WILL THERE BE OTHER PEOPLE ON THE BOAT
These are private trips, you will be the only people on the boat other than our Captain.​
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK?
The best time to book depends on the experience you desire. The winds typically begin building around 12pm most days. If you're looking for a sailing adventure full of wind and speed, we suggest booking around noon.The winds typically hold steady until a few hours before sunset when the winds usually die down. If you want to see the sunset, or if you want a slower experience, book a trip that will end about the same time as sunset. Check Google to find out the exact sunset time on the day you're planning your trip. If booking for sunset, know that you might not get as much time with actual sailing versus using the motor (it depends on the winds that day). When the winds drop below 4 knots, we will typically use the motor to continue our adventure. Sunset sails are perfect if you want to relax and enjoy a beverage as the sun dips below the horizon. If you want the best of both worlds, select a 4- or 5-hour trip, and book a start time that will allow you to see the sunset in the last half hour of your adventure. If your trip duration ends within 15 minutes of the sunset, we are happy to keep you on the water to see the sunset (we'd never short change you on the magnificent sunsets we get here in Dana Point!).
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ARE THESE TRIPS GOOD FOR KIDS
The answer is absolutely! We often take families with kids, even as young as 7 or 8 years old. They love it and our Captains love showing them how to sail the boat. However, we do not allow kids under the age of 4.
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WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
We often enjoy great weather throughout the year, but when we’re on the water it’s best to dress a little warmer than you might think. With that said, make sure you always bring a warm jacket and we often recommend jeans during the winter months. We keep warm blankets on our boat should it get a bit colder than expected. In the summer months, shorts are always the best choice, but you will still want to bring a wind breaker or light sweater.
Please also make sure you wear appropriate shoes aboard our boat. Please try not wear black-soled shoes or hiking boots but if that's all you have don't worry, there is no need to go out and buy shoes. We don’t recommend flip-flops, but that’s up to you. When wearing flip-flops, you’re more prone to stubbing your toes, which never feels good.
DO I NEED TO WORRY ABOUT SEA SICKNESS?
It’s pretty rare that anyone gets sea sick on our boat, but if you’ve never been on the ocean before you may want to consider taking Dramamine® or Bonine® at least one hour before your departure or consultant your doctor for other treatments. If you’re worried about feeling drowsy, you can take these medications at bedtime the night before your sail (choose a formula that lasts 24 hours). This will allow you to sleep through the worst of the drowsiness. It’s also highly recommended to eat before your trip, which is sometimes counterintuitive to what most people think. Although our boat is large and the swells in Dana Point are often small, it’s always best to be prepared so you can enjoy your trip. If for any reason you’re not feeling well during your trip, be sure to tell your Captain right away. Often a quick cure to sea sickness is to sit in a place with a breeze in your face and look out at the horizon to a land-based object. Please note that when we stay within the seawall of the marina for your cruise around the harbor there are virtually no swells to cause sickness. IMPORTANT: Please share this with EVERYONE who will be sailing with you.
WHAT ABOUT FOOD, DRINKS AND SMOKING?
Our boat is always fully stocked with bottled water. Unfortunately, we are not allowed to provide any alcoholic beverages. You're welcome to bring your own food, beverages and snacks. Please note that as a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed sailing vessel, illegal drugs are not allowed on our boat, including marijuana. Smoking is not allowed on our boats. Please be aware that if you arrive intoxicated or the appearance of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, our Captains have the right to refuse boarding and may cancel the trip. This policy is for the safety of the guests and the Captain.
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WHAT AMMENITIES DO YOU HAVE ON BOARD?
Our boat is equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, stove, oven, stereo system and working head (bathroom). You’re welcome to use everything during your trip. Please try to use the restroom on the shore prior to boarding our boat as some people find it challenging to use the head while sailing (it can be a little rocky). You may also want to consider bringing a CD or iPod to play your favorite music. Please ask our Captain for instructions and assistance prior to using anything.
HOW SAFE ARE YOUR SAILING ADVENTURES?
Safety on our boats is our No. 1 priority. Your Captain will conduct a safety briefing prior to your departure. It’s very important that if you wish to walk around the boat (which we encourage), make sure to do so while ALWAYS holding on to something. You’re welcome to go to the front of the boat to enjoy the views from the bow, but always have one had holding on to the rails or lifelines as you go to the front.
Our boats are all equipped with life jackets for everyone and our Captain will show you where these are before departing the slip. It’s very important to tell your Captain if anyone in your party does not know how to swim. If you cannot swim or are not a strong swimmer, we always recommend wearing a life jacket. Our boat is also equipped with special automatic inflatable life jackets that are very comfortable. Additional safety instructions will be provided by your Captain before departure.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELATION POLICY?
All bookings may be canceled without any penalty if canceled within 7 days prior to departure. All other cancelations will have a $250 cancelation fee if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance of your departure, you will be charged 50% of the total booking amount. It’s rare we have weather that will cause a trip cancelation, but it can happen. If your trip is canceled due to inclement weather, you will not be charged a cancelation fee. A cancelation due to weather will be made by your Captain approximately 4 hours prior to your departure.