Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about booking a private boat rental or charter in Vancouver with SeaSky Cruises.
Booking & Payment
How do I book a private boat rental in Vancouver?
The easiest way is to send an enquiry through our contact page with your preferred date, group size, and duration. We’ll respond within a few hours with availability and a tailored quote. No payment is required until you confirm.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks ahead, especially for summer weekends (June–September) and holiday dates. Fireworks cruise dates and popular Saturday evening slots can fill 4–6 weeks in advance. Weekday and off-season bookings are often available on shorter notice.
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept e-transfer, credit card, and cash. A deposit of 50% is required to confirm your booking, with the remaining balance due before departure. Full payment details will be provided when you receive your quote.
Is a deposit required to hold my booking?
Yes. A 50% deposit is required to secure your booking date and vessel. The remaining balance is due prior to departure. Your booking is not confirmed until the deposit has been received.
Can I modify or reschedule after booking?
We will always try to accommodate rescheduling requests where possible. Please contact us as early as you can if you need to change your date. Rescheduling is subject to vessel availability and may not be possible on short notice during peak season.
Boats & Capacity
What types of boats does SeaSky Cruises offer?
Our fleet includes a luxury pontoon (up to 10 guests), flat deck yacht (12), double deck party yacht (12), 50ft Meridian luxury yacht (15), 60ft Fairline yacht (12), 65ft event boat (40), and an 85ft luxury event vessel (up to 70 guests). See our Boat Rental page for full details.
How many people can each boat hold?
Our vessels range from 10 guests (pontoon) up to 70 guests (85ft event boat). The right vessel depends on your group size and the type of experience you want. Send us your headcount and we’ll recommend the best fit.
Which boat is best for a birthday, corporate event, or bachelorette?
For smaller celebrations (up to 15 guests), our mid-size yachts work well. For 20–40 guests, the 65ft event boat is a popular choice. For events up to 70 guests, the 85ft vessel is our flagship option. Browse our Occasions & Events page for guidance by occasion type.
Is a licensed captain included with every rental?
Yes. Every SeaSky Cruises charter includes a Transport Canada certified captain. You do not need a boating licence or any nautical experience. Your captain handles all navigation and safety throughout the charter.
Is fuel included in the charter rate?
Yes. Fuel is fully included in all SeaSky Cruises charter rates. There are no fuel surcharges added after booking. The rate you confirm is the rate you pay.
Food & Drinks
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
BYOF is welcome. BYOB is available on most vessels for guests aged 19 and over, but outside alcohol is not permitted on the 85ft Event Boat. Alcohol for the 85ft must be arranged through SeaSky in advance.
Is there a BBQ on board?
Yes, selected vessels including the pontoon boat are equipped with a marine BBQ grill. Please confirm BBQ availability when making your enquiry, as it varies by vessel. You are welcome to bring your own food for grilling.
Can we bring a catering team or outside food vendors?
Yes. You are welcome to arrange your own catering for larger events. Please let us know in advance so we can confirm logistics, boarding timing, and suitable vessel setup for catering access.
Is there a cooler or refrigeration on board?
Cooling and refrigeration availability varies by vessel. We recommend bringing a quality portable cooler for your beverages. Please ask us about specific vessel amenities when you enquire.
Weather & Cancellation
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms vary by vessel and event type, and your final quote will confirm the policy for your charter. Many standard charters allow full-refund cancellation with at least 7 days notice, while larger event or private yacht bookings may require longer notice. We always try to accommodate rescheduling — please contact us directly if you need to make a change.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day?
Your captain will make a final go/no-go decision based on current marine forecasts, vessel condition, and safety. Safety is always our first priority. If conditions are unsafe, we will offer a full rescheduling option or a refund. Light rain alone does not typically cancel a charter — most vessels have covered areas for shelter. We also monitor marine weather and boat condition closely and will contact you if conditions are not suitable or safe for cruising.
Can I cancel or reschedule if it rains?
Rain alone is generally not sufficient grounds for cancellation, as Vancouver summer weather can be changeable. If marine conditions or boat condition are deemed unsafe by the captain, your booking will be rescheduled or refunded. Please contact us before your charter date if you have weather concerns. We also monitor marine weather and boat condition closely and will contact you if conditions are not suitable or safe for cruising.
Boarding & Location
Where do SeaSky Cruises charters depart from?
Private charters depart from Plaza of Nations or Granville Island, depending on the vessel. Exact dock and boarding details are confirmed with the booking.
Is there parking near the departure point?
Yes. Paid public parking is available near 750 Pacific Blvd. Street parking and parkades in the False Creek and BC Place area are also accessible. We recommend arriving by transit where possible, particularly for larger groups, as parking can fill quickly on weekends.
What time should we arrive before departure?
We ask all guests to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows time for boarding, safety briefing, and an on-time departure. Late arrivals may result in a shortened charter, as we operate on a fixed schedule.
Where do you go on the water during a charter?
Our routes typically include False Creek, English Bay, Stanley Park seawall, Coal Harbour, and Burrard Inlet depending on your vessel, duration, and preferences. For fireworks cruises, we anchor in English Bay. You can discuss preferred routes with your captain on the day.
Safety & Onboard Rules
Is SeaSky Cruises a licensed commercial operator?
Yes. SeaSky Cruises is a fully licensed and insured commercial charter operation. All vessels and captains meet Transport Canada certification requirements. We carry appropriate marine insurance for all charters.
Are life jackets and safety equipment available on board?
Yes. All vessels carry Coast Guard approved life jackets and safety equipment as required by Transport Canada regulations. Your captain will conduct a brief safety briefing before departure.
Are children allowed on board?
Yes. Children are welcome on all SeaSky Cruises charters when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children must wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times on the outer deck. Please let us know the ages and number of children in your group when booking so we can ensure appropriate safety equipment is available.
Can guests swim from the boat?
Yes, swimming is available on selected vessels including the pontoon boat, weather and conditions permitting. The captain will advise on safe swimming areas. Guests swim at their own risk, and a responsible adult must supervise children at all times in the water.
What is the minimum age for alcohol consumption on board?
The legal drinking age in British Columbia is 19. Alcohol is permitted for guests aged 19 and over only. The captain reserves the right to refuse boarding or request disembarkation for any guest who poses a safety risk.
Private Charters
Is the entire boat exclusively mine for the duration?
Yes. Every SeaSky Cruises charter is fully private. When you book with us, you have exclusive use of the entire vessel for your group. We do not offer shared or public charters where strangers are placed on the same boat.
Can we decorate the boat for a birthday or special occasion?
Yes. You are welcome to bring decorations for your charter. Please avoid confetti, glitter, or any loose items that are difficult to clean. Balloons, banners, and tablecloths are generally fine. Let us know your plans in advance and we will advise if anything needs to be arranged differently.
Can we play our own music on board?
Yes. All SeaSky Cruises vessels are equipped with a Bluetooth sound system. You can connect your device and play your own playlist throughout the charter. Larger event vessels also support DJ setups — please enquire in advance if you are planning a DJ.
Can we extend our charter time on the day?
Extension requests are subject to availability and whether the vessel has a subsequent booking. If you think you may want extra time, we recommend discussing this when you book rather than on the day. We will do our best to accommodate, but extensions are not guaranteed.
Still have questions? We’re happy to help.
Reach out directly — we typically respond within a few hours and can help you find the right vessel, timing, and setup for your group.
