Yacht Charter Policy

Comprehensive Guidelines for Safe and Enjoyable Yacht Charters

Yacht Charter Policy

Effective Date: April 25, 2024

Welcome to The Cruiser Group LLC. Our Yacht Charter Policy establishes the framework under which we, alongside our esteemed vendors, offer yacht charter and rental services. This policy ensures that all parties—renters, owners, and The Cruiser Group LLC—engage in a safe, compliant, and enjoyable maritime experience.

1. Charter Definitions

  • Bareboat Rental: The renter assumes full possession, control, and responsibility for the yacht during the charter period, acting as its temporary owner.

  • Captained Charter: The yacht is provided with a captain responsible for navigation and operation, ensuring compliance with maritime laws and safety regulations.

2. Usage Policies

Number of Passengers

  • United States: As per the US Coast Guard regulations, all privately owned boats and yachts for charter in the United States are limited to a maximum capacity of TWELVE (12) passengers plus crew. The regulation issued is named the Passenger Vessel Safety Act of 1993. We cannot accept more than TWELVE (12) passengers on board, no matter the size of the vessel or the age of the passenger. In other words, any passengers such as an adult or child count toward the TWELVE (12) passenger limitation.

  • International Waters: For charters operating outside of the USA, the international maritime law applies. According to these regulations, any yacht carrying more than 12 passengers, regardless of its status as a charter or otherwise, will be classified as a “passenger transportation ship” and must adhere to the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) convention laws set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This means that vessels intending to carry more than 12 passengers in international waters must be equipped and operated in compliance with these stringent safety and operational standards to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers aboard.Number of Passengers:

Safety and Compliance:

  • Management and Captain reserve the right to refuse admittance to, or eject from the premises, any persons failing to comply with any safety regulations or terms of the contract. Additionally, Boat Cruiser, its staff, Captain, or any other crew member on board of each vessel or office reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who is hostile, aggressive, obnoxious, and/or intoxicated. If service is refused prior to your trip or during your trip, all money paid will be forfeited, and a refund will not be honored.

3. Vessel Damages

Financial Liability

  • Charterer Responsibility: Charterers are financially responsible for any damages to the yacht that occur due to abuse, misuse, or neglect during the charter period. This responsibility includes costs related to repairing the yacht to its original condition as well as any potential loss of use charges while the yacht is undergoing repairs.

  • Security Deposit: A security deposit may be required at the start of the charter, held to cover potential damages or breaches of the charter agreement. The deposit amount, conditions for retention, and return procedures will be clearly outlined in the charter contract.

Inspection Process

  • Pre-Charter Inspection: Before the charter begins, the charterer, along with a representative from The Cruiser Group LLC or the vendor, will conduct a detailed walkthrough of the yacht. This inspection includes checking the structural integrity, operational equipment, and overall appearance. Any existing damage or concerns are documented in a pre-charter report, which is signed by both parties to acknowledge the condition of the yacht at the time of handover.

  • Post-Charter Inspection: Similarly, a comprehensive inspection is conducted upon the return of the yacht. This post-charter inspection aims to identify any new damages or changes in the yacht’s condition that occurred during the charter period. The same areas inspected pre-charter are reviewed again, and any discrepancies are noted in a post-charter damage report.

  • Damage Assessment and Charges: If new damages are identified during the post-charter inspection, the charterer will be provided with a detailed report along with an estimate of repair costs. Photographs and descriptions will be included to substantiate the findings. The charterer will have the opportunity to review the damages and the estimated costs before charges are finalized.

  • Resolution of Discrepancies: In cases where the charterer disputes the damage claims, a predetermined dispute resolution process will be followed. This may involve third-party assessments, additional inspections, or mediation to ensure a fair resolution. The specific steps and options available will be detailed in the charter agreement to ensure transparency.

Documentation and Communication

  • Clear Documentation: All inspections and findings will be thoroughly documented, and copies will be provided to the charterer at each stage—pre-charter, post-charter, and for any damage assessments.

  • Effective Communication: Open communication channels will be maintained throughout the charter period and during any damage assessment processes. The Cruiser Group LLC or the vendor will provide contact information for inquiries and dispute resolution related to yacht damages.

4. Prohibited Activities

Zero Tolerance Policy

  • Illegal Activities: Engaging in illegal activities, such as the use of illegal drugs, smuggling, or participating in human trafficking, is strictly prohibited aboard any of our chartered yachts. Additionally, activities such as swimming or jumping from the yacht while underway, using fireworks, or holding unapproved parties that could jeopardize safety or violate maritime regulations are not allowed.

  • Behavioral Standards: All guests and crew must adhere to high standards of behavior. This includes respecting maritime laws, adhering to safety guidelines, and maintaining respectful interactions without causing disturbances or engaging in violence.

Consequences of Violations

  • Immediate Termination: Any breach of these rules will result in the immediate termination of the charter without refund. The charterer will be responsible for any legal issues resulting from the violation and may be required to disembark at the nearest port.

  • Legal Action: The Cruiser Group LLC or the respective vendor reserves the right to take legal action against individuals who violate these prohibitions. This may include coordination with local maritime authorities and law enforcement to address the violation effectively. In cases involving illegal substances or activities, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement to ensure that all pertinent laws are enforced.

  • Forfeiture of Payments and Additional Charges: Alongside the immediate termination of services, the charterer will forfeit all payments made for the charter. Additional charges may be applied to cover any damages or legal fees incurred due to the violation.

Reporting Mechanisms

  • Immediate Reporting: Incidents or suspicions of prohibited activities should be reported immediately to the yacht captain or management. Each yacht is equipped with communication tools that can be used to report such incidents discreetly and directly to the appropriate authorities or back to The Cruiser Group LLC’s main office.

  • Documentation of Incidents: Crew members are trained to document any incidents thoroughly, including taking photographs or videos when possible, and to gather eyewitness accounts to support any necessary legal proceedings. This documentation will help ensure that all facts are presented accurately during any investigation.

  • Support for Crew and Guests: The Cruiser Group LLC is committed to supporting crew members and guests who report prohibited activities. Measures are in place to protect the identity and safety of individuals who come forward with information regarding violations of this policy.

Preventative Measures

  • Pre-Charter Briefing: At the start of each charter, all guests will participate in a mandatory briefing that covers the Zero Tolerance Policy in detail. This briefing will outline acceptable and prohibited behaviors and the consequences of policy violations.

  • Information: Clear explanation will be given prior to charter start on the yacht to all guests, and informational outlining prohibited activities and safety guidelines will be provided to the primary charterer in writing on the contract. Some yachts will have clear signage on display in the yacht. This ensures that all onboard are aware of the rules and their importance. It is also the responsibility of the primary charterer on the contract to insure that all guests are aware of the rules and policies in place. If the charterer or guests have any questions regarding allowed or prohibited activities, they are instructed to ask the crew prior to boarding the yacht.

5. Cancellation and Weather Policies

General Cancellation Policy

  • Standard Procedure: To initiate a cancellation, customers must contact The Cruiser Group LLC and the direct vendor, despite who manages the booking. Communication should ideally be through the channels provided at the time of booking confirmation—email, and phone.

  • Vendor-Specific Policies: Since each vendor may have their own cancellation terms, customers are strongly encouraged to review the specific cancellation policy related to their booking. These details are provided on the individual contract from the vendor or The Cruiser Group LLC.

Time-Sensitive Cancellations

  • 7-Day Rule: Generally, cancellations made at least 7 days before the charter’s start time can avoid penalties from The Cruiser Group LLC. However, specific vendor policies may vary, and earlier notification requirements or different penalties may apply.

  • Late Cancellations: If cancellations are made within 7 days of the charter start, customers may incur a cancellation fee as dictated by the specific vendor’s policy or The Cruiser Group LLC’s policy. This could range from a charge of one day’s rental to the full cost of the charter.

Weather-Related Cancellations

  • General vs. Severe Weather: Cancellations due to general weather conditions that do not pose a safety risk typically do not qualify for a refund. However, severe weather conditions that lead to cancellations will be handled as per the vendor’s specific weather-related policy.

  • Named Storms and Extreme Conditions: Should severe weather such as a named storm threaten safety, The Cruiser Group LLC and the respective vendors will follow their safety-first policy to either reschedule at no additional cost or offer refunds as appropriate.

Decision-Making and Notifications

  • Authority on Decisions: Weather-related cancellation decisions are made based on real-time weather updates from reliable sources and in consultation with each vendor. The Cruiser Group LLC facilitates communication between the vendor and the customer.

  • Advance Notice: Efforts are made to provide customers with as much notice as possible, with the aim to inform about weather-related cancellations at least 24 hours in advance. In certain circumstances an advanced notice may not possible, and will not hold The Cruiser Group LLC or its vendors responsible for failure to notification of cancellation. 

Rescheduling and Refunds

  • Flexibility in Rescheduling: Customers impacted by cancellations have the option to reschedule based on availability. Each vendor’s specific rescheduling policy will apply.

  • Refund Processing: Refunds approved due to cancellation are processed according to the terms set out by the vendor, typically within 7-10 business days back to the original payment method.

6. Charterer’s Responsibilities

  • General Accountability: Charterers are fully responsible for the conduct and safety of themselves and their guests aboard the yacht during the charter period. They must ensure that all activities comply with maritime laws and the specific rules set forth by The Cruiser Group LLC and the respective vendor.

Key Responsibilities Include:

  • Adherence to Passenger Limits: Charterers must strictly adhere to the passenger limits as outlined in the usage policies. Overloading the yacht beyond its certified capacity is not only a violation of safety regulations but can also lead to severe penalties and immediate termination of the charter.

  • Behavior Management: Charterers are expected to manage their behavior and that of their guests. This includes preventing any actions that could be hazardous or disruptive to the safety and enjoyment of the experience. Activities that could undermine the safety of the yacht or its passengers, such as irresponsible alcohol consumption or unsafe deck activities, should be strictly monitored and controlled.

  • Navigational Compliance: For bareboat charters, the charterer, acting as captain, is responsible for navigating the yacht within the agreed-upon areas and avoiding any restricted zones. Compliance with maritime traffic laws and regulations is mandatory.

  • Environmental Responsibility: Charterers must ensure that all onboard adhere to environmental guidelines, such as proper disposal of waste, avoiding disturbance to marine life, and adhering to no-anchor zones to protect underwater ecosystems.

Damage and Incident Reporting:

  • Immediate Reporting: Any incidents or damages incurred during the charter must be reported to The Cruiser Group LLC or the vendor immediately. This includes, but is not limited to, equipment failure, accidents, and breaches of safety or environmental regulations.

  • Documentation: Charterers should document the incident with photographs or videos if possible and provide a written account of what occurred, including details of any actions taken at the time of the incident.

End of Charter:

  • Inspection Cooperation: At the end of the charter, the charterer must cooperate fully during the post-charter inspection. This includes providing access to all areas of the yacht and assisting in the inventory check to ensure all items are accounted for and undamaged.

  • Settlement of Disputes: Should there be disputes over damages or compliance with the charter agreement, the charterer is expected to engage constructively in the dispute resolution process provided by The Cruiser Group LLC or the vendor.

7. Vendor and The Cruiser Group LLC Roles

  • Clarification of Services: Distinguishes the roles and responsibilities between The Cruiser Group LLC and third-party vendors, including different terms and conditions that may apply based on the vendor’s policies.

8. Training and Safety Briefing

  • Mandatory Briefings: Detailed explanations of safety procedures and yacht operations are provided to all renters and guests at the start of the charter.

9. Communication Equipment and Procedures

  • Emergency Protocols: Renters are instructed on the use of communication equipment for emergencies, including contact numbers and operational use.

10. Navigation Limits and Restrictions

  • Geographical Boundaries: Specific areas where the yacht may or may not travel are clearly defined to prevent any unauthorized excursions that could violate maritime laws or insurance terms.

11. Environmental Policies

  • Sustainability Practices: Renters are encouraged to follow practices that protect the marine environment, including proper disposal of waste and careful interaction with marine life.

12. Equipment and Inventory Checklist

  • Pre-charter Checklist: A comprehensive checklist to ensure all necessary equipment is on board and functional, verified by both the renter and the captain or a representative.

13. Insurance Documentation Requirements

  • Proof of Coverage: Requirements for renters to provide proof of adequate insurance coverage, especially for Bareboat Rentals.

14. Policy Updates

  • Notification of Changes: Procedures for how policy updates are communicated to past and future renters, ensuring ongoing compliance and awareness.

15. Acceptance

Your understanding and acceptance to our Yacht Charter Terms are greatly appreciated and are to be considered accepted when using or booking with The Cruiser Group.