Do you really sail?
The Schooner Clearwater is a traditionally rigged staysail schooner. The advantage of a staysail schooner is that it is easily handled by a small crew, is self-tacking and has many sail configurations to adapt to changing wind conditions. Our Captain and crew take great pride in sailing her and sailing well. If you enjoy the ride, please tip your Crew :)
What can I expect?
Not suitable for guest with mobility issues. Passengers must be physically able to navigate a narrow dock and stairs to step across to the boat. Weight restriction of 275 pounds per person will apply. Once on board you will need to be able to move about on uneven deck surfaces, climbing down a 2-foot-deep step into our seating area, and then a 2 foot step back up onto the deck. Loose fitting clothing and flat soft soled shoes are best, no heels or flip flops, you may go barefoot onboard. It is always a good idea to bring along a jacket or sweater for cool offshore breezes October - March.
Is this a narrated tour?
We do not have a set script for our Captain and crew to read. They love getting to know their passengers and enjoy discussing everything from sailing to marine life and local restaurants.
Where do you go?
Since our objective is sailing we do not have a set course, it depends on the wind, tides, weather and current at the time of your excursion. Every trip is unique!
Do you have beverages available on the boat?
Yes, we serve complimentary chilled flavored sparkling water in cans on board. If you wish to bring a bottle of wine, or a couple of cans of beer or soft drinks, we will ice them down for you upon check in. We do have a corkscrew available for your convenience and disposable biodegradable cups too ;) Hard spirits/alcohol not permitted.
Is the boat safe?
The Schooner Clearwater is a " U. S. Coast Guard Certified and Inspected" vessel. This means every year the Coast Guard inspects our vessel from the hull to the rigging and everything in between. Look for our very important USCG COI sticker we proudly display onboard.
Do you have a bathroom on board?
Yes, we have a large, clean "marine head" bathroom located below deck. The access is down a steep set of stairs similar to a large ladder. We advise our guests to use the onshore facilities before boarding. Our marine head is there in case of an emergency.
Will I get seasick?
Seasickness is a reaction to unfamiliar motion while aboard a vessel. While most of our guests do not experience seasickness, a small percentage of people may be prone to seasickness. In our experience, this often includes people susceptible to other forms of motion sickness. Medicating before you set sail has proven effective to prevent seasickness. If you do get seasick, it’s OK! Alert a crew member and we can help you overcome it.
To help reduce your chances of becoming seasick while on board: 1) Stay above deck and breathe fresh air 2) Look to the horizon, instead of into a phone 3) Avoid the restroom and cabin area below deck
Should I tip the crew?
if you enjoyed your trip it is customary to tip the crew (15%-20%). Our crew are USCG licensed professionals, and they attend to your needs and safety. The crew depends on your generosity for their livelihood.
What if I have to cancel my trip?
You may cancel your tickets at least 24 hours before your reserved sail for a refund less $5 per ticket processing fee, or you can elect to receive a full refund in the form of a "store credit" to be used within 12 months.
Your tickets are valid only for your scheduled date and time. Call or text: 727-366-3667 Email: schoonerclearwater@gmail.com
You may schedule a different date and time if you make your change 24 hours in advance. Once inside the 24 hour period, we will refund tickets only if we cancel from our end.
Guests cancelling their tour reservations less than 24 hours before departure are not eligible for a refund and will forfeit 100% of their payment.
What if I miss the boat?
There are no refunds if you miss your sail. Rescheduled tours due to missing the boat departure are available for an additional $35/per person fee, and only if space is available on an existing departure within 30 days.
Do you sail in inclement weather?
We will not sail in heavy rain, thick fog, high winds, thunder and lightning etc. However, we will sail in overcast conditions, light to medium fog and in intermittent sprinkles. In the interest of safety, the final decision to sail resides with the Captain and Crew and may be made up until departure time. If you’ve purchased a ticket and do not show up, and the boat sails, your ticket is not refundable and non transferrable.
Are Pets allowed on board?