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A useful charter enquiry starts with the trip you want. Give the operator your dates, group size, preferred sailing ground and whether you need a skipper. Ask for an itemised written quote for those details.
Top Charters does not display charter rates or calculate trip costs. Availability, the exact boat and the booking terms all need to be confirmed directly with the operator.
Start with the exact trip
Confirm the departure base, boarding and return times, the named vessel and whether the operator can substitute another boat. For overnight trips, ask for the cabin plan and usable guest berths after crew accommodation is allowed for.
Choose your charter type first. A shared berth, a private crewed trip and a bareboat can use similar boats but include very different services.
Check what is included
Use this list when reading the operator's quote. Mark each item as included, optional, separately charged or not available.
| Item | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Skipper and crew | Who is aboard, what service do they provide, and where do they sleep? |
| Briefing | What vessel and local-area briefing is included, and how long should we allow? |
| Fuel and gas | How is usage recorded and settled? |
| Linen and cleaning | What is supplied, and what must we do before returning the boat? |
| Meals and drinks | Is catering included, pre-ordered or bring-your-own? |
| Marina and access charges | Which departure, overnight marina and wharf charges apply? |
| Permits and levies | Are any compulsory local charges included? |
| Tender and equipment | What tender, snorkel equipment or water toys are supplied? |
| Transfers | Is transport to the departure point included? |
For meals, fridge space and packing, read provisioning. For who will run the boat, read skippered and crewed charters or the bareboat guide.
Keep the bond separate
Ask whether a security bond or card hold is required, when it is released, and which conditions allow deductions. Ask about insurance excess and any damage waiver, including exclusions. Keep these answers separate from what is included in the trip itself.
Confirm changes and cancellation terms
Ask what happens if you cancel, if the operator cancels, if the named vessel changes, or if weather changes the itinerary. These are different situations and can have different terms. Read the operator's current contract before agreeing to it.
Use the booking checklist to keep the answers together. The weather and seasons guide helps you think about timing, but the operator must explain how its weather policy applies to your booking.
Send a clear enquiry
Include these details in your message:
- Preferred dates and whether they are flexible.
- Number of adults and children, including children's ages where relevant.
- Day trip or overnight stay, and the sleeping arrangements you need.
- Departure region and any particular activity you hope to do.
- Your skipper experience if asking about a bareboat.
- Boarding, mobility, dietary or other needs the operator should discuss with you.
- A request for the exact vessel, inclusions and current booking terms in writing.
Find operators in the directory and contact your shortlist directly. Keep the written response with your booking confirmation.
