Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know before booking: licence, security deposit, times, cruising area, cancellation. Still have a question? Call us.
Do I need a licence to hire a boat?
Yes. Self-drive hire requires a coastal licence, an offshore licence or a foreign licence valid in France. Foreign licences must be accompanied by an English translation.
Without a licence, you can hire with a professional captain. The skipper is charged extra, €450 a day on most boats.
How does booking work?
Get in touch through the form or by phone. Together we choose the right boat for your budget, number of guests and plans.
Your booking is confirmed once the contract is signed and a 50% deposit paid.
What documents should I bring on the day?
The skipper’s boating licence and ID. A photocopy is accepted if you forget them, but we cannot be held responsible for any fine if you are checked. Without these documents, the hire cannot go ahead.
How does the security deposit work?
The security deposit is taken by card pre-authorisation on the morning of the hire. It can be split across several cards, in which case the cardholders are named on the contract. Cheques and American Express cards are not accepted.
What are the cancellation terms?
More than 7 days before departure, the deposit is refunded in full. Between 3 and 6 days, 50% of the deposit is refunded. Less than 48 hours before, the deposit is retained.
If the weather prevents the outing (strong wind, rain), the amount paid is refunded in full, unless we agree on a new date together.
What time do we leave and return?
Departures are from 10 am. After the paperwork, we go through the cruising area on a nautical chart, how the boat works and the safety equipment, then do the inventory together. A dockhand handles the manoeuvres in the port.
Boats are returned at 6 pm to the fuel pontoon. Waiting time at the fuel station does not count as late return.
What is the cruising area?
From Menton to cap Camarat, within a 12-mile strip. Cruising time is limited to 5 engine hours per day of hire; beyond that, 10% of the bareboat charter price is charged.
Is fuel included?
No, fuel is charged separately based on actual consumption when the boat is returned.
Are children and pets welcome?
Infants count as one person in the boat’s capacity; we provide children’s life jackets.
Only small dogs under 10 kg are allowed on board, to protect upholstery and equipment.
Am I insured during the hire?
Yes. The boat is insured and signing the contract transfers the insurance to the hirer. In the event of a covered claim, the security deposit is used to pay the excess.
Another question?
Our team is available by phone or email, every day in season.