How do I hand over my charter boat’s repeat bookings and guide reviews?

Begin with the records. Export your bookings with dates, party sizes, trip types and which customers returned. Keep customer details protected until your lawyer tells you what you may share and when. Early on, an anonymous summary is usually enough for a buyer to see the pattern.

Next, deal with reviews. They sit on platforms, not in your files, and a buyer cannot simply take them over. Ask your lawyer and the platforms how listings and accounts can change hands. Meanwhile, prepare a document showing the best comments, and note which ones name you or a guide personally.

Then think about the introduction. Offer to take the buyer out on a few trips, speak to regulars and write to repeat clients once the sale closes. Customers are more likely to stay if they hear about the change from you. Be clear about what a buyer can reasonably expect from you afterwards, and write it down in the agreement. If you plan to stay on for a while, agree in writing what that means: which trips, what role and for how long. A buyer who knows what to expect can promise the same to regulars. It also avoids confusion once the new name goes on the booking page.

Key takeaways

• Package booking history, repeat customers and reviews before you list.
• Share only anonymous summaries until a lawyer clears what may be disclosed.
• Introduce the buyer to regulars in person or in writing.