The Importance of Briefings: What Every Guest Should Know Before Leaving the Marina

Frano Sestan

Jun 3, 2025

Many visitors find that first stepping onto a yacht sets off a dream sailing vacation. The thrill of discovering Croatia’s islands, lounging under the sun, and floating from bay to bay is hard to match. But before the engine starts and the marina fades behind you, one crucial moment should never be overlooked: the skipper’s briefing.

A pre-departure briefing is more than a formality. It ensures everyone on board knows what to expect, how to stay safe, and how to function as a relaxed but considerate team. Whether it’s your first sailing trip or you’ve been on a boat before, this short session is essential to starting your week at sea smoothly.

Why Briefings Count More Than You Might Think

A sailing holiday is not like checking into a hotel or going on a road trip. You’re entering a shared, moving home where daily life follows a different rhythm. It’s the skipper’s responsibility not only to navigate but to help everyone on board understand how life on a boat works.

Without a proper briefing, guests may be unsure of safety rules, unfamiliar with equipment, or confused about daily routines. Spending just 15 to 30 minutes before departure aligns expectations, encourages cooperation, and helps prevent small issues from turning into larger problems later in the week.

Key Topics Covered in a Pre-Departure Briefing

Every skipper has their own approach, but most briefings include a few core topics. Safety is always first—where life jackets are located, how to respond in an emergency, and how to move safely on deck. These points are not meant to alarm anyone but to give you the confidence to act if needed.

You’ll also hear practical tips, like how to use the marine toilets, how to conserve fresh water, and how electrical systems operate when not connected to shore power. Onboard, small habits like turning off lights or flushing correctly make a big difference.

The skipper may also go over the daily rhythm—when sailing usually begins, how meals will be handled, and what help might be appreciated when anchoring or docking. Even in a relaxed charter, coordination improves everyone’s experience.

Understanding Your Role Onboard

Some guests assume the skipper handles everything alone. But even passive cooperation helps things run smoothly. During the briefing, your skipper may explain where to sit during manoeuvres, when to remove shoes, or how to keep walkways clear to avoid accidents.

House rules may also be introduced: how to manage waste, use the galley, or handle smoking policies. Setting expectations from the start helps avoid confusion and keeps the atmosphere respectful and easy-going.

Ask Questions and Share Preferences

A good briefing isn’t a one-way speech. It’s the perfect moment for you to speak up. If you have dietary requirements, concerns about seasickness, or an interest in learning how to sail, this is the time to share it.

Skippers appreciate openness. The more they know about their guests, the better they can personalise the experience. Whether your group enjoys early starts and long sails, or prefers lazy afternoons in quiet bays, these insights shape the perfect itinerary.

Setting the Right Tone on Day One

Beyond logistics and safety, the skipper’s briefing sets the tone for your entire journey. It’s often the first true conversation between the skipper and guests—and it builds a foundation of trust and cooperation.

You may come to see your skipper not just as the one steering the yacht, but as a host, guide, and storyteller. A friendly and informative briefing helps everyone relax, feel included, and get excited for the days ahead.

Final Thoughts: A Small Moment That Makes a Big Difference

Skipping a proper briefing is like starting a road trip without a map. While it might be tempting to just cast off and figure things out later, that short, focused chat before departure can set the stage for a safer, more enjoyable and stress-free journey.

So when your skipper gathers everyone for the first talk, take it seriously, listen closely, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. It’s not just about learning where the life jackets are—it’s about beginning your adventure with clarity, confidence, and shared expectations.

What to Do if You Lose Something Overboard

What to Do If Something Goes Overboard While Sailing Accidents can happen during a sailing holiday, even if you're cautious. A strong gust of wind, a slick phone case, or a moment of distraction is all it takes for something valuable to disappear into the sea. Whether it’s a towel, sunglasses, or even a phone, knowing how to respond makes all the difference. Here’s how to react calmly and effectively if something goes overboard—what to do immediately, and how to increase the chances of recovery. Stay Calm and Notify the Skipper The most important first step is not to panic. If the object is still floating, like a bag or a hat, it might be recoverable using a boat hook or by turning the yacht around. But time is critical—alert your skipper right away. Never jump into the water without permission, especially if the boat is moving or in busy areas. The skipper will assess if recovery is possible and safe. Sometimes, a quick stop or turn is not an option due to wind, traffic, or nearby vessels. Understand What Floats and What Sinks Some objects float for a few minutes, giving you a small window to recover them. If the item is still visible, the skipper may maneuver back or use the dinghy to retrieve it. Items that sink—like phones, sunglasses, or tools—might be accessible if you're in a shallow, clear bay. However, in deeper waters, they're often lost for good unless diving equipment is available and safe to use. Skippers will generally advise against diving unless conditions allow and it's permitted. Electronics Overboard: React Fast, Then Accept the Loss If a phone or camera falls in, there's little hope unless it's in a waterproof case and floating. If recovered while wet: Do not switch it on. Dry thoroughly with towels. Store it in rice or silica gel. Leave it off for at least 48 hours. Your skipper can help arrange emergency contacts, Wi-Fi, or guide you to a nearby port for assistance or replacements. Clothes, Towels, or Lightweight Items Towels, hats, or t-shirts are often swept overboard by wind. These items are not essential but can be annoying to lose. Avoid leaving light belongings unsecured on deck. Fortunately, most ports have small shops where replacements are easy to find. Easy Habits to Avoid Losing Items While some accidents are unavoidable, a few good habits reduce the chances significantly: Keep valuables in lanyards or waterproof pouches. Stow loose items below deck while sailing. Avoid placing anything near the edge or railing. Zip all pockets and bags before walking around the boat. Ask the skipper about the safest storage areas. These small steps not only prevent loss but also help maintain order and safety on board. Lost Wallets or Important Documents If a passport or wallet is lost, your skipper will help coordinate the next steps. This may include: Contacting the nearest consulate or port authorities. Filing a lost item report. Arranging temporary identification or help. Although rare, it’s best to keep such items in your cabin, sealed in a waterproof pouch and away from deck areas. Conclusion: A Lost Item Doesn't Have to Spoil the Trip Losing something at sea can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to ruin your holiday. How you respond is key. Your skipper is there to help, no matter how small or serious the situation. Stay calm, communicate clearly, and remember—you’re still sailing in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Items can be replaced. Moments in the Adriatic can’t.

A Guide to Using the Dinghy: Safety, Access and Etiquette

The Dinghy: Your Essential Connection to Shore The dinghy—that small inflatable boat tied to the stern—plays a key supporting role during a Croatian sailing holiday. While the main yacht may be the focus, the dinghy is used daily for getting ashore, gathering supplies, and exploring nearby coves. Just like the yacht, it requires care, respect, and basic understanding to use effectively. Although it might seem like a simple boat with an outboard engine, using the dinghy correctly gives you more confidence and flexibility throughout your trip. Here’s what you need to know. Why the Dinghy Matters More Than You Think In many anchorages or bays without marinas, yachts stay offshore. Whether you're heading to a nearby shop, a beach, or a restaurant, the dinghy becomes your only means of transport to land. It’s also essential for practical tasks—like carrying water, taking out trash (never thrown into the sea), or transporting guests to shore. Managing the dinghy well ensures comfort and convenience for everyone on board. Dinghy Safety Basics Your skipper will usually demonstrate how to use the dinghy on your first trip. Key safety tips include: Always balance the weight onboard. Don’t all sit on one side or stand up suddenly. Start the engine only once everyone is seated and the dinghy has safely cleared the yacht. Wear a life jacket if you're unsure in the water, especially for children or in choppy conditions. Use a light or torch if going ashore after dark—avoid night trips unless necessary. Learning to use the tiller, control the throttle, or start the engine takes just a few minutes. Don’t hesitate to ask your skipper for help. Arriving at Shore by Dinghy When approaching a dock, pier, or beach, go slowly—especially during high season when areas can be crowded. Secure the dinghy properly using a cleat or bowline. If landing on a beach, pull it above the high water line to prevent drifting. Never block walkways or public access points. Remove the outboard key or kill switch if leaving the dinghy for a while, and take any valuables with you. Your skipper can suggest the best landing points if you’re unsure. Dinghy Etiquette: Sharing and Courtesy Since the dinghy is shared, use it considerately: Let others know when you plan to go ashore and when you'll return. Keep it clean—don’t leave sand, wet clothes, or rubbish inside. Ask the skipper about fuel or how to reattach the dinghy to the yacht if you’re unsure. Avoid loud music and splashing near other anchored boats—peace and quiet are valued in most bays. Fuel and Responsibility The dinghy’s fuel tank is small but lasts for days with normal use. If you plan to use it more frequently or for longer trips, tell the skipper—they can show you how to refuel or check levels. Often, once the skipper sees you're comfortable with the dinghy, you'll be allowed to use it independently. Still, always ask first, especially in unfamiliar conditions or locations. Conclusion: Let the Dinghy Be Part of the Journey The dinghy gives you access to quiet beaches, coastal villages, and hidden corners of the Adriatic you can’t reach from the yacht alone. With a bit of care and awareness, it becomes a seamless part of your sailing adventure. Used responsibly, the dinghy provides both freedom and fun—whether you're returning from dinner or heading ashore for a coffee. Respect it, and it will enhance every part of your journey.

What to Expect When Sailing with a Skipper as a Couple vs. with a Group

One of the most flexible travel options you can arrange is a sailing holiday in Croatia. Depending on who you sail with, it can be social and lively or romantic and personal. One element, however, remains constant—the skipper. And while the skipper’s role doesn’t change, your onboard experience certainly does. From privacy to planning and energy onboard, sailing as a couple versus as a group brings a different rhythm. Understanding these differences helps you set expectations, communicate better, and get the most out of your time at sea. Privacy and Space: From Intimate to Communal When sailing as a couple, space feels abundant. You often have your own cabin, plenty of room on deck, and quiet mornings and evenings. Finding a private moment to swim, read, or watch the sunset is easy. Skippers often adopt a more reserved approach, allowing couples to enjoy the trip in peace. In a group, the boat becomes more social. Shared meals, laughter, and communal lounging define the vibe. There's less privacy but more energy. In these cases, the skipper may occasionally join in on meals or drinks, depending on the group's tone. Decision-Making and Trip Planning Couples tend to make decisions quickly and easily. Whether it's choosing the next island or deciding to stay anchored another night, things move fast. This gives the skipper more flexibility to adjust plans based on weather or opportunity. Groups bring more opinions—and more logistics. One person wants nightlife, another prefers hidden coves. A good skipper balances these preferences, guiding the group smoothly without letting the trip turn into endless negotiations. Energy Onboard: Relaxed vs. Festive Couples usually create a calmer, slower pace. Days are filled with reading, swimming, and slow lunches. Skippers mirror this by choosing quieter bays and suggesting peaceful spots for exploration or dinner. With a group, the boat often becomes a floating hub of energy—music, card games, sunset cocktails, and shared playlists. The skipper plays a bigger role in coordinating activities and maintaining flow so everyone enjoys themselves. Food Preferences and Logistics Couples often prefer low-key meals—either cooking aboard or enjoying quiet dinners in seaside restaurants. Provisioning is simple and flexible. Groups require more planning: more food, more drinks, more opinions. The skipper may help organise provisioning or suggest hiring a hostess. Group dinners often benefit from the skipper’s local contacts to secure reservations and avoid tourist traps. Interacting with the Skipper Couples tend to have more personal conversations with the skipper. There’s time for deeper discussions, informal sailing lessons, or help planning the next day. The skipper usually gives space but remains available. With groups, interaction becomes more public. The skipper answers many questions at once, plans group activities, and sometimes mediates differing preferences. Their role shifts from guide to facilitator and occasional host. Evening Atmosphere at Anchor Couples often seek peaceful evenings—dinner under the stars, a quiet swim, maybe a glass of wine before bed. The skipper usually retreats early, letting them enjoy the moment. Groups keep the social energy going—games, music, laughter, or even a spontaneous dance party. The skipper adapts accordingly, either stepping back or joining in as welcomed. Final Thoughts: Two Different Vibes, One Great Experience Sailing with a skipper in Croatia is a customisable experience shaped by the people onboard. As a couple, expect privacy, ease, and a deeper connection to the sea. In a group, anticipate excitement, variety, and shared stories that last long after the trip ends. In both settings, the skipper ensures things run smoothly, safely, and enjoyably. Understanding how group dynamics shape the onboard experience lets you make the most of every moment—whether you’re chasing romance or unforgettable group memories on the Adriatic.

Why You Should Let Your Skipper Handle Local Bookings (Restaurants, Activities)

Making plans for a sailing trip down the Croatian coast means stepping into a world where local knowledge, timing, and relationships can make all the difference. While it might be tempting to manage restaurant reservations or book island activities online, one of the smartest decisions you can make is to let your skipper take care of local bookings. A professional skipper doesn’t just know how to sail—they know the coast inside out. Their insight is often the key to a smoother, more authentic experience, from finding the best seafood spots away from tourist prices to steering you toward worthwhile excursions. Skippers Know Insider Information You Won’t Find Online Online reviews can be helpful, but they don’t always tell the whole story. A restaurant with five stars might turn out to be an overpriced tourist trap, while a hidden, family-run konoba in a quiet bay may not show up in any search results. Skippers build a mental map of consistently good, local places over years of sailing. They know which beach bars are more hype than substance, which local guides deliver the best experiences, and which harbours to avoid on busy days. By letting your skipper handle bookings, you tap into this deep well of lived experience. Better Access and Timing In high season, it’s common for restaurants and tours in places like Hvar, Vis, or Korčula to be fully booked. Skippers often have direct phone numbers, personal relationships, and even friendships with restaurant owners that allow them to secure last-minute reservations or organise special access. They also understand timing—how long a sail might take, how weather affects arrival times, and how to adapt plans if necessary. While your online booking might assume a 7 PM arrival, your skipper knows that the wind may say otherwise. They can adjust reservations in real time so that you never miss out. Avoid Tourist Traps and Overpriced Experiences Planning on your own can sometimes lead to disappointing or costly decisions—a crowded boat tour, a flashy restaurant with poor food, or a beach bar blasting music all night right next to your anchorage. Skippers can steer you away from these pitfalls. They know which events are truly worth your time and which are all marketing. They might guide you to a beach only reachable by dinghy, a vineyard still crushing grapes by hand, or a restaurant where the morning’s catch comes straight from the owner’s brother’s boat. Smoother Group Coordination Travelling with friends or family? Group decisions can quickly turn into debates. What to eat, where to go, who to book—all of it can cause stress. When your skipper takes charge of the logistics, everything flows more easily. By getting a feel for the group’s mood and preferences early on, the skipper can recommend a quiet dinner one evening and a lively konoba the next—all without the group scrolling endlessly through review sites. They Know What’s Happening Right Now The weather changes. Marinas fill up. A normally quiet restaurant might be hosting a loud party. Your skipper stays in touch with other sailors, harbour masters, and locals—often getting real-time updates through radio or word of mouth. This means your skipper can recommend an alternative that’s even better: a last-minute hillside restaurant with a view, or a guide who just became available that evening. These last-minute changes often become the highlights of your trip. Final Thoughts: Trust the Local Expert On Board Sailing with a skipper isn’t just about chartering a boat—it’s about gaining access to an entire network of local insight, personal contacts, and up-to-date knowledge. Letting your skipper manage bookings means less stress, fewer tourist traps, and more authentic experiences. So instead of planning every detail in advance, talk to your skipper. Tell them your preferences, trust their instincts, and let them handle the bookings. You’ll discover a smoother, more enjoyable, and truly local adventure along the Adriatic coast.

How to Communicate Your Expectations Before the Trip Starts

How to Communicate Your Expectations Before the Trip Starts Starting a skippered sailing holiday in Croatia guarantees freedom on the sea, leisure, and discovery. Like any shared experience, though, the success of the trip usually boils down to one main element—effective communication. Your trip will be more seamless and enjoyable—for you and your skipper—the more openly you express your expectations before boarding. Many travellers assume things will naturally fall into place once the trip starts, but early tone-setting and open communication can make all the difference. Here's how to communicate successfully before you ever set foot on the yacht. Starting with the Foundations: Your Preferred Sailing Style No sailing trip is exactly like another. Some imagine a laid-back week with short distances, quiet bay swimming, and long lunches on deck. Others prefer a more active itinerary with sightseeing, island hopping, and longer sails. By sharing your ideal travel vision, your skipper can design a route that truly matches your expectations. It helps to clarify the kind of pace you’d like. Do you prefer slow mornings and spontaneous anchorages, or early starts and full days? Are you looking to explore hidden spots, or visit iconic towns and landmarks? Though personal, these preferences will define your rhythm at sea. Discuss Activities, Values, and Priorities Let your skipper know what matters most to you and your group. Whether it's snorkelling, visiting vineyards, cliff-jumping, exploring historical sites, or simply sunbathing, your skipper can incorporate these into your route and daily schedule. Some guests also enjoy learning basic sailing techniques or helping with docking. If that sounds fun, say so in advance. Conversely, if your main goal is to fully relax without participating in the sailing process, that’s perfectly valid—just be clear about it early on. Clearly State Comfort Levels and Concerns Good pre-trip communication includes discussing anything that could affect comfort or safety. If someone in your group suffers from seasickness, early notice allows the skipper to plan shorter legs and calmer anchorages. Similarly, if anyone has mobility challenges, dietary restrictions, or strong preferences about sun exposure, noise levels, or privacy, these are important to mention ahead of time. The more your skipper knows, the better they can tailor the experience to suit everyone’s needs. Be Honest About Social Preferences Skippers vary in style—some are outgoing and chatty, while others are more reserved. Likewise, guest groups differ in how much interaction they want. If your group values quiet, personal time, it’s completely fine to indicate that early on. On the other hand, if you'd enjoy a more social atmosphere and engaging with the skipper, say so. Many skippers are great conversationalists with rich local knowledge they’re happy to share. Discuss Budget Expectations Openly Even when charter prices are clear, it's still useful to talk about your approach to meals, marina choices, and optional expenses. Let your skipper know if you’re working within a particular budget or plan to cook most meals onboard. Skippers can then recommend appropriate restaurants and anchorages, helping you avoid unexpected costs and stay comfortable with the overall plan. It also helps with provisioning—if you plan to stock up heavily, it’s best to say so from the start. Clarify Roles and Boundaries Although your skipper is responsible for the yacht and navigation, it’s good to align expectations. Will you need help with lines and docking, or do you want the skipper to handle all technical aspects? Do you prefer to be consulted on daily decisions, or are you happy letting the skipper take the lead? Some guests expect full-service support—but unless this is part of a specific arrangement (like hiring a skipper and a hostess), that’s not typically included. Clarity ensures a smoother, more respectful dynamic on board. Put Things in Writing, If Needed If you’re communicating with the skipper via email or message before the trip, feel free to write down your main expectations. It doesn’t need to be formal—just a few notes about routines, dietary needs, or travel style. This gives the skipper a chance to prepare thoughtfully and avoids miscommunication once the trip begins. Final Thoughts: Great Trips Begin with Clear Communication Open, respectful conversation before your sailing trip sets the tone for everything that follows. It helps your skipper plan according to your preferences, and it gives you peace of mind knowing everything is aligned. Once the anchor is up, it’s much easier to relax and enjoy the wind, the sun, and the adventure—when everyone’s on the same page from the very start.