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CapnR · 20-05-2014, 17:38

I am curious as to what credentials I need to rent a barebones charter in southern florida. Specifically the Tampa Bay Area. I have sailed my 1977 Chrysler 26 solo for the last 10 years on local lakes including Lake Erie. I however have no formal sailing certifications. I just sail! Will they rent to someone who has no formal certifications, but has a significant sailing experience?

Any insight would be great.

belizesailor · 20-05-2014, 20:17

Ultimately, it is entirely the decision of the charter company regardless of venue. Certifications are not "required" but do help document training. I suggest contacting the specific charter company and discussing with them.

Most charter agreements request a "skipper's resume" and provide for an optional on the water check out with a captain. They also typically have the option of putting a captain aboard for your charter, at your expense,...should the on the water check out not go so well.

krafthaus · 20-05-2014, 21:19

Belizesailor has it right. Depends on the company. They will want to know your experience and while it's on a smaller boat than you might want to charter, sounds extensive enough that you might find you are fine.

When we started chartering with no other experience than ASA 101/103/104 under our belt the company was comfortable starting us on a 35' Catalina. Once they saw we were capable of that we moved up to bigger monos and then a 40' cat. That gave us enough of a resume that other companies have rented us 40+ cats and haven't had any problems.

Best of Luck!

CapnR · 21-05-2014, 07:50

Thanks for the info.

Steve W · 21-05-2014, 08:57

Credit card with plenty of room on it + the bareboat charter companies we used in the BVI's were very clear about being truthful on the sailing resume/application, saying it becomes part of the charter contract. Sounds like you will be fine. Expect to asked about anchoring experience, chart reading, reefing and maybe being comfortable with using a diesel engine.

CapnR · 21-05-2014, 09:00

Can anyone recommend a good charter company in the BVI, Bahama or southern Florida area?

Cheechako · 21-05-2014, 09:23

I've not found charter companies reluctant. Make a resume showing as much experience as possible. I've chartered in Tonga, Mexico and the Caribe with nothing other than a resume. No formal training.
Bahamas charter companies seem limited. I've had good experiences with the Moorings in all the places I mentioned. I think I heard they were in the B'mas now...?