Beginner’s Guide
All you need to know about boating
The purpose of this short guide is to remind you of the peculiarities of the sea and the essential things to know for the smooth running of your cruise.
The environment and rules
The boat is the best way to get closer to nature. Indeed, it reminds us every day that nothing can be taken for granted; as much for the management of water, electricity and waste, as for life and the codes of boating.
The waste
The rule is simple: all waste remains on board, our check-in agents will explain the colours and functions of the bags. At each stop, you can get rid of your garbage cans.As a company, Greek Style Yachting takes the respect for the environment very seriously.
The toilets
The toilets drain directly into the water, think about anchoring if people are swimming! It is possible to switch the drain to a black water tank. The valves will be shown to you at check-in. Also, don’t forget that nothing is to be flushed down the toilet!
The water
When you leave, your boat’s water tank will be loaded with 150 to 500 litres, depending on its size. This capacity is sufficient for washing and cooking until it is replenished at the next base. You will need to monitor your consumption on an ongoing basis. NB: On large models, it is common to have a watermaker.
Electricity
During navigation, you will have the possibility to connect to 12V to charge your mobile phones through USB. To have access to a 220V power, it is only possible by connecting to the dock or using the generator, if your boat has one.
With the electric toilets, lights and fridges, the batteries are constantly being used. As in your car, an alternator coupled with the engine charges the batteries, but this is not enough, especially if you sail! Be careful with your consumption (especially with lights and opening the fridge constantly).
On-board and community rules
Please take off your shoes to get on board.
After swimming in the sea, you must rinse yourself with soft water if you want to go inside the boat (a shower is outside)!
In addition, you should always stow objects that are likely to move, even if the sea is calm. It should be a reflex. Another boat’s wake is enough to send all unsecured objects (glasses, plates etc.) to the ground.
When navigating, you must always check that all windows are closed.
Also, even in calm weather, you should always have one hand in contact with the boat when you are travelling and sailing.
If you are berthing with another boat, you will have to go through the other boat to get out on the dock. This often happens and you have to follow 3 rules:
- Ask permission to dock and align with the neighbor’s departure time;
- Take off your shoes to get on the other boat until you get out;
- When passing on the host boat, go forward to get out at the dock. Even if this rule requires more time, it is in order to disturb as little as possible the privacy of the neighbors in the cockpit located at the stern.
Before departure
Safety and security
Be aware of the location of all safety equipment: life jackets, life rafts, pharmacy, fire extinguisher etc. The location and use of safety equipment are always shown at check-in before departure. Do not hesitate to ask for further explanations, it is necessary to understand how the equipment works.
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Before your departure, you must provide the boat with water and food:
Take bottles of water. We recommend at least one pack of 6×1.5l per person per week from the start.
Always have provisions in stock and preferably non-perishable foodstuffs (pasta, canned food etc.) Indeed, you could find yourself in a situation without the possibility of getting supplies; either by choice (decision to anchor ina creek) or by obligation (problem that blocks you in a place without possible supply).
Medicines
If you are taking medication, plan to bring enough for the duration of the cruise because it can be difficult to get supplies on the islands. Also, if you suffer from allergies, health problems, or if you are undergoing a specific treatment, you must inform the skipper before departure. This way, he will be able to react quickly in the event of a problem.
Luggage
Travel light! We advise you to avoid suitcases and take flexible travel bags. This way, once your belongings are tidied up, you can easily tidy up your bags. Indeed, even on a large boat, it is difficult to store the luggage of everyone.
Sea sickness
Our team will take care of advising you for the period of your holiday on the quiet areas before your trip. In addition to his experience, the skipper will also hand you over the weather reports during your cruise to avoid turbulent areas. On your side, remember to stay well hydrated, not to eat too heavy and especially not to enter the cabins during navigation. If you follow these rules, everything should go well!
For any questions regarding the booking, do not hesitate to consult our F.A.Q. section.
Greek style yachting wishes you a good trip!