Of course, when boarding the yacht, the entire crew must attend a mandatory safety briefing given by the skipper or captain.
Below, however, you’ll find practical advice on three simple topics that truly increase safety and comfort on board: footwear, fire and water. These rules will help you prepare before the trip — and enjoy a calm, relaxed week at sea.
2-Minute Pre-Charter Checklist
- Footwear: 2 pairs (on-board / ashore) + beach flip-flops. On deck — yacht shoes only.
- Fire: Know where the fire extinguishers, fire blanket and gas valves are located. Never leave the stove unattended.
- Water: Short “yacht-style” showers, dishes rinsed first with seawater; always refill water tanks fully in the marina.
- Supplies: Drinking water and food запас for at least 3 days of автономного sailing.
Footwear on a Yacht
On a yacht, the deck can be wet from seawater, morning dew or spray. Mooring, stepping onto the pier, walking the gangway — all of this requires good stability.
Incorrect footwear is one of the most common causes of slips, bruises and toe injuries.
Good seamanship and maritime etiquette assume two pairs of shoes:
- yacht (deck) shoes — for the boat only,
- shore shoes — for walks and sightseeing.
You’ll also need a third pair — beach flip-flops (for marina showers and the beach).
1) Yacht Shoes (Deck Shoes)
These are the shoes you wear on board. Key requirements:
- light, non-marking sole (does not leave marks on the deck),
- secure fit on the foot,
- closed, reinforced toe to protect your feet during mooring and on the gangway,
- non-slip sole,
- quick-drying materials.
There are many types of yacht shoes available today. We recommend not cutting corners if you plan to charter more than once.
Important: Yacht shoes are not worn ashore. Keeping them clean — free of sand, oil, diesel and small stones — significantly extends the life of the deck and makes it less slippery.
2) Shoes for Shore
The main requirement is comfort. You’ll walk a lot: shops, markets, museums, old towns. Sneakers or other comfortable shoes are ideal.
A Greek specific note: some historical sites prohibit footwear that may damage monuments. For example, high heels are usually not allowed in the Acropolis — and they’re impractical anyway.
When returning to the yacht, change back into deck shoes to avoid bringing sand, dirt and fuel traces on board.
3) Beach Flip-Flops
We recommend rubber flip-flops or slides:
- convenient for marina showers,
- easy to rinse off sand,
- quick-drying and odor-resistant.
Make changing shoes a team rule. This simple habit significantly reduces injuries and protects the yacht.
Fire on Board
Fire on a vessel is one of the most dangerous risks, which is why all sources of fire on a yacht require maximum attention.
The best approach is to minimize risks in advance and act calmly according to the rules.
Basic Rules
- Never leave the gas stove unattended. Even in a calm bay, the yacht may move unexpectedly.
- If a fire starts on the stove, use a fire blanket (usually located near the galley — above or next to the stove). Ask the charter company where it is during yacht handover.
- There are several fire extinguishers on board. Always check their locations and availability when receiving the yacht.
- Before leaving the marina and before weighing anchor, shut off the gas: usually there is a valve at the gas bottle and another at the stove. Smoking inside the yacht is prohibited.
- Smoking is usually done ashore. If smoking on board, only in the cockpit, on the leeward side, away from sails, clothes and flammable items — and always with an ashtray.
Important: What NOT to Do If the Stove Catches Fire
If oil or fat ignites — do not pour water on it. This can dramatically intensify the flames. Use a fire blanket and shut off the gas.
If You Smell Gas
- Do not light any flame (and extinguish it if already burning).
- Do not use anything that may create a spark.
- Shut off the gas valves.
- Open hatches, windows and doors for ventilation.
- Contact the charter company and follow their instructions.
Water
Fresh water on a yacht is a limited resource — even if there is a watermaker. Water runs out very quickly if not used thoughtfully.
Reasonable water saving is not about being stingy — it’s about comfort and independence.
How to Save Water Without Discomfort
- Don’t let water run continuously while brushing teeth or applying shampoo. Wet — turn off — soap — rinse quickly.
- Dishes can be rinsed first with seawater (if your yacht has a seawater tap), and only finally with fresh water.
If such a tap exists, it’s usually located near the main faucet — confirm this during yacht handover. - In marinas, it’s often more convenient to use shore showers and toilets — this saves water and reduces tank load.
Refilling Tanks and an Important Detail
- Always refill fresh water tanks in marinas.
- Do not confuse deck fillers:
water is usually marked in blue and labeled “WATER”,
fuel is often red or black and labeled “FUEL”.
Drinking Water Reserve
Always monitor your drinking water supply. Good seamanship practice is to have water and food for at least 3 days of autonomous sailing.
Final Recommendation (and a Key Principle)
Safety on a yacht is not about strict prohibitions — it’s about team habits.
If you agree on simple rules in advance (footwear, gas, water), your week in Greece will be comfortable, predictable and truly relaxing.
With care and love for the sea — your Sailing To Go
May every mooring be gentle, every sunrise beautiful,
and may the sea become a space for rest, not worry.
This material was prepared by the Sailing To Go team based on practical charter experience in Greece.
