Smooth chartering

Chartering anywhere in the world comes with its challenges, but whatever challenges you face will become part of the holiday adventure!

1. Water.
   All vessels have a limited water supply, so conserve your supply while on charter. Depending on the size of your vessel and crew, your daily water consumption will vary. The key is to identify at the start of charter where you will be able to refill, and manage your supply accordingly. Take short two-minute showers, fill the sink to wash the dishes, turn off the water pump at the switchboard and check your water gauges to monitor your levels.
    
2. Power.
   In most charter situations your power source is an onboard 12V battery bank. It is imperative to manage your power supply and be conscious of preserving power and recharging the batteries whenever possible. In some charter destinations you will pull into a marina every night where you can plug in to shore power and recharge. In others you will be staying in secluded anchorages and so onboard recharge is required through running of engines, a battery charger or a generator. Ensure you understand the operation of the vessel's power supply before departure.
    
3. Provisioning.
   There is nothing worse than running out of supplies and dealing with a hungry crew. Research your cruising area prior to departure - if you will be staying in a marina each night with access to restaurants or cafes, provision adequately for breakfast, lunch and snacks only. If you are in the open ocean with no access to resorts or restaurants, then sit down with the crew and come up with a daily meal planner. Be aware of fridge capacity, local produce available and storage of perishables.
    
4. Itinerary.
   Make sure you have a plan for the day. Assessing the weather, wind and tide is an obvious priority as these form an integral part of any passage plan. Sitting down over breakfast and planning out the day is a great way to bring the crew and its suggestions together.
    
5. Cruising conditions.
   You will discuss the cruising conditions of your charter area with your briefer/instructor at the start of charter. Be sure to note pertinent specifics; for example, a large tidal range effecting access to a marina, a traditional wind direction change which may come through late afternoon influencing choice of overnight anchorage or something as simple as a reef system to be avoided. Snippets of local knowledge are priceless.