Boat Chartering 101
Yacht charter tips for beginners - This blog could offer advice and recommendations for guests who are new to yacht charters. Topics could include what to pack, what to expect on board, how to choose the right itinerary, and how to prepare for a comfortable and enjoyable trip on San Francisco Bay aboard our luxury yacht Gas Light.
Yacht charters can be an incredible and memorable way to explore the beauty of the world's oceans and waterways, more specifically San Francisco Bay. For beginners, it can also be a bit overwhelming to prepare for and plan a yacht charter trip. Here are some tips to help make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
Pack wisely: . Be sure to bring comfortable and practical clothing for on-board activities, as well as additional layers, it can get chilly on SF Bay- usually 10 degrees cooler than on land. It's also a good idea to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun while on the water.
Know what to expect on board: When you arrive on the yacht, the crew will give you a briefing on safety protocols, yacht operations, and the itinerary. It's important to listen carefully and ask any questions you may have.
Choose the right pick up spot: Research the areas you want be cruising and choose a docking location that aligns with your interests and preferences. Some charters offer customizable itineraries, so you can work with the crew to plan activities and destinations that are tailored to your preferences.
Plan for comfort: Yachts can be subject to motion, which can cause seasickness for some guests. To prevent this, consider taking seasickness medication, it is advised to take it an hour before boarding and acclimatizing to the motion of the boat gradually. Additionally, be sure to bring comfortable shoes with non-slip soles, as the deck can be slippery when wet.
Communicate with the crew: The crew is there to make your experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. Don't be afraid to communicate your needs and preferences with them, whether it's regarding meals, activities, or any other aspect of the trip. They will be happy to accommodate your requests as much as possible.
Overall, a yacht charter can be an unforgettable and luxurious experience for beginners and experienced sailors alike. With some preparation and communication, guests can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip on the water.
Information about your upcoming charter on Gas Light
Where do I meet the boat?
Please arrive 15-20 minutes early so we can get you on board and leave the dock on time. We will require you to sign a waiver. We will have the waiver on iPads that you can sign at the docks or you can print it out and bring it with you.
Upon arrival, look for our crew in Navy and White Rugby shirts or Helly Hansen jackets.
We have 4 locations to choose from. Double-check with the person who booked your charter to see which location you all are meeting the boat.
Gas Light departs from Marina Village Yacht Harbor in Alameda, a short distance from the Posey Tube - There are several free parking spaces for you to park.
Gas Light departs from South Beach Harbor or Pier 40, a short distance from Giants Stadium - There are several paid parking lots or meters on the street. meeting Location – We will meet at the benches at pier 40/ South Beach harbor at the parking lot.
Gas Light departs from Marina Bay Yacht Harbor in Richmond. The Harbor Master's office address is 1340 Marina Way S in Richmond Ca 94804. The dock is located right behind the harbor master's office. There is plenty of free street parking and a paid lot. Just don't park in the school's lot.
Gas Light can depart from Sausalito. There is free parking at this location, call us for details.
What should I wear?
Please wear soft-soled shoes such as tennis shoes; no heels, combat or cowboy boots. At times it can get quite cool on the bay, so we recommend layers and long pants, long sleeves, a sweatshirt and a windbreaker just in case. For winter or evening trips dress extra warmly. Layers are BEST!
Can I bring my own snacks and adult beverages?
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks or meal onboard. We suggest finger foods. FYI, there is not a way to heat food once we have left the docks.
Guests, must purchase adult beverages from our bar. We have a California Liquor license that prohibits us from allowing you to bring your own liquor onboard. Any adult-beverages brought on board will be confiscated. Sealed non-alcoholic beverages are fine.
We operate a strict drug-free vessel, thank you for your co-operation. Absolutely no illegal drugs, of any kind, are allowed on board, including Marijuana, or products containing THC. We do not allow smoking or vaping anywhere onboard. If illegal substances are found we will return the boat to the docks without a refund.
Will the boat “heel” or lean over?
The boat has wide, comfortable, and stable decks to enjoy the bay breezes. Below decks, the open seating and huge center table can accommodate the entire group. Gas Light is a flat bottom boat that translates into a smooth and stable ride. It is really rare that we have anyone who even feels queasy because of her stability. If you find yourself not feeling well, reach out to our crew we have anti-nauseous wrist bands, ginger ale and can help you with a few other tricks to feeling better quickly. Our crew cannot provide any medications. If you know you are likely to be seasick, please consider possible remedies prior to the cruise.
What does the waiver I sign before boarding say?
The above link is for information only. If you prefer to sign the waiver before boarding, please click the button below, print, sign, and bring the form with you on the day of your charter. Thank you!
We use the email you provide to send you a link to the photos we take. If you want to see a sample slideshow click here:
Weddings, Birthday Celebrations, Corporate Team Building, or Ash Scatterings.
We are excited to sail with you and your group! See you soon!!
Why do you collect my email address?
First of all, we never share or sell your contact info. We just use it to send you the group photo and any other photos we capture during your trip. You can opt-out of receiving any future emails from us at any time.
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Where will the charter go?
We usually sail around the central part of the bay, going past the San Francisco city front, Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, and possibly the Golden Gate Bridge. The exact route depends on daily weather, wind, tide, and vessel traffic, our Captain will determine the best float plan for your time frame and requested route. Feel free to chat with the Skipper when you get on board to see what his plan is.
What is Gas Lights History?
Gas Light is fashioned after the famous San Francisco scow schooners that sailed in the late 1800s carrying goods and freight from town to town throughout San Francisco Bay and the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers. The original Gas Light was commissioned in 1874. More than a century later, in 1999 craftsman and accomplished sailor Billy Martinelli, with the help of Harold Sommers and Karl Kortum (co-founder of the SF Maritime Museum), conceived the new steel-hulled Schooner Gas Light and began building her in Sausalito as a window on the proud heritage of the original working scows. After ten years of labor, meticulous attention to detail, and loving care, she was completed and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry up to 49 passengers. Rigged as a traditional sailing vessel, Gas Light can be a complete "hands-on" experience for the guests to raise, trim and lower the sails. Or... simply sit back and absorb the sea air and delight in the billowing sails flying above. Her interior is crafted of yellow cedar, with a beautiful large center table of solid mahogany and raised port lights giving an open, airy feel for guests below. Although she appears to be a replica of the 1874 schooner, Gas Light boasts many of the guest comforts and conveniences of modern day sailing yachts (not the least of which is a terrific sound system!).
Gas Lights’ crew is extremely attentive to guest experiences and feedback. As such, our staff is well able and happy to provide suggestions and assistance with plotting your voyage and arranging the details of your trip, helping to ensure that every minute of your charter is as fun and fulfilling as possible.
Want more info on boating safety? brownandcrouppen.com/boating-safety-guide/