The first thing to say is that you charter with us is designed to be hassle free, relaxing and fun. But there are a few things to be aware off. Apologies for the length of this section but we would rather try to cover all eventualities and avoid any confusion on the day.

The skipper – If you have any problems your skipper is the person to talk to and in most instances a solution will be found there and then. He is in charge of the boat and of your safety and this has to be his overriding concern. If it is necessary to re-arrange a port of call for reasons beyond our control including the weather we are unable to offer a refund or compensation.

Payment terms and cancellations – A £500 non refundable deposit secures your booking. Full payment is due no later than 6 weeks prior to the commencement of your charter. Cancellations made more than 4 weeks prior to the start date of your charter will result in a loss of deposit plus any costs incurred on your behalf. Cancellations made less than 4 weeks prior to the start date will result in loss of 80% of the cost of your charter. Should the dates be later taken by someone else the cancellation will be dealt with as though it were made more than 4 weeks prior to commencement.

Forced cancelation – If your charter is cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control we will offer a full refund less any costs incurred on your behalf such as provisioning or positioning. In the event of a foreshortening of your charter we will offer a pro-rata refund less any costs incurred on your account.

Damages – You are liable for any damage you cause to the boat. There will be a thorough briefing covering all the boats systems and if you have any questions please ask. To avoid doubt this includes damage from putting foreign objects into any of the toilets. Although the toilets on board function just like the ones at home they are choosy about what they digest. Normal waste and toilet paper is fine. Anything else will cause a problem.

Professional cleaning charges apply should it be required to deal with any spillages or staining.

Medical conditions. It is essential you make us aware of any medical conditions you have. All information is treated in strict confidence but we have to know in case you fall ill whilst on board when some distance away from immediate assistance. We have radio contact with the emergency services at all times but help may take longer to arrive than when on land. Whilst we have first aid facilities on board we are not able to provide medical support to ongoing conditions.

Disability – By virtue of their design boats are not ideally suited to those with mobility problems. Things to consider are getting on and off the boat (including using the tender where appropriate), tackling stairs on board, narrow doorways, toilet and shower compartments with restricted space. We want to extend the luxury Motor yacht experience to as many people as possible and will do what we can to accommodate on an inclusive basis but please be aware of the potential problems.

Abusive behaviour – We cannot tolerate any form of abusive behaviour towards our staff or crew. Such behaviour will result in the immediate abandonment of your charter without refund. You will be disembarked at the nearest safe port and the remainder of your charter will be forfeited without refund. Any drug use on board will also result in the above action with no exceptions.

Smoking – Smoking is not permitted inside the boat, in fact it is illegal under UK law. There are designated areas outside the boat which will be pointed out by your skipper. For the avoidance of doubt the cockpit area outside the saloon area is no smoking when any weather covers are in place. Any damage caused by cigarettes will be charged at cost to repair or replace. In the event of a customer being found to have smoked on board there will be a charge for cleaning. This charge is a minimum of £500 and there are no exceptions to this rule.

Children – We do not impose a minimum age because good behaviour is not dependent on age but the boat has many systems and finishes which can easily be damaged. Any such damage will be charged at full cost to repair or replace. Notwithstanding damage your safety is our number one priority and an unruly child can be a hazard on board a boat. If the skipper deems it necessary to abandon your charter due to a child’s behaviour no refund will be given.

Animals and pets – Animals and pets are not allowed on board under any circumstances. We will do our best to accommodate guide dogs and work with you but you must appreciate the boat is a confined space with surfaces that damage easily. Any damage or cleaning requirements will be charged at cost. Make sure your guide dog is happy to be at sea!

Maximum guests on board – we are coded for a maximum of 12 guests on board at any time. For the avoidance of doubt children and support carers are classed as guests. Under no circumstances can this number be exceeded.

Drinks on board – Any drinks provided on your charter are subject to fair use and sensible limits. It is dangerous being drunk on board so your skipper reserves the right to withhold alcoholic beverage supply should he deem it necessary.

Crew – For your charter to operate there must be a skipper plus 1 crew member and all prices make provision for this.

Cancellation of your charter due to mechanical failure – Our Princess F55 was supplied brand new in 2023 and our Princess 50 flybridge was supplied new in 2012 by Princess Yachts, one of the most respected motor yacht builders in the world. As such mechanical breakdown issues are rare but in the event of such a failure we will make every effort to continue with your charter providing it is safe to do so. In the event of a cancellation or partial cancellation any refunds will be limited to the cost of charter or any unexpired part of your charter. Where possible we will offer alternative arrangements.

Vat – All quoted prices include Vat at current rate where appropriate. Prices are in pounds sterling.

All images are the property of Charter Solent and are not to be used without prior written permission.