Taking over the ship: What to watch out for

The importance of taking over the boat carefully

Taking over a ship is actually a kind of captain's baptism by fire. It doesn't matter if you are a seasonal sea wolf or a complete beginner. Every boat is different, and what worked on the last one may not apply here. Only a careful takeover will reveal any flaws - and above all, ensure a smooth sailing without unpleasant surprises. After all, who wants to deal with a burst engine hose in the middle of the Adriatic? Yes, that's exactly what can happen when you rebuild the inspection.

Preparing for check-in at the marina

You know that feeling when you arrive at the marina and think you're ready? Sure enough, the crew is excited, the boat is waiting and you're looking forward to getting your first anchor in the water. But oh my! Without preparation, check-in can be like Tetris with missing dice.

The necessary documents and contracts

Before you start waving your skipper's licence, make sure you have all the paperwork ready: the charter agreement, the Crew List and any sailing permits you may have (such as Prijava in Croatia). Without these documents, you'll be an amateur in the marina - and the charter boat will make you feel it. And by the way - don't forget your bail insurance! Even if the engineer assures you that the boat is in "perfect condition", believe me, it's something like "the washing machine is really washing".

Schedule and communication with the charter company

Call the charter company in advance to arrange a pick-up schedule. Ideally a block of time that allows you to go over everything calmly and thoroughly. If possible, ask for a checklist to be sent in advance. And for God's sake - don't let the technician put you off with the phrase "Everything is ok". Believe me, if everything was truly "ok", there would be a world without complaints.

Below deck inspection

The hold is like the engine of a ship - it's where every adventure (and sometimes frustration) begins. Dozens of switches, valves and panels with names reminiscent of Egyptian hieroglyphics await you. So what to check?

Electrical systems and circuit breakers

Turn on as many devices as you can at the main 12V/220V switchboard: cabin and saloon lights, navigation instruments and the fridge. Don't be afraid to ask the technician about all the switches - better to be the "annoying captain" than to look helplessly at a blown anchor door breaker later.

By the way! Do you even know where the breaker is? If you don't - a search in an emergency can be worse than an Agatha Christie mystery.

Engine, coolant and fuel system

Moment of truth: open the engine cover. Is it dry? Nothing dripping? Then you're on the right track. Check the oil level and belt tension. And if anything squeaks or leaks - insist on fixing it now! Even the best rum in your kitchen won't save a broken engine when you return to the marina.

Safety equipment: what to check?

Captain, do you even know where the life jackets are? What about flares? Checking safety equipment is not just a formality - it's your lives! Thoroughly inspect the life jackets and harnesses (fall-arrest harnesses) to make sure they work. There is nothing worse than "merely decorative" lifesaving equipment.

Inspection of the deck and exterior of the ship

When you emerge from the hold back on deck, checklist in hand (and hopefully a little more energy), the next round of inspection begins.

Condition of sails, ropes and rigging

How do you take over a boat without checking the sails? No way! Hoist the mainsail and genoa (unless the wind is too strong) and check them thoroughly against the sun. Are they showing through? Are they frayed? Insist that the charter company address the problem immediately. Old or damaged sails can be a hazard during the voyage.

Ropes aren't just decoration either! Inspect lift ropes and reins - if they have broken braids or knots sewn hastily like grandma's tablecloth, you'd better rent new ones.

Check the anchor and anchor gate

The anchor is your insurance policy for sleeping soundly in the bay - so don't ignore it. Try both dropping and retrieving the anchor with an electric gate (and make a note: where's its breaker?). Also check the connecting link between the chain and the anchor - nothing must be rusty or broken!

Condition of hull and bow: What to look out for?

Walk around the boat with camera in hand - document everything thoroughly! Mark any scrapes or cracks to the engineer as soon as you take delivery of the boat. Wouldn't you underestimate a rental car inspection? Well, you see... the boat is no exception.

Tips for a smooth takeover

And now a few tricks from experienced lubricators:

Documenting the condition of the boat before sailing

Your camera or phone are your best partners when taking over the boat. Take pictures of every scratch from the keel to the masthead. Don't be afraid to take video of the entire interior and exterior - this footage can save your bail when you return the boat!

Working with the crew during the takeover

Don't leave all the responsibility to yourself! Involve a crew member as an assistant with a checklist in hand. One checks rope by rope; the other writes down the condition of the batteries or water in the tanks. If you're clear at check-in, sailing will be a breeze!

Taking over the boat may not be the most fun part of your vacation, but it's definitely the most important! If you do it honestly (and don't get sidetracked), you have a good foundation for a relaxing time at sea without stress or unexpected surprises.

So Captain... all set? Sails up and cheers to sea adventures! 🌊