Boats without a license

Please read these instructions carefully before departure.

1. BOAT BALANCE IS VERY IMPORTANT
   Passengers must be seated evenly around the boat at all times. Do not all sit at the front, do not all sit at the back, and do not all sit on the same side. This is very important for safety.
2. LIFE JACKETS
   We will show you where the life jackets are located on the boat. Please make sure everyone knows their location before departure.
3. THROTTLE & NEUTRAL POSITION
   We will show you how to operate the throttle (engine control) and how to place it in neutral (“click” position). You will also practice this yourself to ensure you fully understand how it works.
4. APPROACHING BALOS LAGOON
   At approximately 400 meters from Balos, reduce your speed. At approximately 200 meters from the beach, stop the boat and anchor.
5. SHALLOW WATERS AT BALOS
   The waters at Balos are very shallow. Going closer to the beach may damage the propeller, endanger swimmers, and result in a fine from the Port Authority. Please respect the distance limits.
6. SAFE NAVIGATION ROUTE
   We will show you the shallow reefs and dangerous areas around Balos and the approved route marked on the boat map. You must follow only the route shown on the map. The fuel included in your rental covers only this route and not trips to other destinations.
7. BIMINI TOP (SUN CANOPY) IN WINDY CONDITIONS
   If it is windy, do not open the canopy while navigating. Open it only after anchoring. Before leaving an anchorage, close the canopy first, start the engine, and then raise the anchor. This allows you to depart immediately if necessary.
8. AVOID ANCHORING NEAR ROCKS
   Never drop anchor close to rocks or rocky shorelines.
9. ANCHORING AT GRAMVOUSA
   At Gramvousa, you may anchor approximately 50–100 meters from the shore, as the water is deeper there.
10. NO DOCKING INSIDE HARBORS
    Do not park or moor the boat inside any harbor.
11. IN ROUGH WEATHER OR WAVES
    If weather conditions deteriorate, wear life jackets and use the Quick Stop safety lanyard at all times.
12. HIDDEN BEACHES
    We will show you the hidden beaches and points of interest you can visit along the route.
13. ROUTE IN WESTERLY WINDS
    If there is a westerly wind and waves, follow the route indicated on the map. Navigate through the middle passage and then head toward Gramvousa. Do not travel close to cliffs or rocks. The same route should be followed on your return trip.
14. PRACTICE BEFORE DEPARTURE
    Before you leave, we will take the boat outside the harbor. You will take control of the boat, perform basic maneuvers yourself, and become familiar with the boat’s handling.
15. REVERSE GEAR
    We will demonstrate reverse gear operation. Reverse also works as a brake. Make slow and smooth movements and avoid sudden throttle changes. Afterward, always return the control to neutral (“click” position).
16. ENTERING AND LEAVING THE HARBOR
    Always navigate through the center of the harbor entrance. We will show you the rocks located near the corners of the harbor. Do not approach beaches too closely, as there may be submerged rocks that are not visible from the surface.
17. NAVIGATION WITH GOOGLE MAPS
    We will show you on your phone the location of Balos, the location of Gramvousa, and the route you must follow. Please note that the fuel included in the rental price covers only this route.
18. ANCHOR OPERATION
    We will demonstrate how to use the anchor correctly. The entire anchor chain must be released into the water for the anchor to hold properly. After anchoring, secure the boat using the rope on either the right or left side. This is extremely important for safe anchoring. Do not throw the anchor into the water all at once or with force. The anchor is not attached to the boat, so if you let it go suddenly, it will fall to the bottom and be lost. Always keep the anchor under control with your hands and lower it slowly into the water. Once the anchor is fully deployed, secure the rope to the designated cleats on the boat.
19. HARBOR IDENTIFICATION
    We will show you the main harbor and our departure/return location. Many customers accidentally head toward the wrong harbor, so please familiarize yourself with the correct one.
20. ENGINE TRIM
    We will explain where the trim control is located, what it does, and how to use it correctly.
21. STARTING THE ENGINE
    We will show you how to start the engine. You will also start it yourself during the briefing to ensure you are comfortable with the procedure.

EMERGENCY & SAFETY REMINDER

• * Follow the designated route only.
• * Maintain safe distances from beaches, swimmers, and rocks.
• * Wear life jackets whenever conditions require it.
• * Operate the boat smoothly and responsibly.
• * If you are unsure about anything, contact us immediately before proceeding.