Frequently asked questions
Everything about booking, the boats, parking and policies. Can't find it? Call +1 (561) 571-0041.
Booking & payment
How far in advance can I book?
You can reserve up to 8 months in advance. Popular weekend dates (especially March–May bachelorette season) sell out weeks ahead, so book early.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours before your charter for a refund, minus a 4% payment-processing fee that the card processor does not return to us. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
What happens if there is bad weather?
If the captain determines conditions are unsafe (storms, small-craft advisories), we reschedule at no cost or refund you in full. Light rain alone does not cancel a trip — the boats have covered areas.
Is a deposit required?
The charter is paid at booking. A separate refundable $500 damage deposit applies only if you request use of the grill or oven, returned after the boat is checked in clean and undamaged.
Is gratuity included?
No. A gratuity for the captain and crew is required and is not included in the charter price. Standard is 15–20% of the charter total, paid in cash or via the captain directly.
Can I extend my trip on the water?
If the schedule allows, the captain can extend in 1-hour increments at the posted hourly rate. Ask before your slot ends — back-to-back bookings may make it impossible.
Do you offer weekday discounts?
Monday–Thursday departures are our lowest rates. Contact us for group or multi-day pricing.
The charter model
What does “bareboat charter” mean?
You rent the boat itself, and you separately contract a USCG-licensed captain who is paid directly and independently of the boat rental. This is the standard legal structure for charters of this type in Florida.
Do I choose the captain?
We provide a list of approved USCG-licensed captains who know the boats. You may also bring your own licensed captain, subject to owner approval and insurance requirements.
How is the captain paid?
Directly and separately from your boat rental — typically in cash or electronic payment at the dock. Captain fees are quoted when you book.
Can I drive the boat myself?
No. All charters operate with a licensed captain aboard.
The boats & capacity
How many guests can come aboard?
Up to 13 guests per catamaran, including children and infants — every person aboard counts toward the limit, per USCG regulations.
Are the boats stable? I get seasick.
Catamarans are the most stable charter platform — two hulls mean minimal rocking. Most trips stay on the Intracoastal Waterway where the water is calm.
Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes, each catamaran has a marine bathroom (head) aboard.
Is there shade?
Yes — a large hardtop/bimini covers the main lounge area, plus open sun areas at the bow with lounging nets.
Is there a sound system?
Yes, Bluetooth sound system on every boat. Bring your playlist.
Can we swim?
Yes — trips can anchor at a sandbar or calm spot for swimming. Floating mats and noodles are available; ask when booking.
Food, drinks & catering
Can we bring our own food and drinks (BYOB)?
Yes — BYOB is welcome at no extra charge. Coolers with ice are provided. See the Catering page for chef-prepared options if you prefer not to bring your own.
Is glass allowed on board?
No glass of any kind — bottles, cups or containers. Transfer drinks to cans, boxes or plastic before boarding. Glass items will be held at boarding.
Can we use the grill or oven?
Yes, with prior arrangement and a refundable $500 damage deposit. The crew operates the grill for you.
Do you offer catering?
Yes — chef-prepared platters and full catering through our partners. Order at least 72 hours ahead via the Catering page.
Can we bring a birthday cake or decorations?
Absolutely. Arrive 15 minutes early to set up. No confetti, glitter or loose feathers — they end up in the ocean and carry marina fines.
Parking & arrival
Where do the boats depart from?
Bahia Mar Yachting Center, 801 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale — slips 223 and 225, behind the Bahia Mar Hilton.
Where do we park?
Bahia Mar guest parking, $22 per vehicle prepaid. Details, walking directions and Hilton access requirements are on the Parking page.
How early should we arrive?
15 minutes before departure. The charter clock starts at your reserved time whether or not all guests have arrived.
Can rideshare drop us at the dock?
Yes — Uber/Lyft can drop off at the Bahia Mar Hilton entrance; it is a 3-minute walk to the slips.
Rules & policies
Is smoking allowed?
No smoking or vaping of any kind aboard, including e-cigarettes. This is strictly enforced.
Are weapons allowed?
No weapons of any kind are permitted aboard.
Are children allowed?
Yes — all ages welcome. Children count toward the 13-guest limit and child life jackets are provided; tell us ages when booking.
Are pets allowed?
Small, well-behaved dogs are considered case by case — ask before booking.
Is there a cleaning fee?
Normal use is covered. Excessive mess (confetti, spilled food ground into upholstery, sickness) may incur a cleaning charge against the deposit or card on file.
What should we not bring?
Glass, confetti/glitter, weapons, illegal substances, and red wine or dark liquids that stain white upholstery. Spray sunscreen stains decks — lotion is better.