Want To Take Your Dog Aboard A Yacht Charter? Here’s How
When it comes to guests, who you bring on a luxury yacht charter is up to you, and for many, bringing the family dog along is just as important. Today, more and more yachts in the IYC fleet welcome dogs on board.
An increasing number of yacht owners are adopting pet-friendly policies, but it's not as simple as adding your pet to the guest list; thoughtful planning is required to bring your four-legged friend along.
You need to charter the right yacht and understand how life on board works for the dog. Our expert IYC consultants match you not only with the yacht that suits your vacation preferences, lifestyle, and itinerary, but also with options that accommodate every member of your group, even the furry ones. Here is everything you need to know about bringing your dog on board your next IYC yacht charter:
Why Bring Your Dog Onboard?
When considering bringing your dog on a luxury yacht charter, it is important to consider whether they will enjoy life at sea, as not every dog does. If you are confident your canine will benefit from some floating fun, there are lots of advantages to be had.
Sharing the adventures and the comfort of knowing they are safe and close by can enhance your yachting experience. However, yacht size, layout, and crew experience all play a role in pet-friendliness.
Larger yachts typically offer more deck space and cabins that can accommodate pets, while experienced crew understand the various protocols needed to ensure their safety and comfort over the week.
How Does It Work?
Not all yachts are the same when it comes to pets; there are key features of dog-friendly yachts, including protocols and practicalities that need to be checked off before considering it as an option. These include ample outdoor deck space for the dogs' exercise, cabin arrangements that keep your dog close by, safety measures such as secure railings and non-slip surfaces, and a crew familiar with handling pets.
Our consultants carefully consider the itinerary, charter duration, and onboard facilities to ensure all the details on board the yacht are well-suited to your dog. When it comes to where you cruise, each destination has specific regulations for pets. For example, in Australia, dogs may be subject to quarantine periods, while in the US, mandatory vaccination documentation is necessary. In the Caribbean, a pet permit is required, and in the Mediterranean, a pet passport is required. Your consultant can walk you through the necessary legalities, protocols, and paperwork in advance.
While you may have all the paperwork, it is also important to be prepared for your dog's behavior. Scratching decks, chewing furniture, or unmanageable behavior can create challenges onboard, so preparing your dog in advance creates the best atmosphere for everyone.
It’s A Dog’s Life, Onboard
Once onboard, like every other guest, the dog’s comfort and safety are a priority. Following crew guidance is essential, as they will advise you on where your pets can roam freely, identify restricted zones, and remind you of general yacht charter guest etiquette.
Cleanliness and hygiene are a given on board, and the crew will continue these protocols with the dogs. For example, you must highlight anything you have brought on board for the dog's trip, as all food and supplies must be stored properly.
Many pet-friendly yachts come equipped with thoughtful amenities designed for their comfort, like artificial grass patches for bathroom breaks, onboard pet beds, dedicated walking areas, special treats, and even crew members who will walk your dog if you wish. Many also include dog-sized life jackets for additional safety, particularly in the tender.
Among yachts in IYC’s charter fleets, yachts such as the 180’ (55m) RARE FIND, the 164’ (50m) ALMYRA II, the 127’ (39m) CHANTAL, and others, have pet policies in place and offer the best pet-friendly charters.
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Before You Arrive
To ensure your dog is ready for life at sea, pre-charter training can be helpful, particularly for pets that may experience seasickness, anxiety, or cabin fever. Regular walks, scheduled exercise, and acclimatization to changing climates can also improve the experience.
IYC consultations can also identify routes and itineraries best suited to dog-friendly charters - calm waters, secluded anchorages, and locations within easy and short access for a leisurely swim or a run are ideal.
Pet-Friendly Yachting Made Easy
Bringing your dog on an IYC yacht charter is possible with the right yacht and proper planning. Once you have the legal documentation, are aware of the onboard amenities, and know what you need to bring, you are ready for a dog-friendly charter.
From crew guidance to tailored itineraries, the IYC fleet ensures the charter experience is perfect for everyone, including those special touches for your four-legged guests. Wherever in the world you are looking to cruise, contact our IYC consultants today to discuss the possibility of your next dog-friendly yacht charter.