Even our most regular hirers experience the occasional hiccup, and so here are solutions to the most frequently asked questions. More comprehensive advice is detailed in the Manual, which is on board.
Batteries
Some people have reported problems with the batteries draining.
a. To keep the batteries fully-charged you need to run the engine for at least 4 hours each day.
b. Ensure that the ignition key is in the correct position when cruising, otherwise the batteries will not charge – see photograph in the boat manual.
c. When using high-voltage appliances on the 230v circuit (most notably the microwave) please ensure that you run the engine (faster than ‘tickover’) to support the inverter. If there is insufficient battery charge then the inverter will trip, and will need to be reset; if you are in any doubt, please check with the yard before you leave.
Heating
The central heating is very efficient, and easy to use, however, you must first ensure that there is sufficient battery charge (check the dial next to the switches). If for any reason (including low battery power) the system fails to start 3 times in succession then the safety cutout will invoke and it will require an engineer to reset it.
Hob
To light the gas on the hob, depress and hold down the relevant knob for a few seconds to allow the gas to come through first – the sparker will not work until enough gas is present. Once alight, keep the knob fully depressed for a second or two, until the flame is stabilised.
Bed Linen & Towels
All bed linen – duvets, duvet covers, sheets, pillows and pillow cases will be supplied – only one pillow per person is provided. On pickup day, please check that you have the correct bed linen before you leave the boatyard.
Towels for personal use and hand towels are not provided.
Two teatowels will be provided for use in the kitchen.
Inventory
Before leaving the boatyard, check in the kitchen, especially for easily breakable things such as glasses and cups, and ask the yard to replace any missing items (and report any breakages when you return the boat). You can see the latest inventory here.
Toilets
Some spare toilet rolls will be provided by the boatyard, but this may not last the whole of your hire. When replenishing with your own toilet paper, please avoid thicker, ‘luxury’ brands, as these can cause the macerator blades to jam. It is vital that you advise all crew members, especially children, to flush nothing but toilet paper; anything else can seriously jam the macerator blades, leading to a vey expensive repair and the loss of your hire deposit.
All other disposable items, including tissues, face wipes, baby wipes, cotton wool, cotton buds, contraceptives, ladies hygiene products, kitchen paper, etc, etc, etc, must be placed in the normal rubbish, wrapped if appropriate.
Sorry to go on about this, but we don’t want your, or your subsequent hirers’ holiday to be spoiled by problems with the loo!