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 embarking 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?
Highlander is surveyed to hold a maximum of 18 passengers. Please note, an infant regardless of age is considered a passenger.
Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome on board, with life jackets being available upon request. Children must be under adult supervision at all times.
Is there sun and wind protection on the boat?
Highlander has a spacious interior saloon providing ample shade from the sun and closure from wind and rain.
What toilet facilities are on board?
Highlander is equipped with two modern marine toilets with easy access for charter.
Catered Food and Beverage Options
Can we organize a meal on board?
Yes, Highlander has an excellent menu selection from local caterers that will 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 e.g. platter-style cold foods or food that can be cooked on the BBQ.
Is there a BBQ on board?
The vessel is equipped with an outdoor gas BBQ. 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 available upon request for 18 passengers as well as other basic kitchen items. A fully equipped galley, fridge and freezer 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.
Where can we put our food and drinks?
The boat has a freezer and fridge unit in the galley as well as an esky. You are able to bring along additional coolers if required. Older style metal eskies are not permitted 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 sound system which is Bluetooth, iPod and mp3 compatible. Please ensure your mp3 player is fully charged. Highlander 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, the charter will be extended based on the decision of the captain on board and payment will be processed post charter by authorised bond.
Booking and Payment
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 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, we require your signed contract and authorized bond form prior to your charter commencing.
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?
Highlander provides excellent protection from the elements because of its covered coach house area.
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. Please 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.