Q::
What does it cost?
A:
That depends on the type of vessel, time of year, weather, crew requirements and length of passage. Typical charges are $500 per day for a captain and mate. You are responsible for all vessel expenses and transportation to and from the vessel.
Here is what we provide:
1. A professional captain, mate and necessary crew and arrange for their transportation.
2. We will obtain all navigational charts and pilots if they are not already on board.
3. We have our own GPS’s, electronic charting systems, laptops and plotting instruments.
4. We will provision the yacht for the voyage, including food and fuel at owners expense.
5. We will perform a pre-voyage inspection report of the vessel and its many systems along with digital photos of the vessel and provide a full log and accounting of all vessel expenses incurred along the voyage.
6. We will complete all relevant clearance documentations, customs and excise taxes and port fees.
7. We will provide the owner with a position report and progress report daily.
Q:
Can I come along?
A:Yes, of course and it is encouraged. This is the best time to learn about your vessel's capabilities and improve your own skills on the trip. Depending on the vessel and the route, we might require an additional mate or deckhand to round out the watch bill.
Q:What route will you take?
A:This depends on the type of vessel, time of year, weather conditions and owner preference. There is usually more than one way to a destination. Our first concern is for the safety of the vessel and those aboard her. Weather being the biggest factor will dictate which route is chosen on any given day. Try as we might it is not always possible to take the straightest route to a destination. Trips may be broken up with ICW travel combined with open ocean passages.
Q:
What condition does the vessel need to be in?
A:In a word, seaworthy. This means clean fuel tanks, good sails, functional well running and maintained engine, adequate engine spares (i.e. fuel filters, belts, raw water pump and impellers, etc.). Running and standing rigging in good condition, current flare kit, all PFD’s and fire extinguishers in good condition and non-expired. All safety and emergency gear up to date and inspected.
Q:
What needs to be onboard the vessel?
A:All USCG required safety equipment. Charts and pilots for the area to be navigated. Cooking and eating utensils. Several spare fuel filters, spare engine parts, tools, spare lines, fenders, 406 EPIRB for ocean voyages and a working VHF Radio. Ditch bag with all survival and location equipment operational and up to date in inspections. Life raft for maximum amount of passengers on board, up to date and inspected.
Q:
What happens if it is not ready for the voyage?
A:When we come onboard, we will assess the vessel and prepare a written report of any deficiencies. You will be responsible for correcting these deficiencies before departure.
Q:
How do I pay for this service?
A:
You pay a deposit and advance for all transportation, vessel expenses, supplies, fuel and provisioning. We will keep an accounting that details all expenses incurred during the voyage. We will submit a final bill upon completion of the delivery. We expect the owner or representative to meet the vessel upon arrival to pay for the delivery with cash, certified funds, wire transfer or credit card.
Q:What are your terms?
A:
- 50 % Deposit to book a time slot.
- Transportation, vessel expenses and provisioning paid up front.
- Balance due upon arrival.
- If payment is not received after 30 days after completion a 2.5% finance charge will be added to the bill per month.
- If payment is not received after 120 days a notice of mechanics lien will be placed on the vessel.
- If payment is not received after 180 days the bill will be sent to a collection agency and a 30% collection fee will be added to the bill.
Q:
Am I charged for weather delays?
A:If we feel it is not safe to continue, we will stay at anchor or dock until conditions improve. We want to be fair and don't charge you a full rate for small delays. However our time is valueable and we will charge $250 per day while in port due to a weather delay.
Q:
What happens if repairs are needed along the way?
A:We will make repairs underway within our capability. Otherwise we will get to the nearest marina and contact you immediately for your approval before any repairs are done.
Q:
What happens if the vessel becomes unseaworthy or incapable of continuing safely?
A:We will immediately get to the nearest port and contact you.
Q: How many hours are made underway each day?
A:This depends on the vessel and the route. On an ocean route with our crews aboard, we'll sail round the clock. In the ICW we generally sail at least 12 hours a day and stop for the night. Of course, if the owner is aboard and desires to do something else, we are flexible.
Q: How do I book a delivery?
A:
Call 302-462-6196 schedule a delivery or fill out our contact form here. Contact Us.
Updated -Tuesday, January 1, 2010