Deliveries
How do I schedule a boat delivery?
Start by filling out our DELIVERY REQUEST form. That way, we can learn more about you and your vessel. Each delivery is unique and we recognize that. Since we specialize in owner onboard deliveries, communication is extremely important to ensure you are getting the most education out of the experience.
Where do you deliver boats?
We are available for deliveries on the east coast of the United States, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean. All three of our captains are experienced in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) having traveled every inch of it from Norfolk, VA to the Florida Keys. Our captains are also well versed in crossing the gulf stream.
Do I need to put hired boat captains on my insurance?
We do ask that you contact your insurance company and put us on your insurance as an operator prior to deliveries. We can provide you with our license information along with a resume if requested.
What safety equipment is required to have on my vessel?
Your boat must be legal in order for us to make a delivery on it. If you are not sure what is required, check out this resource from Boat US.
What type of boats do you deliver?
We deliver sailboats and powerboats up to 100 tons.
Can the owner come with you?
Of course, that is our specialty! Most captains decline owner on board deliveries because it turns into lessons, but that is what we do! We love working with new boat owners to share our knowledge. Ben, Matt, and Joyce have enjoyed living aboard and cruising since 2017. We have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. We’d love to teach you the ropes not only about operating your vessel, but the beauty of the cruising lifestyle.
What happens if there is a weather delay?
Our quotes and estimates include a cushion for weather delays. Its boating, our journey is dictated by the weather. If the captain feels that it is unsafe to travel, they will choose to stay at the dock or on anchor. There is a possibility of making up that time offshore or making overnight passages after the weather clears. There are many factors which make it difficult to sum up in a disclaimer. All in all, we are not going to put you, your vessel, or ourselves in a dangerous situation to satisfy a schedule. Pricing will be adjusted as needed.
Does Onboard Captain Service provide crew too?
For deliveries, we will have one licensed coast guard captain and one crew member.
For owner onboard deliveries, we will have two licensed captains onboard. We provide two captains due to the demand of running the boat and teaching at the same time. We feel that our customers get the most from this experience. You get to see how two different individuals approach route planning, weather, crisis management, and living on a boat. Owner onboard deliveries are a fun way to learn how to cruise and boat life.
Do your captains or crew cook and clean?
The sole purpose of our captains and crew onboard is to safely operate your vessel and teach you as much as possible about your boat, navigation, weather planning, route planning, and boat handling. Our captains are happy to pitch in and keep the boat tidy, but they are not going to clean or cook for you and your guests.
Lessons
Where are lessons available?
In the spring, summer, and fall lessons are available within 100 miles of Philadelphia, PA and Annapolis, MD. In the winter and early spring, lessons are available in the Bahamas.
Can I take lessons on my boat?
All of our lessons are offered on your vessel.
How many students are allowed in each class?
We love teaching individuals and couples, but if the size of your boat allows it, we can invite more to join.
How many days is in each course?
It all depends on what you are looking for in boat lessons. If you are a seasoned boater and are getting acquainted with a new vessel, 4 hours will do. If you are new to boating and your vessel, a three day course would be more appropriate. The beauty of lessons on your own boat is that you will only need to learn what applies to you and your vessel, unlike ASA courses and boater saftey courses that include information that does not apply to everyone. We will do our best to make your lessons as succinct as possible to minimize time and cost.
What will I learn in the boating course?
Our basic course covers docking, communication, crew overboard drills, and basic maintenance. We look at each individual we are working with and supply additional information and practice as needed.