Frequently Asked Questions for Cruise in Style on The Ark 52-Foot Luxury Yacht Private Charter in Miami

Question 1

How does renting a boat with Good Times Charters work?

Accepted Answer

Good Times Charters is a booking platform that puts you in contact with a carefully vetted network of boat owners and captains. The boats we advertise live up to our high standards in terms of reliability, hygiene and safety. We do the work, so you don’t have to.

Once deposit is paid, the boat is booked and assigned to you on the date/time slot you selected. You will automatically receive confirmation from Good Times Charters and instructions for the day of the charter. A few days before the charter, you will be asked by the owner of the boat to review and sign a bareboat charter agreement and select the crew from our network. A bareboat charter is essentially a boat rental agreement where the renter has full control and responsibility for operating the vessel, including navigation and crew management.

Question 2

Will I need to pay anything additional the day of the charter?

Accepted Answer

In addition to paying the balance for your charter, most owners require a fully refundable security deposit/hold on a credit card. The amount usually depends on the size of the boat. The bigger the boat, the more expensive it gets to replace something that breaks. This amount will be communicated to you as part of the contract.

Tip for the crew is encouraged, 10% to 15% is suggested but not enforced.

Question 3

Is my charter insured?

Accepted Answer

All our boats have bareboat charter insurance from start to finish, giving you peace of mind. Additionally, you can always buy additional insurance through here: https://www.buoy.rent.

Question 4

Do I need to have experience to book?

Accepted Answer

All our rentals require you to hire a captain as part of your bareboat charter agreement, the cost to hire a captain and mate is already computed into the charter price. Hiring an experienced crew will give you piece of mind, and you don’t need previous experience operating a marine vessel. Good Times Charters puts you in contact with the best network of captains and mates in Miami.

Question 5

Are the boats equipped with safety equipment such as life jackets?

Accepted Answer

All our boats have a current certification by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission which means they are equipped with enough Personal Flotation Devices for both adults and children, Fire Extinguishers, Visual Distress Signal, Sound-producing Device, Lighting and all the other requirements depending on the boat size. They are also equipped with a first aid kit.

Question 6

What happens if I need to cancel/change my reservation?

Accepted Answer

Deposit and Reservation: Once a deposit is made, the chosen vessel’s time slot is reserved.
Refunds: Refunds are only issued if the captain deems it unsafe to depart. Light winds or rain are not grounds for cancellation.
Forfeited Deposit: If you choose not to board, the deposit is forfeited and used to cover employee expenses (Captain and Deckhands).
Rescheduling Option: If cancellation is made within 24 hours of the initial reservation, a refund may be possible. If made on the same day, the deposit will not be refunded.
Cancellation Timeframe: If canceled after the 24-hour period but up to 4 days before the departure date, the deposit is not lost but can be used for rescheduling within 1 year or transferred to a friend or family member for a future booking.
Late Cancellation: If you cancel within 4 days of the departure date, the deposit is forfeited and covers the owner’s losses.

Question 7

Can I change the route or destination of the boat during my charter?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, you can choose where to cruise given you have enough time to come back to port by the time your charter ends.

Question 8

What should I do if I have an emergency while on the boat?

Accepted Answer

Stay calm and assess the situation.
Listen to the instructions from the captain and crew.
Notify authorities immediately.
Follow safety protocols and use available equipment.
Attend to injuries and administer first aid if needed.
Communicate clearly with passengers.
Stay visible using lights, flares, or distress signals.
Stay on board if possible and wait for help.
Listen to the radio for updates and instructions.

Question 9

Do you offer any training or instruction for first-time renters?

Accepted Answer

Instructions and boat rules will be on the contract provided by the owner. The captain will remind you of these the day of the charter before you depart. He will also fill you in with all the safety instructions, so you and your guests are safe during the rental.

Question 10

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Accepted Answer

All the boats are stocked with fresh ice, water and soft drinks for every rental. You are encouraged to bring the food and alcoholic beverages of your choice. We can also put you in contact with local catering companies. Please drink responsibly, remember, safety first.

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