1. General
These terms and conditions form an integral part of the agreement between “CS” and “the client.” By paying the deposit and signing the agreement, the client agrees to the contents and articles of these terms and conditions.
2. Prices
The prices stated in the agreement pertain to the rental of the yacht and the specifically mentioned services, which include the yacht’s insurance. The following costs are the client’s responsibility: any port fees, final cleaning, household package, fuel, optional extras, etc.
3. Insurance
CS undertakes to maintain the yacht in good condition and insure it at its own expense for civil liability. The yacht will be insured for damage to the yacht itself and to third parties, for sailing within the area between 45°N to 63°N latitude and 15°W to 30°E longitude. The client is fully responsible if the yacht is outside this sailing area. The insurance deductible per incident is the client’s responsibility. CS or its agents are not liable for accidents, loss, or damage to the belongings of passengers.
4. Security deposit
The security deposit must be paid no later than at the time of boarding. This deposit will be refunded within two weeks after disembarkation, provided the yacht and any optional extras are returned in good condition, and all additional costs have been settled. Damage or loss to the yacht, its equipment, and/or optional extras, as well as any resulting additional costs for CS, will be deducted from the security deposit. This principle also applies to damages involving third parties. A fee of €75 will be charged for opening any damage file. The balance of the security deposit will be refunded after costs have been reviewed and deducted. The client is obligated to check the inventory list and the general condition of the yacht. If the inventory does not match the list, the client must inform CS. Both parties will sign the inventory list or a similar document before departure. The client accepts the yacht in its current condition. In case of damage due to normal wear and tear, the client may, at their own responsibility, initiate repairs, provided the costs do not exceed €100. These costs can be reimbursed upon presentation of the invoice and the replaced item. For repairs exceeding €100, CS must be consulted beforehand. The client must report any damage, of any nature, to CS as soon as possible. Failure to fulfill these obligations may result in the client being held liable for the total cost.
5. Disembarkation
The client must return the yacht to the agreed harbor no later than 30 minutes before the return time. CS or its representative will be notified upon return to inspect and check the yacht and inventory. No luggage or crew may remain on board. The client is responsible for the following: removing trash, properly stowing the sails, rinsing the deck and cockpit, refilling water tanks, and reconnecting shore power. Failure to fulfill these tasks will result in an additional €50 fee. The client must notify CS by phone if a late inspection is required. If the yacht is returned late, an additional 50% fee will apply. Any partial day will be considered a full day. If the yacht is not returned to the designated harbor, the client will bear all costs to return the vessel to its home port. If the yacht sustains damage requiring repairs, the client must return 24 hours earlier to allow for timely repair.
6. Good seamanship
The client commits to using the yacht responsibly and maintaining it in good condition. The client must regularly check the engine, propeller shaft, bilge, and rigging. Electronic equipment, the bow thruster, and similar tools are only aids. In the event of their failure, the skipper remains responsible for navigation. The skipper must adapt the itinerary based on weather conditions, forecasts, crew seaworthiness, and the rental period. The client must comply with maritime, police, customs, and other local regulations. The client must hold a Belgian or Dutch sailing license and VHF certificate to operate the yacht and onboard equipment. CS reserves the right not to hand over the yacht if the skipper or crew lacks sufficient competence despite having the necessary documents. The client agrees not to exceed the maximum number of passengers, use the yacht solely as a pleasure craft, and refrain from bringing or using prohibited materials. The client is responsible to maritime and customs authorities for legal or judicial consequences. CS will hold the client accountable for any lost income resulting from these actions.
7. Client obligations
The client must follow CS’s instructions. All aboard must wear appropriate footwear. The client and crew must refrain from excessive alcohol use. The client must not leave the yacht unattended. No repairs may be carried out without CS’s explicit consent. Pets are not allowed onboard. Smoking and lighting candles below deck are prohibited. The yacht must be returned with all equipment and in the same condition as delivered. The yacht cannot participate in races. In the event of an accident involving another vessel, the client must immediately contact CS. The client is responsible for all maintenance during the charter period and fully liable for the crew and passengers. Solo sailing (single-handed) is not permitted by CS.
8. Disputes
In case of disputes regarding these terms and conditions, Belgian law applies, and the courts of the Bruges district have jurisdiction