Charter Checkout
The check out procedure for a charter is relatively straightforward, but one must be aware of each step. Let’s take a look at the basic checkout events, with a focus on a check list for the boat overview and inspection. An example checklist is available in the Downloads section or by clicking here.
Charter Office
Here you sign all relevant documents which typically include the official bareboat charter and recognition that you will obey with all of the charter company’s rules. Note that these can be custom rules beyond the Navigation Rules, based on the charter company’s preference (e.g., no motoring or sailing after sundown, not going to specific islands, etc.) You will also likely be asked to provide your credentials, such as your ASA/RYC cards or your International Proficiency Certificate (“IPC”).
Charter Office Debriefing
Most offices will give a sailing debriefing that covers the local area. I’ve found these to be incredibly useful, particularly with tips on anchoring, depths that may be off on charts, local customs, and locations that may not be obvious from chart/online research alone. Note that these are also covering the charter company for the “I told you so” incidents. There are many places a charter company may tell you not to go or specific instructions on anchoring. If you get in an accident or cause damage related to an issue like that, you will likely be held liable.
Vessel Overview & Inspection
This is the most important part of the checkout procedure as it can be very costly if you accept a boat with damage and then return it where the damage is identified. Nautilys has provided a comprehensive checklist in the Downloads section (example snip below) that we recommend you go line by line through with the checkout attendant. But some overall tips include:
Example of the first page of Nautilys’ Checkout Checklist
1) Video the entire checkout. Start with a video of the exterior outer hull, making sure to get where obvious contact points are (front bow, rear transom area, etc.). Also, video as the checkout attendant goes through systems so you can refer to it later if you can’t remember how something functions.
2) Even if you think you know how something works, ask the checkout attendant to turn it on and off so you can see how they do it. Do not be afraid to ask questions that make you think you don’t know how to sail many boats are different and even the same boats have different equipment.
3) Have your First Mate join you on the checkout. Best someone else knows system operations.
4) Bring a printout of the boat specs that were advertised to you when you agreed to the charter. Discrepancies that I’ve noticed before include:
Lack of air conditioning in vessels where they state they have air conditioning. This means some very uncomfortable nights if in a geography where its hot and humid.
Missing core items. For instance, in one charter our Bali was missing front cushions, making the whole point of a cushioned area replacing the trampoline useless.
Bow thrusters, generator, or water maker inoperable. These are luxuries, but you are paying for them.
If any of this occurs immediately ask if there is a comparable vessel that has these working. If not negotiate a price reduction immediately. At absolute worst there should be a credit for your next charter.
5) Other very common issues:
Current propane tank is empty or near empty. Half the time the gauges do not work on these and you need to test it with the weight.
Some type of electrical item not working properly such as the windlass or the automatic bilge pumps (two items I’ve seen have problems a lot)
Departure
Last, before you depart make sure to:
Undo the electrical hook up and take the cable and adapters with you.
When undoing the lines you likely will be taking them with you. Do not forget them!
Take the passerelle if there is one. Tie it down so it doesn’t fall overboard or slip around as you depart.
Request dock assistance when you are departing. Even if you don’t think you need it, you are paying for it so you might as well make your life easier.