FAQs

While exact documentation requirements depend on local regulations and the rental company, you will typically need:

• ID/passport

• Sailing license and experience (for bareboat)

• Charter agreement

• Security deposit

• Additional forms for crewed charters or extras

Always confirm the required documents in advance with the rental company, especially if you’re chartering abroad.

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Discover the Algarve – Portugal’s Premier Sailing Destination

With its stunning coastline, golden cliffs, and turquoise waters, the Algarve offers one of Europe’s most unforgettable sailing experiences. From Vilamoura’s world-class marina to the iconic Benagil sea cave, every mile promises beauty and adventure.

Sail to secluded beaches, enjoy 5-star beachside restaurants, or cruise up the Guadiana River to explore charming riverside villages on the Portuguese–Spanish border. Whether you’re after luxury, discovery, or total relaxation, Skipper Portugal Yacht Charters makes it effortless.

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What Should the Charter Contract Look Like, and Is Insurance Included?

In Portugal, the charter of recreational or professional yachts—commonly referred to as yacht charters—is a regulated activity, but the commercial conditions are freely set by each operator. That said, consumer rights are strongly protected under national legislation and supervised by two key authorities:

• Turismo de Portugal (Portuguese National Tourism Authority)

• ASAE (Economic and Food Safety Authority)

Operators are legally required to be licensed and registered with Turismo de Portugal, and to hold an official Complaints Book, both physical and digital, regulated by ASAE. This ensures a transparent and accountable business environment for consumers.

✅ Always Check for Legal Compliance

As a customer, always request the operator’s registration number with Turismo de Portugal, known as RNAAT (National Register of Tourist Animation Agents), before making any payment or using a yacht. Also ask for a proper invoice or receipt, which must include the company’s official fiscal number—an essential identifier in the Portuguese legal and tax system.

Types of Charter Contracts

The type of contract depends on the kind of charter experience you’re booking:

1. Ticketed Tours (Shared Cruises)

If you’re purchasing a ticket for a scheduled cruise, you’ll receive a transport voucher valid for a specific date, boat, itinerary, and number of passengers. The details of the tour are typically outlined in the operator’s general terms and conditions. If any issues arise, you’re entitled to file a complaint using the official Complaints Book.

2. Day Charters (Private Half-Day or Full-Day Trips)

For private rentals for a specific part of the day, often known as day-charters, you charter the entire boat for yourself and your guests. These charters may follow a pre-set itinerary or be tailor-made. In this case, a simple written agreement—much like a car rental contract—will outline the terms, services, and obligations of both parties. It ensures clarity and trust throughout the service.

3. Multi-Day or Weekly Charters

For charters lasting several days, with or without crew, a comprehensive contract is essential. It covers critical elements such as:

• Technical failures

• Weather-related restrictions

• Maritime authority regulations

• Cancellation and refund policies

A detailed agreement ensures that both client and operator have a clear understanding of responsibilities and expectations.

At Estrelas e Caravelas, we follow the principles of the internationally recognized MYBA Charter Agreement (from the Worldwide Yachting Association) as a model. While we are not affiliated with MYBA, we consider its framework a valuable standard to ensure that the service lives up to both professional and client expectations.

Insurance Coverage

All maritime-tourism operators in Portugal (designated by the “MT” label on the hull of the boat) are legally required to carry:

• Personal accident insurance

• Third-party liability insurance

• Hull insurance for the vessel itself

The exact coverage limits vary by company, but all meet the legal minimums. You can verify the operator’s licensing and insurance status by searching the official database from Turismo de Portugal:
👉 https://rnt.turismodeportugal.pt/RNT/Pesquisa_AAT.aspx

Final Thought

What matters most is that you’re dealing with a licensed, experienced, and trustworthy operator. A well-drafted contract and mandatory insurance offer peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the charter experience to the fullest—whether for a short cruise along the Algarve coast or an extended journey exploring Portugal’s beautiful marinas.

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What should I do if I lose my booking voucher?

If you lose your booking voucher, please contact us immediately. Since all payments with us are made against a service invoice — usually via bank transfer or credit card — we have a full record of your purchase and can promptly send you a duplicate voucher.

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Can I cancel my yacht reservation? What should I do?

Yes, you can cancel your yacht reservation, provided it complies with the cancellation policy communicated by the operator.

In the case of Skipper Portugal (Estrelas e Caravelas Unipessoal, Lda), please refer to our cancellation and refund terms available at:
👉 https://skipper.pt/privacy-policy/

If you have any doubts or require assistance, feel free to contact us directly.

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