Ship: SV FLORETTE
Port of Registry: VALLETTA
Type: Historical/Sail training vessel
Flag: MALTESE
Florette Travel information Rules and Requirements for Voyage Crew
Dear voyage guests, trainees and students,
We look forward to welcoming you on board the SV Florette.
To make your stay on board as pleasant as possible, we have included in this
letter some important points and tips that should be read before your
departure.
You should be aware that you will be taking part in an active Sailing voyage
on board an old- time sailing ship; therefore, it should not and cannot be
compared with a Motor Yacht, Cruise liner or a Turkish Gullet.
We hope that this information is of use to you and that it will help you prepare
for a more enjoyable holiday.
1. Route
Your booked sailing voyage takes you along the beautiful coastline and
to the islands where you will experience the history, culture, and
landscapes. The route may vary depending on the weather conditions,
which will be decided by the captain who has the best interests of the
(voyage)crew and ship at heart. As a result the program may change,
and we are unable to compensate by way of refund.
2. Safety Onboard
Before leaving harbour and setting sail all crew members will be given
some sailing instructions and a safety briefing. This includes abandon
ship, fire, and man overboard procedures and several other personal
safety tips including the ship rules and regulations.
3. Electricity
If we are not berthed in a marina the ships generators, which are
stopped during resting hours, provide the cabins with a 220V powersupply.
The lights are served by a 24V battery system, which means that there
is always light in the cabins and around the ship.
4. Siesta/ Quite time
Conversations, singing and parties should be kept by the table during
siesta and quite time. Quite time is normally between 2300 hrs and
0700 hrs; however, it ultimately depends on the guests and atmosphere
onboard.
5. Tender (ship's boat)
The Florette has 2 large tenders (1x4.80m and 1x5.60m) which are
driven by a member of the crew. Many ports are too small for Florette
to enter; therefore, a free tender service is offered to bring the guests
ashore and back to the ship.
6. Sailing
With a suitable wind, the sails will be set. However, seeing small sailing
boats with their sails does not mean that the wind is suitable for Florette
to sail too. The decision is exclusively with the captain.
7. Luggage
On board we generally go barefoot or when sailing, a pair of
appropriate deck shoes or trainers must be worn. It is advised to some
bring casual clothing and something a bit warmer for the evenings, i.e.,
a windbreaker or jacket. One should also bring their own toiletries,
towels, and medication (i.e., seasickness tablets, band aides, sun
cream etc.). If you wish to sleep on deck, under the stars, you will need
your own sleeping bag and mat. If you would like to climb the
volcanoes it is advised to bring hiking boots and a flashlight, although
these can be hired at Stromboli. A backpack is much more convenient
than the larger bag you have travelled with. Mask and snorkels should
not be forgotten.
8. Travel Insurance, Medical Insurance Card and Medical Support
We recommend a comprehensive travel insurance which covers the
following: personal accident & injury; incidents that may happen
onboard while sailing, training or working aloft; any water sports that
you plan to take part in; shore excursions; all medical expenses;
personal effects; and delays/cancellation insurance.
Members of the European Union need the form E111 (you can get this at
your health insurance company), which can be used in hospitals for general
visits or emergencies.
9. Sea
Everyone should be able to swim. If you are unable the captain should
be advised, and special precautions will be taken. The ship carries
kayaks and SUPs. All water activities are at your own risk. A lifejacket
and/or swim buoy must be used. These are provide by the ship.
10. Entry
Citizens from countries of the European Union need a valid passport.
Citizens of other nationalities should make enquiries with the relevant
embassy.
11. Accommodation
There are 11 double cabins onboard, 5 of which have a bunk suitable
for a child. Each of the cabins has a large deck hatch which ensures
good ventilation, a sink, small table, and a cupboard for storage. Bed
linen is provided but can’t be taken out on deck. Generally: Wooden
ships are known for their pleasant climate. During youth or sail training
voyages we can offer an additional eight berths using traditional sailing
hammocks that hang in a common area.
12. Language
Captain and some of the crew speak English, German and Italian.
Sailing language is English.
13. Food & provisions
The breakfast buffet consists of coffee, tea, bread, sliced meats, eggs,
cheese, and butter, different types of jam, cornflakes, and muesli. For
other meals we offer local and seasonal produce to provide a healthy
international kitchen. On request we also cater for vegetarians and food
allergies. For the BBQ’s onboard we have a large stone lava grill.
14. Water
There are 6000 litres of fresh water onboard. While at sea,
unnecessary water consumption should be avoided. A swim in the sea
in the morning is by far the best way to wake up. The ships water from
the tap is not drinking water. However, we do however have purified
water system that provides clean drinking water. You should bring your
own water bottle.
15. Payment/Prices
a. A deposit of 25% of the cost is required to make a reservation. The
balance must be paid not less than 60 days prior to the departure
date. If the balance is not paid by the due date the Owner reserves
the right to cancel the booking and the Customers will forfeit the
deposit. If a booking is made less than 60 days prior to departure
date, the full amount is payable on making a reservation.
b. Each booking is subject to a £25 non-refundable booking fee. This
is a fee per booking, not per person. This price is VAT inclusive.
c. Payment is to be made by the lead traveller identified in the Booking
Form and any refunds or repayments hereunder will be made to the
lead traveller identified in the Booking Form.
d. The Owner reserves the right to amend prices at any time prior to
receipt of a Booking Form. However, once a Booking Confirmation
has been issued the price of the Voyage will not be increased
unless the Owner and/or Fair Ferry are required by law to charge
a Government tax or levy introduced or changed after the booking is
made. This does not apply to invoice errors or omissions.
e. FOR CARIBBEAN VOYAGES ONLY - We do require 12 guests to
run this voyage, which we know is achievable for this boat given the
leas time and good following she has. However, the boat reserve
the right to cancel the trip up to 60 days before departure if this
minimum number is not reached. For the payment, we ask for a
25% deposit now and no full balance payment until the 60 day date
once the voyage has been confirmed. If the trip does not go ahead,
your deposit will be refunded in, but we will not be liable for the cost
of any flights/travel booked.
16. Booking Changes/Cancellations
a. All or any changes or cancellations are to be advised by the lead
traveller identified in the Booking Form.
b. Any one of the Customers may transfer their place under this
contract to another person subject to at least 7 days’ notice,
payment of a £50.00 administration fee and completion and
approval of a duly amended Booking Form and Medical
Questionnaire, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld.
c. Once a booking has been confirmed a £50.00 administration fee
will be payable for all berths changed by the Customers.
Cancellation policy is:
If a berth is cancelled 60 days or more prior to the Voyage and the
full price has by then been paid, 75% of the price will be repaid. If
the cancellation is between 59 and 30 days prior to the Voyage
25% of the price will be repaid. If the cancellation is 29 days or
less prior to the Voyage 0% of the price will be repaid.
d. For the avoidance of doubt the booking fee is non-refundable. All
deposits paid are non-refundable.
17. Insurance
a. The Vessel will be insured under a policy of marine insurance,
but it is the responsibility of the Customers to arrange their own
travel insurance.
b. The Customers must check their travel insurance policy carefully
to make sure it covers tall ship sailing, sailing, cruising, and
yachting in the appropriate sailing areas and if sailing more than
12 miles offshore. The cover should start as close as possible to
the date you purchased the policy, not when the Voyage starts.
c. The Customers must provide proof of suitable travel insurance
two weeks before boarding, and the Skipper may require sight of
the same during the embarkation procedure. If no proof is
provided on request, the Customers will be required to either
acquire suitable travel insurance there and then or leave the
Vessel.
18. Miscellaneous
Personal losses, theft, damages, accidents or travel delays higher force
no compensation is given. Damages by negligence third and absolute
liability are the sole responsibility of the participant. The voyage crew,
Mitsegler/ trainees and students that takes part in the journey and
in any other activities completely at his/ her own risk. Youths
travelling as an unaccompanied minor must have full written
consent by both parents or a legal guardian. Signatures by both
parents or legal guardian have to be signed on each form. Each
participant must be fit, healthy and cannot suffer from any contagious
sicknesses. Every participant of our voyage should be able to swim.
• The orders of the Captain should always be followed and respected.
Any action against can lead to the exclusion of the trip and at an earlier
retirement one is not entitled to ask/ receive any compensation or
refunds. If, however higher force lead to an earlier finish or an
extension of the trip one has no reason to go against the organiser.
This also counts at longer than usual laying times at the harbour.
All voyage crew participants are required to fill out a two paged
application form before joining the Sail Training Vessel Florette. By
signing this form each individual accepts the terms and conditions in
full to participate as a voyage crew, trainee, or as student.
19. Your Role as a Voyage Crew
Although you will be embarking on an sailing voyage and the emphasis
will be on your enjoyment of the experience, you will be on the vessel
as a Voyage Crew Member. Your role as a Voyage Crew Member will
involve you learning about and participating in ship-board life.
Allowances will be made for age and abilities. No previous sailing
experience is necessary. The term “VOYAGE CREW” defines any
persons coming onboard for pleasure and or as an active member of
the permanent crew, trainee/ Mitsgler, youths or as a student.
20. Health, Fitness, Age
a. All Voyage Crew Members must be in good health. Anyone who will
be 70 years or older during the voyage must have a letter of
good health from a medical doctor. All information given to us is
kept confidential. Please note that we reserve the right to refuse
your booking based on your medical information, but this right is
rarely exercised and in such a case a full refund will be given. There
is no upper or lower age limitation but each child under the age of
16 must be accompanied by an adult.
b. Youths travelling as an unaccompanied minor must have full
written consent by both parents or a legal guardian. Signatures
by both parents or legal guardian have to be signed on each
form.
c. Voyage Crew Members must not take on board goods of a
potentially noxious, dangerous, hazardous, inflammable, explosive
or damaging nature, including cartridges, firearms, non-safety
matches and acids. The Voyage Crew Member will be liable for and
shall indemnify the Owners against any loss or damage arising from
breach of this term. The Master or his delegated officer may enter
any cabin at any time for the purpose of searching for controlled or
prohibited substances which the Master suspects are in the cabin;
or for purposes associated with any repair or maintenance work
aboard the ship. The Master or his delegated officer shall in such
circumstances be entitled to take with him any crew members that
are deemed necessary for the purposes of such search, repair or
maintenance.
21. Loss & Liability
The Owners shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever suffered by any
Voyage Crew Member in respect of any loss of or damage to the
Voyage Crew Member’s property whether such property is on or near
the ship or any premises used by the Owners, or in any conveyance
used by the Owners for the transportation of Voyage Crew Members
and/or their property, whether or not any such loss is caused by the
negligence or fault of the Owners or their servants, agents or
independent contractors. "Property" includes baggage, money,
valuables and any other property whatsoever of the Voyage Crew
Member.
22. Voyage Performance
If the performance of the voyage or proposed voyage is, or in the
opinion of Owners is likely to be, delayed, hindered, postponed or
prevented by Acts of God, intervention or interference of any kind by a
Government or a Ruler, war or preparation for war whether or not a
declaration of war has been made, or armed hostilities, riots,
insurrection or civil commotions, delay in transport, delay in delivery or
non-delivery of materials or equipment for the ship, reduction of normal
working hours, labour disputes, strikes, lockouts, shortage of labour or
materials, fire or other damage affecting the ship or the premises of the
Owners, abnormal weather conditions, or by any other cause of any
kind whatsoever beyond the control of the Owners, or if the Owners
consider that for any reason whatsoever proceeding to, attempting to
enter, or entering or remaining at the port or place of disembarkation
may expose the ship to risk of loss or damage or delay, the Voyage
Crew Members and their property may be landed at the port of
embarkation or at any port or place which the Owners or Master in his
or their discretion may reasonably decide on, at which time the
responsibility of the Owners shall cease and this contract shall be
deemed to have been fully performed; or if the Voyage Crew Member
has not embarked, the Owners may cancel the proposed voyage and
shall refund fares paid in advance. In the event of a voyage between
any two ports or places being cancelled after the Voyage Crew Member
has completed a passage between at least two ports or places the
amount of the fare to be refunded shall be such proportion of the total
as the cancelled voyage bears to the entire voyage contracted for by
the Voyage Crew Member. The Voyage Crew Member shall have no
claim whatsoever against the Owners in respect of such refusal or
cancellation.
• The Owners shall not be liable for any delay or inconvenience, or for
any loss, expense, or damage howsoever resulting therefrom which is
suffered by any Voyage Crew Member, whether or not such delay or
inconvenience, or resulting loss, expense, or damage, arises from
negligence or default of the Owners, their servants, agents or
independent contractors and whether on land or at sea.
23. Terms of “Voyage Crew Member”
In accepting these terms and conditions each Voyage Crew Member is
deemed to offer to the Owners as agent for the Owners ’servants,
agent and independent contractors (“Protected Persons”) (such offer
being accepted by the Owners as such agent) to confer on them the
following protections:-
a. Where acceptance of the offer constitutes a contract of which Maltese
law is the proper law, the benefit of every limitation of or exception from
liability, and of every defence or immunity from claims, provided for the
benefit of the Owners under these terms and conditions, or
b. In any other case, complete and total exemption from all liability and
immunity from all claims howsoever arising and whether or not
involving any negligence or fault on the part of the Protected Person.
c. The consideration for such offer and for any contract made pursuant
thereto shall be the provision or prospective provision by any of the
Protected Persons of any services for the benefit, whether direct or
indirect, of the Voyage Crew Member or in connection with the
performance by the Owners of their obligations under these terms and
conditions.
d. Acceptance by the Owners of such offer shall be deemed to be ratified
severally by the Protected Persons (whether any of them then has
actual knowledge of the terms of the offer) upon their providing any
such service as aforesaid whether or not the Voyage Crew Member
has notice thereof.
24. Damages
The Voyage Crew Member shall be liable to and shall reimburse the
Owners for all damage to the ship and its furnishings and equipment, or
any property of the Owners, caused directly or indirectly in whole or in
part by any wilful or negligent act or omission on the part of the Voyage
Crew Member, and the Voyage Crew Member shall indemnify the
Owners and its agents and servants against all liability whatsoever
which the Owners or such agents or servants may incur towards any
person or entity for any personal injury or death, loss or damage to
property caused directly or indirectly in whole or in part by any wilful or
negligent act or omission on the part of the Voyage Crew Member.
25. Quarantine
In case of quarantine, each Voyage Crew Member must personally
bear all risks and expenses thereby caused including the cost of
maintenance during the period of detention. The Voyage Crew Member
agrees to abide by all orders and direction of the ship's Master or any
medical officer purporting to represent the government of any nation or
department thereof.
26. Changes to and cancellation of bookings by the owner
a. Due to the vagaries of weather or mechanical problems the Owner
and Fair Ferry can make no guarantee of the itinerary of the
Voyage, including ports of departure, ports of call and ports of
arrival and there can be no compensation payable for changes
thereto.
b. The Owner will do their utmost to provide the Voyage booked but it
is inevitable that sometimes changes must be made. Most of these
changes will be minor and Fair Ferry will advise of these as soon
as reasonably practicable. An example of a minor change will be
change of the Vessel to another of similar or larger size with at least
the same number of cabins. No compensation is payable in the
event of such minor alterations to the Voyage booked.
c. If the Vessel is unavailable for the dates of the Voyage booked and
no other vessel of a similar or larger size with at least the same
number of cabins can reasonably be made available, the Owner will
do their utmost to offer an acceptable alternative. If any customers
with a booking for the Voyage do not accept the alternative the
Owner may have to cancel the Voyage in which case the
Customers will receive a full and prompt refund of all money paid. In
all cases, the Owner’s liability and Fair Ferry’s liability will in any
event be limited to the refund of the sum paid by relevant members
of the Customers and neither the Owners nor Fair Ferry can
accept responsibility for any expenses the Customers may incur.
d. The Owner and Fair Ferry cannot accept responsibility or pay
compensation where the Owner and/or Fair Ferry reasonably
changes or cancels the Voyage due to Force Majeure (war or threat
of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, outbreak of
disease or pandemic, unavoidable technical problems with
transport, closure, or congestion of airports, natural or nuclear
disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions or similar events beyond
their control).
e. The Customers must provide proof of suitable travel insurance two
weeks before boarding and the Skipper may require sight of the
same during the embarkation procedure. If no proof is provided on
request, the Customers will be required to either acquire suitable
travel insurance there and then or leave the Vessel.
f. The Owner and Fair Ferry cannot accept responsibility for strikes
or harbour lockout situations that would affect the running of the trip.
g. The Voyage Crew Member assumes all risk of war and warlike
operations and releases the Owners from all claims and liabilities of
any sort or description in any way connected with the risk of war or
warlike operations of any kind or description. The ship may sail with
or without lights and if necessary, in the judgment of the Master or
Owners to avoid the danger of hostile attack, may fail to observe
any practices, rules or regulations which may be applicable in times
of peace. The Owners shall not be liable for any errors in judgment
of the Master or personnel of the ship in seeking to avoid capture,
seizure, detention, or destruction. The ship may sail armed or
unarmed or with or without convoy and may carry any contraband,
explosives, munitions, warlike stores, and hazardous cargo unless
prohibited by statute.
h. The Owners shall have liberty to comply with any orders,
recommendations or directions whatsoever given by the
government of any nation or by any department thereof, or any
person acting or purporting to act with authority of such government
or department, or by any committee or person having under the
terms of the war risks insurance on the ship the right to give such
orders, recommendations or directions, and if by reason of and in
compliance with any such orders, recommendations, or directions
anything is done or is not done the same shall not be deemed a
deviation or a breach of this contract. Disembarkation of any
Voyage Crew Member or discharge of their property in accordance
with such orders, recommendations, or directions shall constitute
due and proper fulfilment of the obligations of the Owners under this
contract.
i. If for any reason whatsoever the Voyage Crew Member is refused
permission to land at the port of disembarkation or any other port,
the Voyage Crew Member and their property may be landed at any
port or place at which the ship calls or be carried back to the port of
embarkation or be provided with such form of transport to such
destination as the Owners may by law be obliged to arrange and
shall pay the Owners full fare according to the tariff in use at such
time for such further carriage or transport which shall be upon the
terms herein contained or such other terms as the Owners may
arrange on behalf of the Voyage Crew Member. The Voyage Crew
Member shall indemnify the Owners against all loss and expense
incurred in connection with or as a result of such refusal or
permission to land.
j. To the extent that in any given case the Athens Convention is held
to apply then, in the event of any inconsistency between these
terms and conditions and those of the Athens Convention, the terms
of the Athens Convention shall prevail to the extent of such
inconsistency.
k. To the extent that the law of the flag of the vessel is held to apply to
and govern the relationships between the Owners and the Voyage
Crew Members and the obligations of the Owners towards Voyage
Crew Members then, to the extent of any inconsistency between
these terms and conditions and the law of the flag state (where such
law cannot be contracted out of) the law of the flag state shall
prevail.
l. Subject to clause of the contract of which these terms and
conditions form part is deemed to have been made in Malta. The
contract and any proceedings relating to it shall be governed by
Maltese law and the courts of Malta shall have exclusive jurisdiction
in respect of such proceedings. The Voyage Crew Member submits
to such exclusive jurisdiction.
Marketing and Photography
Photographs/ images that are taken onboard that include a
Voyage Crew Member may be used by The Owner for purpose of
marketing and advertising. You grant a non-exclusive, perpetual,
royalty-free, worldwide, irrevocable, sub-licensable, fully
transferable license to use such images for advertising, publicity,
promotional and related purposes.