GETTING STARTED
Do I need boating experience to join?+
No experience required — but you'll need to pass Coastguard's Day Skipper theory course ($295, paid directly to Coastguard) before your first booking. We provide the on-water practical training for free, and most members are confident on the water within their first month.
What's the Day Skipper theory course?+
It's an online Coastguard course covering rules of the road, weather, anchoring, distress procedures, and basic navigation. Costs $295, paid directly to Coastguard. Takes most members 8–12 hours. It's a prerequisite for joining — once you've passed, we cover your on-water practical training (worth $250) for free.
How quickly can I be on the water?+
Most members are on their first booking within two weeks of signup. Day Skipper theory takes about a week of evenings. We book your practical training within seven days of payment.
MEMBERSHIP & BILLING
Can I switch from Midweek to Full Week later?+
Yes, anytime. We adjust the next month's direct debit accordingly. Members switching up don't pay any upgrade fee.
What happens after the 12-month minimum?+
You become month-to-month. Give us three months' notice when you'd like to leave, and you're out — no exit fees, no hassle.
Can I pause my membership for winter?+
Not currently. The 12-month minimum is designed to cover the seasonal cost of keeping the fleet maintained. After 12 months, give notice and rejoin next summer if you prefer.
BOOKINGS & BOATS
What if the boat I booked is broken when I arrive?+
It won't be — the dockmaster checks every boat the morning of each booking. But if there's ever an issue, we hot-swap you to another hull at the same marina. Same spec, same gear, no rebooking.
Can I take a boat from a different marina?+
Yes. Your home marina gets booking priority, but members can take any boat from any of the three marinas based on availability.
Are overnight trips allowed?+
Yes, with prior approval. SF545s are day boats — there's no cabin to sleep in — but several members anchor in sheltered bays for the night with their own gear. Talk to the dockmaster.
Can I bring guests?+
Always. The SF545 is rated for six adults. Family, friends, business clients — they're welcome. Only members can be the named skipper.
SAFETY & PRACTICAL
What if the weather turns?+
Free cancellation up to 6am the morning of your booking if the forecast is dangerous. Dockmaster's call is final on whether boats leave the dock — we'd rather you reschedule than push a marginal day.
What if I damage the boat?+
Cosmetic scuffs and standard wear are covered. Comprehensive insurance handles anything serious — your excess as a member is $500. We don't punish honest mistakes.
Where do I refuel?+
Every marina has a fuel dock on the pier. Pay-as-you-go via the SBC app. Return the boat with at least a quarter tank — anything less and we top it up at our cost-plus rate.