FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


CREWED YACHT QUESTIONS

How do I choose the right yacht for me?
What is the Booking procedure?
What is the Cost of A Crewed Charter?
What do I need to bring with me?
What kind of activities are there to do?
What's our itinerary going to be like?
What type of food and drinks are served?
What's the Weather like?
Where can we Cruise?
Do's and Don'ts?
What can I expect from my charter...?
In case I want to cancel my charter?
Amenities?
Do you offer Special Cruises?
Which days of the week can I begin and end my charter?
How should we Calculate Costs and Expenses?
What Types of Payment Facilities do you offer?


BARE BOAT YACHT QUESTIONS


How do I choose the right yacht for me?

What is the Booking procedure?
What is the Cost of A Bare boat Charter?
What do I need to bring with me?
What's the Weather like?
Where can we Cruise?
Do's and Don'ts?
Are there any additional charges?
What can I expect from my charter...?
In case I want to cancel my charter?
What qualifications do I need to charter a bare boat sailing yacht?
What are the security deposits?
Do you provide boat briefings?
Do I need to hire a professional skipper?
Which days of the week can I begin and end my charter?
What Types of Payment Facilities do you offer?


CREWED YACHT QUESTIONS

Q: How do I choose the right yacht for me?

A: The decision to charter a yacht is a personal choice or preference depending on your budget, your party size and your experience in sailing, among other factors.

All sailing yachts have a set number of cabins hosting from 2 up to the stated amount of passengers. For a party of 6, for example you would choose a yacht with a minimum of 3 cabins. Other factors to consider is your comfort level and your budget. Generally, a yacht of 38ft and larger offers more space and head room than a smaller size yacht. You will want to sail in comfort without being cramped in tight quarters. Year build may also be a significant factor. The newer models are more spacious, better designed with newer engines and performance capabilities.

A rule to remember is, you will pay more for a newer model than an older one, but you will also have a more pleasurable sailing trip. Depending on your budget and party size, crewed motor yachts and motor sailors are an excellent choice for cruising in extreme comfort and luxury. Contact us for more detailed information on all our sailing vessels.


Q: What is the Booking procedure?

A: Once you have discussed with us the various types of yacht, locations and terms under which the yachts operate, we will be ready to prepare your booking. This occurs in stages and is quick and relatively painless (except for the funds transfer).

We will prepare and send you a Charter Agreement detailing the yacht, your chosen dates, location, cruising area and cost. Upon signing this Agreement the first payment, normally 50%, is due to the account shown on the Agreement.

The Agreements are then sent by us to the Owners for their countersignature and a completed copy is returned to you for your retention. We will send you a detailed questionnaire requesting information on your travel arrangements, guest list, likes and dislikes, special requirements, etc (Your preferences).

This information will be discussed with you in some detail to ensure we gather as much information as possible. This is then sent to the Captain so that he can pre-book any berths, order the right provisions and arrange the chef and crew to prepare that special birthday treat or other such celebration. We call this the "Preference Form".

If there is no interim payment the balance is normally due one month prior to the charter commencing. At the same time we will ask you to send us the funds to cover the advance provisioning allowance (APA) plus any taxes, delivery/redelivery fees and security deposit,
if required. * See Gulet below.

The APA is immediately sent to the Captain, in cash, in order that the yacht can purchase provisions in advance ready for your arrival. All costs incurred by the yacht which are accountable to the charterer will be deducted during the cruise and full accounts produced at the end. The Captain will, at the end of the charter, return any unused funds. Occasionally the APA is not sufficient and the Captain will keep you advised if further funds are required.

* If you are booking a Gulet in Turkey, the cost of food is calculated according to the number of guests, is a fixed amount and is payable in advance. In most cases there will be be no APA when chartering a Gulet.

You are now ready for your cruise. If at any time, even during the actual holiday, you have any concerns, please remember you can always call us.

One aspect we feel to be of extreme importance is that of insurance. Please pay special attention to the following recommendation:-

Insurance:

Cancellation and Curtailment Insurance is available on request to cover the loss of Charter Fee if a charter has to be cancelled by the charterer for genuine reasons. This is available at a cost of approximately 1.5% to 1.75% of the charter fee. This is highly recommended.
Personal Accident and Medical Insurance plus Personal Effects Insurance is also essential and is not included in the charter fee.


Q: What is The Cost of A Crewed Charter?

A: The cost of crewed charters vary depending on the size of vessel, power or sail, number of people on board, etc. The duration of the charter is usually a week, but can be any length. Generally, all food, beverages and water activities are included. Diving is usually extra.

Motor yachts cost more than sail. Groups on larger yachts can often be less expensive per person than a couple on a small yacht. Yachts are available for parties of 2 or more. Large groups may prefer to charter more than 1 yacht and travel as a flotilla. This is very common, especially for corporate groups.

The summer season is more expensive than winter, except in the Caribbean. Xmas and New Years usually have an additional fee. Dockage and shore excursions are extra.

Gratuities are the norm when the service merits it. Remember that your crew work hard to ensure your holiday/vacation is a great one. They are your chef, bartender, tour guide, waiter etc...


Q: What do I need to bring with me?

A: Pack light is the key to enjoying your sailing Holiday/vacation. You will find that you will use half the clothing you pack. Essentials are: light summer clothing such as shorts, tops, skirts, sun hats or caps, sandals, trainers/sneakers or soft soled athletic shoes, bathing/swim suites and warmer clothing for night wear such as sweatshirt, sweater, windbreaker, jeans, light pants. A few of the more formal restaurants require long pants and collared shirts and occasionally a jacket, but "smart casual" is the norm. For cooler months we recommend warmer clothing and a rain-jacket.

We recommend soft sided luggage as most appropriate. They will fit in the cabin compartments and be easier to secure in cases of windy weather. Also hard luggage can damage woodwork and paint. Consider bringing additional foldable baggage to pack items you purchase on your visit.

Yacht sailing is a "soft adventure", be prepared for calm seas as well as windy conditions. If any lean towards sea sickness, over the counter medications or prescriptions may be handy. Ensure, you have an adequate supply of prescribed medications as you may not be able to refill medical prescriptions whilst away.

Your own mask and snorkel if your inclined, but all yachts carry an assortment of sizes. If you are expecting to scuba dive, check with your broker to make sure of the available equipment on board the yacht.


Q: What kind of activities are there to do?

A: Some yachts have water sports and will vary depending on equipment. These might include snorkeling, Scuba Diving, knee boarding, water-skiing, windsurfing, kayaks, fishing and, of course, sailing.

If the Yacht has Water Sports equipment on board it is usually included but some activities are extra, and can be arranged by your crew. These would be diving and parasailing.

On shore activities can be recommended by your crew and will vary depending on the location.


Q: What's our itinerary going to be like?

A: The itinerary is based on your preferences of activities, we are also familiar with most locations and can advise accordingly. The crew know the territory very well and will tailor the cruise to fit your requests.

It is usually not possible to see everything in one visit however, and you may need to adjust your itinerary to accommodate your schedule and activities you have chosen or return again in the future for another charter.


Q: What type of food and drinks are served?

A: The menus are designed around your food preferences. The professional chefs are excellent and can generally accommodate most diets with advanced notice and prepare any dish requested.

Drinks such as wine, beer and alcohol are included as part of the "ships bar". The amount and variety will vary depending on the cost of the charter with larger, more expensive yachts providing finer wines and premium liquors.


Q. What's the Weather like?

A: We have provided links on the Featured Location pages. If you would like a a longer forecast.
Please consult us.


Q. Where Can We Cruise?

A: A Crewed Charter is usually tailored to your individual requirements. Although the Captain has the benefit of local knowledge and will recommend based on his experience and the weather available.


Q. Do's and Don'ts?

A: Remember, you are visiting in a different land, with its own culture. If you find the local islanders gruff, try saying 'Good Morning' 'Good Afternoon' and 'Good Evening'. A smile and polite greeting may seem old-fashioned to you, but here, they are still very much a part of everyday life. Try it, you will very likely get a broad smile in return, and may make a new friend. Who knows, you might even start a trend when you get home!

In towns, the local islanders generally prefer you to be covered up. T-shirt and shorts are fine, shoes are often optional, but bikini tops are not appropriate in their eyes for city wear. Now, on the beach, that's another story!

You must have a valid passport/visa and your charter agreement forms to embark on your charter. We recommend that you carry personal documents with you whenever you leave the yacht.


Q: What can I expect from my charter...?

A: Expect great sailing, enchanting island scenery. clear blue waters and unforgettable memories and warm hospitality from the staff of your sailing charter company, your skipper and the local people.


Q: In case I want to cancel my charter?

A: IYC calculates cancellation fees based on the period of time between the date of cancellation and the departure date.

Due to the International nature of the Company and the wide Category of Yachts available, please consult one of our Brokers for a detailed summary relevant to your preferred cruising area.


Q: Amenities?

A: Do you have certain requirements such as satellite communications to keep in touch with your business, or do you desire a yacht with a gym to keep with your daily fitness routine? How about scuba diving? From kayaks to helicopters, there is a yacht for you.

Special Dietary Needs
The professional chefs can generally accommodate most diets and preferences with advance notice.


Q: Do you offer Special Cruises?

A: Yes, there are cruises to meet almost every need. Some of these include:

Scuba Diving

Many programs are available for diving from beginner up to Advanced Diver. The variety of diving and the beauty is unmatched in some of the Locations and includes reef, night, cave and wreck dives.

Learn To Sail

Most yachts are happy to share their knowledge of sailing with you and there will be opportunities to steer the boat and adjust the sails if your want. There are, however, captains that are qualified sailing instructors for those charter guests that are interested in learning more.

Captain Only

A few yachts are available with the captain only. The yacht is available with the captain at a lower rate than fully crewed and the charter guest pays all the expenses. These would be provisions (including enough for the Captain), fuel, water, taxes, etc. Also, you prepare the meals and look after your cabins. This might be a good choice for those that want to eat ashore frequently and don't need the personal service that a fully crewed charter includes.

Honeymoon and Wedding trips

Weddings can be arranged aboard our yachts, depending on location and the preparation. More commonly though is the honeymoon cruise. Our private yachts provide one of the most romantic ways to begin your new life together - without any worries after all you've gone through with the preparation.

Special Diets

Most of our yachts will do everything to accommodate your personal dietary requirements. Many can do vegetarian menus that will delight everyone, not just the vegetarians! The most important thing is to get in touch with the yacht as soon as possible and communicate your special needs early. With enough warning, most things are possible even in the remotest parts of the world!

Clothing Optional

Many yacht crews do not mind their guests 'expressing themselves', and the seclusion possible on your own yacht ensures you to privacy.

With advance notice of your needs, we can help arrange a charter where everything fits together perfectly. We can be sure that you have the crew, accommodations, cuisine, destinations and activities you want for your holiday or vacation.


Q: Which days of the week can I begin and end my charter?

A: Weekly charters usually begin and end on Saturdays for multiples of seven days. We will try to accommodate your wishes for different days of the week and uneven periods of time, such as a ten or twelve-day charter.


Q: How should we Calculate Costs and Expenses?

A: Charter costs range widely depending on location, season, number of guests, distances traveled, days spent in ports, and the level of luxury provided. Rates will be quoted either as "all-inclusive" or "plus expenses".

All-Inclusive
Generally speaking, all inclusive means just that. The charter rate includes the use of the yacht, captain and crew, all meals and beverages aboard (standard ship's bar), plus use of recreational equipment. Scuba diving may have an extra fee, as well as special wine/liquor requests.
Plus Expenses
A guideline often used for estimating expenses is to factor in an additional 25 to 35% of the base charter rate. Taxes, if applicable, are not included in the base rate. When you charter on a plus-expenses basis, the captain will give you discreet updates on such items as fuel expenses, communications charges, and liquor/wine consumption. You will be provided with a detailed account at the end of your charter.


Q:What Types of Payment Facilities do you offer?

A: On receipt of your booking details and preferences, we will send you a Copy of the Charter Agreement, payment is via SWIFT Bank Transfer.


BARE BOAT YACHT QUESTIONS

Q: How do I choose the right yacht for me?

A: The decision to charter a yacht is a personal choice or preference depending on your budget, your party size and your experience in sailing, among other factors. All sailing yachts have a set number of cabins hosting from 2 up to the stated amount of passengers. For a party of 6, for example you would choose a yacht with a minimum of 3 cabins.

Other factors to consider is your comfort level and your budget. Generally, a yacht of 38' and larger offers more space and head room than a smaller size yacht. You will want to sail in comfort without being cramped in tight quarters. Year build may also be a significant factor. The newer models are more spacious, better designed with newer engines and performance capabilities. A rule to remember is, you will pay more for a newer model than an older one, but you will also have a more pleasurable sailing trip.

Depending on your budget and party size, crewed motor yachts and motor
sailors are an excellent choice in cruising the islands in extreme comfort and luxury.
Contact us for more detailed information on all our sailing vessels.


Q: What is the Booking procedure?

A: Once you have discussed with us the various types of yacht, locations and terms under which the yachts operate, we will be ready to prepare your booking. This occurs in stages and is quick and relatively painless (except for the funds transfer).

We will prepare and send you a Charter Agreement detailing the yacht, your chosen dates, location, cruising area and cost. Upon signing this Agreement the first payment, normally 50%, is due to the account shown on the Agreement. If there is no interim payment the balance is normally due one month prior to the charter commencing.

You are now ready for your cruise. If at any time, even during the actual holiday, you have any concerns, please remember you can always call us.

One aspect we feel to be of extreme importance is that of insurance. Please pay special attention to the following recommendation:-

Insurance:

Cancellation and Curtailment Insurance is available on request to cover the loss of Charter Fee if a charter has to be cancelled by the charterer for genuine reasons. This is available at a cost of approximately 1.5% to 1.75% of the charter fee. This is highly recommended.
Personal Accident and Medical Insurance plus Personal Effects Insurance is also essential and is not included in the charter fee.


Q: What is The Cost of A Bare boat Charter?

A: The cost of crewed charters vary depending on the size of vessel, power or sail, number of people on board, etc. The duration of the charter is usually a week, but can be any length.

Motor yachts cost more than sail. Groups on larger yachts can often be less expensive per person than a couple on a small yacht. Yachts are available for parties of 2 or more. Large groups may prefer to charter more than 1 yacht and travel as a flotilla. This is very common, especially for corporate groups.

The summer season is more expensive than winter, except in the Caribbean. Xmas and New Years usually have an additional fee.


Q: What do I need to bring with me?

A: Pack light is the key to enjoying your sailing Holiday/vacation. You will find that you will use half the clothing you pack. Essentials are: light summer clothing such as shorts, tops, skirts, sun hats or caps, sandals, trainers/sneakers or soft soled athletic shoes, bathing/swim suites and warmer clothing for night wear such as sweatshirt, sweater, windbreaker, jeans, light pants. A few of the more formal restaurants require long pants and collared shirts and occasionally a jacket, but "smart casual" is the norm. For cooler months we recommend warmer clothing and a rain-jacket.

We recommend soft sided luggage as most appropriate. They will fit in the cabin compartments and be easier to secure in cases of windy weather. Also hard luggage can damage woodwork and paint. Consider bringing additional foldable baggage to pack items you purchase on your visit.

Yacht sailing is a "soft adventure", be prepared for calm seas as well as windy conditions. If any lean towards sea sickness, over the counter medications or prescriptions may be handy. Ensure, you have an adequate supply of prescribed medications as you may not be able to refill medical prescriptions whilst away.

Your own mask and snorkel if your inclined, but all yachts carry an assortment of sizes.


Q. What's the Weather like?

A: We have provided links on the Featured Location pages. If you would like a a longer forecast.
Please consult us.


Q: Where can we cruise?

A: Where ever you would like to go, within the cruising ground.


Q. Do's and Don'ts?

A: Remember, you are visiting in a different land, with its own culture. If you find the local islanders gruff, try saying 'Good Morning' 'Good Afternoon' and 'Good Evening'. A smile and polite greeting may seem old-fashioned to you, but here, they are still very much a part of everyday life. Try it, you will very likely get a broad smile in return, and may make a new friend. Who knows, you might even start a trend when you get home!

In towns, the local islanders generally prefer you to be covered up. T-shirt and shorts are fine, shoes are often optional, but bikini tops are not appropriate in their eyes for city wear. Now, on the beach, that's another story!

You must have a valid passport/visa and your charter agreement forms to embark on your charter. We recommend that you carry personal documents with you whenever you leave the yacht.


Q: Are there any additional charges?

A: The following additional charges may apply:
Deposit - Refundable Security
Deposit Fuel - The yacht should be delivered topped up with fuel.
Port or Marina fees - This is a daily-base fee, which applies to almost all ports with varied costs.
Optional's - Any optional extras that you might have specifically requested.
Cleaning - End-cleaning which is obligatory, on some yachts.
Cruising permit - Payable in some countries.


Q: What can I expect from my charter...?

A: Expect great sailing, enchanting scenery. clear blue waters and unforgettable memories and warm hospitality from the staff of your sailing charter company and the local people.


Q: In case I want to cancel my charter?

A: IYC calculates cancellation fees based on the period of time between the date of cancellation and the departure date as follows:

· For bookings cancelled 99 days or more before departure then 5% (dossier's expenses) are retained
· For bookings cancelled 98-60 days before departure then 30% of the yacht fees are retained
· For bookings cancelled 59-30 days before departure then 50% of the yacht fees are retained.
· For bookings cancelled 29-0 days before departure then 100% of the yacht fees are retained.

IYC will return the cancellation fee, less the administration fee, if the cancelled yacht is re chartered for the same period under the same conditions.


Q: What qualifications do I need to charter a bare boat sailing yacht?

A: To charter a bare boat sailing yacht, it is necessary for two crew members (skipper and co-skipper) to have sailing certificates proving their competence. If no such certificates are issued in your home country, you will be required to present a reference from your yacht club verifying your ability to sail. Also the skipper and co-skipper will be asked to complete and sign an official self-declaration form, stating their sailing competence. You may also be required to submit a sailing resume that will enable us to assess your ability to sail in safety. We reserve the right to insist that charterers hire a professional skipper if their sailing skills are not judged sufficient.


Q: What are the security deposits?

A: Each yacht or vessel is comprehensively insured, including third Party cover, beyond a deductible "excess" figure. The Refundable Security Deposit is held against the yacht's insurance excess and, if there is no damage or loss to the yacht or her equipment, this figure is returned to you.
Exception: for any loss or damage caused by gross negligence or wanton or wilful misuse by the charterer or by any of his party, to a value in excess of the Security Deposit amount, the charterer will be held liable for the total amount of loss or damage.
Normally, you will be refunded the Security Deposit immediately at the end of the charter. However, if any damage and/or loss is extensive, the deposit or appropriate proportion will be returned, if applicable, as soon as possible after full assessment of rectifying such damage or loss has been made.

The Refundable Security Deposit covers:
· Loss of or damage to the yacht or it's tender or to third parties.
· Loss of or damage to the equipment listed in the inventory and given to the charterer at check-in.
· Costs incurred if the yacht is returned in an extremely dirty condition.
· Cost of returning the yacht to the prearranged harbour if the charterer fails to do so by the scheduled date and time.
· Cost of refueling if the boat is returned without refilled tanks. The payment of the Refundable Security Deposit is designed to cover only one incident of a substantial nature at any one time, in case of loss or damage to equipment of significant value such as outboard engine or dinghy, the charterer will have the right to an immediate replacement whilst on charter, provided that the charterer pays a new Refundable Security Deposit immediately upon receipt of replacement or repair.The Refundable Security Deposit is payable at the yacht's base before embarkation.


Q: Do you provide boat briefings?

A: The charterer and his or her party will be given general briefing covering the local cruising grounds. Questions about navigation, anchorages, prevailing conditions, or any part of the desired itinerary can be answered. A more specific boat briefing aboard the yacht will then be given, covering all the operating systems, including rigging, electrical system, water system, windlass, stove, dinghy, outboard and emergency systems.


Q: Do I need to hire a professional skipper?

A: We can recommend and hire on your behalf a professional skipper for as many days as you wish. Even if you are an experienced sailor, you may still require the services of a professional skipper to make your cruise more relaxing and benefit from the skippers’ local knowledge. There is a set daily fee for the professional skipper regardless of the number of people on board Please remember that the professional skipper needs to be provided with his own cabin, as he is obliged to sleep on board.


Q: Which days of the week can I begin and end my charter?

A: Weekly charters usually begin and end on Saturdays for multiples of seven days. We will always try to accommodate your wishes for different days of the week and uneven periods of time, such as a ten or twelve-day charter.


Q: What Types of Payment Facilities do you offer?

A: On receipt of your booking details and preferences, we will send you a Copy of the Charter Agreement, payment is via SWIFT Bank Transfer.