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Catamaran boat charter Q & A 

What if we cancel?

you may cancel their charter up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled trip time. Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, less a 4% credit card processing fee.

What happens if the weather looks bad?

you may cancel their charter up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled trip time. Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, less a 4% credit card processing fee.

Can you drop us off at a restaurant or different dock?

Of course. As long as the dock is approved and big enough to dock our boats. However, The rent time counts until the boat is back at the marina

Can you pick us up at our dock?

Pick-up from a private home or dock may be possible, depending on the location and dock conditions. Please note that the time required to bring the boat from our base at Bahia Mar to your dock, and back to the marina after the charter, counts toward your charter time.

For safety and maneuverability, the dock must provide at least 80 feet of linear dock space and be located on a canal that is at least 100 feet wide. All private pick-ups are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and should be arranged in advance with our team and the captain.

Is parking available?

Parking is available at Bahia Mar Marina, where most charters depart. The marina offers onsite paid parking within a short walking distance of the docks. Please note that parking is managed entirely by Hilton Hotels, and all rates and payment are handled directly by them; we do not manage, control, or receive any portion of the parking fees.

We recommend arriving 15–20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow time for parking and boarding.

If you are being picked up from a private dock or residence, parking availability will depend on the specific location and must be arranged directly with the property owner.

Where do we board the boat?

Clients may cancel their charter up to 24 hours before the scheduled trip time. Cancellations made prior to this window will receive a full refund, minus a 4% credit card processing fee.

Can we smoke onboard?

Smoking Policy:
Smoking of any kind is strictly prohibited anywhere on the vessel. This includes cigarettes, cigars, electronic cigarettes, vapes, or any device that produces smoke or vapor.

No smoking or vaping is permitted inside the cabins or in any interior area of the boat under any circumstances.

How long before the trip should we arrive?

15 minutes before the charter

How much is the tip? Is gratuity mandatory?

A 15–20% tip based on the total booking is customary, similar to a restaurant. Tips go directly to the crew .
Gratuity is optional for groups of up to 9 guests. For parties of 10 guests or more, an 18% gratuity is mandatory and will be automatically added.

Is there an extra deposit if we want to cook?

Yes. Use of the grill or oven requires an additional $500 deposit. The grill and boat must be returned clean or the deposit will be kept.

Can we cook onboard?

Cooking is allowed only when the boat is stopped. Cooking while moving is not allowed. Cooking fish is not permitted. The grill gets extremely hot and is in a high-traffic area. For most groups, wraps and ready-to-eat food are the easiest option.

What food and drinks are included on the boat?

The boat comes with a cooler, refrigerator, and freezer. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks, and even an extra cooler if needed—just remember to bring ice.

What's a classic itinerary?

As this is a boat rental we don't have an itinerary, take this as a suggestion for a decision you make. This is your boat , your time.
You may leave from our dock in Fort Lauderdale and usually head south toward Port Everglades via the Intracoastal Waterway. Along the way, you'll pass under the 17th St. Bridge, which opens for us and offer incredible photo ops.

Cruising through Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, you'll enjoy amazing views of waterfront mansions, mega-yachts, and the city’s iconic skyline. After passing the 17th Street Bridge, you enter Port Everglades, where we often share the water with cruise ships and massive cargo vessels.

If the ocean is calm (waves under 2 feet), we’ll head out into the Atlantic, raise the sails, and enjoy open-sea freedom. We can even anchor off the beach for a swim, sunbathe on the trampolines, or enjoy lunch or an early dinner on the water—an unforgettable experience.

Prefer a more relaxed route? We can cruise Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways, pass the famous Millionaire’s Mile, stop for a swim at Sunrise Key, and just enjoy the ride.

Depending on the time of your trip, as we sail back to the dock, we’ll glide through Fort Lauderdale’s golden hour—that magical time when everything is bathed in warm light. It’s the perfect moment for photos, toasts, or simply soaking in the beauty of the day.

Can We Captain the boat?

We appreciate your experience, but for insurance and safety reasons we can only rent the boat to passengers who hire a captain from our vetted list. All of our captains are USCG licensed and have gone through our insurance approval process. Usually, that means starting with us as a mate before being cleared as a captain. It’s not a matter of skill—it’s about compliance and liability

Can We decorate the boat?

Unless it's an all-day charter. we can't do any decoration pre charter because the boat will be on another charter before yours, that said, as long as it removable and you remove it when you leave, once you’re on board, you’re free to decorate as you like, as long as it’s cleaned afterward (or a cleaning fee applies). We just can’t promise any pre-trip setup, as the boat will be coming straight off another charter, but once you are on your charter time the 1st mate can and will totally help set things up.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept major credit cards, zelle, Venmo and cash. Platform bookings are processed directly by the booking platform.

how many guests can I bring?

Up to 12 guests, depending on the boat. This is the maximum allowed by U.S. Coast Guard regulations. That means a total of 13 people onboard, including the primary renter. Crew is not counted toward this limit.

Can guests bring drones?

Only if legal, safe, and approved by the captain.

What if another charter is booked after ours?

Extensions may not be possible if the boat has to back at the marina at the original end-time of the charter

Can we extend the charter on the day of the trip?

Only if the boat is available and billed hourly.

Is boarding time part of the charter?

Yes. boarding and offboarding time are part of the charter time.

What happens if the group arrives late?

The charter still ends at the scheduled time.there is another charter leaving in that boat after your chatrter ends.

Who is financially responsible for guest behavior?

The primary renter is responsible for all guests.

Are infants allowed and do you provide life jackets?

Yes. Standard life jackets are onboard; infant sizes should be requested in advance.

Is there a minimum age for guests?

No minimum age, but children must be supervised at all times.

If we lose time due to weather or bridges, is it refunded?

No. Charter time includes real-world navigation conditions.

Can we go offshore?

Yes, and we love it . We go only if weather and sea conditions are safe.

What if seas are rough but it’s not raining?

The route may be adjusted or remain inland for safety.

Who decides the route and swim stops?

The captain, based on weather, safety, and guest preferences.

Can the captain end the trip early?

Yes, for safety, weather, or guest conduct. No refunds apply.

Are illegal substances allowed onboard?

No. Doesn't matter if you have a prescription or an authorization from a doctor. hard NO.

What if a guest becomes excessively intoxicated?

The captain may restrict alcohol or end the trip early for safety.

Is alcohol allowed?

Yes. Please drink responsibly.

Is there a charge for head servicing after the charter?

Only if misuse caused the issue.

What happens if the toilet clogs?

If caused by improper use, repair costs are deducted from the deposit.

What absolutely cannot be flushed down the toilet?

Anything except human waste and water

Can we bring large items like balloons or floats?

Yes, if removable, non-damaging, and approved by the captain.

What counts as normal use vs damage?

Normal use includes wet decks and normal trash. Damage includes stains, burns, broken gear, or plumbing misuse.

What if something breaks during the trip?

Accidental damage is assessed after the trip. Guests are responsible for damage beyond normal wear.

Are shoes allowed on the boat?

Shoes are typically removed once onboard to protect decks.

What if someone throws up onboard?

Notify the crew immediately. Excessive cleanup beyond normal use may result in a cleaning charge.

Can we stand, dance, or jump on cushions or trampolines?

No dancing or jumping on cushions. Trampolines are for relaxing only, max two people, no jumping.

Are platform service fees controlled by you?

No. Platform service fees are charged by the booking platform, not by us.

What can cause the deposit to be partially or fully kept?

Only abnormal issues such as clogged toilets, grease damage, stained cushions, or broken equipment. Normal use is not an issue.

How long does it take for the deposit to be released?

A soon as the captain gives us the ok, we process the refund, but usually the banks take from 2 to 7 business days.

Is the security deposit a hold or a charge?

It is a temporary hold, not a charge.

When is the balance due?

The full balance is due before boarding, per the booking platform or invoice terms.

Are guns allowed on board?

No. only law enforcement officers are allowed to bear arms on board.

Are pets, cats and dogs, allowed on board?

No. While we love animals and consider Mr. B (our dog) part of the family, we don’t allow pets onboard due to past experiences and the risk of damage to the boat. We hope you understand. Only humans on board.

How much does one of this charter cost?

Pricing depends on the day of the week and the size of the boat. Rates typically range from $325 to $500 per hour, with a 4-hour minimum. Crew gratuity is customary at 15–20%. Ask us about current promotions or off-peak specials.

How long in advance should I reserve

as much advance as you can, up to 8 months in advance. The more in advance you book , the more chances to find a better time slot

Can we get a car rental from you

Yes. Our sister company, BextUSA.com offers Jeep rentals to complement your Florida visit.

Should I bring my own towels?

Yes, bring your towels

Are there any utensils on the boat?

The boat features a full galley equipped with glasses, cups, silverware, plates, and dishes for your use. Everything you need for serving food and drinks onboard is available, making it easy to enjoy your time without bringing extra tableware.

Is sunscreen provided?

We do not provide sunscreen. Guests should bring their own and, please, make sure it is reef-safe.

Are blankets provided?

Blankets are provided as part of the bedding only. We don’t offer blankets for personal warmth, so we recommend bringing a light jacket in case it cools down.

What are the options for food or catering

BYOB Option: If you decide to make it BYOB, you bring all your own drinks, mixers, and food. Please plan to bring enough ice for the entire trip. The crew will happily help you load everything onboard, store it in coolers, and keep things organized, but we don’t supply beverages or ice.
Bottom line: you bring it all, we’ll help you enjoy it.

Chef Option: If you’d rather not think about food at all, the Chef option is the way to go. We’ll put you directly in touch with one of our authorized onboard chefs so you can design the experience together. This can range from simple charcuterie, cheese and fruit trays with your choice of bubbles, all the way up to a full multi-course dinner for up to six guests.
We don’t markup the food or participate in the chef’s fee — you coordinate directly with the chef, choose the menu, and tailor the experience to your taste

How many people can be seated at tables?

All of our boats have plenty of seating space. Each boat has two tables measuring 60" x 30"—one indoors and one outdoors. Realistically: you can seat 4–6 people comfortably per table, so 8–12 guests total can be seated at tables at the same time. The rest of the group will still have ample lounge seating throughout the boat. The outdoor table is located on the aft deck, fully covered and perfect for dining, drinks, or gathering in the shade.

Can we board in Delray Beach?

Yes, but it involves additional cost and logistics. While Delray Beach is about 45 minutes by car from our marina, by boat through the Intracoastal it is approximately three hours each way, which adds significant transit time to the trip. If requested, Delray Beach pickup can be arranged at a discounted transit rate of $225 per hour for the empty boat, totaling approximately $1,350 additional for the round trip.

Can we board in Boca Raton?

Yes, but it involves additional cost and logistics. While Boca Raton is about 30 minutes by car from our marina, by boat through the Intracoastal it is approximately three hours each way, which adds significant transit time to the trip. If requested, Boca Raton pickup can be arranged at a discounted transit rate of $225 per hour for the empty boat, totaling approximately $1,350 additional for the round trip.

Can we go do some snorkel?

Yes — absolutely. Keep in mind this is a bareboat charter, which means you’re renting the boat and hiring a captain. You decide the itinerary .Having said that, you can absolutely ask your captain to take you to a snorkel spot. We don’t sell or package “excursions,” but your captain can navigate wherever you’d like within the agreed cruising area.

Great local snorkeling areas include the reefs off Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, which are part of the Florida Reef Tract and sit in about 8–20 feet of water — perfect for relaxed snorkeling. Other common spots captains use are the reef lines off Dania Beach and Hollywood, depending on sea conditions. These areas typically offer coral formations, tropical fish, sea fans, and occasionally rays or turtles.

If snorkeling is part of your plan, just tell your captain that’s the goal for the day and they’ll choose the best location based on weather and water clarity to give you the safest and best experience.

Can I book a private boat charter for a group in Fort Lauderdale?

Yes. You can absolutely book a private boat charter for a group in Fort Lauderdale. Our charters operate under the U.S. bareboat charter model, which means the boat is rented exclusively to your group for the duration of the trip.

In a bareboat charter, the renter temporarily takes possession of the vessel and selects a USCG-licensed captain from a list of approved captains who are familiar with the boat and covered by our insurance. The captain is paid separately by the renter, which keeps the arrangement fully compliant with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

Most charters are booked for 4 to 6 hours and can accommodate up to 13 guests, depending on the vessel. During your time on the water, the captain can take your group cruising through Fort Lauderdale’s famous canals, to swimming spots or sandbars, sailing offshore, or to waterfront restaurants. For the duration of the charter, the boat is yours to enjoy.

Can the boat pick us up at the dock at our house or hotel

Sometimes, yes—but it depends on several factors. Private home or dock pickups must be evaluated case by case based on the location, water depth, maneuvering space, and the size and condition of the dock. These requests must be arranged in advance so the captain can confirm that the location is safe and accessible for the vessel.

Guests should also keep in mind that the time required for the boat to travel from our marina to the pickup location and back counts as part of the charter time. Because of that, most groups choose to board directly at our boarding point, which allows them to enjoy the full charter time on the water.
If you would like to explore a private pickup, please provide the dock address when booking so we can review the location and confirm whether it is permitted and safe for the vessel.

What's the difference between the 45' and the 50 footer.

Cat5, the 50 footer is about 10% longer than Cat5-1. That extra size makes a difference on multi-day trips—more room, more comfort. On a 4-hour charter, though, you’ll barely notice it.

The 45 is a newer boat, no question. But personally, I prefer the 50. The bows are more generous, and it has a covered front seating area—actually the only boat in Fort Lauderdale with that setup.

Compared to a monohull, both feel much bigger. Between these two? It’s a subtle difference on a short trip, but the 50 has the edge in layout and usable space.

More questions? We've got answers!
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