Rental: 5 things to check on a boat
When you rent a sailboat (or catamaran) via a boat rental platform, you must make sure you have a full knowledge of this boat. In addition to your boating know-how, it is important to be aware of the specifics of the vessel you are renting, for a pleasant experience. The Set Sail team has put together 5 things to check for you on a new boat.
Points to check when you discover a ship:
1. Security
Life jackets, flares, first aid kits… keep in mind the locations of all these tools because they will be of great help to you in the event of an accident.
Also don’t neglect the bottom valves, the drain plugs that help block the entry of water into the vessel and the water pump.
2. The engine
One of the most important elements for the proper functioning of the boat is the engine. To save time and avoid any frustration during your stay at sea, it you need:
- Identifying how the engine is working is one of the things to check on a boat
- Know how long you will need to heat it
- Be aware of your effective regime for comfortable and economical navigation
3. Electronics
Most modern boats have full electronics on board, which is of great use during your stay, if they have been checked properly beforehand, of course.
Ask to be shown how the autopilot, radio, plotter and other such electronic equipment work.
What are the ropes on the boat you are renting?
4. The different maneuvers
You need to know the different ropes of the boat you are renting. It is essential to know the ends which should not be handled (except by someone who knows how they work) or those which should never be used with a winch, the genoa furler for example.
Before going to sea, make sure you learn how to anchor with this boat, how to use its windlass, for example. In general, you should try to perform all possible maneuvers to be prepared for any eventuality: reefing, checking the helm, etc.
5. Paperwork
In the category of things to check on a new boat, we cannot omit the administrative papers. Even if you are used to navigating with the help of GPS, equip yourself with nautical charts.
Check where all important papers are, even if you don’t see a need for them right away.
For example, keep the boat papers and insurance papers close by, in case the maritime guard carries out a check on the boat. Also check the presence of the rental contract on board.
In the event of a force majeure problem, two options are available to you:
- Contact 112 directly
- Use channel 16 of VHF
Do not hesitate to ask the owner for a plan of the boat, to help you find your way on board. Once all these checks and maneuvers have been carried out, take a deep breath, you can now sail with your mind calm. If you are looking for a boat for rent for your next adventure at sea, don’t forget that Set Sail offers rentals of sailboats and catamarans in Provence.
