Chartering in Scotland and Ireland: what does the base want on tides and streams?

Chartering in Scotland and Ireland means sea lochs between heather hills, islands such as Mull, Skye and the Outer Hebrides, and on the Irish west coast open bays with Atlantic swell running in. The tide rises and falls by several metres, and between the islands the stream can run faster than the boat motors. Many sailors who learned in the Solent feel at home; those who learned in the Mediterranean do not. Registration, safety kit and the boat's insurance are arranged by the charter company. Your side is the skipper's certificate, a VHF operator's licence and ID for everyone sailing.

There is no legal requirement for a certificate to skipper a private pleasure boat in UK waters, which surprises visitors from much of Europe. It changes little for a charter. Bases normally want a sea qualification that suits the boat and the area, often RYA Day Skipper or Yachtmaster, the ICC or an equivalent national certificate, and an operator's licence such as the SRC for the VHF. Many ask specifically about tidal experience and want to see a logbook. Get written confirmation of what they accept for the boat you are booking. Visitors from outside the UK should check passport and entry requirements well before travelling.

Once you are sailing, the tide sets the timetable. You go through a sound with the stream, not against it, and wind against tide throws up short, steep seas that can stop a yacht in its tracks. Plan every leg with tide tables and a tidal stream atlas, anchor with enough chain for high water and work out the depth for low water before you settle. The weather changes quickly, so good waterproofs are needed for the whole crew. If you damage someone else's boat or property with the charter yacht you are personally liable, so proof of your own skipper liability insurance belongs in the folder.

Worth remembering

In Scotland and Ireland the paperwork is easy; reading the tide is the real test.