What should I wear?
Wear warm clothes – several thin layers is best. Even on a hot sunny day it can still be cold on the sea. Wear comfortable, flat soled shoes.
What do I need to bring?
On the day, bring a waterproof coat or jacket if you have one in case it rains, or it gets windy. We do have sets of waterproofs which you can borrow but these can be on the large size for smaller people! Bring sunglasses, even if it isn’t very sunny, as they will stop the wind getting in your eyes, and sun cream. If you bring a camera, phone or wallet, we advise you bring a waterproof bag to put them in just in case it rains or you get wet. We have plenty of dry storage on board the boats, but we won’t accept any liability for any loss or damage for your positions.
Where can we go?
If you have booked a private boat or charter, we can take you where ever you would like to go. Portsmouth, Cowes , Southampton and Yarmouth are our most popular destinations. We also know of some lovely beaches and bays which we can stop off at.
How fast do your boats go?
Our boats will cruise at around 30 knots, with a top speed of around 40 knots, which is just under 50 miles per hour.
Will we get wet?
On a calm sunny day you won’t get wet. However, if it gets windy, some spray may get blown into the boat. If it rains there is little protection on the boat, so for these reasons we recommend you bring a waterproof coat or borrow some of our waterproofs.
What do we do for lunch?
If you have booked a private boat, we can recommend a number of excellent venues for lunch, from cafes and pubs through to quality restaurants. Cowes is our most popular venue for lunch. You are of course welcome to bring your own lunch, or we can supply a hamper to be eaten on board. Alternatively, we can arrange a BBQ on a beach. If you are joining us for a half day adventure, or a Forts blast, you your trip will start and finish at Gunwharf Quays, which has over 20 bars and restaurants with something to suite all tastes and budgets.
Is a RIB suitable for children/elderly?
A RIB is unsuitable for very young children (the minimum age is eight years old), people with back and heart problems and pregnant ladies. Please talk to us if you are unsure, or if you have any other medical condition.
What qualifications do your skippers have?
All of our skippers hold an MCA (Maritime and Coastguard agency) commercially endorsed advanced powerboat qualification. In order to gain this you must have a certain number of logged sea miles, have taken courses in first aid, sea survival, navigation, communication, and sat an exam similar to a driving test. Many of our skippers are also professional powerboat instructors.
What safety gear do you have on board?
All of our boats carry a full compliment of safety gear that you will find on any other commercial boat. This includes a life raft, first aid kit, flares, and lifejackets.
Can I drink alcohol?
Guests are welcome to drink alcohol in moderation. Please note that violent, drunken or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated. If the skipper feels that you could present a danger to other passengers, especially during a potential emergency, you will not be permitted on the boat. The skipper’s decision in final.
Where can I go to the loo?
Our boats do not have facilities on board. There are facilities at all of the marinas that we use. It is possible to stop along the way at the nearest harbour if need be, just ask your skipper.
Can I drive the boat?
Please ask the skipper on the day if you want to have a turn at the wheel. This is normally possible on all trips and charters other than the Forts Blast, although is dependant on weather and the number of people on board, and is at the skipper’s discretion. Most of our skippers are qualified powerboat instructors, and will talk you through how to steer the boat safely.