Frequently Asked Questions

What Qualifications Do I Need to Charter?

Experience is more important than paper qualifications. Although no formal qualifications are required to charter your own bareboat yacht, Sunsail does insist that at least one of your crew members has previous sailing or yachting experience.

Upon booking you will be asked to fill out a sailing resume outlining your sailing history. If you do not have enough experience or are a complete novice, Sunsail’s experienced instructors can get you to a level where you are confident enough to handle your own yacht.

How Can I Learn How to Sail?

If you don't have any sailing experience but wish to experience a bareboat charter holiday, why not enrol in one of Sunsail's Sailing School courses in Thailand or the Whitsundays, which can have you sailing your own yacht in no time!

Do I Need a Professional Skipper?

Of course you don't need to hire a skipper for your holiday, but choosing a crew to accompany you on your Sunsail yacht charter holiday means you can sit back and totally relax. Our crew are chosen for their friendliness and professionalism, and are dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable and relaxing as possible.  Book a skipper and hostess for a crewed yacht charter of complete indulgence, or create your own culinary delights and just have a skipper taking the helm of your Sunsail yacht so you can sit back and enjoy.

How Safe is Bareboat Yachting?

To ensure your safety at all times during your sailing holiday, Sunsail is contactable 24 hours a day, seven days per week via mobile phone.  Sunsail has a reliable back-up service ensuring you will not be alone in the unlikely event of an emergency, or if you simply need more supplies or provisions.

What Time Do I Start my Yacht Charter?

Yacht charters from Sunsail Malaysia commence at 6pm and finish at 9am on the last day. However, we ask that you call the base prior to arrival as the yacht may be available earlier so that you may get out on the first afternoon. Clients will receive a personal Yacht and Chart Briefing on arrival at the base. This will take approximately two hours so you need to allow plenty of time.  No charter clients are permitted to leave on their sailing expeditions in Malaysia without adequate briefing.

What Does It Cost? Are There Any Other Fees?

You’ll be amazed at just how affordable it is to charter your own luxury yacht for the sailing holiday of a lifetime. As a general guide, a yacht charter usually equates to approximately AUD$100 per person per night, depending on the size of vessel, number of people and length of stay.

Should I Take Out Travel Insurance?

Sunsail strongly recommends you cover your prepaid yacht charter fees against cancellation due to circumstances beyond your control. Our Reservations Team can supply you with information on insurance policies available or visit your local travel agent.

What Should I Bring?

Not very much! Each Sunsail yacht is fully equipped for charter from every imaginable viewpoint. Apart from your personal possessions, you should bring your own...

  • beach towels
  • sunscreen
  • swimwear
  • polarised sunglasses (essential for seeing fringing reefs)
  • footwear – good solid footwear is advisable (an old pair of sneakers are ideal)
  • broad brimmed hat
  • light clothing that will provide protection from the sun
    and a tracksuit or warm clothing for the evenings
  • Soft luggage where possible!

 

What About Food & Beverages?

Careful provisioning is an important part of the preparation for your sailing holiday. By pre-arranging your provisioning with us, your vessel will be fully stocked with the type of catering you require prior to your arrival.

How Do I Book?

Start planning the best holiday experience of your life by getting in touch with one of our Sunsail Reservations Team:

  • Tel Tollfree 1800 803 988 (8.00am – 5.30pm) 7 days a week
  • Tel (ex Australia): 61 (0) 7 4948 9506
  • By email:  sunsail@sunsail.com.au - 24hrs a day