FAQ

• How can I make a reservation? To make a reservation, please navigate to the “Book Now” link located at the top of our website.
• Is a deposit required for booking? Yes, a 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking. This deposit is non-refundable because booking your selected date and time prevents us from scheduling other clients for that slot.
• What happens in the case of inclement weather? In the event of inclement weather, we will strive to reschedule your charter to another available date. Please note, once the charter has departed, all fees are non-refundable. As detailed in the contract, the commitment of the boat, captain’s services, fuel, and additional resources to your charter is finalized upon departure.
• What conditions are considered safe for chartering? The safety of our guests is paramount. Conditions considered unsafe for chartering include, but are not limited to, heavy storms, small craft advisory warnings, gale force winds, and significant wave heights. Conditions such as light rain, passing storms, and cooler temperatures are generally considered safe. Should conditions be deemed unsafe, we will collaborate with you to postpone or reschedule your charter, offering a rescheduling credit valid for one year on a charter of equal or lesser value.
• What is included in the charter price? The charter price includes the use of the vessel for up to 12 passengers and fuel. Additional amenities, such as ice, water, lily pads, or beverage packages, can be selected at the time of booking.
• Is it necessary to book a captain? Upon booking, A Boat Life LLC will provide a list of approved captains familiar with our vessels. Charterers may also choose to provide their own certified captain. Please be aware that captains operate as independent contractors, not employees of A Boat Life LLC, and you are responsible for any damages incurred during your charter.
• Do I need insurance? Our bookings do not automatically include passenger insurance. Renters and their guests assume full responsibility for their safety and adherence to local regulations. Insurance can be added to your charter upon request.
• What are the fees for captains and gratuities? Captains’ fees range from $125 to $150 per hour, excluding gratuity. A customary gratuity of 15-20% of the total charter price is recommended, which can be directly given to your captain.
• When will I be charged for the charter? A 25% deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due 2 weeks before the departure date.
• Is there a fee for damages? A pre-authorization hold of $500 is placed for potential damages. This hold is released if the vessel is returned without damage. Should damages exceed $500, you will be responsible for the additional costs.
• What is the maximum capacity on the boat? The boat has a maximum capacity of 12 passengers, plus a captain and deckhand.
• What types of payment do you accept? We accept all major credit cards, cash, and Zelle.
• Are minors allowed on board? Minors are permitted onboard with a Coast Guard-approved life vest. It is recommended not to exceed more than two minors per adult for safety reasons.
• How old must I be to rent the vessel? The primary charterer must be at least 21 to rent the vessel.

Location and Facilities

• Where are you docked? We are located at 3155 S Lake Shore Drive.
• Are there life vests onboard? Yes, we provide a life vest for every adult passenger onboard
• Is there a bathroom on board? Yes, our vessels are equipped with bathrooms. Please note that only marine-safe materials can be flushed. Feminine products, even those labeled as flushable, are not permitted to be flushed.
• Is parking available? Parking is available at the pier, as well as in a metered lot west of Lake Shore Drive.

Charter Details

• What if my group is late? Your charter has a designated start and end time. We cannot extend your charter time if your group is late.
• Can I smoke onboard? Smoking is not permitted onboard.
• Can we play our own music? Absolutely, our vessel is equipped with a Bluetooth speaker system. Feel free to be your own DJ.
• Can we bring food and beverages? Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages.
• Do you supply motion sickness medication? We do not provide or administer medication. If taking motion sickness medication like Dramamine, we strongly recommend abstaining from alcohol consumption due to potential intensified side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
• Is there a cooler on board? Yes, a cooler is available onboard for your use.
• Can we get in the water? Yes, this is at the discretion of your captain and would typically depend on safety and local regulations.
• What if we want to stay out longer? If you wish to extend your charter and we have availability, an additional fee will be assessed.

Post-Sailing

• Is it my responsibility to clean the boat? Yes, it is your responsibility to leave the vessel in the condition you found it. If you have booked a cleanup service, we will take care of it for you.
• What happens to my damage deposit? We will release the damage security hold on your credit card after a vessel inspection confirms no damages.
• How do I leave a review?
• What if I forgot something onboard? Please contact us as soon as possible if you’ve left something behind. While we are not responsible for lost or stolen items, we will make every effort to return your belongings.