FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Power Boat Charters
Q:
How many people can you take on board?
A:
We are licensed by the Local Authority (New Forest District Council) to carry up to 10 passengers plus 2 crew.
Q:
How far can you take us?
A:
We are licensed to operate with paying passengers in the Solent between the Needles to the West and Nab Tower to the East. This means that we can take you
anywhere between Lymington and Portsmouth on the mainland coast and anywhere on the northern coast of the Isle of Wight. See our Charters page for
some suggested itineraries.
Q:
Where do we get picked up?
A:
We are based in Lymington Yacht Haven where there is unlimited free parking. If you are visiting without a car we can arrange complimentary pick up
from local accommodation. We can also pick you up from Ocean Village in Southampton, Gunwharf Keys in Portsmouth, or
any of the other places shown on our Charters page.
Q:
What facilities are there on board?
A:
There are onboard heads (toilets), and sufficient space below decks to change clothes if you want to go swimming. There is a shower on the
bathing platform so you can wash off after swimming. There is a small dining table if you want
to picnic but we are not licenced to provide you with food.
Q:
How much will a charter cost?
A:
That will depend on where and when you want to go. We always aim to be competitive compared to similar boats and routes, and you will save money by booking
direct with us rather than through an agency. Call us on 07831 488566 or email info@powerboatcharters.co.uk to discuss the options.
Q:
What's included in the package?
A:
Boat hire, fuel, crew costs, and mooring at all destinations in the itinerary. Soft drinks are provided but no other refreshments are included
because we are not licensed to serve food or alcohol on board. You are allowed
to bring your own food which may be consumed on board at the discretion of the skipper.
Q:
When do we need to book and pay?
A:
Advance booking is always required, usually at least 3 days before the charter. We will ask for a deposit of 20% to secure the booking, which may be
paid by credit card. Full payment will be required to have cleared the day before the charter. In the event that we are unable to
sail due to the weather, we will refund you in full or offer you an alternative date.
Q:
What should we wear?
A:
Always wear deck shoes or other suitable footwear with high-grip, light-coloured non-marking soles. If the weather is fine, come prepared with
sunscreen and sufficient clothing to avoid getting sunburn. The breeze on board a power boat at thirty plus knots
may keep you cool but you will still burn if the weather is sunny. If there is any risk of rain, please bring wet weather gear as there is
likely to be some spray around the open rear of the cockpit. For your own safety, we reserve the right to refuse to sail with any passengers who are not suitable dressed.
We will provide life jackets which you will be expected to wear at all times, but the rest is up to you.
What if the weather is bad?
A:
There's always some spray around a high speed boat in the rain, so you should come prepared with wet weather gear just in case. Passenger safety is
always uppermost in our minds, so if the weather is rough we reserve the right to alter the itinerary to stay in calmer waters.
Q:
Can we bring young children with us?
A:
Yes, but we would advise against bringing children under the age of 3 unless you are sure they will cope happily with being at sea.
Q:
Can we drive the boat?
A:
Sorry, no, our operating license does not permit us to allow the boat to be driven by unqualified people at any time when there are paying passengers on board.
Terms and Conditions
- The skipper's decision in all matters is final. Not only is he an experienced seaman who knows the area, he is legally responsible for your safety. Please respect this.
- Please wear low heeled shoes with soft high-grip non-marking soles.
- Whilst we try to ensure that your charter goes according to plan, we have no control over the weather and we reserve the right to change or postpone any pre-agreed itinerary if the weather conditions in the opinion of the skipper make that route unsafe
- We reserve the right to refuse to carry any passenger who in the opinion of the skipper is inappropriately dressed for the conditions, intoxicated, or whose safety is likely to be at risk for any other reason.
- A deposit of 20% must be paid at the time of booking. This will not be refunded if you have to cancel the charter for any reason. If we have to cancel for any reason such as weather and you are unable to accept any of our proposed alternative dates, then you will receive a full refund including the initial deposit
- Full payment must have cleared into our bank account on the day before the charter
- If the weather on the day of the charter makes sailing unsafe in the opinion of the Skipper, we will offer you an alternative date or a full refund at our discretion
- In the event that we have to cancel or are unable to sail for any reason whether of our making or beyond our control, our liability will be limited to the cost of the payments you have made to us