Legal
Rental Policy & Guest Guidelines
Effective Date: December 2025
1. BOOKING & PAYMENT
Reservation Process
- Captain Carl will contact guests prior to arrival to introduce himself and discuss charter details.
- Early booking is highly recommended to secure preferred dates.
- Charters included with 7+ day property stays must be scheduled in advance.
Payment Terms
- Fishing Charters: $1,600 base rate + fuel surcharge ($250–$300 average).
- Sunset Cruises: $1,400 (2 hours, includes champagne, water, and ice).
- Island Excursions: Pricing varies; St. Thomas/St. John ($2,200–$2,400 + fuel).
- System: All payments are collected through the GoBono Rentals booking system.
- Deposit: 15–50% required at time of booking.
- Final Payment: Due 7 days prior to charter date.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
- Safety First: The Captain reserves the right to cancel charters in unsafe conditions (high winds, rough seas).
- Refunds: Weather cancellations will be rescheduled or refunded at no penalty.
- Confirmation: A final confirmation call occurs 24 hours prior to departure.
2. CAPACITY & SAFETY REGULATIONS
Guest Limits
- Fishing Charters: Maximum 6 passengers (USCG Regulation).
- Excursions/Sunset Cruises: Maximum 12 passengers.
- Note: Every person (including infants and children) counts toward capacity limits.
Safety Equipment
- US Coast Guard certified operation.
- Life vests provided for all passengers.
- Fully functional bathroom facilities available on board.
3. WHAT’S INCLUDED
Fishing Charters (6 Hours)
- All fishing tackle and bait (98% Shimano gear).
- All required fishing licenses.
- Ice, water, and professional fish cleaning/filleting service.
Sunset Cruises (2 Hours)
- One bottle of champagne, ice, and water.
All Charters Include
- Experienced Captain (20 years St. Croix expertise).
- Full Garmin electronics package and ample shaded areas.
4. GUEST RESPONSIBILITIES
What to Bring
- Sunscreen: Lotion-based ONLY.
- Food: Light snacks (sandwiches/chips). Avoid heavy meals due to offshore conditions.
- Beverages: Personal drinks (see Alcohol Policy).
- Gear: Camera, appropriate clothing, and sun protection.
STRICTLY PROHIBITED
- Spray Sunscreen: Prohibited as it creates dangerously slippery surfaces.
- Glass Bottles: Major safety hazard.
- Bananas: Traditional maritime superstition—no bananas allowed on the boat!
Alcohol Policy
- Guests may bring personal alcohol; mixed drinks must be in plastic containers.
- The Captain reserves the right to return to the dock if guests become a safety liability.
5. LIABILITY & INSURANCE
- Waivers: Guests may be required to sign a liability waiver acknowledging inherent risks.
- Scuba Diving: STRICTLY PROHIBITED (excluded from insurance coverage).
- Snorkeling: Offered weather and conditions permitting.
- Captain’s Authority: The Captain has final authority on all safety decisions and itinerary modifications.
6. LOGISTICS & SCHEDULE
Meeting Location
Green Cay Marina 5000 S Gate Road, Central East End, St. Croix
Note: Please use the physical address; GPS coordinates can be unreliable.
Daily Schedules
- Fishing: 7:00 AM Departure (arrive 15 mins early) | ~1:00 PM Return.
- Sunset: Departure ~1 hour before sunset | 2-hour duration.
7. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
GoBono Property Guest Packages
- 7+ Day Stays: Receive one complimentary excursion (up to 12 passengers).
- Extra Excursions: Available at a reduced rate of $1,000.
Fish Policy
- Sustainability: Small fish are released; no-waste policy maintained.
- The Catch: Guests receive reasonable portions to eat; fish cleaning is an educational experience at the dock.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
By booking with Apex Charters/GoBono Rentals, guests acknowledge they have read these policies, accept the inherent risks of boating, and agree to follow all safety guidelines.
Contact: Captain Carl via GoBono Rentals or Property Management.
Emergency: US Coast Guard - Channel 16 VHF Radio.