There are times, a crewed yacht delivery may not be appropriate due to the yacht's age or condition, which might not support a lengthy sea delivery. For power boats, the fuel range might be a limitation, in such cases, yacht shipping could be an option.
Proper preparation of your vessel for shipping is essential to ensure it reaches its destination in optimal condition. This reduces the risk of damage and facilitates the shipping process and ensures your vessel arrives in the best condition possible at the other end.
Oceantrax is experienced in preparing vessels for shipping and the loading process, and has created this guide to help the process proceed smoothly.
When booking shipping companies will provide approximate loading dates, but these can be liable to change due to circumstances beyond the shipping companies control. This can be due to a number of factors
Weather can delay the ship.
Delays at the dock if another vessel is held up taking up space.
Some ships may carry other cargo that has to be loaded first.
Weather conditions, as high winds can delay loading since vessels cannot be lifted.
Once your date is confirmed being prepared is vital as loading is often carried out quickly and there can be a queue of vessels waiting to be loaded.
Ensure your documentation is prepared, any customs procedures completed and the registration, VAT status and insurance certificates are onboard.
Most shipping companies will require the vessel to be as low and practically possible and empty water tanks.
For sail boats we recommend removal of sails. This is recommended for a number of reasons,
during shipping vessels can get very dirty especially if loaded near the exhaust funnel.
Reduce the exposure to salt.
Any lose flapping sail cloth can become damaged during shipping.
We also recommend the removal of spray hoods and biminis.
Upon arrival at the transport ship the yacht will typically be asked to come alongside, where the crew will have lines ready, ensure you have plenty of fenders ready. A loadmaster will coordinate with you and oversee the placement of lifting straps. Marking the lifting points on your hull can be helpful along with a photo or drawing of the vessels hull below the waterline.
Arrival beside the transport ship waiting to be lifted.
In the case of sail boats occasionally the backstays may have to be removed for the beam of the crane so before arrival ensure the bottle screws are free to unscrew and the tools available for the job. Once loaded these can be replaced.
Once loaded photograph your vessel, including the hull, decks, and interior, so any post-arrival damage can be addressed with the shipping company.
Remove valuables and secure other personal items. If possible all personal items can be boxed and locked in a cabin. All loose items should be fastened, as the vessel can still roll significantly in rough seas despite being on a large ship.
If the vessel is fitted with removable chart plotters on deck we recommend removing these and stowing below along with any other deck and navigational equipment.
When you are ready to leave your vessel ensure all hatches and lockers are secure, isolate the gas supply and batteries and close your vessel up.
By following these steps, you can properly prepare your yacht for shipping, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring a smooth delivery process.
Oceantrax have experience of preparing and loading both power boats and sailing yachts and can undertake all of the above for you should it be requested.
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