Definitive Guide to the Transit Log
The Key Transit Log Facts
From the History of Transit Logs to What it Means Today
What does Transit Log mean today? Yacht Charter is pretty normally a pretty straightforward affair, however, when you hit unfamiliar terminology, it can be a little disconcerting. Add that some words and phrases mean different things in different places and it's even more of a challenge.
One item unfamiliar to many on their invoice is the transit log. It's almost never included and if you don't know what it's about, it will quickly have you asking, what is a transit log.
What is the Definition of a Transit Log. Technically speaking the definition of a transit log is formal paperwork that is presented to port, immigration or customs officials and describes your intended journey, crew list, and so on. It acts as the boat's permit and proof of registration when chartering.
Sailing is unpredictable, and port staff are aware of this. Ultimately it is something that is flexible and you will typically not be held to your chosen route, (so long as it does not change dramatically).
If you say you are going one way, then go another, expect some sticky questions if you are ever stopped.
So What is a Transit Log. You will find a Transit Log issued when there is the possibility to enter foreign waters. It's a port authority form that covers immigration, customs and a check of the ship's papers.
The most popular place for the issue of a transit log is in Turkey, where customers want the option to sail into Greece. With the close proximity of some amazing Greek Islands to Turkey, it comes as no surprise that most want to visit both countries.
Many countries have now dispensed with transit logs, yet the phrase is still common and has grown in meaning over time.
What's Included in a Transit Log
The Cost of a Transit Log and What's Included
Charter Fleet Operators. With some frustration, operators treat transit logs differently. For some it's just the documentation and they pass on the cost of the local port authority's charge to you. Other Charter Fleet operators use the term transit log to mean all their included extras.
Costs of a Transit Log. Costs can range from 120 to 600 Euros or more, often dependent on the number of passengers, boat size or cabins.
What's Included in a Transit Log. Here is a list of what you might find included and a very approximate cost (in Euros) if it's not:
- Final cleaning – 150–500
- Bed Sheets – 5–15 ea. person
- 2 Towels – 5 ea. person
- Starter package (toilet paper, washing up liquid, matches, maybe some local wine) – 30
- Diving service upon check out – 50–100
- Outboard engine – 100–150
- Wifi – 25 – 10gb
At the End of the Charter. At check-out you will need to return your transit log to the fleet operator. The Harbour Authorities will issue a new one for each charter.
... an official document issued chiefly in Turkey for travel to Greece; often a mandatory extra on your bareboat charter.
What a Transit Log Contains
- Mandatory for Foreign Flags
- Crew List
- Passport Numbers
- Customs Clearance
- Insurance Details
- Key Yacht Data
