Bareboat (Skipperless) Charter: Requirements, Responsibilities & Step-by-Step Process

For experienced sailors who want to take their passion a step further and literally sit at the helm, bareboat (skipperless) charter is the ultimate freedom. Plotting your own course, anchoring in the cove you choose, and making every decision yourself… While it sounds fantastic, this freedom also means assuming full responsibility for the yacht and everyone on board. Here’s what you should know before taking this exciting step.

Who Can Charter Bareboat? Required Certificates and Experience

Chartering bareboat requires far more than renting a car. Charter companies want to be sure that the person they entrust with a yacht worth hundreds of thousands of euros has both the right certificates and real seamanship experience.

Qualification Certificates (Licenses)

In Turkish territorial waters, a Turkish citizen must hold at least the Amateur Seafarer Certificate (ADB) to charter bareboat. However, many charter companies prefer internationally recognized documents such as the ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or RYA Day Skipper, and may require them—especially for foreign-flagged yachts.

Experience Requirement: Your Sailing Background

Having a certificate alone is not enough. The company will ask you to complete a Sailing Resume detailing yacht types you’ve handled, areas you’ve sailed, and approximate sea miles. Some companies also require a competent second person on board (co-skipper). If your declared experience is deemed insufficient, the company may refuse the charter or require you to take a professional skipper.

Skipper’s Responsibilities: More Than Just a Boat

From the moment you take the keys, all responsibility is on your shoulders. It falls into four main areas:

1) Legal Responsibility

Throughout the charter, you are legally responsible for the safety of the yacht and everyone on board. In any accident, collision, or rules violation, the skipper is the first point of contact.

2) Navigation & Safety

Checking the weather daily, planning a safe route, complying with night-navigation rules, and knowing the location and proper use of all safety equipment (life jackets, VHF, flares, etc.) are core duties.

3) Yacht Handling

Berthing and unberthing safely in harbors and marinas, anchoring correctly in coves, trimming sails according to conditions, and troubleshooting minor onboard issues (tripped breakers, marine toilet blockages, etc.) are expected.

4) Financial Obligations

At the start, you usually leave a security deposit that varies with yacht value. Fuel, marina/berth fees, transit log (if required), and provisions are at your expense. Any damage to the yacht is covered from the deposit.

Step-by-Step Bareboat Charter Process

The process includes key stages such as signing the contract, taking over the yacht, and returning it.

Stage 1: Booking & Contract

After choosing your yacht and dates, submit your documents and sign the contract. Before signing, read carefully: deposit amount, insurance coverage, and cancellation terms.

Stage 2: Check-in (Handover) – The Critical Moment

This takes about 1–2 hours and can determine the fate of your trip. While showing you around, the base manager is also assessing your competence. During check-in:

• Inventory Check:

  Verify that all galley and safety items listed are present and working.

• Technical Check:

  Test the engine start, breaker panel, marine toilets, VHF operation, windlass/anchor gear, and other critical systems together with the staff.

• Damage Report:

  Note every existing scratch, dent, or sail/gelcoat issue on the form and photograph them.

Stage 3: Check-out (Return)

At the end of your holiday, return the yacht at the agreed time—usually with fuel tanks refilled. The staff (sometimes with a diver) inspect for new damage. If none is found, your deposit is refunded shortly afterward.

Pro Tips from a Seasoned Skipper

Don’t rush the handover and ask every question that comes to mind. Failing to clarify a system at the dock can turn into a bigger problem at sea. Photograph and film all pre-existing damages during check-in to protect yourself in case of disputes. Also consider Security Deposit Insurance offered by many charter companies to reduce your financial risk.