“So, you’re straight on board, to check bilges, filters, fuel, and the isolators on the batteries. From there you can sweep over the boat from stem to stern to look for changes or damage. Tenders not held down, open portholes, and a loose or non-existent anchor/chain lock are just a couple of the most common items taken for granted.”

“These days we have things like automatic charge relays, so it kind of negates the need for isolators to be turned on and off, as you can actually do that from up near the helm. With the engines, you do not have to drain the condensation cans anymore, but you do want to warm them up before leaving the quay. As we have said, knowing your boat is crucial. With a Twin Disc gearbox you check the transmission fluid when it is idling, and warm, whereas with the ZF boxes, you have to start the mains, then shut them down, and then check them.”

Whilst it may seem overkill to check the fluids on Friday, when you last used the boat on Tuesday, for the extra few minutes it can alert you to any changes in colour or reduction in level, which can be significant. None the less, you want to have a dry bilge. You want to make sure the bilges are clean and free of any stale water or oil from the previous run.

“Once you’re done below, you can head upstairs to your breaker panel, and start to bring things back online, even when you have C-Bus running things. There will be items you turn on when you’re going for a day trip, and other things you turn on for nighttime.”

“As you are there, you can bring your passage plan over to your nav gear, like Active Captain with Navionics for Garmin, bring your radar up, tune it and make sure your vessel orientation is correct. Also, it is time to check that the cameras are coming up, as there are so many spots on a boat where from the bridge you cannot see your guests, so make sure your aft and side decks are part of your camera set up. They must let you know if they plan to move, especially along a side deck to the bow.”

“From there it is time to greet your guests and explain where the safety gear is, where your muster station is, how to deal with fires and medical issues, as well as sea sickness, which debilitates people swiftly and on a long passage is just awful for all on board. Hydration, and that means water, keeps many people in better places whilst at sea. Also, take some bottled water, in case you have issues with your tanks, pumps, or desalinator unit.
“I do recommend having a defribulator on board, as it can save lives. You certainly don’t want to alarm people, but keeping a light hand when dealing with things like flushing the toilet makes sure everyone pays attention the whole way through your briefing.”

“Equally, by showing that you are all over it, you will make people feel very safe. Explain how long the voyage should be, and what the conditions are meant to be. Letting them know what to do if you become incapacitated, like just stopping the boat so you do not injure anyone else or the environment; this could be anchoring if inshore, or just simply drifting if you are offshore. That way they can concentrate on you and then get onshore assistance, if required.”

“When you are done with the safety talk, you can remind them that they’re going to have a fun day. By you taking responsibility for the lives of your guests you will reduce the chance for negative things to occur, along with your stress, and significantly enhance the memories for all.”

“Ultimately, do not be frightened to have some aide memoirs on the bridge – a plan, a VHF calling card, channel mark identifier, and code flag chart. These can be of as much help to you as your briefing to your guests. In the age of electronics, also make sure your charts have been updated before you depart”, said Marshall by way of adding even more assistance for Skippers.

Maritimo Pre-Departure Checklist

Please use this as the basis for developing your own luxury motor yacht checklist:

1. Check the Weather and Tides: Review current conditions and forecasts the night before and in the morning.
2. Plot Your Route: Develop your passage plan and log it.
3. Arrive Early: Reach your Maritimo well in advance.
4. Survey the Engine Room: Inspect plant and equipment for any issues.
5. Power your luxury yacht back up: Switch on master controls and get devices back online.
6. Inspect the Yacht: Walk over your Maritimo and check from stem to stern.
7. Warm the Main Engines: Allow time for the engines to warm up.
8. Ensure Electronics Function: Verify that all electronics are operational and tuned to the correct settings.
9. Greet Guests: Welcome your guests and explain safety and medical procedures and equipment locations.
10. Prioritise Safety, Fun, and Wellbeing: Ensure a safe environment to maximise enjoym