There is something comforting about being on the open water. Whether you’re spending a lazy afternoon soaking up the sun and drinking champagne on a San Diego harbor tour or you want to hire a fishing charter during the early morning hours, the water is calming. Of course, if you don’t have your own boat, you’ll need to hire one. Check out these tips for chartering a boat for the first time.
Decide Which Kind of Boat You’d Like
The type of boat you want to spend the day on will depend on what you plan to do. If you want to relax, large sailboats or even yachts are a good choice. They often have full crews, and your rental fee will usually cover food, alcohol, and other luxuries. You can charter luxury boats for a few hours, a day, or even an entire season. On the other hand, if you plan to spend your day fishing, you’ll need a boat set up for that specific task. Fishing charters, which are most often rented by the day, may also include food and other luxuries, but focus more on fishing gear and taking you to the place where you’re most likely to catch something. You’ll need to choose between fishing close to the shore or going further out to experience deep sea fishing. Some people choose to rent these boats for entire weekends. Remember to consider the size of the boat in terms of how many people you’ll be taking with you and how long you plan to stay asea.
Determine How Many Crew Members You’d Like
Next, you’ll need to determine whether you want no crew members, a skeleton crew, or a full crew. This decision depends not only on what you plan during your excursion but also whether you are an experienced boater yourself. If you’re an experienced boater, you may be able to rent one without a crew at all. This will leave you free to do things your way (within reason of the contract) and will have the privacy you need if you’re planning a romantic evening or simply need some time alone. Some types of charters, such as the ones that know the best time to see whales in San Diego, require at least a skeleton crew, since they know where to take you for the best adventure. Of course, if you simply want to relax without worrying about any responsibility, you’ll want a full crew. A full crew will man the boat, bring you food and drinks, and take care of anything else you’ll need while you’re aboard.
Always Obey the Rules
Always obey the rules when you’re chartering someone else’s boat. For one thing, most of the rules are in place for your own personal safety and to ensure you have a good time. Regardless of safety reasons, it is still important to mind rules, though. After all, you’re spending time on someone else’s property, and they deserve to have you treat it with respect. Furthermore, disobeying rules and causing damage or injury could leave you on the hook financially.
Above all else, research first when seeking out San Diego boat charters. Look for licensed, insured businesses that have an excellent reputation with the Better Business Bureau as well as with former clients. Before you know it, you’ll be on your way to a day of adventures on the sea.
