Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation by sending a message through our contact page. Make sure to include any dates you might be interested in & the tour or if you’d like to discuss planning a personalized private charter. We do require a 50% deposit at the time of reservation with the remainder due 30 days prior to your cruise date. If booking a cruise within a 30 day time period full payment is due at time of booking. Please note that until your deposit/full payment is received your cruise is not confirmed. We will reach out to you to finalize. You can also call & we’d be happy to get things reserved for you.
Where & when do we board the boat?
Unless otherwise arranged, all cruises will depart from our dock at the Fairport Yacht Club, 1811 Wayneport Rd, Macedon, NY 14502. We try to stay on schedule due to lock & bridge schedules. We request you arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time to give time to board the boat.
What can we bring on the boat?
We will have water along with other assorted non-alcoholic beverages such as soda, iced tea, and coffee aboard. If you have special dietary needs you may want to bring snacks or any meds needed. We have ice & all necessary glasses, plates, & eating utensils. No pets are allowed onboard. Please check the weather forecast & dress appropriately. You may want to bring a sweatshirt or windbreaker. Don’t forget your sunscreen & camera. If you’ll be celebrating a special occasion please let us know. We’d be happy to arrange something special with you.
What services are provided onboard?
We are here to make your cruise on the Erie Canal memorable. You will be cruising on our Carver 396 Motor Yacht. The boat provides ample room for 6 guests with protection from wind, rain, & sun if needed. We have two full bathrooms for guests between stops or when we aren’t making any. There is a large seating area on the top deck with two reclining chairs & footstools on the lower deck. We also have an electric fireplace to enjoy on those sunset cruises while relaxing in the recliners. Inside the yacht is a large living area with two seating areas. One has two recliners. All are sure to be comfortable during the cruise. If you’d like to soak up some sun we do have two large sun pads for the front deck of the boat.
Unfortunately, the boat is not ADA compliant, so passengers must possess the agility to board & offload safely. If you’re looking to book a private overnight or weekend charter we have a guest room for you. The guest quarters are fully equipped with their own private bathroom & shower. You’ll also have a queen-size bed.
Are you licensed and insured?
We offer all US Coast Guard required equipment to ensure a safe day on the water. A brief review of safety procedures will be provided at the beginning of your cruise. Both Kevin & Michelle have their USCG Merchant Mariner Captains License. Kevin has a 50 ton Masters License and Michelle has an OUPV Licsense. The boat is fully insured.
What is your cancellation policy?
Unlike the lake, the Erie Canal provides us some added protection from the wind giving us much calmer waters. You will experience a much calmer, slower cruise than most experience on the lake or ocean. For that reason & the nature of our seasonal business, your deposit is nonrefundable. We do allow reservation rescheduling or transfer with at least a 2-week notice prior to your cruise. Call (607) 283-9517 to make arrangements. We are committed to providing a safe and comfortable cruise experience.
To ensure the safety of our passengers, your captain will evaluate weather & mechanical conditions daily. We reserve the right to cancel tours based on this assessment. In the event that your cruise is canceled & you are not able to reschedule, a full refund will be provided.
What are your rates?
On average our rates are $35 per person per hour. That does vary based on tour length and the number of people. Children 2 & under are free. Children 3-9 are $17.50 per hour. We also have a minimum charge of $315 (equivalent to our 3-hour tour for 2 adults & 2 children).