A skipper who is on board a charter yacht must have the knowledge and licence to safely and legally captain the vessel (or flotilla in case it’s a group sailing trip). Here’s what a skipper does in that role:
- Keep everyone safe: The skipper ensures everyone knows the safety protocol and follows it, beginning with when you arrive at the marina. They’ll know how to react in stormy conditions.
- Plan the route to your destination: Understanding the currents, and keeping up with weather forecasts will help you choose the right time to sail.
- Anchoring and Casting Off: The skipper steers the boat into or out of the marina, locking it up for the night before releasing it the next morning.
- Navigation of the Boat: From using a chartplotter, to calculating the direction of the wind, to adjusting the heading and trimming sails, it takes a great deal to make a boat travel where you wish. For a RYA Day Skipper Course, contact https://www.solentboattraining.co.uk/rya-sailing-courses
- Make sure maritime laws and regulations are adhered to: You don’t wish to ruin your holiday by getting a ticket, especially if there was no knowledge that you broke any rules.
- Operation of the Equipment: Boats today are equipped with the latest safety, navigation and security equipment. They also have the basic equipment like an engine and water tanks (plus the extras, which make for great experiences). The skipper is familiar with how to use, maintain and care for each part.
- Local spots that you should visit: A skipper can give local tips about restaurants, beaches and other unique places to see off the tourist trail.
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