TIPS TO SHIP

Find a company with a good reputation that specializes in the route you want. Be flexible on origin and destination if you can.

Get a contract sorted well before shipping, with exact measurements of your boat’s LOA, beam, height overall (bottom of keel to top of mast) and all-up weight (not tonnage). Ensure that customs papers are in order for origin and destination. Ask the shipping company for reputable local agents.

Empty tanks, but leave enough diesel for loading and unloading. Remove sails, canvas and other items on deck. Cover Dorades and hatch openings, and secure all hatches. Wax the stainless. Some owners shrink-wrap their boats. Make sure you have big fenders on all sides of your boat and long lines handy.