crew cannot take responsibility for the welfare of the children and young children will need to be supervised.
Do I need to sign a contract when renting a yacht?
Yes, all our yacht rentals are subject to specific terms and conditions which are mentioned in the contract. There are several types of contracts available based on the services you require, and they will all be written in the agreement.
What other expenses can I expect for the bareboat/skippered charter?
You will have to pay for fuel (most of the yachts use 3.5 – 6 litres of diesel per hour and diesel runs about 1.2 euro per litre ). If there is a lot of wind then you will most likely only use your engine for an hour or two just to get in and out of the harbor. If you have to do a lot of motoring then you could use and average of 3-4+ hours a day, but most islands you can get to in 2-4 hours.
Marina fees – Electricity and water ! Most often you will stay at the government docks which are in the middle of the town. If the dockmaster comes around you will be charge a few euro for the night. The price isn’t fixed and the dockmaster doesn’t always come around so it’s hard to put an exact price on it.
How much should I tip the skipper?
The standard tip for the skipper is about 10% of his fees, but if you especially liked him feel free to tip more! He will appreciate it.
I am afraid I might get sea-sick or it will be too rough. Is there an easy trip?
For people who are prone to seasickness there are a number of natural remedies and pills like dramamine that do the trick. There are various pills and patches like Dramamine, including Marezine (which does not cause drowsiness), Bonine, Phenergan, Scapolamine (ear patches), all of which affect the inner ear, which is where seasickness originates before it affects the stomach. These must be taken before you get on the boat but there is a drug called Phenergan, which is a suppository that is supposed to be effective when you are already seasick. But more people are afraid of being seasick than actually get seasick.
Keep in mind that when you sail the Greek islands it is not as if you are crossing an ocean and going for days without seeing land. You sail a few hours, find a nice cove to swim, sail a little more and before you know it you are in the next port. So even if you get sick, relief is always nearby.