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Charter deposit held on my credit card: when is it released?
Short answer
At check-in the base usually places a hold on your credit card rather than taking the money,
and releases it when the boat comes back undamaged.
It can still be several days before the amount is available again,
and that delay usually sits with the card issuer, not the base.
Most charter companies take the security deposit as a pre-authorisation on a credit card, much like a hire car. Nothing leaves your account at first, but the amount comes off your available credit for the whole fortnight. If your limit is tight, that is money you cannot use for marina fees, fuel or the taverna. Many bases insist on a proper credit card; a debit card, where the money leaves your account straight away, is often refused or only accepted as an actual payment.
After check-out the base inspects the boat and, if it finds no damage, releases the hold. That does not mean the money reappears the same day: depending on the card issuer, the release can take several days to show. If the base does not actively release it, the hold usually lapses only after a period set by your bank. If damage is found, the base captures all or part of the amount, and the hold turns into a real payment that shows on your statement.
Before you travel, check that your limit covers the deposit and your holiday spending together, and tell your bank about a large transaction abroad so it is not blocked. At check-out, ask for written confirmation that the boat came back without damage and the deposit is being released. If the hold is still there after about two weeks, ask the base first and then your card issuer. If money was taken despite a clean return, that written confirmation is what supports a chargeback request.
Worth remembering
Held
at check-in, off your available credit
Released
after a clean return, often days later
Ask for written confirmation of a clean return at check-out.
Questions
What owners ask us about this
Is the charter deposit actually taken from my card?
Usually not. The base places a hold, which reduces your available credit. Money is only taken if damage is found when the boat comes back.
Can I use a debit card for the charter deposit?
Often not, because the money would leave your account immediately. Many bases want a proper credit card. Ask before you book which cards and payment methods the base accepts.
What if the deposit is still held after the charter?
Ask the base whether it has released the hold, then ask your card issuer. With written confirmation of a clean return you can dispute an unjustified charge.
Related
Not sure whether you qualify?
Whether it is “Charter deposit held on my credit card: when is it released?” or another question: send us your residence and the flag your boat flies. You will get a straight answer in one email; including a no, if that is the answer.
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