Safety and Equipment
Is the boat safe and in good condition?
Yes, the vessel is currently in survey with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), which requires comprehensive safety equipment standards and regular safety checks. A safety briefing is given to the charter passengers before embarkation and safety gear will be provided if required. All vessels in our fleet are selected for safety, comfort, quality and cleanliness. We are proud to keep them this way.
What is the maximum capacity of the boat?
45 passengers, 1 skipper and 2 crew is the maximum surveyed number allowed on this vessel.
Note: An infant, regardless of age is considered a passenger.
Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, the vessel has safety rails all the way around the boat and children's lifejackets are available on request. Children must be under adult supervision at all times.
Is there sun and wind protection on the boat?
The Lightwave's covered cockpit and roll out awnings provide ample shade from the sun.
What toilet facilities are on board?
The Lightwave is equipped with 2 modern, spacious marine toilets with easy access fro charter.
Catered Food and Beverage Options
Can we organize a meal on board?
Yes. We can recommend some excellent local caterers for you to speak with directly to design and deliver the perfect menu to suit your budget and taste.
BYO Catering
Are we allowed to bring our own food and drinks?
Yes. We suggest that you bring boat friendly food that requires minimum preparation i.e. platter-style cold foods.
Is there a BBQ on board?
The vessel is equipped with an outdoor gas BBQ including cooking utensils. Please note that adverse weather conditions may make barbecuing difficult. When at anchor, the crew will be happy to cook your BBQ food for you!
What kitchen equipment is available?
The boat has cutlery, plates and glasses for 45 passengers as well as salad bowls, platters and other basic kitchen items. A microwave, oven 2 fridges, freezer, and 3 burner stove are also available for use.
Do I have to wash up the dishes?
No! sit back and relax and the crew will do that for you.
Are there tea and coffee making facilities?
There is a gas stove and kettle on board for making tea and coffee. Bring along your own tea, coffee, sugar and milk.
Where can we put our food and drinks?
The boat has a freezer and fridge unit in the galley as well as two large ice coolers in the cockpit. You are permitted to bring along additional coolers if required. Older style metal eskies are not allowed as they damage the boat.
Do we need to bring ice for the cooler / esky?
Yes.
On Tour
Can we have music on board?
Yes, the vessel is equipped with a CD radio system which is iPod and mp3 compatible. Please ensure your mp3 player is fully charged. You may also like to bring along a selection of your favourite CDs. Dreamtime Girl is equipped with both indoor and outdoor speakers
Where can we go during our charter?
Your skipper can take you most places within Sydney Harbour, providing it is within the surveyed boundaries. Should your guests wish to go to a specific location within Sydney Harbour please let us know at time of briefing.
Can we extend our charter time during the charter?
Yes, although this is subject to availability. Please note payment will be required at time of extension either by cash or by credit card.
Booking and Payment
Can we view the boat before we book our charter?
Yes, as the vessel is located at the Rose Bay Marina viewing is possible most days. We recommend that you view the vessel so that you know exactly what the boat has to offer and whether it is suitable for your charter. Please call in advance to arrange a viewing.
How do I secure my booking?
A minimum 50% deposit is required to confirm booking, with the balance payable 14 days prior to commencement of the charter. Upon payment of your deposit, a Skippered Charter Contract will be faxed or emailed to you, confirming details relevant to your charter, which must be signed and returned. Payment can be made by MasterCard, Visa, EFTPOS, Electronic Funds Transfer or Cash. Diners Card, Bankcard and Cheques are not accepted.
Is there any paperwork to complete before we go on our Charter? Yes. Yes. We require your signed contract and authorized bond form prior to your charter.
Cancellation
If I cancel the charter, can I get a refund?
See General Booking Information button below for details
Wet Weather
What happens in the event of rain?
The Lightwave Catamaran provides excellent protection from the elements because of it's covered coach house area and clear roll down awnings that can be rolled out to cover the transom if necessary.
We cannot offer a 'Blue Sky Guarantee'. If boating conditions are unsafe, as determined by the management of Sydney Harbour Escapes, we will offer a six month voucher where you can reschedule your charter based on availability.
Preparations and Arrival
What do you advise we bring along for our charter?
As conditions can vary on the water, it is suggested that you bring along a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimmers, and seasonal jumper or jacket. Please wear white-soled shoes or non-marking boating shoes. Strictly no black soled shoes or stiletto-heeled shoes, as this will damage the decking.
Does our party need to get there before the set time of the charter?
All your party should be at the designated pick up point at least 15 minutes prior to your charter time to allow loading of passengers and gear and to enable enough time for the skipper's safety briefing. Note: Your charter will start and finish at the times on your contract.
Can one of our guests be picked up late and dropped off early from another wharf?
Multiple pick up and drop off points are not recommended as this will shorten your charter time significantly. We suggest that guests wishing to join the charter late or leave early should arrange alternative transportation via water taxi at their own cost. Please ask one of the Sydney Harbour Escapes team members for a Water Taxi contact.