• Over the years the term “bareboat” has become commonly used within the industry to describe turning a boat over to a charter party without a captain or crew.  In fact, today the term is not even referenced in the United States Coast Guard regulations.  The USCG merely addresses charters “with crew provided” or “without crew”.  Blue Lagoon Charters uses the term bareboat to connote “without crew”.There are volumes of overlapping and somewhat ambiguous regulations governing crewed and bareboat charters but it all really boils down to one essential issue:  Who has operational control and responsibility for the vessel?
  • Crewed Charter:  We have operational control and are responsible for the overall operation of the vessel.  Regulations allow us to carry 6 passengers maximum,  plus crew.
  • Bareboat Charter:  You have operational control and are responsible for the overall operation of the vessel. Regulations allow you to carry 12 passengers total including any crew you choose to bring along.  Passengers include infants.

Can I take a Captain along on a Bareboat Charter?

• Sure you can. In fact, that is one of the ways to accomplish the bareboat qualifications required by us. The captain you choose must have completed our training and qualification program and will be your employee for the duration of the charter. However, the captain is licensed and therefore will not knowingly allow any illegal or unsafe operation of the vessel.

Who is responsible for the operation of the vessel?

• On a bareboat charter you are responsible. You can greatly ensure that responsibility by requesting a qualified captain to assist you during the charter, but ultimately you are responsible.
  On a crewed charter we are responsible.

Are there any restrictions to navigation areas?

• Depending on your experience and our knowledge of your abilities you may have restrictions to certain navigation areas and weather conditions.

Do I need a license to charter bareboat?

• No you don’t need a license to operate a bareboat charter. However, you may not conduct any commercial activities or operations which would be contrary to maritime law.

Is there a Charter Agreement?

• Yes there is a written charter agreement specific to the type of charter you are booking. You will find online copies of the appropriate charter documents in the “Book Now!” section of this website.

What kind of attire do you suggest?

• Footwear: Deck shoes or white soled shoes.
• Casual attire: Appropriate for the time of year. Keep in mind that we have several climate controlled areas onboard which will mitigate any overly hot or cold conditions.
• Evening dining ashore: You may want to bring some more fashionable attire for any shore-side excursions or evening dining you may plan.
• Sun exposure: An ample supply of sun-block is good insurance for an enjoyable day on the water. Don’t forget good sun glasses and broad brimmed hat.
• Swim wear and beach towels:

What do you supply?

• Fuel
• Water
• Cooler with ice
• Clean bed linens and pillows
• Clean towels provided for showers (bring your own beach towels)
• Cleaning supplies
• Dishes, plates and flatware for up to 12 persons
• Life preservers for up to 12 persons including 2 children
• Cutlery and corkscrew
• * Shower soap, shampoo, conditioners and blow dryers are not provided.
   

What about weather cancellations?

• We reserve the right to cancel or terminate a charter due to potentially hazardous weather conditions. In the event the entire charter is cancelled, your entire charter fee and deposits will be refunded in full. If the charter is terminated, a pro-ration of the unused duration of the charter will be refunded.

What if I cancel for another reason?

• If you must cancel, ALL MONIES WILL BE FORFEITED unless the vessel is re-booked for the original dates. Your Refund will be pro-rated according to dates re-booked less 25% cancellation fee.
  If Blue Lagoon Charters must cancel then ALL MONIES WILL BE REFUNDED IN FULL.
  Cancellations must be made by FAX or registered mail.
   

Do you do birthdays?

• Yes we do birthdays. We recommend age 25 and over as a suitable age for an on-the-water birthday celebration. There are many other venues better configured and equipped to handle birthdays for ages under 25.