Special insurance policies for charter clients that cover risks that are usually not covered by conventional travel policies.

Like skipper liability insurance, since: in the end, it is the skipper who is responsible, and his own insurance will usually not cover claims arising from the charter. We can offer custom-made insurance packages that fit each individual customer, rather than off-the-shelf solutions.

Equally, there is increasingly popular insurance for security deposits: “For the crew it helps take the stress out of difficult manoeuvres”. However, skippers in particular should be clear about the consequences of failed voyages, because in the end it is still the best outcome if damage is avoided altogether.

Security deposit

The security deposit for a yacht can vary, depending on the size of the boat. You would usually not want to carry such sums around with you, or have to transfer them unnecessarily.

The best way of leaving these deposits is obviously by credit card. The time at which the deposit is returned is important: this should always be at the end of the charter. Right after the yacht is returned, it should be checked and if everything is in order, then the deposit should be refunded. If damage does occur, and you have booked through Cosmos, you can count on fairness and goodwill on behalf of the charter company.

If you are not satisfied with their response, Cosmos Yachting will try to mediate. Even an unlucky coincidence can lead to damage to a boat and cause the loss of the security deposit. Naturally, we can offer an insurance policy to cover such incidents. Such insurance is also offered by individual insurance agencies, usually in connection with a complete charter insurance package.

This insurance, irrespective of whether it is offered by an independent insurance agency or the charter company, is especially worthwhile for larger yachts, where the deposit value can be several thousand pounds. Furthermore, skipper and crew will be more relaxed (and thus safer) during manoeuvres.

Charter conditions:

Please note that Cosmos Yachting always acts as an agent for the charter company abroad. For our clients this means that your contract is always entered into directly with the company abroad and not with Cosmos Yachting. All charter companies represented by Cosmos Yachting have the official government authorisation to charter yachts. We are entitled to issue charter contracts for all our principals and also to receive payments on their behalf. Cosmos Yachting provides a highly responsible and professional service to both customers and partners. All bookings, confirmations, agreements, changes and cancellations must be made in writing.

Sailing Licence:

To be allowed use of a bareboat yacht, you will need a sailing certificate (RYA Day Skipper certificate) for most European destinations. In Greece, the co-skipper will also need a proof of competence - RYA Competent Crew. The port authorities usually only require an official licence. Cosmos Yachting requires additional proof of adequate sailing experience, such as information about the number of miles sailed or sailing school attended. No certificate is required for flotillas. If you book a motor yacht in open waters, you must have a motor boat licence. No licences are usually required overseas.

Charter Bookings:

Your yacht is considered booked if we receive a down payment at the time the contract is signed. The point at which the other balances are due depends on the third party and may vary. In Greece, it is mostly due upon embarkation; in other cruising areas, six weeks before the charter commences. Verbal agreements only take effect after written confirmation by the charter company. Information is provided to the best of our knowledge and belief. Errors can, however, not be ruled out. Liability cannot be accepted in such cases. The cancellation fee may vary, and the exact amount can be found on the charter contract.