Bareboat Charters
What options are available when you have over 6 passengers?
If you would like to have a private tour, we can help you coordinate a "Bareboat" charter. It's more complicated because you have to book a qualified rental boat rated for at least the number of passengers expected. You then have the option of hiring your crew, including your Captain. Please note that the "Charterer" is considered the owner during the rental or lease.
A charterer takes on the legal obligations of the vessel and is responsible passengers
The charterer selects and pays the crew (Captain)
All on-board food, drink and fuel is provided by the charterer
Insurance is obtained by the charterer
The charterer remains responsible for safe navigation
The vessel is surveyed (inspected) when returned to the owner
A deposit is required for the rental of the vessel as determined by the owner
How much does it cost?
The vessel must be USCG approved for the number of passengers so the cost varies. For example, a 25 foot boat might cost $500 and hold 10 people. A 27 foot yacht certified boat might cost $700 and accommodate 12 passengers comfortably.
In addition to the boat, the charterer is responsible for fuel. On a 25 foot boat, the fuel may cost $150-$200 for 5-6 hours. The 27 foot yacht might cost $200-$300 for 5-6 hours. Any additional cost for food and drink is the responsibility of the charterer (and cannot be provided by the Captain).
Most Captains charge around $70/hour so a 5-6 hour charter will cost $350-$420. Taking the minimum of these charges results in: $500 for the vessel, $150 for fuel, and $350 for the Captain for a total of $1000 for a 5 hour tour with under 10 people. Clearly, the more passengers, the larger the vessel required, and the more fuel consumed.
Next Steps:
Captain Paul can help you coordinate the rental of the most appropriate boat. This might be a pontoon, a center console, a deck boat or a 27 foot yacht depending on availability and requirements. Weekends during March and April are nearly impossible. Same with major holidays.
To pursue this further, please contact Captain Paul at: 847-651-0535 (cell), or email: pdmadalin@gmail.com