Steps and process for accepting and delivering a sailing catamaran for charter 1. Preparation for acceptance • Documents: Before arriving at the charter base, check that you have all the necessary documents: • Passport/ID. • Skipper’s license (eg ISSA, IYT Yachtmaster, RYA). • Radio communication certificate (VHF). • Charter contract. • Deposit insurance (if required). • Acceptance checklist: Ask the charter company in advance for a checklist so you know what items need to be checked. • Time: Arrive at the base early to allow enough time for a thorough inspection of the catamaran. 2. Inspection of the hull and deck • Hull: Check the hull of the catamaran for cracks, scratches, abrasions or damage. Record any damage in the acceptance report with photos. • Keel and rudders: Inspect the underwater part if possible, especially if the catamaran has recently been launched. • Deck: Ensure all rails, pulpits, anchorages and fittings are in good condition. • Rigging: • Check the condition of the standing and running rigging. • Inspect the mast, shrouds, spreaders, forestay fittings and backstay. • Ensure all winches and fenders are in good condition. 3. Sail Inspection • Mainsail: Raise the mainsail fully, inspect for tears, abrasions and check batten pockets. • Genoa: Unscrew the genoa and inspect the sail for damage. • Extra Sails: If a gennaker, spinnaker or Code 0 is provided, inspect their condition. • Sheets and halyards: Ensure they are free of wear and operate without binding. 4. Engine Inspection • Motors: Start and warm up both engines. Check: • Oil and coolant levels. • Water exhaust. • Sound from motors. • Dinghy: Check the dinghy engine, starting and operation. • Fuel: Make sure the fuel tank is full (usually the fuel level is recorded in the report). 5. Electronics check • Navigation: Check the operation of the GPS, autopilot, echo sounder, chart plotter and radar. • Lighting: Turn on all navigation lights, interior lights and deck lighting. • VHF radio: Make sure it works. • Batteries: Check the battery charge level and their capacity. 6. Equipment check • Safety: Make sure the following are available and in good working order: • Life jackets (for the number of passengers). • Life raft. • Fire extinguishers (expiration date). • Signal flares and other emergency equipment. • Galley: Check the stove, refrigerator, dishes and inventory. • Bathrooms: Make sure the pumps, faucets and toilets work. 7. Document check • Make sure you have been given: • Ship's ticket. • Catamaran operating instructions. • Emergency service contacts. • List of ports for refueling and moorings. 8. Signing the acceptance certificate • The certificate records all detected damage, fuel level, and equipment condition. • Take photos or video of the catamaran inspection before signing. Catamaran delivery (reverse process) 1. Cleaning: Make sure the catamaran is cleaned (sometimes the company provides cleaning for an additional fee). 2. Fuel and water: Fill the fuel tank to full. Water is usually added as needed. 3. Inspection: Inspect the catamaran with a representative of the charter company, note any new damage. 4. Delivery certificate: Sign the delivery certificate to avoid claims in the future. This process requires care and time. A thorough inspection upon acceptance will save you from problems upon delivery.