The pandemic increased the Czechs' demand for a holiday on a yacht

The pandemic sharply increased the Czechs' demand for a holiday on a yacht. This was pointed out by the data published by Boataround.com, which was reported by the iDNES.cz server. In April, the specialized website recorded four times more bookings than a year ago, and even eight times in May. In addition, the number of new applicants for captain's exams increased by approximately 25% year-on-year. As stated by the co-founder of Boataround.com Pavel Pribiš, it turns out that the Czechs have a much greater desire to spend a holiday on a yacht compared to previous years. "It is understandable, a holiday on a yacht is perceived as a safe and cheap holiday in privacy," said Pribiš. In addition, the pandemic has helped this trend in that yacht charters offer favorable conditions. Even new yachts are so much more affordable than in the past. According to Pribiš, demand is currently not only record, but the price range for renting a yacht is also increasing. "In recent years, the Czechs have mainly chosen yachts with a favorable price-performance ratio. This year, it can be seen that they really want to enjoy their holiday, so they choose newer and more comfortable yachts. On average, they are willing to pay 500 euros a week more than they were willing to year, "Pribiš added. Although it does not seem so, the Czechs and Slovaks are a nation of sailors, even though they have no sea. Czech yachtsmen are currently second in the demand for yachts. They were overtaken only by those interested from Slovakia. The Germans are in 3rd place. In addition, people who used yachts a few years ago increased their interest in yachts this year, but have missed such a holiday in recent years due to busy work schedule. "We perceive that they want to rest after a difficult period," Pribiš said, adding that people from the most age-threatened groups are also returning to them. As the survey showed, the most popular destination is traditionally Croatia. It is followed by Greece and northern Italy. In recent years, yachting holidays have gained popularity among families with children and students. This rapidly lowers the age limit for yachtsmen. "Previously, they were yachtsmen aged 45 and over, today they are also yachtsmen aged about 25," said Pavel Kocych, an instructor and captain of the Seatime.cz maritime academy. Theoretical preparation for the captain's exams usually takes two and a half days. He is followed by a week of practice.