Frequently Asked Questions
Here is an overview of the most commonly asked questions. If your question is not answered in this section, just let us know by e-mailing us at [email protected] and we will answer it and if it is relevant, also add it to this FAQ section.
Q. Is it safe for a novice to take a boat out?
A. Our Boating Safety and Small Boat Operation course is designed to allow both novices and experienced boaters to safely operate our boats in the waters of Boston Harbor. We give you a a complete review of the Rules of the Road, Coast Guard safety requirement, safe boating practices, local and federal boating rules and regulations, plus a thorough check out on the boats' controls, and time behind the wheel with an instructor. The boats are designed to be easy to control and there are very few obstacles to have to worry about.
Q. Will we get lost?
A. Lost - adj. (1) strayed or missing (2) no longer visible. No, you won't get "lost" but might get a little disoriented at times. Especially on those days when you set out to find that cool little island you've heard of or that snorkeling spot someone recommended to you. But with a little patience you will find your way and no you won't end up on "Gilligan's Island". We recommend taking our Basic Navigation course as an ideal way to learn or review interpreting charts and navigating within site of land. The course takes a tour of Boston Harbor on one of our boats, pointing out places to go and things to do, as well as understanding navigation aids. We review anchoring principles and anchor off one of the islands for a lunch (don't forget to bring one) before returning. Aftwards you can feel confident about renting one of our boats and setting off on your own.
Q. Do we have enough gas for today?
A. Your boat will be full of gas at the beginning of your rental, and that will be sufficient fuel for a full day of boating. Our boats have large gas tanks (for their size), and refueling is usually only necessary after several days on the water. However you should always check the gas gauge before leaving the dock. Vigilance is the ticket here.
Q. Are there docks to tie up to on all the islands?
A. Some of the Islands have dockage and some do not. Take a look at our links "islands of Boston Harbor" and "places to go" to plan on which islands you can visit. Additional dockage can be found at various marinas, public docks and restaurants in the harbor. Dockage is not a problem anywhere. All towns have public docks, not always as well marked as the "private" docks, but they are there for your use. Docks are like parking lots, every waterfront business has one. The docks with a prominent private sign and only one boat tied to it are the ones to avoid. You'll see which docks are getting the traffic.
Q. How do I decide which boat is best for my needs and make a reservation?
A. In the initial stages of deciding on the best boat for your group, feel free to email us with specific questions and we will be happy to answer them for you. Feel free to email us with questions or phone us at (617) 240-2900.
Q. Is it safe for a novice to take a boat out?
A. Our Boating Safety and Small Boat Operation course is designed to allow both novices and experienced boaters to safely operate our boats in the waters of Boston Harbor. We give you a a complete review of the Rules of the Road, Coast Guard safety requirement, safe boating practices, local and federal boating rules and regulations, plus a thorough check out on the boats' controls, and time behind the wheel with an instructor. The boats are designed to be easy to control and there are very few obstacles to have to worry about.
Q. Will we get lost?
A. Lost - adj. (1) strayed or missing (2) no longer visible. No, you won't get "lost" but might get a little disoriented at times. Especially on those days when you set out to find that cool little island you've heard of or that snorkeling spot someone recommended to you. But with a little patience you will find your way and no you won't end up on "Gilligan's Island". We recommend taking our Basic Navigation course as an ideal way to learn or review interpreting charts and navigating within site of land. The course takes a tour of Boston Harbor on one of our boats, pointing out places to go and things to do, as well as understanding navigation aids. We review anchoring principles and anchor off one of the islands for a lunch (don't forget to bring one) before returning. Aftwards you can feel confident about renting one of our boats and setting off on your own.
Q. Do we have enough gas for today?
A. Your boat will be full of gas at the beginning of your rental, and that will be sufficient fuel for a full day of boating. Our boats have large gas tanks (for their size), and refueling is usually only necessary after several days on the water. However you should always check the gas gauge before leaving the dock. Vigilance is the ticket here.
Q. Are there docks to tie up to on all the islands?
A. Some of the Islands have dockage and some do not. Take a look at our links "islands of Boston Harbor" and "places to go" to plan on which islands you can visit. Additional dockage can be found at various marinas, public docks and restaurants in the harbor. Dockage is not a problem anywhere. All towns have public docks, not always as well marked as the "private" docks, but they are there for your use. Docks are like parking lots, every waterfront business has one. The docks with a prominent private sign and only one boat tied to it are the ones to avoid. You'll see which docks are getting the traffic.
Q. How do I decide which boat is best for my needs and make a reservation?
A. In the initial stages of deciding on the best boat for your group, feel free to email us with specific questions and we will be happy to answer them for you. Feel free to email us with questions or phone us at (617) 240-2900.