Frequently Asked Questions

At Sand Bar Charters, we're dedicated to providing you with an unparalleled private boating experience. Whether you're planning a serene day on the water or a lively excursion with friends and family, we've got you covered.

Can I have more than 6 people on my boat charter?

Coast Guard regulations only allow 6 paying charters on my boat. 

What is a customary tip?

If you feel your captain and crew did an amazing job, a gratuity is a wonderful compliment and much appreciated! Customary tips are usually 15% to 20%.

Will there be other people (besides my party) on my private boat charter?

Any boat charter that you book will be for you and your group only. We do not offer public ride-shares and take pride in keeping our boat charters strictly private.

How far ahead of time should I book my boat charter?

During peak months (March, April, June & July) and during the holidays (Christmas, Thanksgiving, and all holiday weekends), we advise to book as early as possible. We also recommend that you book your boat charter at the beginning of your vacation, so if bad weather is going to be an issue, we have other dates we can work with to reschedule your charter.

What is the refund policy if I need to cancel my boat charter?

If you need to cancel your boat charter due to any reason, we need at least a 48-hour notice in order to receive a deposit refund. If your notice is less than 48 hours, the refund for your deposit will be forfeited.

If you cancel your boat charter within 4 hours or less than your departure time, or if a no-call/no-show scenario happens, we will charge your credit card on file the total price of the boat charter.

What time should I plan on arriving for my boat charter?

Please plan to arrive 10 minutes early and be ready, with your gear, on the dock.

What is included?

Our charters are designed to be as carefree as can be! Each charter includes the following:
-Captain
-Fuel
-Towels
-Safety provisions and life jackets for all passengers
-Coolers/Ice, water bottles and a complimentary bottle of champagne

What should I bring with me on a boat charter?

Sunglasses and a Hat - Polarized sunglass are great to have on hand when searching for sea life.

A Swimsuit - During your charter, we can go to sandbars and beaches where you can hop out for a relaxing swim.

A Light Jacket – Depending on the season, it can get a little chilly and windy.

Can we bring alcohol on board?

Yes. Responsible adults are more than welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages onboard. We do ask that you refrain from bringing red wine or any other beverages that could stain the interior of the boat.

Can I bring food?

Yes...but keep in mind this is a boat with occasional wind, wakes and waves.  Foods that work well on the boat:

Sandwiches, Fresh fruit & veggies.  Dips are ok when anchored or moving slow.

Cheese & crackers, nuts, and fruit plates also work well.

Should I bring a cooler?

No.  We have coolers on the boat filled with ice, to keep anything cold that you bring.  An additional larger cooler takes up floor space and will make it harder to move around.   It is ok, though, if you'd like to bring a smaller, soft-sided cooler.

Can we stop off somewhere to eat?

Yes. There are many wonderful dockside restaurants in Sarasota Bay and neighboring areas. Ask us about restaurant suggestions!

Is there music on the boat?

Of course! The boat has a bluetooth stereo system - bring your favorite music and the Captain will help you connect your mobile device. We also have Unlimited Prime Music commercial free.

Is there bathrooms on the boat?

There is a bathroom on the boat

What happens if there is poor weather conditions?

Every now and then, Florida weather can be unpredictable - bringing unexpected rain storms and sometimes hurricanes. If you have a charter booked that needs to be canceled or rescheduled due to weather, no worries. Refunds will be accommodated.

Do you allow dogs/pets onboard?

No. We love all pets however, we don’t allow them on your charter.

Will I get cellphone signal while out on the charter?

Yes. For the most part, we will be operating in the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW) or near shore in the Gulf of Mexico. You should not lose cell service.

Is this safe for kids?

Absolutely! We ask that children be 12 years old and older.

Can we fish during our charter?

No. We do not allow fishing of any kind on our charter.

Will I see dolphins on my boat charter?

We see bottlenose dolphins most of the time on our boat charter.  Though we cannot guarantee we will see them. 

Will I see manatees on my boat charter?

Manatees are seen in the the Sarasota waters during the summer months.  There is a good chance to see manatees on your charter from May until October.

Will I be required to wear a life jacket on the boat?

Life preservers are not mandatory however, they are provided for anyone that would like to wear one. 

What type of sunscreen should I bring?

SPF 15 or higher to protect your skin. PLEASE DO NOT BRING spray sunscreen or sunscreen with tanning, glitter/shimmer or bronzing agents. This will stain the boat. Please place a towel between your skin and the boat seats.

Can I smoke on the boat?

No. We do not allow cigar, pipe or cigarette smoking on the boats.

If you have any questions that are not addressed in the FAQ section, please don't hesitate to reach out.

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