Your ideal blue voyage begins before you set foot aboard a vessel.
The idea of waking up in a secluded cove and then jumping off the deck and into turquoise waters, or watching a sunset from the deck of your yacht sounds idyllic - but renting a yacht is a very serious undertaking.
Renting a yacht means you will have the freedom, comfort, and safety to enjoy your time at sea.
Below is our comprehensive guide to chartering a yacht and what to look out for before you step onto your new boat:
1. Plan Beforehand
Before any voyage begins there is much work to be done on land.
When deciding to rent a yacht, determine which time of year you wish to go, where you want to go, and how many days you will be gone.
The options in the Turkish Riviera are numerous:
- To find a place to relax and be quiet: Göcek, Selimiye, Bozburun
- To find a lively atmosphere: Bodrum, Fethiye, Çeşme
Research the weather, distance between ports, and the amount of fuel you will need prior to departure.
Plan ahead to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
2. Establish A Realistic Budget
In addition to the cost of renting a yacht, the cost of food, port fees, fuel, cleaning, crew gratuities, and insurance, etc., can greatly increase the total cost of a trip.
Be sure to ask for an itemized list of what is included in the rental price and what is not.
Tip: If you book early, you may receive a discount on the price of the rental, and you will also have more yachts to choose from.
3. Select The Appropriate Yacht
Your yacht will be your home when you are at sea; therefore, it must be comfortable.
Things to think about when selecting a yacht include:
- Size & Capacity: Is there enough room for everyone?
- Crewed or Bareboat: Do you have experience? If so, select a bareboat yacht. Otherwise, select a crewed yacht for your first time.
- Type: Gulet, Motor yacht, Catamaran, Sailing yacht - Each has its own unique experience.
- Equipment: Are there amenities such as Air Conditioning, Sound System, Galley, and Water Sports equipment available on the yacht?
- Maintenance: Has the yacht been well-maintained? Is it safe? Is it fully insured?
Choosing the right yacht will help to ensure your trip is as enjoyable as your destination.
4. Select A Reputable Charter Company
When looking for a charter company to do business with, you want to select one that is professional rather than one that makes false claims.
Only work with reputable charter companies that have a Tourism Ministry Yacht Operation Certificate.
Look up their reviews, request referrals, and ensure they have a 24 hour emergency contact during your trip.
Cell phone reception may be lost once you are at sea - but a reputable charter company will always have your back.
5. Be Honest With Yourself About Your Level Of Experience
If you have no experience with sailing, avoid the bareboat option until you gain some experience.
Instead, rent a crewed yacht, watch, learn, and eventually transition to sailing independently.
Experience at sea is built by doing, not by having enthusiasm.
6. Read Through All Documents Closely
Carefully read through all documents prior to signing them:
- Charter Agreement
- Insurance Policy
- Safety Registration Certificates
- Terms of Deposit
All information should be transparent and current.
7. Conduct An Inspection Prior To Departure
Don't skip the pre-departure inspection.
Prior to leaving the marina, perform the following inspection:
- Condition of hull and deck
- Functionality of cabin doors, windows and hatches
- Condition of fridge, stove, and galley utensils
- Functionality of electrical and water connections
- Functionality of navigation lights
- Condition of bilge pump
- Presence of life jackets and first aid kits
- Availability of maps and flags
- Functionality of GPS, Radar and Autopilot
- Functionality of VHF Radio
- Verification of engine and fuel levels
These inspections take mere minutes, but could prevent a disaster on your vacation.
8. Safety First
Do not get into the water when the engines are running.
Keep away from ropes and cleats when the seas are rough.
Safety equipment is not optional - it is your lifeline.
9. Protect Yourself From The Sun & Health Risks
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Drink plenty of water and limit your drinking of alcohol when the sun is shining.
Saltwater and sunlight are wonderful - but in moderation.
Respect The Sea And Have Fun On Your Voyage
Renting a yacht is not just a vacation, it's a commitment to safety, awareness, and the environment.
Once you've planned, selected a crew, and chosen the right mindset, your blue voyage can be the adventure of a lifetime.
The sea does not tolerate recklessness, but it rewards those who treat it with respect.
