How much boating experience do you need?

While formal qualifications are not mandatory for bareboat hire in Queensland, a certain level of nautical knowledge is expected. On the morning of departure at 8:30 am, the two individuals with the most experience will undergo a briefing covering the safe operation of the vessel. The briefing will include topics such as passage planning, navigation, awareness of hazards, and a practical assessment involving laying and picking up the anchor, securing and dropping moorings, and hoisting, tacking, and dropping sails if applicable. This comprehensive briefing may take up to 4 hours, underscoring the importance of possessing some nautical experience to demonstrate competence in safely operating the vessel.

If you possess prior experience but it’s been a while since you’ve navigated a vessel, you have the option to enlist an extra tuition service from yoru Briefer for an extra 2 hours (additional fees apply). Alternatively, you can opt for a full-time Sail Guide throughout your charter (additional fees apply), inclusive of a private cabin and catering, provided by the charter guests.

Need more? Introductory skipper and navigation course

Partnering with NAVatHOMEAustralia, the Fundamental Skipper and Navigation course is the perfect introduction to helming your own yacht around the Whitsundays. Covering basic navigation fundamentals and chartwork, tidal height calculations, use of on board safety equipment and weather systems, this online course can be used to prepare for your charter and later upgrade to a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) accredited Day Skipper and the perfect accompaniment to your bareboat charter.

Use ‘2023ccysailing’ as the referral code and receive a 10% discount.