Beneteau Oceanis 46.1

Yes — every boat on charter.boats is insured by its operator; we require it. The policy covers the vessel for fire, collision and third-party liability. For damage it doesn't cover, your liability is usually limited to the security deposit, except where the operator's terms say otherwise. You can lower the deposit by adding the operator’s damage waiver. Operator terms: The operator holds comprehensive insurance covering damage to the hull, accessories and fittings, partial or total theft (except the tender and outboard), misappropriation, and third-party liability for property damage and bodily injury.

Fuel isn't included — you return the tank full. Estimated from engine power: this boat's ~80 HP engine burns roughly 6.4 L/h while motoring, so a typical week (about 3 h a day, ~21 h) works out to roughly 134 L ≈ €194 at €1.45/L — scale it to your own plans.

Not if you add a skipper — this boat offers one, who holds the licence. Generally, though: Requirements vary by state and operator; no national sailing licence exists, so charter companies rely on a detailed sailing résumé (some states require a boater education card).

No. Night navigation is strictly forbidden, including entering or leaving an anchorage, marina or port after dark, unless the base manager grants an exception. Some areas can also be off limits, and we point them out at handover.

Please check the forecast before you leave and keep listening to weather bulletins. You must not go to sea when winds of Beaufort force 7 or more are forecast, and if a storm or cyclone is announced you need to head for a marina or recognised shelter. Ignoring these rules makes you fully responsible for any damage or loss.

You'll fill in a nautical experience form, and we may refuse to hand over the boat if we think the skipper or crew lack competence, even with licences. In that case you can accept an approved professional skipper at your own cost, or stay at the quay, but the contract is otherwise ended without refund.

Contact us for instructions and send us a written report within 48 hours. If the item has failed through normal wear, you can repair or replace it on the spot up to 10% of the security deposit, and we reimburse you on return against an invoice. For anything more costly, please check with us first.

Each day of delay costs twice the daily rental price, whatever the reason, and bad weather isn't accepted as an excuse. If winds of force 7 or more are forecast, don't sail back. Call the base, who will give you instructions.

Varies widely by region; the Florida Keys and Caribbean coast run year-round, while New England and the Pacific Northwest peak June–September.