Renting a boat through Docksy follows a clear process designed to give both guests and owners confidence at every stage. Here is how each booking works from start to finish.
The booking journey
Every booking on Docksy follows the same structured path. This protects both guests and owners and removes any ambiguity about what was agreed.
Start by exploring the marketplace. Filter by location, boat type, and dates to find vessels that match your plans. Each listing includes photos, a description, capacity details, and pricing so you can compare options comfortably before reaching out.
When you find a boat that suits your needs, submit a booking request. Include your preferred dates, the number of guests, and a short note about your trip. This is not a payment. It is simply the start of a conversation with the owner.
The owner reviews your request and responds through the built-in messaging system. They may ask a few questions about your plans or experience level. All communication stays in one place so nothing gets lost.
Once both parties are aligned, the owner creates a rental agreement outlining the dates, total price, number of guests, and any specific terms. Both you and the owner sign the agreement digitally through the platform before any payment is made.
After the agreement is signed, the payment is processed securely through Docksy. Funds are held transparently until the booking is confirmed. The platform provides a clear record of all financial terms agreed upon.
Before departure, you will document the condition of the vessel with photos through the platform. This protects both you and the owner by creating a clear record of the boat's state before and after your trip.
Set off with confidence. All the details are agreed, documented, and stored on the platform. After your trip, document the vessel's return condition the same way you did at departure.
Rental basics
If you are new to boating, a few terms come up regularly in listings and agreements. Here is what they mean in plain language.
A skipper is the licensed captain who operates the boat. Some rentals include a skipper as part of the booking. Others allow qualified guests to operate the vessel themselves. This is described as a bareboat charter.
A bareboat charter means you rent the boat without a crew or captain. You are responsible for operating the vessel. Most bareboat charters require proof of sailing qualifications or boating experience.
Capacity refers to the maximum number of people the boat is legally permitted to carry. This number is set by the vessel's certification and must not be exceeded.
Charter duration is the length of your rental period. Most day charters run between four and eight hours. Longer multi-day charters are also available on some listings.
Standard safety equipment on a boat typically includes life jackets for all passengers, flares, a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and navigation lights. Requirements vary by country and vessel type.
Speed on the water is measured in knots. One knot equals approximately 1.85 kilometres per hour. Most day charter boats travel between 6 and 25 knots depending on type and conditions.
Payments
The payment process is designed so that both guests and owners have clarity and protection. No payment is taken until an agreement has been signed by both parties.
You submit a booking request with your dates and details. No payment required at this stage.
The owner reviews availability and confirms the booking through a conversation with you.
Both parties sign the digital agreement. This locks in the terms and amount before any payment.
Payment is processed through the platform and held securely until the booking is confirmed.
You enjoy your time on the water. Condition photos are uploaded before and after the trip.
Funds are released to the owner according to the platform timeline after the trip is completed.
Platform policies
These guidelines apply to all bookings on Docksy. They are designed to be fair, readable, and practical. Both guests and owners are expected to follow them.
Cancellation terms are outlined within each agreement before signing. Both guests and owners are encouraged to communicate early if circumstances change. Review the specific terms agreed upon before confirming any booking.
Safety on the water is the priority. If weather conditions make a trip unsafe, both parties should communicate promptly. Decisions should always prioritise the wellbeing of everyone on board.
Owners are responsible for presenting vessels accurately, maintaining them in safe and seaworthy condition, and providing any documentation required by local regulations.
Guests are expected to treat the vessel with care, follow the owner's instructions, respect the agreed terms, and upload condition photos at departure and return.
Every boat must carry the legally required safety equipment for its operating area. Guests should confirm what is on board before departure. Life jackets, flares, and first aid provisions are standard expectations.
All communication between guests and owners should remain within the platform. This keeps a clear record of agreements and discussions for both parties.
Browse vessels in the marketplace and send your first booking request. There is no commitment until both parties have signed an agreement.