 
|
FAQ
So, here are some answers to the most frequently asked question. Hopefully, you will find all the information you need here. If not, please feel free to send us a message!
What does the word ‘Kabestan’ mean?
1) In French, Cabestan. Capstan -Wikipedia article
2) — A rotating drum used to haul heavy lines and chains. Similar to a winch, but mounted vertically.
3) A rotating wheel mounted vertically, used to wind in anchors or other heavy objects.
Who are the skippers?
Well, you could be! As long as you hold RYA Coastal Tidal certificate or above or equivalent and is verified by the charter company to be capable of chartering a boat, you can skipper for Kabestan. Check out the paragraph below, “Required experience”. Skippers are not paid to take part in the events. In fact they pay their way just as any other participant. So, let’s say a great big thank you to them!
Do you take girls?
Amazingly, this is often asked. Anyone can join, have a look at the photos, we have all sorts! 
Required experience?
For skippers - yes. Crew - no, complete beginners welcome. Skippers are required to have the following:
- Minimum of RYA Coastal Skipper Certificate or equivalent
- Tidal experience is compulsory
- Previous racing experience is an advantage
- Previous sole skippering is a must
Am I going to be sea sick?
Probably not. But then again, probably yes. Or maybe not. Who knows? So, don’t forget to bring and take anti sea-sickness tablets that your doctor recommends. You can buy basic stuff in the pharmacy, Stugeron seems to work pretty well, but check with your doctor. Everything else you might need is described here: What should I bring?
Where am I going to sleep?
In a sleeping bag, on a single berth on the yacht. Perhaps you will be required to sleep on a double berth, then there will be someone next to you, also in a sleeping bag. There are single berths, there are double berths. We will try to accomodate, but basically, it is first come, first served. Your skipper will decide, most likely. We will not provide a sleeping bag for you, please don’t forget to bring your own. Everything you will need is described here: What should I bring?
Is linen or towels provided?
No. Everything you will need is described here: What should I bring?
Am I going to be allowed to drink alcohol onboard while at sea?
No. On land, yes, but not at sea.
Insurance, deposit, excess for each charter boat.
This depends on the charter company. We use different charter companies, they are have different rules, unfortunately. Our experience is that the general excess for a racing event is about 2000 pounds. This means, that if there is damage to the boat, EVERYONE on the boat is liable for an equal part of the excess payment. Regardless of who caused what. EVERYONE pays equally on the boat in question.
You are strongly advised to take your own insurance. Please read Terms and Conditions for your responsibility with regard to any event.
What happens if there is damage to the boat of any sort?
Everyone on the boat pays equally the amount of excess provided by the charted agreement. The charter company will provide receipts for any work done to rectify the damage.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Any sailing event will take place as appropriate and decided BY THE SKIPPER OF THE BOAT individually, whether to take part or not. There will be no refunds issued of any sort if the weather is classed as not appropriate for sailing by your skipper.
Am I going to get my money back?
If you have paid and cannot attend for whatever reason, then you will be given a refund if we can find a replacement for you. If the regatta does not contain any sailing due to bad weather, you will not be given a refund.
