Unprofessional and Angry Skipper.
The Skipper/Owner's website advertised hands-on experience in boat handling, navigation, provisioning, and passage planning, and initial communications (including a group video call) seemed professional.
Not only was the trip misrepresented and not delivered as advertised, the provider's conduct created unsafe conditions that led to early termination of the trip.
1. Service not as described
The provider's website (sailgoddess.com) advertised hands-on instruction in boat handling, navigation, provisioning, and passage planning. In practice, none of these were provided. She was dismissive and rude to guests. At one point, she just handed the gal a book and told her to look it up. The client had never sailed on a yacht before.
• No skipper's briefing was given before departing the marina, contrary to standard maritime safety practice.
• No passage plan, meal plan, or navigation instruction was provided at any point.
• Provisions for meals were inadequate.
• The skipper never disclosed in advance that she planned to be naked as much as possible.
2. Change in trip terms without disclosure
• My invoice specified departure from Split. I was never informed of a change to Trogir and only discovered this independently, resulting in additional unplanned transportation costs.
• The trip was booked and confirmed as a women-only experience. Days before departure, the provider asked if a male family member could join, which the provider herself acknowledged was inconsistent with what I had booked.
3. Pricing inconsistency
Other clients on the same trip paid different amounts for the same service. I was charged the highest amount (£900). The provider's website also listed two different provisioning fee amounts (€150 and €200); I was charged €200 and refunded the €50 difference after directly identifying the discrepancy.
4. Safety concerns
• The provider stated she does not shut off the propane supply after use, contrary to standard safety protocol.
• The provider chose to sail rather than motor in near-zero wind conditions.
• The delayed skipper's briefing (given after departure rather than before) is a recognized safety practice violation, particularly with a first-time sailor on board.