DIY
“If you enjoy planning menus and preparing meals, it [a provisioning package] would take away this hands-on aspect as you’d be limited to what the charter company can provide,” explains Jules Norwood, vice president at Carolina Wind Yachting Center, in Washington, N.C. “Our charterers do their own provisioning.”
Shopping yourself allows the ultimate flexibility for both food and beverages.
“You pick exactly what you want and nothing more,” explains Ian Pedersen, assistant marketing manager at The Moorings, headquartered in Clearwater, Fla. “This is the best way to reduce cost and ensure there are not excessive amounts of food on board you may or may not consume.”
Over-shopping is a common mistake.
“It’s natural that you want a little bit of all of your favorites when you’re on holiday,” says Hannah Allison, base manager for Dream Yacht Charter’s base in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. However, “you do need to consider there is limited space onboard.”
It is good to find out in advance what your charter boat offers in terms of storage and galley equipment.
“You don’t want to plan for pizza and lasagna if the boat doesn’t have an oven, so it’s important to review the information about the boat and ask questions if needed,” says Carolina Wind’s Norwood.
Fortunately, most charter boats these days have galleys that are well equipped.
“All of the cooking equipment, utensils, pots and pans, cups and plates are provided with our charters,” says The Moorings’ Pedersen. “All of our yachts come equipped with a grill, oven and stove, and many also offer a microwave, toaster, blender, and coffee-maker. Our yachts also offer plenty of storage space, from the on-board refrigerator and freezer, to the complimentary portable ice chest included on every charter.”
