Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boating license?
A boating license is only required for those born after January 1, 1990 and it can be taken online (there is no on water requirement). We typically take the fundamentals learned online and provide a hands-on experience of what being on the water is actually like.
Boat US offers a free FL Boating Course here: https://www.boat-ed.com/florida/?campaignid=31364372&adgroupid=2956594926&keyword=%2Bboater%20%2Blicense&msclkid=dc43995c5e7f1f4d5e56c6168735cad8&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Boat_Florida_2015&utm_term=%2Bboater%20%2Blicense&utm_content=BM_Boater%20License
What fun things can we do on our charters?
You can spend the day at the Weedon Island sandbar, we can take you to Hula Bay, the Salt Shack, or the Getaway (Tampa waterfront restaurants), we can just cruise and check out the houses along the water, you can bring food or have us cater food to have a boat picnic, or you could ask us to bring fishing poles (and bait) or paddleboards and floats. Lots of options!
Do we get a refund if it rains or the weather is bad?
Captain Randy will make the call on the weather 2hrs prior to your boating experience. We will boat in light rain (assuming it will only last a short while), but you will be refunded your money if we cancel due to weather.
Do you do fishing charters?
Our fishing charters are inshore and they're catch and release. We can supply fishing rods, live shrimp and light tackle. This is known as family fishing and you'll need to purchase a fishing license if you'd like to go on a fishing excursion. A saltwater fishing license is $17 for an annual license. Kids 15 under and adults over 65 do not require a license to fish.
Purchase a fishing license here: https://www.govassistanceservices.com/fl/fl/new-application?export_hash=3c8621d44c4b897be2f8&tid=3c8621d44c4b897be2f8
Can you provide boat lessons on my boat?
Yes! We encourage you to learn on your boat. This is the best way to learn how to drive under the situations you'd regularly see and to learn the area so you can best navigate. We allow you to bring family members so you can learn how to work as a crew as well. Having a first mate understand how to communicate when docking, tying lines, anchoring, navigating, etc. can be very hepful.
Are kids allowed to come along?
Yes! Kids of all ages are welcome aboard. All kids under 6 must wear a life jacket at all times per Florida law. We have life jackets available for kids over 40 lbs, but if your child weighs less than that, you'll need to supply a life jacket.