Chartering FAQ’S

FAQs on CORPORATE EVENTS & DINNER CRUISES

Check out these faqs to get your query related to yacht charters at Waterfantaseas

How Do I choose the perfect yacht?

Depending upon several factors, including the size of your group as well as the desired activities, our professional charter agents will assist you in selecting the perfect yacht for your charter. By presenting all feasible Yacht, Water Fantaseas is truly the place for “one stop shopping.”

How many people can each boat accommodate?

Passenger capacity varies from vessel to vessel. Non-certified Yacht can accommodate either 6 or 12 passengers, regardless of the size. The party vessels which are suited for larger groups and dinner cruises are U.S. Coast Guard certified, which determines their capacity. The capacity for each yacht is listed within the specifications table on all vessel pages.

How many people can be seated for dinner at once?

Seating capacity for dinner varies according to each vessel. Party vessels typically can seat 1/2 to 2/3 of the entire vessel capacity at one seating. The dining room arrangements as well as seating capacity are outlined on each party vessel page within the website. Other vessels, including motor boat and sport Yacht, tend to address dining more casually.

Do we have to have food and beverage service?

Party vessels are typically viewed as “floating restaurants,” and with this in mind, they require a minimum of food and beverage service. While some vessels may allow for outside catering, there will be a mandatory “galley fee.” On smaller vessels, while food and beverage is not necessarily required, we would not recommend chartering the boat only. Water Fantaseas prides itself in delivering an overall experience unsurpassed within the industry. Part of this exclusive experience is the outstanding food and beverage service.

Can we provide our own food and drinks?

As previously mentioned, most party vessels require a food and beverage minimum. If certain dietary and/or religious restrictions exist, we will be more than happy to work with the client in resolving any such matters. At a minimum, any outside caters must be insured for work onboard a yacht and must have previous experience onboard Yacht. Although this will not guarantee allowance of outside catering, this is required before the request will be entertained.

Is entertainment included?

Entertainment is a very personal thing; therefore, Water Fantaseas does not include “standard” entertainment in a corporate event. Instead, we encourage our clients to work with one of our charter consultants who can assist them in the selection of the perfect entertainment. Whether you would like a live Brazilian band, a high energy DJ, an onboard casino night, or even a magician, we can arrange anything you desire.

Can we have other decor, flowers, etc?

Water Fantaseas and the vessels we represent have tried to provide a pleasing environment onboard that will be enjoyed by a large variety of individuals. However, we understand that sometimes clients would like to personalize items such as décor and flowers. For an additional cost, customized flowers and changes to the décor are available. Please feel free to discuss your desires with one of our professional charter agents.

Where can we board the yacht/leave from?

When inquiring about a yacht charter, our charter agents will find the closest marina to your location for ease of boarding. Please note that some Yacht, due to overall size and/or draft, cannot enter all marinas. Requests to board at private docks will be addressed on an individual basis.

How does the group get to the yacht?

Because we deliver our Yacht to the most convenient marina, many times group transportation is not needed. However, in the event that it is, the group usually arranges for the transportation separately. Our recommended transportation companies can be found under the travel services section of this website to assist with your transfer requirements.

Where does the yacht cruise?

In general, our corporate charters cruise through the tranquil waters of the Intracoastal waterways. This ensures a smooth sailing and avoidance of any rough waters. For more specialized events, such as regattas, small executive outings, and water sports adventures, ocean cruising is an option at the request of the charterer, pending suitable ocean conditions.

Can we do other water sports?

Many times our clients are looking to entertain guests on the water, but desire something other than a dinner cruise. Water Fantaseas can arrange for various water sports including wave runners, sea kayaks, parasailing, speed boat thrill rides, snorkeling and sandbar swimming, all originating from the charter yacht of your choice. The water sports available to your guests are only limited by your imagination.

Can we have multiple yacht?

Water Fantaseas specializes in the organization of corporate regattas, which encompass a wide variety of different vessels. Whether it be a multi-yacht sailing regatta, a private sport fishing tournament, or a rendezvous of more intimate Yacht equipped with various water sports equipment, we are more than happy to organize an event not soon forgotten.

What happens if it rains?

In southeast Florida, the occasional passing shower is commonplace and therefore our Yacht are suitably equipped to handle such weather. Large party vessels are designed with spacious enclosed interior spaces to guarantee that even in a rain storm, your guests will fully enjoy their trip. Our smaller vessels are also configured with luxurious cabins to escape any passing showers. Rest assured that your charter will not be affected by weather.

Can we pay by credit card?

All prices quoted by Water Fantaseas are “cash discounted” prices. For smaller charters with balances up to $3,000.00, we gladly accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express. For larger charters, while we would prefer payment in the form of a wire transfer or corporate check, we understand credit cards might be required. In this event, payment options will addressed on an individual basis with our accounting department.

Do you have a per person rate?

Since all aspects of our charters are customized to our clients, pricing often reflects personal selection of various services. While food and beverage services are usually priced per person, items such as vessel charter fee, fuel and crew are priced at flat fees regardless of the number of passengers. Therefore, standardized “per person rates” are not available.

HALF & FULL DAY CHARTERS

How many people can we take?

The majority of half and full day charters take place on non-certified Yacht. These Yacht can accommodate a maximum of 6 or 12 passengers, regardless of size. For charters on our U.S. Coast Guard certified vessels, the capacity varies and can be found on the individual vessel page in the specifications table.

Why can't we put more than 12 people on most boats?

According to the law as well as U.S. Coast Guard, 12 is the maximum number of passengers allowed on non-certified boat.

If we get a bigger boat, can we have more than 12?

The only time the size of the yacht determines the number of passengers allowed is when your charter is aboard a certified party vessel. For all sport Yacht and private motor boat, the maximum is 12 regardless.

Does 12 include the crew?

The 12 passenger maximum does not include crew in that number. Please keep in mind though, additional staff, such as caterers, who are not part of the vessel crew, will be counted toward the maximum capacity.

Does 12 include the crew?

The nearest island of the Bahamas, Bimini, is approximately 3 hours away. When factoring in the travel time along with customs processing, Water Fantaseas does not offer 1 day trips to the Bahamas. We would be more than happy to arrange a term charter of more than one day for clients desiring to travel to the Bahamas.

Can we fish?

Where do we board?

Where do we go/do?

When clients board our Yacht, the crew will discuss possible routes and activities, limited only by location and length of charter. In general, our charters cruise through the tranquil waters of the Intracoastal waterways and locales such as Biscayne Bay. This ensures a smooth sailing and avoidance of any rough waters. Ocean cruising is also possible, depending upon ocean conditions. Chartering a private yacht enables our clients to choose their destination and activity.

How do we get to the boat/marina?

Because we deliver our Yacht to the most convenient marina, many times group transportation is not needed. However, in the event that it is, the client usually arranges for the transportation separately. Our recommended transportation companies can be found under the travel services section of this website to assist with your transfer requirements.

What happens if it rains?

Can we pay by credit card?

Do you have a per person rate?

Why is the charter fee less for morning cruises on sport yacht ?

Since our sport Yacht are the most popular vessel type with the leisure market and specifically families, we offer a discounted rate in the mornings.

What are the benefits and/or the differences between a full and half day charter?

In terms of service and vessel, there is no difference. Whether you charter one of our Yacht for 4 hours, 1 day or even a week, you will always receive the same outstanding service and unique product that Water Fantaseas has become known for throughout the industry. The only difference between a half day or full day charter is primarily the area in which you will cruise as well as the amount of time you’ll have for certain activities such as swimming.

Anything smaller/less expensive?

To maintain our level of service, the smallest vessels in the sport yacht, sailing, catamaran, and sport fishing categories that Water Fantaseas offers are in the 45’ and 46’ range. Yacht of a smaller size simply do not allow for the appropriate crew and equipment needed to provide our clients with the experience they’ve come to expect. For the services and product offered, our sport Yacht and sailing vessels are the most economical options.

TERM CHARTERS

How many people can we have on board?

The number of passengers a yacht can accommodate is determined by the number of staterooms the vessel has. The typical yacht for term charters can accommodate 6 to 8 guests in 3 or 4 staterooms. There are a few select Yacht, larger in size, which can accommodate 10 to 12 guests.

Can we share a yacht with other people?

When you charter a yacht from Water Fantaseas, you charter the entire vessel privately. Water Fantaseas does not place other people and/or groups together for such charters. You are more than welcomed to charter a vessel with your friends and family, thereby splitting the cost between each other.

Where do we board the yacht?

Most Yacht that Water Fantaseas represents for term charters are located in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas. We also represent select Yacht based in the Bahamas as well as the Caribbean. Typically, guests board the Yacht at their home dock; however, the vessel may be delivered to the marina of your choice for a delivery fee.

What is the minimum number of days?

Most term charter Yacht require a minimum charter of one week or 10 days, depending upon the yacht. There are a select number of Yacht which will accept charters of 3 days or more. The minimum charter length for each yacht is listed within the specifications table on all vessel pages or you may search accordingly using our Advanced Boat Finder Search Engine.

Can we go to the Bahamas?

Travel to the Bahamas is possible; however, there are a few factors which may affect your ability to reach this destination. First, all passengers onboard the yacht must have the appropriate paperwork to enter the Bahamas legally. For U.S. citizen, an original birth certificate with raised seal along with a valid driver’s license will suffice; however, a passport is preferred. For non-U.S. citizens, please check with the appropriate embassy since this trip requires you to leave the country. Assuming that all guests have the appropriate paperwork and the charter is long enough to allow for travel to the Bahamas, the weather must be taken into consideration. If the Gulf Stream is too rough, the yacht will not be allowed to cross. Please keep in mind, in this event, the charter will continue and a new destination, such as the Florida Keys, will be selected.

What is the A.P.A?

A.P.A. stands for Advanced Provisioning Allowance. This fee is normally an additional 30% to 35% of charter fee, which will be used for fuel, dockage, food and beverages onboard, and any other incidental charges incurred while on your charter. The captain of the yacht will keep a running total throughout the charter, available for your review. At the end of the charter, any remaining funds not used from the A.P.A. will be returned to you with 3 business days. Please note that if the A.P.A. is exhausted during the charter, all additional charges will be the responsibility of the charterer and must be paid as they occur.

What water-toys are included with the yacht?

Depending on the yacht, there will be a selection of water-toys for your enjoyment, ranging from snorkeling gear and wave runners to jet boats, sea kayaks and scuba diving equipment. The particular amenities vary from yacht to yacht and are outlined in the specification table on all vessel pages.

Does the ``Crew`` include a chef?

On our larger motor Yacht, a fulltime chef is normally included within the charter fee. However, on our moderately sized vessels, in the 60’ to 80’ range, a chef-mate is included who is capable of standard food preparation and serving. If desired, a fulltime chef may be added to these Yacht for an additional fee.

Is the menu set or we can choose our meals?

Upon booking a charter with Water Fantaseas, you will be provided with a provisioning questionnaire. This questionnaire allows you to outline any specific dietary constraints as well preferences for meals and beverages. Our crew will do their best to fulfill any request you may have. If you need assistance or simply would like a few ideas, we will be more than happy to assist you.

What happens if it rains?

In southeast Florida, the occasional passing shower is commonplace and therefore our Yacht are suitably equipped to handle such weather. In the event of bad weather, the yacht will navigate to calmer waters. Rest assured that your charter will not be affected by weather.