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Frequently Asked Questions

YACHTING | KEELBOAT RACING | RIB'S


Yachting

What do I need to bring?
We will provide 'oilskins', which are basically waterproof jackets and trousers, and life jackets are available on board each craft. You will need to wear warm clothing and shoes with a non-marking sole. If the weather is looking brisk then you may wish to bring a woolly hat too!

What happens if it's raining?
You will still go out if it is raining and get wet, but you will have waterproofs on so shouldn't get too soggy.

I have never been sailing before, is that a problem?
No, all of our yacht charters are with a fully experienced skipper, but you may be asked to get involved to crew your boat under their supervision - it's all part of the fun!

How many people do the yachts take?
You can try a Sonar keelboat which takes 3 crew plus skipper for some fun match racing. Our yachts take between 6 and 12 people each depending on the type.

Do we get off during the day?
Yes, we always moor for lunch, the location on the day depends on the tides and wind. Whether you stay on board and have a picnic, or go to the nearest pub for lunch depends on the package you have booked.

Can we do some racing?
If you have a larger group and have more than one yacht out we can arrange some informal racing in the afternoon after everyone has become familiar with sailing in the morning. This will usually take the form of 'see who gets back to the marina first!'. More serious racing can be arranged in advance depending on your group, and if there are any regattas on we can also arrange entry if you book well ahead.

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Keelboat Racing

Racing sounds a bit serious .. we just want something a bit more relaxed

Our expert says
Match racing can be very serious, but with our breaks we want you to have a fun day which means all starting together and see who finishes first! Each boat will have a skipper who is there to help the crew, whether novices or experts, and there is no pressure to do anything else than enjoy yourselves.

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'Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB)' Riding

What happens when we go out?
If you have just booked to go out for a trip on the Solent for a morning or afternoon your skipper will tell you about the boat and take you out on the water to see some of the sights and landmarks around the Island. Once everyone is familiar with the boat there may be the opportunity for everyone to have a drive.

If your group has booked one or more boats some fun on the water Team Challenges and Navigational Treasure Hunts can be organised as part of your package, with a stop at one of many waterside pubs for lunch.

How many people are in a boat?
The boats we use are licensed to take between 4 and 8 people, maximum, each. A skipper always drives the boat and goes out with each group.

Is it comfortable?
It can get very bumpy out on the water and may be uncomfortable for people with back problems. When the boat is traveling at speed you may need to stand up and hold on tight so you can brace yourselves over the bumps! Not recommended for people with bad backs!!

Is it dangerous?
Everyone will be given a lifejacket and should feel confident about being on the water. To ensure the safety of everyone your skipper will give you a safety brief prior to getting on board. If the Solent is particularly rough or windy then we will not take you out as it is then that go out on a RIB would be dangerous.

Will we get wet?
Most probably, from the sea spray when you are at sea. Waterproofs can be  provided on request to help you stay dry but you may find your shoes may get a little wet so bring a dry pair! And make sure you have warm clothing.

Links:

www.high-adventure.uk.com
www.islandactivities.co.uk
www.islandbreaks.co.uk

Pontoons by Southland pontoon boats
- High quality pontoons, from luxury pontoons to small pontoons and aluminum fishing pontoon boats

First Contact logoFIRST CONTACT BOAT CHARTERS
The Savoy - Halletts Shute -Yarmouth - Isle of Wight - P041 ORJ
Phone: 01983 761010 - Fax: 01983 741484
Email: first-contact@boat-charters.uk.com

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