The possibilities and advantages of sailboat charters are many. This article outlines a few.
You have multi starting points for example. Granted you need certificates or be an experienced skipper. But then you wouldn't go anywhere near a sailing holiday if you didn't know what you were doing. The great characteristic about sailing is that you can get qualified to a fair standard and then go chartering. Fortunately chartering companies are good judges, they have to be. After all it's their boat and they are probably responsible to shareholders. Enough of the boring stuff!
Being on board a sailboat changes perspective of almost everything. Whenever i step onto a boat time somehow slows - in a good way naturally! Troubles are left behind on shore and when i return to land they are still there - but they don't seem as daunting as before. Indeed instead of thinking
"I hope i get to the gas station soon, I'm really pushing my luck here"
You could catch yourself saying
"Where is my snorkel, flippers and face mask, because I've simply got to check out that coral reef!"
Notice the difference? It's a big one! The daily grind versus the happy holidayer. It's in us all, that difference. Closer to the top for some. Of course you still have concerns of responsibility, but most of it's taken care of by the charter companies. A couple of weeks of water side action, at your own pace and your in good shape.
Another benefit of sailing is exercise - as much or as little as you like! Folks don't want to be exhausted on their sailing charter holidays, but a gentle glow is fine. With the help of technology it is possible to overcome many barriers previously associated with sailing. These days you can go about using the roller furler, drop the main at the end of the day and have it caught in the lazy jack. Or if your stopping for lunch then drop the anchor, safe in the knowledge that the winch will do the tough bit of pulling it up. One note of caution though - make sure the batteries are charged regularly! Sleeping soundly at night after a good meal, that's what it's all about. Not abilities or worrying about the physical aspect of the holiday.
Charterers often own boats - but they are usually back home. Of course you can sail it to your destination or have it shipped. But one take time, a precious commodity and the other is far more expensive than chartering! So having the option of taking over a familiar vessel or treating yourself to a well deserved upgrade is great! Don't get too familiar with your choice though - you've got to return it! Which is why chartering is a popular choice for repeat visitors. Getting to know a destination over a series of visits is fun.
Taking the preparation and responsibility of ownership out of your holiday and just being on the water is tremendous. You arrive fresh to the marina, get provisions, run through the on board checklist and away! A bit of chart work, with tides and some way point action and that's it! Choose between passages or island hopping, or both. What really sets boating holidays apart from regular land based ones is as follows:
Waking up to the sound of water lapping against the hull, is a great start to the day. Seeing land across the water draped in mist is unmissable. Being able to explore coves and bays without a soul in sight is a wonderful way to spend time. Of course the pleasure to be had from a well shaped sail set and fine breeze is fantastic! Eating onshore? A different port every night? Terrific!
Many people embrace chartering as their home from home. Holidaying in the Caribbean, the Greek Islands, Italy, Croatia to name but a few starting points. You can even hire a vessel for race weeks, although check the insurance premium first!
One final thought: Want to spend quality time with your family? Learning and teaching new, useful skills? Whilst relaxing and enjoying the moment? Then thumbs up for a memorable experience for all the family!
Hi, Chris Wethered here. my site is http://www.boatpride.com it's all about sailing and related topics, including sailboat charters. If you liked my article then why not pop over to the site to learn about a few destinations?
Please leave a comment!
Best Wishes
Chris
