Don’t Leave the Dock Without It: The Essential Bareboat Check-in Guide

You’ve finally arrived. Maybe you’re staring at the turquoise waters of the Exumas, the rugged cliffs of Sardinia, or the ancient ports of Greece. The sun is shining, the beer is cold, and the only thing on your mind is dropping the lines and setting sail.

But hold on, Skipper! Before you pop the champagne, there is one crucial hurdle standing between you and paradise: The Handover.

Whether you are in Tortola or Trogir, the scene is always the same: it’s chaotic, it’s hot, and the base manager is rushing through the briefing at light speed. "Here is the engine, here is the toilet, sign here, bye!"

It is exactly in this moment that critical details get missed. And trust me, you don’t want to find out the anchor windlass is jammed when you are trying to secure a spot in a crowded bay, or that the VHF Radio is dead when you need to call a marina.

That is why I created the Universal Bareboat Charter Checklist.

Why One Checklist Works Everywhere

A diesel engine doesn't care if it's in the Adriatic or the Atlantic—it needs oil and cooling water. Safety gear is non-negotiable whether you are island hopping in the Caribbean or navigating the Kornati islands.

This free PDF guide covers the universal essentials for any sailor, anywhere in the world:

• Hull & Deck: How to spot pre-existing damage (especially important for Med-mooring!).

• Vital Systems: Engine checks, battery levels, and bilge pumps.

• Safety First: Life jackets, flares, and fire extinguishers.

• Navigation: Charts, plotters, and instruments.

• 
  

Local Knowledge vs. Global Standards

While the boat systems are universal, the weather isn't! A good skipper uses this checklist to ensure the boat is ready, so they can focus on the environment. For example, if you are sailing in Croatia, you need to be ready for the sudden Bura or the rolling waves of the Jugo. In the Caribbean, you might be watching for squalls. The boat needs to be ready for it all.

Peace of Mind = Better Sailing

Using a professional checklist isn't just about avoiding liability for scratches you didn't cause (though that is a huge plus!). It’s about confidence. It’s knowing that when you find that perfect hidden cove from my Best Sailing Spots & Anchorages guide, your anchor will hold and your fridge will keep the drinks cold.

👉 Download your Free Global Charter Checklist here:

SAILING MUNICH BAREBOAT CHARTER.pdf

Download PDF • 201KB

Pro Tip: I always print two copies. One for the initial check-in with the base staff, and one to keep on the chart table as a reference throughout the week.

Fair winds, wherever in the world they take you! 🌍⛵