Renting a boat in Colombia—whether a yacht, sailboat, speedboat, or boat—is an incredible option for enjoying idyllic destinations like Cartagena, the Rosario Islands, and Santa Marta. However, this sector has also been a target for scams, especially with seemingly attractive offers that turn out to be fraudulent. If you want a safe and hassle-free experience, here are some essential tips to avoid falling into these traps.
1. Thoroughly Investigate the Rental Company
Before making any reservations, do your research on the company. Look up their website, social media profiles, and reviews from previous customers. Platforms like Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, and traveler forums often have valuable opinions that will help you understand the company's reputation. Avoid companies that don't have an online presence or that have negative reviews from customers reporting scams or bad experiences.
2. Verify the Company Registration and Authenticity
It is essential that the company be legally registered and have operating permits. In Colombia, you can verify a company's legal status through the corresponding Chamber of Commerce or on the official website of the Superintendency of Industry and Commerce. You can also check whether the company complies with tourism regulations with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism (MinCIT) . Legitimate companies are usually registered and comply with all tourism regulations.
3. Request a Written Contract
Always ask for a detailed contract that includes all the terms and conditions of the rental. It should specify:
- Services included (such as crew, snorkeling equipment, etc.).
- Rental dates and duration .
- Costs and payment terms.
- Cancellation and refund policies .
Review the contract carefully before signing and make sure all the details match what you were offered.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods
Choose secure payment methods, such as credit cards and bank transfers, which provide protection in the event of disputes or scams. Additionally, some legitimate companies also offer online payment platforms, which adds an extra layer of security.
5. Compare Prices and Be Wary of Too Good Deals
Do your research and compare prices with several reputable companies. If a deal seems too good to be true , it probably is. Excessively low prices are a red flag and, in many cases, are a ploy to lure customers into scams.
6. Evaluate the Quality of Customer Service
A reliable company will respond quickly to your questions and provide you with all the information you need. Call the agency and ask specific questions about the boat, crew, itinerary, and services. The team's helpfulness and professionalism can give you a good idea of their reliability. If they avoid you or don't answer your questions clearly, it's best to look elsewhere.
7. Ask for References or Recommendations
If you know someone who has rented boats in Colombia, ask them about their experiences. Direct recommendations are an excellent way to ensure the company offers a safe and quality service.
8. Review the Cancellation and Refund Policies
Make sure you fully understand the cancellation and refund policies in case you need to change your plans. Legitimate companies usually offer clear and flexible policies. If the company doesn't have transparent policies or refuses to provide them, it's a red flag.
9. Check Reservations Directly
If your rental package includes hotel, restaurant, or flight reservations, confirm these reservations directly with the suppliers. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure everything is in order before your arrival.
10. Prioritize Safety at All Times
Before setting sail, check that the vessel has the necessary safety equipment: life jackets, fire extinguishers, communication radios, and a first aid kit. The company must comply with established safety regulations to ensure your well-being on board.
11. Report a scam if you suspect it
If you have been the victim of a scam or suspect any wrongdoing, report the case to local authorities or consumer protection agencies, such as the Superintendency of Industry and Commerce (SIC) . Reporting it early can help prevent others from falling into the same trap and, in some cases, facilitate the process of recovering funds.
Renting a boat in Colombia can be a wonderful experience, as long as you take the proper precautions. With these tips, you can enjoy your adventure at sea safely and without incident.