Information before departure
Before you set sail, it's good to know what awaits you on the first day in the marina and how everything works. Here is the most important information to know in advance.
When to arrive at the marina
Boarding is usually on Saturday from 17:00. We recommend arriving in the morning - you'll have time for a quiet lunch, grocery shopping and a stress-free check-in.
Check-in and boat handover
At the charter office you'll sign the contract and present documents (passport, skipper's licence). Then a boat inspection with the technician - photo/video of any damage.
Deposit
Before the boat handover, a refundable deposit is required - usually €1500-3000 (depending on the boat type), blocked on a credit card. Returned after problem-free return of the boat.
Briefing with the skipper
The technician or skipper will show you everything important - engine, sails, electronics, WC, gas, water, anchor. Don't hesitate to ask! Better ten times now than once later at sea.
First grocery shopping
There is usually a supermarket near the marina. Plan shopping for the first 2-3 days - later ports will be smaller and more expensive. Don't forget water, salt, spices and aluminium foil.
Travel insurance
Must be valid before boarding the boat. We recommend insurance with water sports coverage and deposit insurance. Never set sail without insurance.
Data roaming / SIM
In the EU you have free roaming, but the signal is weak at sea. Download offline maps (Navionics, Google Maps), weather (Windy) and translator before departure.
First night in the marina
The first night is usually spent in the marina, not at sea. Departure is on Sunday morning after a quiet breakfast. Enjoy an evening walk around the harbour.
Costs
In addition to the boat rental itself, you need to budget for other mandatory costs. Here's an overview of what to expect during your trip.
Boat rental
The boat price is always for a weekly rental, from Saturday to Saturday. The price depends on the type of boat, its year of construction and the sailing date (the same boat has different prices for different dates).
Mandatory costs
Fuel
Depends on engine consumption and weather. You take over the boat with a full tank and it must be returned with a full tank. When leaving the home marina, check where you will refuel on the return trip. Fuel stations are located in almost every marina.
Refundable deposit (payable in cash or by credit card)
Paid upon check-in on the boat, it is a deposit for damages caused to the boat. If no damage occurs, it is refunded immediately upon return of the boat. If damage occurs or equipment is lost, the damages are paid from the deposit; for major damage, this is covered by insurance. When using the services of a foreign skipper, they are responsible for handling the boat (sailing, anchoring, navigation) as well as for any damages they may cause.
The amount of the deposit depends on the type and size of the boat and ranges from €1500 to €5000.
Mooring fees
In case you decide to spend the night in marinas. The price for a berth ranges from €45 to €80 per day and depends on the boat length, season and each marina. For catamarans, mooring fees are 70-100% higher. The mooring fee is paid in every marina, except the home marina of each boat (where an annual fee is paid).
Parking fee
Car parking at the marina during the trip usually costs €6 - €10 per day. The price depends on the specific marina and season. We recommend reserving a parking space in advance, especially during high season.
Costs on request
The following services can be booked optionally - they are not part of the basic boat rental.
Crew
Custom crew additions - hostess, cook or another experienced crew member. Price according to the scope of services and duration of the trip, available on request.
Foreign skipper
A professional skipper costs approximately up to €200 per day + meals. Suitable for crews without their own captain or for a more relaxed holiday, where an experienced professional takes care of the boat.
Ready to set sail? ⛵
Now you know what to expect on the first day at the marina. Don't forget to pack everything important!