Island Bareboat Charters conducts a very thorough pre-charter briefing so that you are ready and able to enjoy a safe and fun boating holiday, . The briefing is a compulsory part of the bareboat hire process and takes around 2-3 hours depending on the boat hirer’s experience. The cost of the briefing is included in your charter fee.
Before you leave the marina you will be thoroughly briefed on:
the boat and the operation of its systems
the cruising area
expected weather
communication procedures
tide information
island facilities
charts (electronic and paper)
anchoring and mooring procedures
You will be asked to demonstrate your navigation and boat handling skills.
We understand that some charter hirer's will be experienced boaties however, everyone must complete the briefing. Each boat is unique and we need to show you the specific features and quirks of your boat so it doesn’t matter if you are well versed in private boat chartering or have never rented a catamaran or bareboat this briefing will be specific to the vessel you will be hiring. Based on the the current weather and wind forecast in mind, we will give you local advice on places to visit and what conditions can be expected in certain locations. Together we will conduct an inventory and equipment check, to ensure everything is on board, in place and in good working order before you depart. Your briefing can start as early as 9am, so we recommend arriving to the local area the afternoon prior to commencing your charter and taking up the 'Marina Unit' option. Your official charter start time is midday and our intention is to have you fully briefed and underway by then.
The skipper and at least one other crew member must be present at the briefing although it is recommend that all crew members participate. As Island Bareboat Charters are booked to take you out of the marina berth by midday to commence your boating adventure please ensure all errands and shopping are completed before your briefing so there are no delays. Delays may result in you being unable to leave the marina on your first day, and incurring additional marina berthing fees. The briefing will be commence on the vessel at the Marina berth and about ¾ way though the briefing the boat will depart from the marina and not return so all crew will need be on board and ready to depart at this time. Extra hands on training time with a ‘Training Guide’ is available by prior arrangement, and this may be suggested for you by our team during your enquiry and confirmation process. Up to 4 hours of extra time can be booked at a low hourly rate, to give you and your crew more confidence. This extra training generally takes place between 12-4pm, and you will spend the first night either in the marina, or in accommodation close by.
