 |
|
|
 |
| FAQs |
|
That's Frequently Asked Questions, y'know...
Listed below is a list of some the most frequently asked questions we've
come across over the years. Click on any to see the answer.
What's the difference between Bareboats and Crewed Yachts?
How do I book a boat?
Do charters start on a particular day of the week?
How many days are the in a charter 'week'?
What's included in the rental fee?
How do I find out if I'm qualified to bareboat?
If I'm not qualified, what can I do?
What happens when we arrive?
Who pays for the taxi and will we be met on arrival?
Do we need passports?
Which boat should I charter?
What's on board the boat?
What is a Sleep'a'board?
What if I have to cancel my trip?
Should we bring the kids?
What should I pack?
Is insurance included in the charter cost?
Am I responsible for damage?
Do we have to clear customs with the yacht?
How can I be reached in an emergency?
Can I get mail?
What about food and drinks?
Can I drink the water?
Can I sail after dark?
Can I scuba dive?
What about extra 'toys'?
What happens when I arrive back at the base?
How much are diesel, gas and water?
How much fuel do the boats normally use in a week?
Are there any extra costs?
Can I charter one-way?
Who do I contact if I can't find the answer to my question?
What's the difference between Bareboats and
Crewed Yachts?
You can either skipper and run a bareboat by yourselves, or hire a captain
if necessary. Bareboats are just that - bare. We make available a boat
fully fueled, watered and ready to leave the dock. You buy your own provisions,
ice, etc and whatever else you want on board for your charter, while crewed
yachts have a permanent crew and many items are included in the price.
 top
How do I book a boat?
First, call or email our reservations staff to check dates and boat availability.
We will work with you to secure a boat and put it on a complimentary 48
hour hold. Once flights are secure (we can also arrange this for you),
we take a credit card number as a show of commitment from you that you
are serious about making your reservation. We then create your charter
contracts and other documentation like sailing resume and mail these to
you by priority mail. You will then return one signed contract, resume
and the deposit, usually 25% to 50% of the charter fee depending on the
start dates of your charter.
top
Do charters start on a particular day of the
week?
No is the short answer. We manage a vessel's calendar and this is set
by clients themselves booking up. Due to the size of our fleet now you
should be able to (given enough lead-time!) pick your dates. We can start
you any day of the week depending on boat availability.
top
How many days are the in a charter "week"?
We set a standard charter as 7 nights aboard, noon to noon, for a full
week. In the British Virgin Islands, charters begin at noon although briefings
and checkouts may start as early as 9 am. In such cases, you'll want to
arrive on the island the day before your charter begins. Sometimes a boat's
calendar has a gap of less than a full 7 nights charter, we then are in
a position of trying to fill this gap so we can offer down to a minimum
of 5 nights as standard.
top
What's included in the rental fee?
Your bareboat charter cost covers the boat only plus a rigid inflatable
tender. We make available a boat fully fueled, watered and ready to leave
the dock. You buy your own provisions and whatever else you want on board
for your charter. When you return the boat at the end of your charter,
it is refueled and watered, this is a client expense.
top
How do I find out if I'm qualified to bareboat?
We want to see some experience, history of ownership or skippering in
similar sized yachts or lots of experience in smaller yachts. You do not
need any formal qualification, though this would help if you are relatively
new to boating and sailing. One of our Captains will be reading your Resume
and then 'checking you out' when you arrive on our dock. We are looking
for a demonstrated ability to able to handle and skipper the boat; this
is as much for your benefit as ours! You and your group are looking for
a relaxing charter and we are looking for that, as well as safeguarding
the boat. If you are worried about this, don't be, give our office a call
and we would be pleased to talk this all through with you.
top
If I'm not qualified, what can I do?
If you're not qualified, or not able to skipper the boat yourself, we
can place a training Captain on board until such time as both you and
our Captain think that you are comfortable and able to take command. Our
charter agreements state that the company has the right to put a captain
aboard at your expense if the check out Captain feels this is necessary
after he meets you and evaluates your skills. Please remember that we
also operate a Motor Yacht Training School so we are used to working with
clients to hone or upgrade their skill levels. Courses start from competent
crew and run through up to Offshore Master Captain. If this is of specific
interest, contact us and we can send you details.
top
What happens when we
arrive?
Your charter starts at 12 noon, however we will do our very best to make
sure all chart and boat briefings have been finished by then so you can
leave the dock promptly. Your nominated skipper will be given a comprehensive
chart briefing, this will include moorings & anchorages, changes in
buoyage, how to safely navigate from one place to the next, restaurants,
beach bars, things happening and so on. You will also be given a very
thorough boat briefing on all systems and daily maintenance. You will
not leave the dock wondering where you are going or how you are going
to do it. Previous clients will be given a refresher on all the above
as things do change - even in the Caribbean!
top
Who pays for the taxi and will we be met on
arrival?
If we have been provided with your flight details prior to arrival, we
will brief a local taxi driver to meet you and your party whether it be
from airport, ferry or local resort. Sadly we cannot pay for this so it
is a charterer's expense.
top
Do we need passports?
A valid passport is the principal requirement for entry into the BVI;
however, US and Canadian citizens may also enter using an authenticated
birth certificate along with current picture identification. Visitors
from some countries may also require a visa for entry. If in doubt contact
the nearest BVI Tourist Board Office or call the BVI Government direct
at tel: 284-494-3471 ext 2538.
top
Which boat should I charter?
This is an important question to ask, and the best way to answer this
is probably to contact us in the office and we can discuss your priorities
and what you would like to do whilst on charter. We have a strong range
of products available and we would be pleased to help you with this and
to make sure you get what you are looking for.
top
What's on board the boat?
Everything needed to cruise it, anchor it and in short, operate it. All
of our boats have dinghies with outboard motors. The galley is fully equipped
with hot and cold running water and refrigeration. Our boats also include
towels, sheets and bedding, stereo, and air-conditioning in the cabins
to help keep you comfortable. If you need additional linens or galley
equipment just ask us and we will do all we can to provide you with whatever
you need.
top
What is a Sleep'a'board?
If the Boat's schedule allows, we will, if asked, make a boat available
to clients to board on the evening of their arrival. There is a cost involved
of $50.00 per person per night (minimum $200.00 per night per boat) This
offers you reduced inconvenience of having to book into an hotel for one
night prior to the charter start, having to check in, unpack, pack &
check out in the morning, move to boat, unpack again.
Sleep'a'boards commence at 1700 hrs, if the boat is available before this
time then we will board the guests before this time but 1700 is the witching
hour. Should you arrive at the base after hours, your taxi driver will
have been briefed with the name of your boat and will show you on board
- you will find the boat with its air-conditioning on, lights on and a
nice bottle of Verve Cliquot to help you sleep!
The next morning we reserve the right to have our Staff board the boat
to complete any outstanding work on the boat. There may well be no more
work to do and the boat is fully prepped for sea, but we will still hold
the boat on the dock until noon, unless special circumstances apply.
Please note: and this is important, the Charter Start time as per
signed Charter Contract is Noon. Before Noon, the Boat / Client is not
under contract to us and this means that we are open to all sorts of problems
- not least insurance. Clients can be unaware that the start time is noon,
this can lead sometimes to clients starting to agitate because they wish
to get on with their Charter, they are on the boat, we seem to be maybe
ignoring them, we are not, we are subject to insurance and contractual
issues, please bear with us.
top
What if I have to cancel my trip?
Our Charter Contract states: - No portion of the charter fee paid herein
is refundable unless the Charterer provides the Company at least ninety
(90) days written notice, prior to the start date of the charter of their
intention to cancel and further provided that during such ninety days
period the company is able to rebook the Yacht for the same charter dates
under such terms and conditions at least as favorable to the Company as
those set forth herein. There will be a $300.00 cancellation fee in the
event of a refund. In the event that the Company has to cancel any portion
of the charter due to severe weather or warnings of severe weather, a
credit for the unused portion of the total charter fee will be issued.
This credit can be used against any future charter with the Company depending
on Yacht availability. We do recommend to our clients to take out their
'trip cancellation' cover. If you have any concerns at all about any part
of this subject, give us a call, we are here to assist.
top
Should we bring the kids?
Absolutely down to you. Kids will have a fabulous time, as there is so
much swimming and snorkeling available in warm water, beaches and places
for kids to explore and enjoy. Boats however can be dangerous places for
small fingers so you should think carefully before you bring them, and
make sure they know the meaning of the word 'NO'. Unfortunately our boats
do not come equipped with Child Nets.
top
What should I pack?
As little as possible. First-time charterers always pack far, far, far
too much. In the British Virgin Islands you'll be wearing bathing suits
and tee shirts or other cover-ups 95% of the time and will NOT need a
coat and tie! (Except for certain high-end restaurants and resorts) Bring
some boat shoes, water shoes or old sneakers for exploring ashore, light
cotton pajamas (wear for the first couple of days while snorkeling to
avoid sunburn) If you like pack an extra flashlight, your own binoculars,
a hand-held VHF and a hand-held GPS, if you have them as you will no doubt
be familiar with your own gear.
top
Is Insurance included in the charter cost?
Yes, but the client is responsible for the deductible amount of $3,000.00
USD. We hold a pre-auth security deposit for this either on a credit card
(not amex) or in cash/travelers checks. This deductible can be reduced
to $750 by purchasing additional insurance at $30 per day.
top
Am I responsible for damage?
You are responsible for any damage or loss to the bareboat during the
term of your charter. This liability applies even if you hire a captain
as he is considered your employee, not the companies. Your liability is
to the amount of the insurance deductible on the yacht and will require
a security deposit equal to this figure. We can also offer you additional
insurance. This reduces your liability. Make sure that you understand
the insurance offered and the liability you assume. Insurance does not
cover damage caused by extreme negligence. Examples of extreme negligence
include sailing into prohibited areas, sailing after dark (unless permitted),
and operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
top
Do we have to clear customs with the yacht?
Only if you leave one country and enter another. In such case, you need
to clear both customs and immigration when you leave the first country,
and enter customs and immigration upon arriving at the next. We will provide
you with information about the area you are visiting during your chart
briefing.
top
How can I be reached in an emergency?
All our boats have VHF radios and cellular telephones that you can activate
(if you want to). You can of course bring along your own cell phone, but
other than in the USA, your phone will probably not roam and you will
have to activate it through the local cell phone provider. Calls can be
very expensive (up to $4 per minute). We will be keeping in touch with
and passing any messages received to you - remember our office is there
to help you.
top
Can I get mail?
We realise it's hard to leave the 'real' world behind - and so do the
many businesses that have suddenly sprung up here in the islands offering
Internet access. You will find an Internet Café in Road Town, access
in Cable and Wireless offices in both their main branch on Tortola and
their sub office in Virgin Gorda, Sopers Hole (Samarkand Jewelers), Trellis
Bay and Nanny Cay Marina Office.
top
What about food and drink?
We provide an optional provisioning service and will have food and drinks
delivered right to the yacht for you. Ask for a provisioning list from
us, fill it in and we will forward it to the provisioning company and
liaise with them to get this on board for you. You can also arrange provisioning
directly with a provisioning service or shop for your own food upon arrival.
Take care bringing food with you on the plane; customs and immigration
may not take kindly to this so beware.
top
Can I drink the water?
The desalinated town water on board the boat is safe to drink but it may
not be as palatable as you are used to at home. There are many varieties
of water available here on island from Highland Spring to Perrier to the
many good local spring waters sold in Gallon Jugs in the Supermarkets.
top
Can I sail after dark?
No. We ask you to find a safe anchorage or mooring for the night before
dusk. Details in our charter contract para 5. Failure to do this (unless
permission specifically given in writing) may void insurance cover and
make you liable for damage or loss.
top
Can I scuba dive?
Absolutely, you can carry scuba equipment aboard your bareboat. The British
Virgin Islands has some of the very best diving in the world. Check with
us so we can talk through with you exactly what you would like to do.
We can make reservations for you with Blue Water Divers, our preferred
Dive Company who can arrange for rental gear to be delivered to the yacht
once they are happy with your dive certification card (don't forget it!).
Their website is: www.ultimatebvi.com/bluewater.
top
What about extra 'toys'?
We can help you to arrange for windsurfers, wind gliders or kayaks to
be delivered to your yacht prior to the charter. You can also arrange
rentals yourself. Note however that such toys can get in the way while
you are sailing and that in some areas, you can rent such toys by the
day, which might be the better way to go. Our preferred supplier is Last
Stop Sports - check them out at www.laststopsports.com.
top
What happens when I arrive back at the base?
The first thing that happens is the re-fueling of the boat, then our Captain
or one of our Dock Staff will come aboard and do a 'De-Briefing' with
you. This allows us to check over any problems you experienced and rectify
them for the following charter. The fueling and de-briefing normally take
about 1.5hrs, so make sure you allow your self enough time to complete
this process before having to catch flights! Don't forget before you leave
the dock to give the office your flight times should you need these reconfirmed
and we shall gladly book a return taxi for you too.
top
How much are diesel, gas and water?
As of May 2nd 2001: Diesel $2.64/gallon. Gas $2.84/gallon. Water $0.15/gallon.
top
How much fuel do the boats normally use in
a week?
It varies quite a lot depending on a) which boat you are chartering b)
how much distance you cover and c) how much you run your generator, but
on average our guests use around 190 gallons/week.
top
Are there any extra costs?
There is no extra Tax to pay on top of your Gross Charter Fee - what you
see in our brochures and on our website is what you pay. The extra charges
to consider are Fuel (see previous question), Provisions (depending on
how hungry and thirsty you get!), HDW (see Insurance), Cruising Permits
(a levy imposed by the BVI Government on all charterers at between 75c-$2
per person per day depending on the season), National Parks (between $10-15
depending on how many people on board), VISAR (a collection of $1 per
person is made and passed onto this organization run by volunteers who
NEVER SAY NO to any emergency at sea). Should you wish to take a skipper
and/or cook with you the cost of doing this is $130/day and $100/day respectively
plus meals.
top
Can I charter one-way?
Not at the moment. But we are looking to open new bases shortly, this
will mean that it will soon be possible to pick-up and start from one
base and finish at another. This is an exciting development for us and
we hope our clients will use and enjoy this additional service.
top
Who do I contact if I can't find the answer
to my question?
If the answer isn't here, send us your question either by e-mail or fax,
or of course give us a call. We'll either answer it ourselves or pass
it along to someone who can. And we'll add your question to this page
if we think others might want to know the answer too.
top
|
Want to see the big picture? Click on any
picture above to see a high-resolution image |
|
|
|
