Where do we board our yacht?
We will meet you at the airport and take you to your yacht, or to your hotel if it is a Moorings-owned or contracted property. Most of the time you will board the yacht at one of The Moorings’ marinas in the sailing location you have chosen. At the end of your charter, you will sail back to the marina and then be transported to the airport. In certain sailing areas, we may be able to pick you up in one location and drop you off in another. Ask your Vacation Planning Specialist if you are interested in a one-way charter.
What time can we board?
You will board your yacht at noon on the day the charter starts and disembark at noon (10 a.m. in Tahiti & Bahamas) on the day the charter ends. Make arrangements with your Vacation Planning Specialist if your flight is arriving late in the day.
Charters in the Mediterranean board at 3 p.m.
Who decides the sailing itinerary?
This is the beauty of the private crewed yacht experience. When you board your yacht, the captain will sit down with you and develop an itinerary based on your desires – or you can leave it all up to your experienced captain. Weather permitting, the itinerary can be changed at any time if you wish to spend more or less time in any area. This is truly a private yacht at your command.
Will I be able to order special diet menus or request favorite beverages?
Yes, you will be supplied with preference sheets to complete prior to your charter. On both categories of yachts, the chef accommodates special diets (salt free, low fat, etc.). Meals will be planned according to your preference sheet selections. An ample supply of the beverages you request will also be stocked.
What type of clothing should we pack?
The keynote is simplicity. Casual and breezy beach attire is certainly the order of the day on deck, though for evenings ashore, slacks or a sundress are appropriate. Rubber soled shoes as opposed to hard soles are recommended aboard our yachts, so wear boat shoes or tennis shoes. You may find aquatic shoes convenient for beachcombing. Above all, protection from the sun is vital – lots of suntan lotion, wide-brimmed hats or sailing caps, and loose-fitting cotton cover-ups. For cool or windy evenings, a windbreaker comes in handy.
Will I be able to make and receive telephone calls?
Yes, all of our yachts have a ship-to-shore radio aboard in addition to cellular telephones on most of the yachts.
What should we tip our crew?
The quality of service should dictate the gratuity. As a guideline, we suggest an average of 10-15% of the charter cost.
What travel documents do I need?
As of Dec. 31, 2006, all destinations require a passport for entry. For detailed entry requirements, call your Vacation Planning Specialist, or check with the consulate or embassy of the nation you wish to visit.
Are children welcome?
Our crewed yachts offer a fantastic family vacation experience. Our crews will provide guidance in using the snorkeling gear, kayaks and other water toys and are experienced in serving families with children. The chef will design a menu to accommodate the preferences of both children and adults.
Our Sailaway Stateroom and Shore and Sail crewed yacht packages do have certain age restrictions, and are not recommended for families with young children. Please speak to one of our Vacation Planning Specialists for details.
What about air travel arrangements?
The Moorings operates a full-service travel center that can arrange all aspects of your vacation, including low, negotiated airline arrangements, hotel accommodations and even side trips to local attractions.
How do I book my vacation?
You can request a reservation for a crewed charter right now while you are logged on this web site. Simply complete the Vacation Planner and submit it. If you would prefer to request a reservation by telephone just call one of our Vacation Planning Specialists. They are standing by to assist you in planning the perfect sailing vacation.