Types of Charter Yachts

Whether you decide to opt for a sailing yacht or a power yacht depending on your taste and experience the catagories of charter are the same, what ever your budget, and there are three basic types.

Bareboat charter is for the more experienced person who has been sailing before. Infact the boat owner will insist on some type of qualification from a national authority before agreeing on the charter. This qualification will be something like an Offshore Skipper Certificate, depending where you are from. On a bareboat charter you are your own skipper, mate, mechanic, deckhand, chef and dinghy driver. Whilst on charter it is up to you to arrange all the watch keeping, safety, daily routine etc. To be ble to take on a bareboat charter you will be familiar with a yacht routine and know what to do. If you are a little rusty or not familiar with the type of yacht then you may wish to employ a skipper for the whole charter or for just a few days. You will quickly learn from the skipper before taking over on your own but you must realise that the skipper will require a cabin for his time on board so allow for that when planning your vacation.

Yachts offered for bareboat charter are more than likely to be older yachts that have been used as instructional yachts as well as hired by less than accomplished sailors. They are unlikely to be in pristine condition as they have been used and have aquired bumps and scratches from contact with jetties and inside galley spills leaving their mark. However you will still have lots of fun with good value for money a the charter rate will be lower for this type of yacht.

The size of the yacht could be anything up to 60 feet and will be comfortable and easy to handle for you and your party. Single hull sailing yachts, catamarans and power yachts are all available for the same cost or less than the cost per person on a mid range cruise ship. If you wish to employ a skipper or a chef/deckhand then obviously the cost will increase to pay their wages, possibly up to $300 per day for the skipper, who will do most of the work onboard and make life easier for you. If you are lacking the experience or would feel happy with company nearby then you might choose to take a flotilla charter instead. This allows you to sail your own yacht but have the support of a professional skipper and crew member leading the flotilla on their own yacht. You sail in company with other yachts and the agenda is arranged by the flotilla skipper who has all the local knowledge to make your vacation pleasurable. As you aquire knowledge and become more confident you may wish to sail independantly of the flotilla but arrange to meet up with them at the next harbour or anchorage. You will still be able to stay in contact with the flotilla by radio incase you need help.

The other catagory is that of a crewed yacht. This can be any amount of crew from just a skipper/owner through to a large yacht with captain, mate and full crew. A husband and wife crew on their own yacht is quite common where the wife will do all the cooking and domestic chores and lend a hand crewing as well. You will not be asked to do too much work but of course you can be involved as much as you want. So what is the difference here to the skippered bareboat, it is the fact that the yacht is owned by the husband and wife team and will be in better condition and well maintained. They will take greater pride in their yacht and will see themselves as hosts rather than paid crew.

Fully crewed yachts are the most expensive option but if you can afford it then you will find yourself fully pampered and served by the crew. If you are combining your budget with your friends then possibly your will be able to charter such a yacht. The yachts vary tremendously in size and style but luxury and service are the key words. A 46 foot sailing yacht with four guests will cost around $20000 for a week plus expenses such as food, fuel and berthing fees. At the other end of the scale hiring a 170 foot motor yacht with accomodation for ten guests would be around $250000 plus expences. So you can see that at this end of the market there is a yacht for every taste as long as you can afford to pay for it.

Bruce Walls is an author and webmaster. Read more articles at YachtCharterReview

Adventures At Sea Yachts

Newport Beach is fast becoming a favorite California vacation destination. Although relatively unknown to vacation planners, Newport Beach offers exciting options for visitors of all ages and interests.

Adventures at Sea Yachts have been taking Newport Beach vacationers on unforgettable cruises since 1980. With an energetic staff that happily meets any challenge, Adventures at Sea accommodates charters for all occasions. Weddings, corporate events, private parties, sport and fishing charters, surprise parties, sailing and just enjoying a cruise are all possible aboard Adventures at Sea Yachts. The countless awards, accolades and happy clients are proof that the crew of Adventures at Sea loves what they do and pay a great deal of attention to detail for every one of their cruises.

Catering to local clientele as well as the tourist market, Adventures At Sea offers champagne sailing cruises along the southern Californian coast, a sailing yacht charter in Newport Beach, an Orange County sailboat charter and sea yacht cruises throughout California. From Newport Beach, Adventures At Sea will take you on a California sightseeing tour you've never dreamed of.

Wedding planners take note: Adventures at Sea will make your special day absolutely perfect. Picture the romance of exchanging vows aboard a luxury yacht, the sea breeze tossing your hair, spectacular views of California and beach stretching as far as the eye can see. The picture-perfect scene is trumped only by the attention to details paid by the Adventures at Sea crew.

Corporate events are popular happenings aboard Adventures at Sea Yachts. On these charters, you can impress clients and associates with the California lifestyle that a charter embodies. From showing off to friends to treating your boss to a day away from the office, these charters can help make you very popular and may give you a little boost up the corporate ladder.

Make an Adventures at Sea cruise part of your Newport Beach vacation. It's almost impossible to cruise the California coastline without being completely relaxed. Whether it's around California or just across the bay, charter cruises are a lot of fun and a great way to see the sights. Check out the ocean and shoreline views, or just sit back and enjoy the ride.

Avid anglers enjoy the privacy and security that Adventures at Sea fishing charters offer. Cruise out to that sweet spot on the ocean, cast your line and wait for the big one to bite. The sun beaming down and the cool ocean winds remind you that this is what fishing is all about.

Whether you're on a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, Adventures At Sea Yachts add the perfect touch to your Newport Beach visit. Locals love the charters, so you can bet the experience is worth the money. If you've never been aboard a yacht or taken a charter cruise, make sure you take the time to try Adventures at Sea. Once you try it the first time, you'll wonder why it took so long to discover the ride of your life.

Barbara Miller contributes to several web magazines, on hobbies and travel and recreation ideas themes

International Yachtmaster Training Sailing Courses

The International Yachtmaster Training programme was introduced in 2001. This article looks at the first 5 sections: Introduction to Yachting Certificate, The International Recreational Crew Certificate, Radio Operator/Communications Certificate, Watchkeeper/Flotilla Skipper Certificate, International Bareboat Skipper Certificate

Module 1 is the Introduction to Yachting Certificate

The International Recreational Crew Certificate is divided into 6 modules, module 2 gets us under way and you will be learn about safety on board a boat and the use of the life raft and first aid kit, fire extinguishers, flares, life jackets and safety harnesses. What clothing and footwear is suitable for the varying conditions met while sailing. Seasickness and it's symptoms, cause and prevention. How various equipment works including: battery selector switch, bilge pumps, cabin lights, cooker & butane/propane gas, heads and water pumps together with general housekeeping rules. You will learn a very basic theory of how a diesel engine works and maintenance procedures such as checking the level of the oil, changing the oil, changing filters, ensuring the flow of cooling water to the engine and how to change impellors. You will be taught how to keep a good and effective lookout, which should be maintained at all times, while under way. You will take a look at basic navigation, course plotting, nautical charts, safe passage conditions, tides and currents and weather forecasts.

On the practical side, module 3, you will learn how to coil a line and secure it to a cleat, tie a number of knots and use the winches. You will learn how to secure the boat for sea and then how to leave a berth, once under way you will undertake the duties of a lookout, learn how to hoist and set the sails and while helming the boat go through tack and gybe routines. You will anchor the boat and go through man overboard recovery drill.

Module 4 is theoretical and you will look at the International Regulations for Collision Avoidance or the "rules of the road". Specifically looking at lights, shapes, and sound signals. You will look at some more sail handling techniques, there is more work with charts and compass and to conclude you will take a look at marine customs, etiquette and manners.

The next practical module includes safety checks and look at the through hull fittings, engine warning lights and alarms and the emergency fuel cut off. You will learn deck seamanship with more docking and mooring routines. More sail work, bending on, hoisting, lowering, reefing mainsails, handling sheets, lines, halyards, outhauls and sail trim. You will learn more skills at the helm, tacking, gybing, sailing a triangular course, sailing a compass course and heaving to.

Module 6 looks at both theory and practise of Dinghy/Tender handling. You will learn the different types of tenders, engines, spares and maintenance and safety equipment. On the practical side you will learn to row, how to move under power, launch and recover and transfer to and from the dinghy to the boat or dock.

This section concludes with an assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained. At the of this course you will be a useful crew member on any small yacht.

The Radio Operator/Communications Certificate is a stand alone module. You will learn how to operate a radio including emergency calls, calling ship to ship, ship to shore, the types of marine radios available and the regulations governing it's use. An examination concludes the course.

The next 5 modules are the International Watchkeeper/Flotilla Skipper Certificate

Number 8 is theoretical and looks at the responsibilities of a watchkeeper, charts and chartwork, the compass, magnetism and concludes with a look at buoys and marks.

The next practical module concentrates on safety including a briefing that should be given to crew members when they join the vessel and looks at the galley area which if not used correctly can be a danger to all those on board. The rest of the section is devoted to boat handling and develops on the skills learnt in the International Recreational Crew Certificate course.

Back to theory in the next module with a look at basic first aid. More work is done with the International Regulations for Collision Avoidance. Finally you will take a further look at marine customs, manners and today's ever increasing legal requirements.

In module 11, the next practical stage you will prepare a passage plan, and while undertaking a short passage work still further on boat handling skills.

This section concludes with an assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained.

You have now reached a level that entitles you to the International Certificate of Competence or ICC. It is suggested that the skippers of vessels are required to hold this by some European countries. I have never been asked for mine by the authorities and I know of no one who has. It is also suggested that some companies require it prior to allowing charter of a boat. Again I have not come across this in practise.

The next three modules make up the International Bareboat Skipper Certificate and the first looks at taking over a vessel and the necessary checks on hull and rig, machinery and systems, instruments, safety equipment, spares, tools, fuel, water and provisions. It looks at tides and currents and what causes them. You will learn how to use tide tables and gain an understanding primary and secondary ports. There is some more chartwork that includes position fixing and plotting a course to steer to counteract a current. The section concludes with a look at the responsibilities of the Skipper, their communication with and delegation to the crew.

On the practical side you will develop sailing skills with more general deck work, ropes, knots, splices, the care and use of lines. There is more vessel handling work including anchoring, berthing, mooring, handling in confined areas and handling with currents.

This section concludes with module 16 and includes a look at the weather and sources of weather information, personal observations, weather patterns, land and sea breezes, the different cloud formations, rain and fog. You will learn pilotage. There is an in depth look at passage planning including pilot books, almanacs, considerations for passage planning, coastal passages, passage strategy, port regulations, pilotage plans. Finally you will take a further look at the International Regulations for Collision Avoidance. The section concludes with an assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained

Sailing Site. More info about IYT Courses can be found here Information on other Sailing Courses can be found here.

Ken Jones runs a http://www.sail-the-net.com/marine_directory/marine_directory_a_z.html

The Bottom Line On Yacht

Whether you are considering your first yacht charter vacation or simply looking to live the experience again there is a lot of vital information you need before planning and embarking on your voyage. Firstly, you need to consider the type of yacht charter that is suitable for you. There are crewed or unscrewed yacht charters, bareboat or even a motorised yacht. Each have their advantages and personal preference will dictate the chosen charter for you.

One thing for certain, though, whatever type of vessel you go on, there are many destinations to choose from each of them offering beautiful islands and shimmering seas by day and exciting or romantic night life. As with any vacation you need to plan carefully, but when chartering a yacht it is absolutely imperative that you take the essentials and spares. Once you're out to sea there will be few opportunities to stock up and an emergency is much of an emergency when you're hundreds of miles from the nearest chemist or shop.

Many who are chartering for the first time do so for a little quality time with family, friends and loved one because chartering a yacht is one of the most tranquil and peaceful vacations you can decide on.

What experience is required for charters.

The experience you need is dependant on the type of charter you are looking for. A bareboat charter means you and a group of family or friends charter the boat with no crew to assist. For a bareboat charter, you are always required to have some former sailing experience and usually need to submit a sailing resume to the charter company. Many will require that you have experience on a similar sized boat and with similar displacement and rig. A number of chartering companies may request that you go on a short sail around the harbour to make sure that your actual skills match your resume.

If you or a member of your group does not have this experience then you should consider chartering a crewed yacht. Chartering a boat and crew requires little or no experience. You may decide that your sailing skills are a little rusty, in which case you can take a captain or small crew for the first few hours of your trip to help you get your sea legs' back. Alternatively, if you have no experience whatsoever with yachting then you can take an entire crew and spend your vacation safe in the knowledge that your boat and your vacation are in safe hands.

What insurance do I require, and what is available?

As well as the usual travel insurance, you may want to consider further insurance for your yacht charter vacation. In fact, some charter companies will demand it. Accidents happen in everyday life and this is no different when chartering a yacht, however, there are some vital differences; the cost of a yacht and any parts of the yacht can be very pricey. The charterer is responsible for loss or damage to any of these parts. While many charter companies offer insurance that will cover a certain amount of damage, you should consider taking extra Charterer's liability insurance, usually costing approximately $250 for $1m cover. This figure can change depending on the terms of the agreement and the time of year you intend to charter the boat.

Additional health insurance is advised but not essential, although you should especially consider this for foreign travel of any kind not just charter vacations.

Another good idea is to take cancellation or curtailment insurance because many charter companies require a deposit of up to 50%. If you any of your party cancel or need to finish the vacation early, this insurance will become invaluable.

Charter vacation destinations.

But where should you go? There are many places you can charter a yacht, so you should consider exactly what you are looking for in your vacation.

The Galapagos is an archipelago that consists of 13 volcanic islands as well as 40 small islands. It is a haven of beautiful plants and exotic animals including marine iguanas and sea lions, the weather is very good, and there are many coves and incredibly picturesque beaches to relax on and around.

The Bahamas is a popular destination consisting of more than 700 islands. There are countless cays and beaches to explore as well as some incredible nightlife and beautiful settings. The reef and shallow waters make this a safe place for families to charter a yacht.

And then there's the Greek Islands. One of the world's most enchanting cruising grounds, with ancient history and culture at every turn. Islands such as Lesvos, Mykonos and Paros offer a combination of breathtaking scenery and history.

Still in the Mediterranean - at the western end - there are the Balearic islands off the coast of Spain. There's Majorca, it's smaller sibling Menorca, and the hedonistic playground of Ibiza. You'll find it a little busier than the Greek islands, but on the plus side the back up and support is first class.

On to the Caribbean: It has it all. Many different cultures and nationalities, hundreds and hundreds of islands to explore, and clear blue waters. Yachting at it's best.

The choice of destinations is amazing, and the beauty of chartering a yacht is that you are free to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, drop anchor, pour a stiff drink and soak up the sun!
John Thompson is webmaster for http://www.yacht-and-boat-charters.com , an online information resource for yacht and boat chartering. - http://www.yacht-and-boat-charters.com

 

An Introduction To Crewed Yacht Charter

Many of us dream of touring the tropical Caribbean, but there is no other warm and cherished way to experience it, than on a yacht. From the USVI all the way down to the Grenadines, each Caribbean island has its own diverse character and each time carries some thing different to offer. Added up with that crystal clear aquamarine waters, dolphins rolling around your boat and tropical sunsets on close beach and your sailing vacation would be a life time experience.

Crewed yacht charters are the yachts where the crew is completely devoted to any specific yacht. They take care of the maintenance, sailing, cooking, and cleaning and also with the other navigation services, and are usually experts in the region where you would be chartering. Do not misjudge the worth of the local knowledge – it could make a huge difference among efficiency and hassle when finding a mooring, restaurant, or moving with the local customs around.

Crews range from husband and wife people who own the boat and charter for a living/lifestyle as they just love it, to huge, competently trained crews on Super Yachts where each crew member has a detailed task, ranging from cooking to serving to navigating, and sometimes to rub and other hair dressing. On most of the large yachts, team members are certified in their roles by yacht training companies. All luxury yachts and about all the motor yachts come with an experienced crew that is familiar with both the boat and local water. They can take care of your every requirement and operate the boat like a 5 star floating hotel.

Mr.Monish is a Copywriter of Florida yacht charter.He written many articles in various topics.For more information visit:yacht design. Contact her at yachtloop.marine@gmail.com.

The Luxury of Renting Private Yacht Charters

You can relax on a private yacht and travel at your own pace, pampered all the way, for much less than what you end up paying for a crowded cruise ship. Private yacht charters are becoming increasingly popular for intimate and flexible vacations. And most yacht charters are just as attentive to your needs as any cruise ship.

The private yacht charter allows you the freedom to spontaneously change your mind and stay an extra night at your favorite island or to explore an uninhabited island close by.

Your location is the single most important point of your entire vacation. Pick a calm, protected location with many islands all within sight, with many gorgeous lagoon anchorages.

Private yacht charters are favored by honeymooners, family reunions or by close friends who want to spend their time together undisturbed. Buddies looking for an opportunity for fishing in tranquil waters, deep-sea diving, water skiing or just relax on a secluded beach can also find private yacht charter a fulfilling experience.

Generally, individuals who want to enjoy a quiet vacation prefer small motor yachts staffed by a crew. Such charters are easy on the pocket as they cost anywhere between $5,000 and $25,000 a week, depending on the size of the yacht.

Since it is a cheaper alternative, college youths can also afford to enjoy their dream vacation aboard a small boat, surrounded by the blue sea or a lagoon amidst a cluster of islands, particularly in The Bahamas, the Virgin Islands or the Mediterranean near Greece.

You have the freedom to choose a yacht, its route, anchorage and stopovers, cuisines that you would like to have for every meal, assortment of drinks and beverages and activities, such as water sports and sight-seeing on land during your vacation.

Yacht Charters Info provides detailed information about yacht charters, including Caribbean and Mediterranean yacht charters, as well as luxury, crewed, motor, private, and corporate yacht charters. Yacht Charters Info is affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink.