Le Boat, which offers bareboats in Europe and Canada, has launched a Skipper for Hire program to make boating easier for first-time cruisers.
“Many of our North American guests have expressed interest in having a skipper available, as the idea of piloting a boat for the first time can be daunting,” Lisa McLean, long haul marketing manager for Le Boat, stated in a press release. “In response to this feedback, our Skipper for Hire program aims to enhance the boating experience and provide unparalleled support to our valued guests. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cruiser, our skilled skippers are dedicated to helping our customers feel more confident and ensure their journey is stress-free and enjoyable.”
McLean stresses that all of Le Boat’s vessels are easy to drive, and that no boat license or prior boating experience is required. Le Boat’s base teams provide in-depth orientation, safety briefings and hands-on training before bareboaters set off.
Le Boat’s vessels have a steering wheel for left and right turns, and a throttle for forward and reverse motion. Certain boats in the Comfort Plus, Premier and Luxury categories are also fitted with bow and/or stern thrusters.
The Le Boat skipper program will cost $199 per day. On the first full day of the voyage, the skipper will provide guests with hands-on instruction on boat operation, navigation techniques and maneuvering through locks. The idea is to empower guests to navigate independently for the remainder of their excursion.
Skippers will provide their own lunch and refreshments on board, and will leave at the end of the first day. Le Boat assumes liability for any accidental damage incurred while the skipper is on board.
For the initial program launch, skippers will be stationed along the Canal du Midi, departing from Le Boat bases in Castelnaudary, Carcassonne (Trèbes), Homps and Port Cassafières. They will be proficient in English and French.
If the program is successful, Le Boat plans to expand it to other cruising grounds in Europe or Canada after 2025.
Le Boat is offering a 2025 early-booking deal: Cruisers can save as much as 25 percent on Budget, Comfort and Comfort Plus rentals across Europe, or as much as 15 percent on the Horizon Fleet in Canada, France, Holland, Belgium and Germany.
For more information: head over to leboat.com
