Question 1

I'm a beginner, will I be able to handle it?

Accepted Answer

You will definitely manage.

Our team always includes several professionals and experienced amateurs with racing backgrounds.

We introduce beginners to the process smoothly: you will receive training, master basic racing skills, and gain valuable experience.

Each regatta becomes an opportunity to develop, work as a team, and come away with a new level of knowledge and confidence on board.

Question 2

I have sailed on charter boats before, what is the difference?

Accepted Answer

Racing yachts and charter cruising boats fundamentally differ both technically and in the experience they provide.

Racing yachts, such as the DK46, have a lightweight hull with long and heavy keels, carbon masts, and a full set of racing sails; the wheel and steering are designed for precision and speed, while the interior is more minimalist.

Charter cruising yachts are heavier, with a lower and lighter keel, aluminum masts, and simpler sail rigs; their hull and interior are optimized for comfort and relaxation rather than top speed.

On a racing yacht, participants gain intensive racing experience, teamwork, and yacht handling skills under real conditions, whereas on a charter boat the main focus is a comfortable voyage, peaceful exploration of bays, and the chance to relax with minimal involvement in crew duties.

In short, racing yachts are about fun and adrenaline, while charter boats are about relaxation and meditation.

Question 3

What things should I bring with me on the yacht?

Accepted Answer

To take part in a regatta, it is essential to prepare properly and bring everything necessary both for active work on board and for staying comfortable in any weather.

A journey on a racing yacht combines intensive physical exertion, teamwork, and changeable sea conditions, so clothing and gear must be functional, lightweight, and waterproof, while personal items should be compact and convenient. Below is an approximate list of what you should bring with you to a regatta:

- Waterproof breathable jacket (windbreaker)
- Fleece jacket or other warm sweater
- Non-slip shoes with soft white soles
- Gloves for sail handling
- Headwear, sunglasses with a retaining strap
- Sunscreen
- Motion sickness pills (if prone to it) and a personal first-aid kit
- Change of clothes and swimwear
- Towels
- Waterproof dry bag for personal belongings (phones, cash, documents, etc.)

Question 4

What should I do if I get seasick?

Accepted Answer

Seasickness on a boat occurs due to a mismatch between what your eyes see and what your vestibular system feels, but in most cases, it can be quickly alleviated. If you have already started feeling sick, the main thing is to get out into the fresh air, look at the horizon, and stay closer to the center of the boat where the motion is least felt; it is best to lie down or sit down and avoid looking at your phone, reading, or staying in the cabin. Getting involved in the process helps a lot—for example, taking the helm or keeping watch on the heading, as the brain adapts faster when it understands the motion.

Among remedies, you can use medications like Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) or Stugeron (cinnarizine), but they are best taken in advance; ginger also helps as a milder option. It is important not to go out to sea on an empty stomach or after a heavy meal—a light bite and plenty of water, with no alcohol, is optimal. Overall, the more time you spend on deck and the more actively you participate in the boat's operations, the faster your body adapts, and seasickness either disappears or becomes significantly milder.

Question 5

How safe is this?

Accepted Answer

Under modern conditions, yachting is considered a safe sport and leisure activity, especially when it comes to yachts over 40 feet in length. All necessary equipment for safe voyaging is provided on board: a certified German liferaft, a set of signaling flares, individual life jackets with safety tethers, as well as high-tech communication and distress signaling systems.

One of the most crucial elements is the EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)—an emergency beacon that automatically transmits a distress signal and the yacht's exact coordinates via the international satellite rescue system (COSPAS-SARSAT). In a serious emergency, the EPIRB allows rescuers to locate the yacht as quickly as possible, even if there is no communication on board.

Satellite communication is also provided on board, ensuring continuous contact with the shore and rescue services regardless of distance from the coast. For short-range communications, two radios are provided—a handheld and a fixed on-board unit—using VHF frequencies for prompt exchange of information with other vessels and coastal services.

Thus, sailing on modern racing yachts provides a high level of safety thanks to a well-thought-out set of rescue and communication equipment, making participation in regattas comfortable and predictable.

Question 6

Is insurance required?

Accepted Answer

For sailing and competitions. The marine environment and competitive format require a separate insurance policy that accounts for physical strain and possible incidents on the water.

You MUST have sports medical insurance that covers participation in competitions. Above all, this guarantees your peace of mind and confidence in any situation.

Sports insurance differs from standard travel insurance because it covers injuries sustained during active sports activities. When purchasing, make sure to specify the sport as sailing. Most often, it is classified as an extreme sport (like rock climbing, alpine skiing, windsurfing, skydiving, etc.), and the insurance company will offer the appropriate coverage.

It is also recommended to include coverage for medical evacuation, rescue operations, and medical treatment abroad in the policy.

Question 7

Are there a shower and a toilet on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all basic amenities for a comfortable stay are available on board. The DK46 features a spacious combined head and shower with hot water, and the galley has a gas stove and a fridge. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is a racing yacht, so the supply of fresh water is limited and must be used sparingly.

Question 8

How and where do we eat?

Accepted Answer

Meals during the regatta are arranged flexibly and depend on the program format and team preferences. As a rule, regattas include an entertainment program provided by the organizers that includes dinners—an opportunity to unwind, socialize, and spend time off the boat.

As for breakfasts, depending on the crew's preference, breakfast can be had either on board or in marina restaurants. During races or passages, full cooked meals are not scheduled, so light snacks are used instead—snacks, fruit, energy bars, and water.

Before heading out, a small grocery provisioning run is usually done for the boat, taking into account the regatta format and crew preferences, to ensure comfortable snacking throughout the day.

For heating food on board, there is a full-sized gas stove with two burners and an oven.

Question 9

How and where do we sleep?

Accepted Answer

Overnight stays during the regatta are also organized flexibly and depend on your preferences. Although the DK46 is a racing yacht, it offers an excellent balance between speed and comfort. There are three double cabins — forward and two aft, each aft cabin with an extra pipe berth — and the saloon table converts into a double bed. That is up to 10 berths below deck, and if necessary and in good weather, extra berths are used, including cockpit benches—a boom tent is set up overhead, creating proper sleeping berths in the open air — up to 12 people in total.

This is a great option for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the yachting lifestyle and the regatta atmosphere. At the same time, for participants who prefer greater comfort, there is always the option to stay in hotels—much depends on the regatta format. Organizers often plan routes so that the yachts dock for the night in marinas or near towns where you can easily book a hotel.

Sleeping bags are provided for participants who choose to stay on board.

Question 10

How long does a regatta last?

Accepted Answer

The duration of a regatta depends on its format, but most commonly it takes about 5–6 days. Typically, the first day is dedicated to opening ceremonies and organizational arrangements, followed by possibly one training day and about 4 full racing days.

However, offshore regattas differ—they can last for several days non-stop and run continuously. In general, everything depends on the specific schedule and format of the regatta itself.

It is recommended to arrive 1–2 days prior to the start to acclimate comfortably, meet the team, attend briefings, and complete the necessary provisioning before heading out to sea.

Question 11

What is included in the regatta cost, and what additional expenses will there be?

Accepted Answer

The regatta participation fee typically includes the basic package required for full participation, while additional expenses depend on the event format and personal preferences.

The cost generally includes chartering the cruiser-racer yacht, services of the skipper and mate, all necessary gear for racing, and the rental of sleeping bags for accommodation on board. This allows you to focus fully on the racing experience without worrying about technical matters.

Additional costs include organizers' entry fees (regatta entry fees), which cover the entertainment program, dinners, race management, and judging. A shared crew kitty is also formed for groceries, diesel fuel, marina mooring fees, and other crew living expenses. Flights and transfers to the regatta venue are paid separately, as are personal expenses such as restaurants if not included in the program.

Question 12

How does the refundable security deposit work?

Accepted Answer

The refundable deposit lives entirely up to its name: it is handed in cash to the skipper before the start of the event and is refunded to the crew in full provided there is no damage to the yacht or loss of equipment.

If the yacht, its equipment, or sails sustain damage during the regatta, the cost of repair or replacement is covered by the deposit amount. All expenses related to damage occurring during the regatta are split equally among all crew members, regardless of who personally caused the damage.

Question 13

How many participants will be on board?

Accepted Answer

The number of crew members typically ranges from 8 to 12 people depending on the regatta format, including professional sailors. In short inshore races, the crew is usually larger—up to 12 people, whereas in offshore races the crew is reduced to around 10 participants.

Every team is guaranteed to have at least two professional sailors, as well as several experienced amateurs who already have regatta experience. This allows maintaining a balance between training, teamwork, and achieving competitive sports results.

Question 14

How and when is the payment made?

Accepted Answer

Payment for participation is carried out in two stages. After confirming your spot on the yacht, an advance payment is made—usually within 7 days, but no later than 2 months before the regatta begins. This secures your participation and place on the crew.

The remaining balance can be paid at your convenience, but strictly prior to the start of the regatta itself.

If your plans change after paying the advance, you will need to find a full replacement for your spot—otherwise, the deposit is non-refundable.

Presidential International Yacht Races — Kıbrıs Cup

Upcoming regattas

Burhanettin Tekdağ Year-End Cup

BAYK Pre-Winter Cup

MIYC Winter Trophy 2027

Frequently asked questions