For years, Aqua Charters` operations were running on pen-and-paper checklists, cluttered group chats, and constant involvement of Denis, the owner of Aqua Charters. Every task relied on him: sending contracts, tracking boat preparations, chasing down the team, making sure tasks are completed, print checklists, and so on.
They had tried generic task management software, but nothing fit the charter business model without endless customizations. The result was that Denis was always on call, instead of focusing on running and growing the business.
The Solution
When Aqua Charters switched to Floatist, the goal was clear:
- Unify operations into one platform built for yacht charter businesses.
- Automate the admin grind: contracts, check-ins, task assignment.
- Give every team member visibility on what needs to be done, without endless chat messages.
Key features they implemented were check-ins and check-outs. As Aqua Charters uses custom checklists depending on the boat, this was a cumbersome process before. Now, his team can handle check-ins without his involvement, with customized lists for each of his yachts inside Floatist.
The Floatist task management feature made sure that no task was lost in a WhatsApp group anymore. Instead, everything is logged online now.
Additionally, contract signing became a breeze. Customers are receiving the contract digitally, with the option to sign from any mobile device, while Denis and his team can keep an eye on whether it has been signed already. The ability to sign only makes the experience for guests more pleasant, not having to download, print, sign, scan and send everything back manually. This and more can be found in the digital yacht charter admin process he and his team use.
The Results
The impact was immediate and measurable. Denis reports he now spends just 10% of the time he used to on day-to-day operations.
Other benefits quickly followed. Communication became smooth and effortless, with every task clearly categorized and easy to track. Turnaround days moved faster because teams always knew exactly what had been completed and what still needed attention. Guests arrived happier, with all their paperwork and instructions ready before they even stepped aboard, starting their holiday relaxed and confident.
Overcoming Resistance
As expected, not everyone embraced the change immediately. Getting your team onboard and used to new processes can be one of the hardest parts of implementing Floatist, or any new tool for that matter. Knowing this, we created an onboarding process that focuses on clear communication, training, and support.
Conclusion
Denis’ team was against the change in the beginning. However, with leadership, a clear vision, and his team feeling the benefits more and more over time, they came around. Today, everyone`s onboard, and customers overwhelmingly love the system.
With Floatist running the operational side, Denis isn`t tied to the dock or buried in admin.
The business runs on a clear, reliable processes, and turnaround days are no longer a fire drill for his staff. Learn more about how Floatist can help your charter business run smoother and more profitably by visiting Floatist or read the case study how Brug Jachtverhuur scaled to 31 yachts without hiring more staff.