Charter Check-in Day: A Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Day

Check-in day is exciting — and a bit overwhelming. Here's exactly what to expect, step by step, so you can start your charter on the right foot.

Typical Check-in: Saturday Afternoon

Most Greek charters run Saturday to Saturday. Check-in is usually 3–5 PM. Arrive at the base, find the office, and you'll be assigned a base manager. They'll walk you through everything. Don't rush. Plan for 1–2 hours for the full process.

The Base Briefing

You'll get a briefing on the area — marinas, anchorages, fuel stations, weather. They'll give you charts (paper or digital) and point out the best spots. Listen. Ask questions. They know the area better than any guidebook.

Boat Walkthrough

The base manager will take you through the boat. Engine start/stop. Bilge pumps. Electrical panel. Water tanks. Where to find the gas for the stove. How to use the anchor windlass. How to connect shore power. Write things down if you need to. Take photos of the boat's condition — it protects you at check-out.

Checking Inventory

You'll get a list of what's on board — bedding, towels, cutlery, etc. Check it. If something's missing, say so now. If something's broken, report it. Don't assume it'll be fine. We've seen clients get charged for "missing" items that were never there. Document everything.

Chart Briefing

They'll show you the recommended routes, the no-go zones, the best anchorages. Pay attention. They've seen the weather. They know the local conditions.

Where to Buy Last Supplies

Supermarket, bakery, water. They'll point you to the nearest. Stock up before you leave. You might not want to sail back to the base on day one.

First Night: Marina or Anchor?

Many people stay in the marina the first night. It's easier. You're getting used to the boat. You have power, water, showers. Others prefer to anchor nearby — a short sail, a quiet bay. It's up to you. Nicoleta's advice: don't rush to sail far. Spend the first evening getting comfortable. Find where everything is. Have a relaxed dinner. You have a whole week.

Vasile's Check-in Checklist

□ Arrive by 3 PM. □ Bring passport, license, crew list. □ Check boat condition — photos. □ Check inventory — note any missing items. □ Understand engine start/stop. □ Know where the safety equipment is. □ Know where to get fuel and water. □ Check the weather for tomorrow. □ Buy provisions. □ Plan a short first sail if you're leaving the marina.

Common Day 1 Mistakes

Leaving too late and arriving at your destination in the dark. Not checking the water tank. Forgetting to buy basics (milk, bread, water). Not testing the engine before you leave. Rushing. Take your time. Day 1 sets the tone.