Buzzards Bay Sailing Charter FAQ

Question 1

What is included in a private sailing charter with Buzzards Bay Charter Company?

Accepted Answer

Your private charter aboard Our Passion includes the exclusive use of the boat, a licensed captain, and a licensed mate. Bottled water is provided. Guests should bring their own food and beverages, though a refrigerator and freezer are available on board.

Question 2

How many guests can you accommodate on a sailing charter?

Accepted Answer

We are licensed to carry up to six passengers per charter, in addition to the captain and licensed mate.

Question 3

What are some popular destinations for Buzzards Bay sailing charters?

Accepted Answer

Buzzards Bay offers some of the most beautiful sailing waters in New England. Popular destinations include Mattapoisett, Marion, Dartmouth, Westport, Onset, Cuttyhunk Island, Hadley’s Harbor, Kettle Cove, Quick’s Hole, Woods Hole, and New Bedford. Our Buzzards Bay sailing charters are fully customized to your group so tell us where you want to go and we will make it happen.

Question 4

From where do your sailing charters depart?

Accepted Answer

Most Buzzards Bay charters depart from Mattapoisett or Woods Hole, Massachusetts. In some cases, alternate pickup points may be arranged by request. Contact us to discuss the best departure point for your charter.

Question 5

How is the boat powered?

Accepted Answer

Our Passion is a sailboat powered primarily by three sails: a genoa, a mainsail, and a mizzen. Depending on conditions and direction of travel, we use a combination of sails to propel the boat. Our Passion is also equipped with a 58 horsepower Westerbeke diesel engine for docking and motoring when wind conditions require it.

Question 6

Is Our Passion a yacht?

Accepted Answer

Yes. “Yacht” simply means a vessel used for private pleasure rather than commercial cargo or fishing, and Our Passion — our 42-foot ketch — fits that definition. Some people picture a large motorized vessel when they hear “yacht,” but sailing yachts are the older meaning of the word. Whether you call it a yacht, a sailboat, or a ketch, you’re getting the same private Buzzards Bay sailing charter aboard the same beautiful boat.

Question 7

Is swimming allowed on our charter?

Accepted Answer

Swimming is allowed and Buzzards Bay offers some of the best saltwater swimming in Massachusetts. Swimming may be restricted at the Captain’s discretion based on water conditions, boat traffic, current, or guest safety considerations. All swimmers must be confident in their ability to climb back aboard. Our Captains and crew are certified lifeguards.

Question 8

Can we fish during our sailing charter?

Accepted Answer

No. We are not permitted to operate as a fishing charter, so fishing is not an approved activity aboard. What we do offer is a full day on the water — sailing, exploring the harbors of Buzzards Bay, swimming, and picnicking aboard — which we find is more than enough to keep guests of all ages happily occupied.

Question 9

Can we celebrate a special occasion on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Buzzards Bay sailing charters are perfect for weddings, bachelorette parties, anniversaries, birthdays, proposals, family gatherings, and other special events. Let us know in advance, and we’ll help make your occasion unforgettable.

Question 10

Can we bring our own food and drinks on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. A refrigerator and freezer are provided for your use, along with bottled water.

Question 11

Are there any prohibited items on the vessel?

Accepted Answer

A few items aren’t allowed aboard, for safety, legal, and practical reasons: Red wine and deeply pigmented foods and drinks — red wine, cherries, blueberries, pomegranates, beets, turmeric, red juices, and sangria can permanently stain the boat’s fiberglass and gelcoat. Please leave these ashore. Marijuana and other controlled substances — prohibited under federal law, which governs the waters we sail. See the question below for the full explanation. Smoking and vaping — not permitted anywhere aboard, for the safety and comfort of all guests. Everything else you’d bring for a day on the water is welcome. If you’re unsure about something, just ask.

Question 12

Do you provide alcohol on charters?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not provide alcohol. Guests may bring their own beer, wine, or cocktails. Please note that red wine is not permitted, along with a few other items — review our prohibited items and foods here before you pack.

Question 13

Why is marijuana prohibited if it’s legal in Massachusetts?

Accepted Answer

You wouldn’t be the first person to ask this if you’re wondering. While Massachusetts has legalized marijuana, boats on the water fall under federal jurisdiction, not state law — the U.S. Coast Guard enforces federal law , under which marijuana remains illegal. Because Our Passion operates on federally regulated waterways, we’re required to prohibit marijuana aboard regardless of state law. We appreciate your understanding.

Question 14

Is smoking or vaping allowed on board?

Accepted Answer

No. For the safety and comfort of all guests, smoking and vaping are not permitted aboard the vessel.

Question 15

Are pets allowed on the boat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, well behaved dogs are welcome on the vessel. The captains love dogs and would love to discuss with you the details of how we can include your dog in the charter.

Question 16

What should we bring on our sailing trip?

Accepted Answer

We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, non-marking shoes, a light jacket or sweater, and any personal items you’d like for comfort. Don’t forget your favorite food and beverages, but please review our prohibited items and foods here first. For a complete packing list visit our what to bring guide .

Question 17

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Our Passion is equipped with a clean and fully functional marine restroom (head).

Question 18

What amenities are available on the boat?

Accepted Answer

Our Passion is equipped with a fully functional marine restroom (head), a refrigerator and freezer for guest use, and multiple seating areas including the cockpit, bow, and stern. The boat also has a propane stove and oven as well as an outdoor grill. Bottled water is provided for all guests.

Question 19

What safety equipment is on board?

Accepted Answer

We take safety seriously and Our Passion is fully equipped with all US Coast Guard required safety equipment including an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacon), VHF Marine Radio, Type I and Type III Personal Flotation Devices, a Type IV throwable LifeSling, fire extinguishers, a first aid kit, radar, GPS, flares, and an AIS transponder. Our licensed captain and licensed mate are trained to use all safety equipment aboard. Every Buzzards Bay sailing charter we offer meets or exceeds all US Coast Guard safety requirements.

Question 20

Are children welcome on the sailing charters?

Accepted Answer

Yes, children are welcome. We provide U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for all ages and sizes. Please let us know in advance if young children will be aboard so we can ensure the proper safety gear is available.

Question 21

Is it safe to go sailing if we have never been on a boat before?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our experienced captain and licensed mate will ensure your trip is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. No prior boating experience is required.

Question 22

What are your rates?

Accepted Answer

Our rate is $275 per hour, with a three-hour minimum for all charters. Shorter trips can be arranged, but the minimum charge is for three hours. This rate includes a licensed captain, a licensed mate, use of the boat and the tender, fuel, and cold bottled water. Please contact us to discuss pricing for extended passages and multi-day charters.

Question 23

Do you accept credit cards?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept all major U.S. credit cards. We also accept Venmo, Zelle, CashApp, and cash, and we recommend them — those methods are free, while credit card payments carry a 3.5% processing fee that we pass along at cost. Many guests still prefer the convenience of a card, and that’s completely fine. Whatever you choose, we’ll make it easy.

Question 24

How does payment work?

Accepted Answer

Booking your Buzzards Bay sailing charter usually involves two payments. A 50% deposit reserves your date, and the remaining balance is due four days before your charter. For example, if your charter is on July 5th, the balance is due by July 1st. If your charter date is four days away or less at the time of booking, then full payment is due at the time of booking — this is what completes your reservation, since there isn’t time for a separate balance payment. We’ll always confirm the exact amount and due date when you book, so there are never any surprises.

Question 25

How is charter time calculated?

Accepted Answer

Your charter time begins and ends at your scheduled departure time. Please plan to arrive on time as charter rates and time are not adjusted for late arrivals, missed ferries, or other transportation delays. We want to make sure you get every minute of your time on the water.

Question 26

Is tipping customary?

Accepted Answer

Your Buzzards Bay charter captain and licensed mate work hard to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the entire charter. A gratuity of 15 to 20 percent is customary and greatly appreciated. If you had a great time on the water, your crew will too.

Question 27

What are the pickup and transportation details for our charter?

Accepted Answer

Based on weather and availability, we can accommodate pickup from a range of public and private docks around Buzzards Bay. In some cases the exact pickup location will be confirmed shortly before your arrival so please plan accordingly. If we are unable to bring the sailboat directly to a dock, we have the ability to pick guests up from shore using our tender. Any costs for ground transportation such as taxi or rideshare will be at the guest’s expense. In some circumstances guests may be dropped off at a different location than where they were picked up. If this occurs it is rare and based on unforeseen circumstances.

Question 28

What if we want to stay out longer?

Accepted Answer

If you would like to extend your charter beyond the scheduled time, additional time is available at the agreed upon hourly rate subject to the Captain’s discretion and schedule availability. Please discuss this with your Captain during the charter.

Question 29

What happens if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. If weather conditions make sailing unsafe, we will work with you to reschedule your charter or provide a full refund.

Question 30

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

A 40% service charge applies to all cancellations. Cancellations made with at least 14 days notice will receive a refund less the 40% cancellation fee. Cancellations made with less than 14 days notice will forfeit all fees unless we are able to rebook the charter dates, in which case a refund less the cancellation fee will be issued. No refunds or partial refunds are made for late arrivals or early departures regardless of cause. In the case of unsafe weather conditions the Captain and guest will work together to reschedule to a mutually convenient date.

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