How do we book a boat?
Choose a boat on All Charters and send an enquiry from its page, or use the form on the Contact page. You can also email info@luxuryyachtcharters.co.za, call +27 21 300 9557 or WhatsApp +27 81 333 5566. Yacht Hire Cape Town takes enquiries only: there is no online booking or payment on this website. We check availability with the boat and confirm by email.
When is a booking confirmed?
Only once payment has been received and Yacht Hire Cape Town has confirmed the booking to you in writing. No boat, date or time slot is held without payment, unless we agree otherwise in writing.
Do we pay a deposit or the full amount?
Unless agreed otherwise in writing, full payment is needed to secure a booking. In some cases a 50% deposit is accepted, with the balance due by a set date. Bookings that are not paid by the requested deadline may be released. No payment is taken on this website; once payment is received you get a confirmation email with your charter details. Prices are in South African Rand (ZAR).
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made in writing to info@luxuryyachtcharters.co.za and count as received once we acknowledge them in writing. Cancellation terms depend on the boat, and the boat operator's own terms apply. As a general guide:
- High-end luxury yachts: 50% of the charter fee if you cancel within 30 days of departure, and 100% within 15 days.
- Catamarans: 100% if you cancel within 7 days of departure.
- No-show: 100%.
Over special dates such as Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve and Day, Valentine's Day, Easter weekend and major events like the Ocean Race, the fee may be 100% whatever the notice, depending on the operator. Catering, entertainment, decor, jet skis and other extras already confirmed or paid for may be non-refundable even if the charter itself is cancelled.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The boat operator may postpone, shorten, substitute or cancel a charter because of adverse weather or unsafe sea conditions. It may then reschedule to a date that suits you both, offer another boat, or approve a refund under its own policy; Yacht Hire Cape Town cannot approve refunds on an operator's behalf. A 5% processing fee applies to any refund processed through us, including weather-related cancellations, and refunds go back the way you paid where possible. There is no refund if a trip is shortened or changed because the weather is safe but uncomfortable, because of the captain's route or safety decisions, or at a guest's request.
How far in advance should we book?
As early as you can, especially in summer (September to March) and over public holidays such as Christmas and New Year. These are the busiest times of the year and time slots are booked up quickly.
Is there a discount for big groups?
No. You charter the whole boat, so it is exclusively for your group.
Do children get special rates?
No, as you charter the whole boat. Children count towards the number of guests the boat may carry.
What is the minimum age for children?
It depends on the boat. Parents or guardians are responsible for looking after children; this is not the responsibility of the crew.
What should we wear?
We recommend a windbreaker jacket, non-marking shoes (for example trainers or deck shoes, no black soles), sunglasses and sun lotion. Depending on the boat and the event, dress can be anything from casual to formal.
Where do we meet?
It depends on the boat you charter. You will receive the meeting details by email.
What time do we need to arrive?
30 minutes before your confirmed charter time.
Can transport be arranged from our hotel?
No. For all charters you meet at the departure point for your boat.
Can we choose our own route?
The usual route leaves the V&A Waterfront, cruises Table Bay and the surrounding area and returns to the Waterfront, with views of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles. The route depends on the weather and is at the skipper's discretion, as the safety of you and your guests always comes first.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Catering and drinks can be arranged before the charter. Food orders need to be confirmed in advance, at least two weeks before the charter, and for larger groups as much notice as possible helps. Bringing your own drinks and snacks is allowed on some boats; drinks policies and corkage differ from boat to boat.
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