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In this example: 6 guests + 1 skipper. Confirm usable guest berths, bed sharing and any saloon beds on the actual boat.
The right boat is one that fits your group and the holiday you want. Hull type helps describe it, but the actual layout, crew, route and facilities matter just as much.
Use the vessel directory to explore the recorded boats, then ask the operator for the details of the vessel available on your dates.
Start with the layout
| Boat type | What to explore |
|---|---|
| Monohull | Cabin access, shared spaces, seating and how the boat moves under sail |
| Catamaran | Accommodation in the two hulls, deck layout, steps and available shade |
| Tall ship or heritage vessel | Boarding access, guest facilities and opportunities to participate |
Designs vary within each group. Do not assume a particular number of cabins, bathrooms or crew from a hull label or model name.
Match beds to people
Ask for a cabin plan showing the guest beds and any accommodation used by crew. Confirm doubles, singles and convertible saloon beds separately.
A day passenger limit does not establish overnight capacity. Ask how many guests can join your intended trip and how many can sleep in the arrangement your group wants. See families and groups for planning around couples, friends and children.
Think about ordinary moments aboard
Look beyond the exterior photograph. Where will everyone eat if it rains? Is there enough shaded seating? How do guests get from the cockpit to a cabin or toilet? Where does luggage go?
Ask about ventilation and whether any air conditioning works at anchor. Confirm the power arrangements, charging options and restrictions on equipment you want to bring.
Discuss motion and access
All boats move. The experience depends on the vessel, loading, route and conditions, as well as the person aboard. No hull type guarantees freedom from motion sickness.
Tell the operator about concerns before booking and discuss the trip length and sheltered alternatives. For access needs, request photos or measurements of the actual boarding point, steps, handrails, seating and toilets. Include tender transfers in the conversation.
Check the facilities you will use
- Galley equipment, food storage and catering.
- Drinking water, toilets and showers.
- Guest storage and luggage limits.
- Tender arrangements and shore access.
- Swimming equipment and activities offered.
- Connectivity and power, if important to your group.
The provisioning guide helps translate these answers into a packing and meal plan.
If you will skipper the boat
Send the operator your recent experience and discuss the size and type of boat you can handle comfortably. Ask about the assessment, briefing and any additional support required. The bareboat guide and qualifications guide explain how to prepare.
The vessel’s draft and other specifications do not by themselves make a route suitable. Follow the approved cruising area, local restrictions, operator instructions and current conditions.
Confirm the exact vessel
Check the boat name, layout and facilities in the booking confirmation. If substitution is possible, ask how an alternative will meet your essential requirements.
Then compare charter inclusions, review the booking checklist and enquire through the operator directory.
