Charter Basics
Bareboating vs. Skippering
Sailing Thailand's Gulf, the conditions are nearly always perfect. Overnight anchorages are available close to deserted Island beaches. Navigation is easy. Nearby islands like Koh Chang and Koh Samet are easy destinations.
Skipper qualification for bareboat chartering is based on your previous boating experience. See guide lines.
Travel Arrangements
Our travel partners should be able to find you the best possible fares to Pattaya.In addition, we have negotiated rates with several hotels and car rental agencies in the area. Contact us for details.
Sleep Aboard
No problem. If you're scheduled to arrive after 2 p.m., there probably won't be enough time for you to complete your briefings and make your way to your first anchorage. So we may be able to offer arrival day Sleep aboardprivileges at one-half the daily charter rate. Enjoy a restful evening aboard your yacht, then begin your charter the following day.The sleep aboard option could depend on the schedule of the charter that immediately precedes your charter start. Gulf Charters normally needs 24 to 48 hours to prepare a yacht for your use. If you would prefer to spend the evening at a hotel, Gulf Charters will be happy to make reservations for you.
Charter Length
With Gulf Charters, a charter week is seven full sailing days, noon to noon, beginning on the day of the week you choose. Don't settle for anything less. Of course, you may sail for longer or shorter charters, but a charter day is a full 24 hours, always!
Cell Phones
Gulf Charters yachts are equipped with a cell phone to make it easy for you to contact the base, make dive or dinner reservations, or call home. (Promise you won't call your office, though!) In addition, the VHF radio can be used for a "patch call" through V.I. Radio to anywhere in the world.
Packing
Pack lightly, in soft luggage that can be easily stowed aboard your yacht. Life is simple in paradise. If you've packed more than a carry-on per person, you've packed too much. You'll need bathing suits, cotton shorts and shirts, and casual eveningwear. Jackets and ties are definitely not required. Shoes should be soft-soled sandals or boat shoes. Most important is sun protection: a broad-brimmed hat, baseball caps, loose cotton coverups, plenty of sunscreen. Bring a windbreaker or cotton sweater for cool evenings. And don't forget your camera and lots of film and CD's/
Snorkel and SCUBA
We'll provide snorkel gear for your crew. There's a dive shop at the marina that will rent tanks and arrange for lessons, certification, or rendezvous dives.
Electrical Power
All our yachts have an inverter that will operate a blender or microwave, power your hair dryer and charge your video camera battery. You'll look wonderful on camera! Keep in mind that this system must be managed, inasmuch as the inverter cannot operate all AC appliances simultaneously.
Credit Cards
Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted at most shops and restaurants. You should carry some cash for smaller restaurants and beach bars. The Thai Baht the currency of Thailand. There are ATMs in Pattaya and Jomtien/
Passports
It's always a good idea to travel with your passport, and some airlines now require one. If you sail to islands in both Malaysia or Cambodia, it will expedite Customs formalities if your crew carries passports.
