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?
Hestia is surveyed to hold a maximum of 33 passengers, 1 skipper and 1 deckhand. Please note, an infant, regardless of age is considered a passenger.
Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, Hestia 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 cockpit area has roll down clears to provide ample shade from the sun and closure from wind and rain.
What toilet facilities are on board?
Hestia is equipped with two modern, spacious marine toilets with easy access for charter.
Catered Food Options
Can we organise a meal on board?
Yes, we can recommend some excellent caterers for you where we can design 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 e.g. platter-style cold foods or food that can be cooked on our BBQ.
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.
Do I have to wash up the dishes?
No! Sit back and relax and the crew will do that for you.
On Tour
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?
We do not offer refunds should you wish to cancel your charter. 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. Please see our General Booking Information on our website or contact a staff member on 02 9328 4748 for details.
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, our 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.