Frequently Asked Questions for Chicago’s Most Complete Yacht Charter & Party Boat Experience

Question 1

Is a captain included in the charter price?

Accepted Answer

No. The charter rate covers the vessel only. A captain and any crew are booked and paid separately. But we make that easy for you!

Question 2

Why do I have to book the captain separately?

Accepted Answer

U.S. Coast Guard regulations require that the captain be hired directly by the charterer, not provided by the boat owner. This ensures the captain works for you and keeps the charter legally compliant.
To make this easy, the boat owner provides a pre-vetted list of USCG-licensed Master Captains who are familiar with the vessel. You choose your captain and coordinate with them directly.

Question 3

Do you need to hire a licensed captain?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A USCG-licensed Master Captain is required for all charters. Recreational boating certificates or basic boating licenses do not qualify someone to operate a paid charter.

Question 4

How much does the captain cost?

Accepted Answer

In the Chicago market, Master Captains typically charge $125 to $150 per hour, depending on experience and vessel size.
Any Boats over 50 feet require a Mate/Stew and their rate is typically $50 per hour.

Question 5

How is the captain paid?

Accepted Answer

Captain and crew fees are paid directly to the captain, separate from the boat rental. Most captains accept Venmo, Zelle, cash, and CashApp

Question 6

Is gratuity required?

Accepted Answer

Gratuity is optional but customary. Industry standard is 15–20% of the total charter experience, provided directly to the captain and shared with crew.

Question 7

Are fuel and cleaning fees included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Fuel and standard cleaning are included in the hourly charter rate.

Question 8

How many guests are allowed?

Accepted Answer

Charters are limited to 13 total passengers including the Charter Renter, which means no more than 12 guests plus the charterer.

Question 9

Are there age restrictions for alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All guests must be 21 or older to consume alcohol.

Question 10

What paperwork is required?

Accepted Answer

A Liability Charter Agreement must be signed by the Charterer before departure.
All Guest will be required to sign a waiver once on board.

Question 11

Is swimming allowed?

Accepted Answer

Swimming is permitted under approved conditions. There is no lifeguard on duty, and swimming is at your own risk with a signed waiver.

Question 12

What food and drinks can we bring?

Accepted Answer

You may bring your own food and beverages.
Red wine, colored juices, and staining foods are to be avoided, as they can permanently damage the vessel and result in liability.

Question 13

Who is responsible for damages?

Accepted Answer

The charterer is financially responsible for any damage to the vessel during the charter.

Question 14

What is your weather policy?

Accepted Answer

If weather conditions are deemed unsafe on the day of your charter, you may reschedule at no charge or receive a full refund.
Unsafe conditions may include heavy storms, forecasted waves over 4 feet, Small Craft Advisories, gale warnings, or strong winds. Light rain and passing showers are typically considered safe. Final weather decisions are made on the day of the charter.

Question 15

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

•	Free cancellation up to 7 days prior
•	50% refund for cancellations 3–6 days prior
•	No refunds within 72 hours of departure

Question 16

What’s included with the charter?

Accepted Answer

•	Full use of the yacht
•	Fuel
•	Bluetooth sound system
•	Cooler and/or refrigerator
•	Ice
•	Full onboard bathroom
•	Complimentary bottled water

Question 17

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

•	Food and drinks (no red wine)
•	Seasickness medication (take 1 hour before departure)
•	Towels (if swimming)
•	Sunglasses, hats, soft-soled shoes
•	Sunscreen (bring extra)
•	Phone charger
•	Music playlists (Bluetooth enabled)

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