Deb Elli

Yes — every boat on charter.boats is insured by its operator; we require it. The policy covers the vessel for fire, collision and third-party liability. You're only responsible for damage it doesn't cover, and that's capped at the security deposit. Operator terms: Owner provides comprehensive insurance covering damage to boat, accessories, total theft, hijacking, partial theft, and engine. Insurance also covers civil liability for third party claims.

Requirements vary by state and operator; no national sailing licence exists, so charter companies rely on a detailed sailing résumé (some states require a boater education card).

In the Caribbean, the Seychelles and Polynesia, night sailing is strictly forbidden unless we give you a special written waiver. Please ask us in advance if your plans involve sailing after dark in these areas.

Yes. We may decline to hand over the boat if the skipper or crew don't appear to have enough competence, regardless of any certificates shown. If that happens you can either pay for a professional skipper or cancel, so it's best to be honest about your experience when booking.

The boat is for pleasure sailing only. Commercial use, professional fishing, transport, regattas, and subletting or lending the boat are all prohibited, and you agree to carry only the authorised number of people on board.

For serious damage such as dismasting, leaking or fire, contact us and the insurance broker urgently and wait for instructions. For minor wear-and-tear repairs you can act on your own up to 10% of the security deposit and we'll reimburse you on return with the invoice, but anything larger needs our approval first.

Please return the boat and its equipment clean and in good working order at the agreed port. The cleaning and inventory check are part of your rental period, and if the boat isn't returned properly cleaned the cleaning cost will be charged to you.

Varies widely by region; the Florida Keys and Caribbean coast run year-round, while New England and the Pacific Northwest peak June–September.