Pre-Holiday Considerations
Everything you need to know before setting sail!
Published July 19, 2016
Updated January 6, 2025
What do I need to know for on-board living?
Can I play my music? All yachts have the facility to play your own music. Just make sure you bring an AUX cable (headphone to headphone) to plug in your mp3 player/iPod/phone.
Is there a first aid kit? Yes, all yachts come with a fully stocked first aid kit.
Will the yacht have an electric supply? Yes, when you are plugged into the mains at a harbour, or if your yacht has a generator. Otherwise you will be able to use the yachts batteries, just like in a car - in this case you should bring 12 v chargers for your appliances, or a 12v inverter.
How much room is there for luggage? Fairly limited, but depending on the size of your yacht. Tip – bring folding bags that can be stowed easily.
Will there be Wi-Fi? Most yachts have on board Wi-Fi available; ask us if your yacht has this option.
Can I pre-order provisions on board? Yes, we can supply you with a provisioning list, or if you have hired crew, a preference form so that your yacht can be stocked before your arrival.
Will I get seasick? As our destinations are all in protected waters, it is unlikely that you would get seasick. If you often suffer from motion sickness, it is advisable to see your pharmacist to get some sea sickness tablets that you can take at the start of the charter, until you get used to the motion of the boat. You will normally only do relatively short passages each day, then be in sheltered bays, or in marinas.
Can I cook on board? Yes, your boat will come with a fully equipped galley with a gas cooker/ oven, fridge and everything on board you will need such as cutlery, glasses, plates, and saucepans.
Will I get seasick? As our destinations are all in protected waters, it is unlikely that you would get seasick. If you often suffer from motion sickness, it is advisable to see your pharmacist to get some sea sickness tablets that you can take at the start of the charter, until you get used to the motion of the boat. You will normally only do relatively short passages each day, then be in sheltered bays, or in marinas.
What’s a typical day like on-board a yacht charter?
- A yacht charter is a unique kind of holiday, that gives you the flexibility to really experience a destination and see a completely different view to the majority of land based tourists.
- A yacht charter is not all about the sailing and often you will only actually sail for 1-3 hours a day, perhaps broken up by a special and secluded lunchtime swimming spot. A typical day will include lots of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring unique destinations.
- To see what a typical week on-board can look like please browse one of our case study pages, like the bareboat experience.
Are there any hidden costs?
We strive for absolute clarity on pricing, with no hidden costs or nasty surprises, but there may be some expenses you need to pay for at the base. Your broker will make these clearer to you when booking your holiday.
Charter pack / Transit log
This is a catch-all term for the extra payments you make at the charter base. It is often called a 'charter pack' or 'comfort package', and will have been spelled out on your Booking Summary
Typically, the charter pack will include bedding, towels, final cleaning, outboard, and other minor incidentals such as toilet paper and washing up equipment. It also covers your share of the unseen but vital maintenance costs.
Fuel & Mooring costs
Here are some estimates for the mooring fees and fuel costs you can expect for a 7-day yacht charter in Croatia:
45ft monohull:
- Mooring fees: €100-€200 per night
- Fuel costs: €150-€200 per week
40ft catamaran:
- Mooring fees: €150-€250 per night
- Fuel costs: €300-€400 per week
35ft motor boat:
- Mooring fees: €200-€300 per night
- Fuel costs: €500-€700 per week
Please note that these are just estimates, and the actual costs may vary depending on the specific boat, the location of the moorings, and the weather conditions.
Find out more in our guide to yacht charter extras
What Should I take on my yacht charter?
- Travel documents. As you will be traveling abroad please make sure you have the correct documents for the country you are visiting, a valid passport, and visa if required. If you are not sure please ask your yacht charter expert. Those on a bareboat charter will also need to take the original of their sailing licence, and VHF certificate in Croatia.You should also take your boarding instructions, which will have all details for your charter, including local contacts.
- Soft-sided luggage. Much more practical on-board to stow then hard cases.
- Shoes Boat, street, and water. On-board you will need to wear bare feet, or soft, white soled clean shoes that aren’t going to mark the boats teak or decks. You should bring a different pair of shoes for exploring the towns, and going out in the evening in. A pair or water shoes (reef shoes) are also a good idea for exploring in the water or round the rocks.
- Swimwear. This is the most important item of clothing; you will find you end up living in it!
- Fins, mask and snorkel. This is often supplied so check with us, but if you're planning to spend a lot of time in the water it is generally more comfortable to take you own gear.
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. Polarised sunglasses are by far the best on the water, please make sure you don’t have oil-based sunscreen as this can stain the teak and sun cushions, you should use at least 30+ as people tend to burn more on the water.
- Sweater or fleece. Particularly if you’re going early or late in the season, the nights can get cool.
- Beach towels. These will usually not be supplied, but please check with us before you go.
- Book. There’s nothing like relaxing in the sun with a good book.
- Electronics. Your phone/iPod/ mp3 player can be played through the yacht’s stereo. You should take a 12v charger for your essential appliances, unless you are on a larger boat with a generator. Be sure to remember your camera!
- Waterproofs. Even in summer, a windy afternoon can be cool, a waterproof jacket can make a passage much more enjoyable.
- Medications. Please make sure you bring your prescription medications with you, foreign scripts are not honoured in Greek Pharmacies.
- Ear Plugs. If you are a light sleeper a pair of earplugs can be a saviour, particularly in Greece and Turkey where you will spend a lot of nights on town quays.
- In General. Most people going on yachting holidays pack a lot more then they require, you will find you spend most time on board just in your swimwear and a t-shirt, so a few pairs along with some shore gear are all that you require. Find out more on our packing list
Need some help?
If you are unsure about charter or boat selection, contact us at HELM to help you decide.
We only choose boats that are in excellent condition, and we are here to help you every step of the way and to make sure the whole process is as easy as possible.