Charter boat handover procedure

• Visually inspect the hull for damage (e.g., chips, scratches). If you find any damage, take a photo, point it out to the Base Manager, and note it on the checklist.
• Ensure that the railing posts and the railing itself are in good condition.
• Check that hatches are free of chips, open and close properly, and are watertight (pour water over them and observe from inside the yacht for potential leaks).

• Confirm the purpose of each switch and indicator on the panel.
• Test all lights and check for spare bulbs. Verify that equipment indicator lights are on and switches are functional.
• Check battery levels, shore power, generator operation, and both 110/220V and 12V outlets and their locations.
• Ensure the refrigerator is operational.
• Check the night lighting at the navigator's table, locate at least two working portable lanterns.

• Open and inspect the sails, even if you've been told everything is in order. If there are patches, seams, or tears, report them to the manager and note them on the checklist.

Start the engine and check that water flows from the cooling system (usually from an exhaust pipe or drain hole at the stern).

• If no water is flowing, the impeller may be damaged—request immediate replacement or repair. Check that the water intake valve (seacock) for the engine cooling system is open, and verify that the water filter sump is clear.
• White smoke with water is a sign that the cylinder head gasket may be damaged, allowing water into the engine’s cylinders. Request urgent repair if you observe this.

Shifting Gears

• With the engine running, engage reverse gear and then smoothly engage forward gear. The transition should be smooth, and the boat should respond by moving backward and forward as expected. Report any irregularities to the manager.

Engine Compartment Inspection

• Open the engine compartment and inspect:
• Ensure there’s no water in the sump under the engine (if there is, identify the source).
• There should be minimal oil in the sump below the engine (if there is significant oil, identify the source).
• Check the engine oil level; the oil should be black or clear without white flakes (white flakes indicate coolant or water in the oil).
• Inspect belt conditions (belts should have no visible damage or cracks).

Turn on and check the operation of the navigation equipment:

• Chartplotter
• Autopilot (left/right)
• Windex
• Depth sounder
• Bow thruster (left/right)
• Anchor windlass (up/down; lower the anchor more than 1-2 meters to ensure the winch doesn't slip under load)
• Running/parking lights
• Radio

• Lift floorboards and check for water in the lowest parts (center area near the keel).
• Test the bilge pump in both automatic and manual modes.
• Check the gangway drainage system.
• Verify the operation of the freshwater pump.
• Locate the water tank switch.
• Inspect all skin fittings on the hull. Ensure hoses are secured with at least two clamps and show no signs of rust.

• Locate the gas cylinder and check for a spare.
• Know how to open and shut off the main gas line; confirm the gas sensor and its operation.
• Test burners and oven; ensure there is no gas odor.
• Check inventory of plates, utensils, cookware, and other kitchen equipment.

• Locate all seacocks and know where the chocks and mallet for them are stored.
• Identify where the septic tanks are and how to discharge them.
• Know the number of water tanks, their capacities, switching mechanism, and how to monitor water levels.
• Test the flush in the galley, shower pumps (ensure filters are unclogged), sink drains (including the galley sink and refrigerator drain), and any foot pumps for seawater.

• Check the quantity and completeness of life jackets and harnesses.
• Locate the EPIRB, confirm its activation process, and check battery status.
• Locate the life raft, learn how to deploy and inflate it, and verify its last inspection date.
• Confirm that the emergency grab-bag is present and complete.
• Inspect flares, smoke bombs, expiration dates, and safety lines.
• Locate fire extinguishers and fire blankets.
• Confirm the presence of a first aid kit, flashlight, fog horn, repair tools, and a multimeter.
• Verify the CO detector and understand how to disable it if necessary.
• Test the operation of on-board and handheld radios for reception and transmission; ensure you know your call signs.

Verify the presence and completeness of all required documents:

• Yacht registration certificate
• Insurance
• Charter contract
• Vignette or transit log
• Regional charts
• Pilot book

• Request a detailed equipment checklist from the charter company (including cranes, navigation charts, life jackets, etc.). Conduct an inventory check and document any missing items on the checklist.
• Take photos of any hull chips or sail damage and show them to the base manager.

Upon return

• obtain a signed check-out sheet from the charter company confirming the yacht has been returned without damage and that there are no claims against you. This is crucial, as the company may otherwise claim damage afterward and retain your deposit.

In Case of Damage

• Don’t attempt to hide or repair any damage that occurred during the charter. Concealing issues can cause problems for the next charterer and may put you at risk.
• Report any damage to the charter company immediately and follow their instructions to prevent further damage.
• At the end of the charter, request a receipt or invoice for any repairs or costs and a statement showing any deductions from your deposit. Using a credit or debit card for the deposit is recommended to ensure transparency of debits.