As a professional sailor with years of experience in yacht deliveries, I’ve learned that the success of any yacht delivery depends not only on expertise at sea but also on the complex boat care provided throughout the process. At Seven Seas, we pride ourselves on offering meticulous care for every yacht we deliver, ensuring owners feel confident their prized vessel is in capable hands.
This article delves into the steps we take at Seven Seas to guarantee the safe, secure, and professional delivery of your yacht. Drawing on Google’s guidelines for content, this article offers an in-depth, people-first approach to understanding what yacht owners should expect from a trustworthy delivery service.
1. Meticulous Pre-Delivery Preparation
Before a yacht begins its journey, preparation is key. At Seven Seas, we approach every delivery with the same care as if we were setting sail on our own yacht. This involves:
- Detailed Yacht Inspection: Prior to departure, our team conducts a thorough inspection of the yacht. We assess the condition of the hull, engine, rigging, and safety equipment. We ensure that all systems are in good working order, allowing us to confidently embark on the voyage.
- Ensuring Compliance with Regulations: Every country and marina has its own set of laws and regulations. We review the yacht’s documentation, such as registration papers, insurance details, and customs paperwork, ensuring everything is in place for a smooth delivery (Annex 1 – Contract), (Annex 3 – Contract).
- Tailoring the Route to Weather Conditions: Safety is always our priority. We study the forecast to determine the best time for departure and the safest route, adjusting plans if necessary to avoid dangerous weather conditions, such as storms or high winds (Contract).
2. Onboard Expertise: Professional Captain and Crew
The captain and crew are the heart of every yacht delivery. At Seven Seas, we assign highly experienced captains with a proven track record to each delivery. Here’s what sets our team apart:
- Qualified and Experienced Captains: All of our captains hold the highest qualifications, including Yachtmaster certificates and other necessary licenses. Their extensive experience ensures that your yacht will be handled with skill and professionalism (Annex 2 – Skipper delivery Contract).
- Crew Care and Coordination: Depending on the yacht’s size and the journey’s length, our captains carefully select the right number of crew members. Whether it’s a short passage or a transoceanic delivery, we always ensure the vessel is crewed by individuals who are well-versed in handling all challenges that may arise(Annex 2 – Captain and Crew).
- Real-Time Communication: Keeping you updated during the voyage is crucial. Our captains are in constant contact with yacht owners, providing updates on the yacht’s location, weather conditions, and any potential adjustments to the schedule.
3. Handling Unexpected Situations – #$@% happens
No delivery is without its surprises. Whether it’s bad weather or unforeseen technical issues, Seven Seas handles these challenges with poise:
- Weather Delays: We prioritize the yacht’s safety above all else. In case of severe weather (e.g., wind force 7 or higher), the captain has the authority to delay the voyage or adjust the route to avoid danger. This flexibility ensures that we don’t put the yacht, crew, or mission at risk (Part of Contract).
- Mechanical Breakdowns: In the event of a mechanical failure, our captains have the expertise to perform minor repairs onboard. If a more significant issue arises, we have a protocol for notifying the owner and sourcing parts or services from the nearest port to get back on track quickly (Part of Contract).
4. Minimising Wear and Tear
A yacht is more than a vehicle—it’s an investment and a passion project. At Seven Seas, we take care to ensure that your yacht is delivered in the same condition in which it was handed over:
- Careful Sailing Practices: Our captains and crew operate the yacht with care, adjusting speeds and routes to minimize unnecessary strain on the vessel. For example, we maintain optimal engine RPM and only use the engine when sailing speeds drop below 3 knots (Part of Contract).
- Documentation of Pre-Existing Conditions: Before we depart, our team creates a detailed record of the yacht’s condition, including photos of the hull, sails, and interior. This ensures transparency and protects both parties from any disputes regarding wear and tear (Part of Contract).
5. Post-Delivery Handover
At the end of the journey, our job isn’t done until we’ve completed a thorough handover:
- Final Inspection and Reports: Upon arrival, we conduct a final inspection to ensure the yacht is in the same condition as when it left the departure port. A detailed expenses claim, including receipts for fuel, port fees, and any other costs, is provided to the owner (Part of Contract).
- Handover to Local Contacts: If the yacht’s owner cannot be present at the destination, we coordinate with local marina contacts to ensure a smooth handover(Annex 1 of skipper delivery contract). The yacht will be securely berthed and ready for the owner’s next voyage.
6. Transparent Communication and Costs
We believe that clarity and honesty are the pillars of good service. At Seven Seas, we ensure that our communication and costs are always transparent:
- Clear Payment Schedule: Yacht delivery payments are divided into three stages—14 days before departure, on the day of departure, and upon arrival (Annex 4 – Payment) (Contract). This ensures that owners are only paying for services as they are rendered.
- Accurate Expense Tracking: Any additional expenses, such as fuel or necessary repairs, are tracked with care and reported to the owner immediately. We never incur costs over €50 without the owner’s approval, ensuring full control over the budget (Contract).
Conclusion: Trust and Care, Every Step of the Way
At Seven Seas, we understand that handing over your yacht is a significant decision, one that requires trust and confidence. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care at every step of the yacht delivery process, ensuring your vessel arrives safely and in the best condition possible.
Whether it’s preparing the yacht for departure, navigating unforeseen challenges, or delivering transparent communication and costs, our mission is to offer a professional, seamless experience from start to finish.
By choosing Seven Seas, you’re not just hiring a yacht delivery service—you’re partnering with a team of seasoned sailors who treat your yacht with the respect and care it deserves.
