What is included in my rental?

Your rental includes the use of our 38 foot catamaran, "Just Be" and the amenities onboard such as lounge seating, stern hammock, foredeck cushions, onboard restroom (Head), two sinks, soap, sanitizer and hand towels. Blutooth sound system, large Yeti cooler with ice, and Coast Guard approved life jackets.

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Where is the boat located?

There are 2 locations: 31st Street Harbor at 3155 S Lake Shore Dr.  Dock F. And Monroe Harbor along the North Charter Wall. We will let you know by email which location your boat will be in so you can plan accordingly. (Links are provided in Red)

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When should we arrive for our sail?

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before your sail time. Your Captain will meet you there about 5-10 minutes before your sail. If you can, we strongly suggest arriving earlier in case you hit any delays along the way. If you arrive early, please let your Captain know you are there, and if possible, you can begin your sail early. You can also enjoy a walk along the beautiful shoreline if you are early.

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Is there Parking?

Yes. 31st Street Harbor has 2 pay lots on 31st Street1-2 blocks from the marina. There is also metered parking along the Lakefront Trail just North of 31st Street Beach. For Monroe Harbor parking, there is Millennium garage (Drive in and look for sign to the Lakeshore side on the right.) We also recommend apps like SpotHero to find price alternatives.

Special events and Holiday weekends can cause traffic delays and the parking lots to fill. Plan accordingly.

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Where do we sail?

Your captain will set a course based on your preferences and the conditions of the day. Sometimes the wind and waves will be ideal for cruising up and down the shoreline, and other times straight away from shore. Whatever the conditions of the day, our experienced captains know our vessels and the behavior of the lake, and will take the proper course to provide you with the best sail for the conditions.

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Is there a Captain onboard?

Yes, there is always a Captain onboard to sail the boat. Recreational/Bareboat charters are a situation where a Captain is hired by the charterer from a list of pre-vetted captains.

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Is tipping customary?

Yes, tipping your Captain and crew is customary and appreciated and typically ranges from 15-20% of the retail cost of the sail (similar to dining out).

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Do you have a bathroom onboard?

Yes. Our vessel is equipped with a bathroom (a.k.a. “marine head”). Hand towels, soap. sanitizer and an assortment of toiletries are also provided.

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Can we bring food and drinks?

Absolutely! But try not to overpack/over consume. Space is limited on the vessel. As a rule of thumb, one to two drinks per hour per person should be used to calculate a fair amount to bring with you.  For example, a party of 10 for a 2-hour cruise would bring with them 20 to 40 drinks. A drink is a can of beer or seltzer and a bottle of wine equals 4.We have a large ice filled Yeti cooler on board, so you do not need to bring one. We have a sink counter and center table that can accommodate most parties up to 13ppl. Hydration is key during the Summer so water is essential. ​​

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​​​What should we bring with us, and what should we avoid bringing?

The Sun can be powerful, so a hat, sunscreen and a light covering is suggested. The temperature can drop 10 degrees on the lake and it's always easier to remove a jacket than not to have one at all. Cannabis products are illegal on the water. No illegal drugs are allowed onboard. No balloons or glitter. No self tanner.

No weapons of any kind. No high heels, hard or black soled shoes. Dress for comfort AND the possibility of getting wet. 

 

Can we smoke onboard?

There is no smoking or vaping of any kind onboard. Under maritime law, it's illegal to possess and use marijuana on boats. This includes cannabis for recreational and medical use whether in vapes, edibles or drinks.

 

​What about sea-sickness?

We find it uncommon except in people who are prone to motion sickness. If you are worried about it, you may want to take one of the over-the-counter medications (please read the directions) WELL BEFORE sailing. You must take it well before your sail to be effective. Staying hydrated and looking at the horizon are ways to minimize seasickness.  If prone, you might want to bring along ginger chews or ginger ale to ease your stomach.

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What if we are late for our sail?

Of course, your Captain will wait for you if you are late, but he may still have to return to the dock at the scheduled time. To completely avoid this issue, we suggest that you plan to arrive well in advance of your sail and plan for traffic delays and time to park. Even if you are there 45 minutes early you can enjoy a walk along the shoreline, or along the harbor wall. Please be warned that drinking alcohol on park district property is illegal, so you will want to wait until you board to enjoy a cold one. There are no discounts or refunds for sails shortened due to late arrivals.

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What if I miss my sail due to circumstances I cannot control?

Since we will have already reserved a vessel for you, we will still have to charge you the full cost of your sail if you are not able to make it for whatever reason.

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What is your cancellation policy?

Full refund is available up to 2 weeks prior to the cruise date. Rescheduling is available, due to weather, after the refund period ends, up to 3 hours prior to cruise time.

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​​What if the forecast is for rain or storms?

Cruises are not canceled for rain. Due to the nature of our concrete and steel city, most storms pass thru quickly and at other times it may rain onshore but not on the Lake and vice versa. If poor weather or conditions are forecasted, you have up to 3 hours in advance of your cruise time to reschedule.  We will do our best to accommodate your group if poor conditions exist after you arrive at the harbor or during your cruise.  The Captain or Charter company reserves the right to reschedule, modify the sail plan or end the cruise portion early for safety reasons including severe weather or heavy seas. Please refer to the cancellation policy if you decide to reschedule. 

 

Are children allowed on our sail?

Of course! We do like to talk to you about the ages and the number of children so both you and we know what to expect. Please make sure that there is a reasonable number of adults for the number of children on board. Children 13 and under do not need wear a provided life jacket unless the vessel is under 26' in length. "Just Be" is 39".

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