We hope we can answer some commonly-asked questions below
What sailing qualifications do I need?
For Aurora and Avocet, the nominated skipper should have a minimum of RYA Day Skipper or equivalent home-country qualification if you are not a UK resident. Deep Blue is a larger boat, and you certainly notice it when helming, so we require a minimum of RYA Coastal Skipper (or equivalent) to allow her to be taken out. For all boats, we recommend that the first mate also has sailing qualifications. On the booking contract, you can include details of the sailing experience of the skipper and first mate.
What do we need to bring with us?
Clothing, toiletries (including sunscreen), bedding, towels, waterproofs (not forgetting boots). We provide kitchen and cleaning equipment to get you started. All equipment needed to sail the boats is provided, including safety equipment.
What about provisions?
Depending on how you are travelling, you can bring them with you, get them in Largs (there is a reasonable-sized Morrisons) or order online and have them delivered to the marina.
What happens when we get there?
We will meet you at the marina and take you to your boat. You will be shown round the boat and given all essential information.
Where can I find out more information about the boat(s) before I get to Largs?
We have developed a comprehensive library of short instructional videos which will familiarise you with all the main systems and features onboard. Each boat has its own library. The videos are hosted on YouTube and are free to access; search YouTube for ‘CYC Intro Videos‘.
I’ve sailed in the Mediterranean before, but not in Scotland. What’s it like?
Apart from temperature, there are two main factors that make sailing in Scotland a little bit more challenging than in the Med – weather and tides. You’ll need to be familiar with tide tables, especially if anchoring. Depending on your chosen route, you may encounter tidal gates which can only be passed at a certain point in the tide. In many places in the Clyde you are likely to get a couple of knots of tide; it’s always better to have this with rather than against you (your crew will appreciate it too). We would encourage you to check out the Sail Scotland website, which has a wealth of information. The weather can be a lot windier and at times less predictable than in the Med so it’s important to be aware of the shipping forecast and keep an eye on the conditions you are sailing in to.
How much does it cost to stay overnight in a marina?
Most of the marinas charge according to the length of your boat, so Avocet at 37 feet (11m) will cost less than Deep Blue at 46 feet (14m). As an example, Tarbert marina charges £2.80 per metre, so an overnight stay would cost approximately £30 (Avocet) to £40 (Deep Blue). Electricity is usually an additional charge – typically £2-3.
Do I need to book a place in the marina before arrival?
In high season it’s always advisable to book ahead. Let the marina know your boat name and length, and your expected time of arrival. They may be able to allocate you a specific slot so will know exactly where to head for and can plan ahead. It’s often the case that someone will be on hand to help as you come in.
Can I use my hairdryer on board?
The electrical system on board is 12V rather than 240V which you will have in your home. The only time 240V is available onboard is when you are connected to shorepower in a marina. Bear in mind that hairdryers are usually available in the shower blocks in marinas.
Are pets allowed onboard?
No, unfortunately we are not able to accommodate pets on our boats.
Can I access wifi onboard?
Wifi is available in all the Firth of Clyde marinas. The boats themselves do not have wifi but there is generally very good 4G and 5G coverage in Clyde coastal waters. However, some anchorages may not get a signal so it’s always best to download movies, podcasts, books etc on to your portable device before setting off.