Schuitemaker
Yachting
The frequently asked questions & Answers
Bookings
How do I get to the yacht?
You'll need to take care of your own flight and other means of transport. We recommend that you book your yacht cruise first and subsequently your journey to / from the anchorage or marina. Once your booking has been confirmed, we will introduce you to the other crew members so that you can plan your travels together, if preferred.
Can I bring my dog or other pets on board?
We are an animal loving crew. However, in order to safeguard the safety and comfort of all, please consult the Captain during the booking process. Pets that have not been explicitly approved in advance cannot be taken onboard. In order to get the approval, your pet must have among others a valid passport and the vaccins required for the cruising area.
Do I need a health & travel insurance?
You must have a health insurance tailored to the cruising plan. In addition, we recommend to have a travel insurance in place, as this can cover (some) of your costs in the unfortunate event that e.g. your flight is cancelled. Both the health insurance and the travel insure should be organised by yourself.
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Life onboard
Who are the other crew members?
On the journeys, you will be part of a crew of likeminded, ocean-loving people aged between twenty (20) and (39) years maximum. The number of crew members may vary between two (2) and six (6) members, depending on the cruising plan. Although the language onboard is English, the crew might be a variety of many nationalities. The vast majority of the crew members are solo travellers.
What should I have packed?
To start, we advise to bring a flexible weekender or holdall bag for your belongings as rigid suitcases are difficult to store and may damage the interior.
Subsequently, we advise to pack:
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Clean towels, bed linen, and shower products;
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Beach wear and snorkeling gear;
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Clothes suitable to the whether conditions of the cruising plan;
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A valid passport and, if required, a visa and bring the original documents on board along with sufficient cash and a copy of your insurance policies;
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Soft-soled shoes and flip flops; heeled shoes or black-soled shoes are banned as they may damage the deck and interior of the yacht;
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Games, music (instruments), snacks, or anything alike that you would like to share with the other crew members.
NOTE that is forbidden to bring drugs and endangered species on board as this may lead to clearing issues at certain foreign ports. As a rule of thump don't bring anything onboard that you would not dear to bring on a plane.
Can I bring my own drinks & snacks on board?
We will share our snacks and drinks onboard. The beverage will vary depending on the weather conditions and the local provisions supplied. However, it's an excellent idea to have some of your favorite snacks with you, especially if you have specific dietary preferences or allergies.
Do I have and internet connection, a telephone coverage, and power?
The yacht is equipped with modern communication devices, but being at sea does impose certain limitations. Cell phones may function up to three (3) miles from the coast. Internet availability depends on the coverage of Starlink. When necessary, it is possible to make a short call and/ or send a small e-mail by means of a back-up satellite connection. There are European sockets (230V), however be advised to bring your adapter if needed. Note that the power might be shut down by the Captain if this is required to charge the batteries.
Are crew members required to work on board?
As a crew member, we expect you to do your part in cooking, cleaning, watch-keeping, and the standard household and maintenance duties. If this is not for you, consider to book for a private charter with us.
What is the estimated time of arrival?
Sailing means freedom and being guided by wind and tides. As a competent / professional crew we can master the yacht, study the waves, embrace the wind, and trust in our navigation. However, it is ultimately the combination of those four aspects that determine the time of arrival. For that reason, we will often provide a range of dates instead of specific arrival date.
Safety & Security
What do I need to know about safety rules?
During the welcome speech, the captain will explain the safety rules on board. Please be aware that a yacht is in motion and therefore things can topple or slide and doors can slam shut. It is advisable to store your belongings and to keep doors closed at all times.
Will I encounter sea sickness?
During the first days at sea, some crew members may experience sea sickness which is - in fact - not a sickness, but a natural reaction to being in an unfamiliar environment. As it is not possible to predict who will be affect by it, we advise to take certain precautions such as rest, eat, and drink well and to go steady with coffee and alcohol. Taking anti-sea sickness medication beforehand can help (e.g. Primatour).
Can I bring (new) friends on board?
No, unless explicitly approved by the Captain.
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