FAQs — Adventure Cruises San Diego

Question 1

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Bring the following:
• Warm clothing / layers
• Towels (we also provide some)
• Swimsuit
• Food & alcoholic beverages (BYOB — no red wine)
• Cash gratuity — we suggest 20% (industry standard, no less than $200 total)

Question 2

What is the Charter Contract?

Accepted Answer

The charter contract will be sent to you via Dropbox approximately 10 days before your departure. You must electronically sign no later than 48 hours prior to your departure date. Detailed instructions will be provided — please read them carefully. Completing the contract thoroughly and accurately will save time during boarding. (Check your spam folder.)

Question 3

What is the E-Waiver?

Accepted Answer

All guests are required to complete a digital Passenger Waiver prior to boarding. You can find the waiver via the link on our website. Please share this link with all members of your party and ensure it is e-signed before your scheduled departure time. As a legally authorized California charter company, Adventure Cruises San Diego is required by law to collect these signed waivers.

Question 4

Can We Board Early to Decorate?

Accepted Answer

All decorating and cleanup activities must be completed within your scheduled rental time. Please plan accordingly to ensure timely setup and takedown.

Question 5

Where do your cruises depart from?

Accepted Answer

All cruises depart from Safe Harbor Sunroad Resort Marina, 953 Harbor Island Drive, Gate 1, San Diego, CA 92101. Please gather your group and wait in the seating area of Gate 1.

Question 6

When should I arrive?

Accepted Answer

We recommend arriving at least 15-30 minutes early to ensure a smooth start to your charter. Boarding will begin once your full party is present and the yacht is ready. Please do not ask if select persons from your group can board early to "prepare" for the cruise. Please note: there may be a group disembarking before your charter — we appreciate your patience while the crew completes a thorough cleaning. PLEASE DO NOT WALK DOWN DOCK RAMP WITHOUT CAPTAIN.

Question 7

Who do I call once there?

Accepted Answer

Please text or call the captain line (provided via text/DM), who will come to escort you to the yacht.

Question 8

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

There are gated paid parking lots located directly around Safe Harbor Sunroad Resort Marina, 953 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92101. Enter the driveway before the marina building and turn left.

• If arriving with Uber/Lyft: walk straight back to Gate 1.
• If driving: pull up to the 1st gate and insert your credit card (this will be your ticket), then use the same card to exit.

Note: Ride share will normally drop off on the incorrect side of the lot — walk to Gate 1.

Question 9

What If My Party Is Late?

Accepted Answer

Your charter time begins and ends strictly according to the times listed in your booking itinerary, regardless of your arrival time. If your group arrives late, your charter will still end at the originally scheduled time. Late arrivals do not receive additional charter time to make up for time missed.

For 3-hour or longer charters that include an anchor and swim stop, late arrivals may reduce the amount of time available at anchor. Groups arriving 30 minutes or more after the scheduled departure time may not have enough time to safely include an anchor stop, and the charter may become a cruise-only experience at the Captain's discretion.

Question 10

What is the Marina Quiet Enjoyment Policy?

Accepted Answer

To comply with the requirements of the San Diego Port Authority and Safe Harbor Sunroad Marina, all guests must observe the following procedures when departing from and returning to the marina:

• Music volume must be kept at a lower level while navigating through the marina during both departure and return.

• As the yacht returns to the dock, guests are encouraged to move inside the yacht to gather their personal belongings and prepare for disembarkation.

• Please be prepared to disembark promptly, safely, and quietly once the yacht is securely docked.

• Your charter concludes at the scheduled end time listed on your reservation. Charter time does not extend beyond the booked end time to allow additional time for gathering belongings or saying goodbyes.

Question 11

Is Captain & Crew Provided?

Accepted Answer

A USCG Licensed Captain and crew member are included in the charter cost (gratuity not included). While we recommend using our approved captains for your safety and convenience, as a legal bareboat charterer, you have the option to select any qualified captain. If you choose a captain outside of our approved team, a sea trial is required prior to departure.

Question 12

Is Gratuity Included in Price?

Accepted Answer

No, gratuity is not included — it is the industry standard. We suggest 20%. Our captain and crew work hard to make your experience both memorable and safe.

Question 13

Can we play Music?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Connect your phone via Bluetooth to our professional, club-quality audio system. We feature (2) JL Audio subwoofers and JL Audio surround sound speakers throughout both the interior and exterior of the yacht — delivering powerful, crystal-clear sound wherever you are onboard. We also offer an AUX connection if you prefer to bring your own DJ. No need to bring a speaker!

Question 14

What Shoes Should I Wear?

Accepted Answer

Soft-soled shoes such as tennis shoes, boat shoes, sneakers, sandals, or flip-flops are recommended. Guests are also encouraged to remove shoes and socks to help prevent slipping on the boat decks. High heels are strictly prohibited — anyone wearing high heels will not be permitted to board until the footwear is removed.

Question 15

Can We Bring Alcohol & Food Aboard?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are welcome to bring and drink whatever you like (21+ for alcohol consumption). Food is also allowed on board. NO RED WINE.

For the safety and enjoyment of all guests, any individual who becomes excessively intoxicated may cause the charter to return early with no refund for unused time. The captain reserves the right to terminate the charter at any time should passenger behavior create an unsafe environment.

Question 16

How many people can your party boat hold?

Accepted Answer

Per U.S. Coast Guard and Port of San Diego regulations, we are strictly limited to a maximum of 13 passengers and 2 Safety Persons. Please reference your booking confirmation for your allowed group size.

Question 17

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the yacht features a clean, private restroom (head) for your group's comfort.

Question 18

What supplies are included?

Accepted Answer

Napkins, drinking ice, cups, plates, utensils, bottled water, blender, karaoke, and a cooler with ice. We also have a HUGE lily pad for charters 3+ hours.

Question 19

Can We Extend Our Cruise?

Accepted Answer

If you would like to extend your cruise, please inform the captain or crew as soon as possible. Extensions are subject to vessel availability and scheduling. Payment for any extension is via Zelle.

Question 20

What Activities & Tours Are There?

Accepted Answer

• Cruise San Diego Bay!
• Tour Downtown San Diego & Embarcadero Park, USS Midway, Rady Shell Amphitheater, & pass through the arches of the Coronado Bridge!
• Drop Anchor at Glorietta Bay, party at sea, use the lily pad & swim! (3+ hours required)
• Dance, sing, lay out, watch for marine life & enjoy libations!

Question 21

Can we Swim off the boat?

Accepted Answer

Anchoring and swimming are only available on charters of 3 hours or longer. A 2-hour cruise does not allow sufficient time for anchoring and swimming.

Question 22

Can we bring water toys?

Accepted Answer

For charters 3 hours or longer, we include our large lily pad float. You're welcome to bring additional floats, but please make sure they stay secured to the yacht — guests are responsible for any personal items that float away.

Question 23

Can We Watch Concerts at The Rady Shell?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can often enjoy concerts from the water near The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. Allow approximately 30 minutes of travel time each way and plan to arrive at least 1 hour before the concert starts. Anchorage spots fill up very early for popular performances. We recommend booking a 4-hour charter for the best experience.

Question 24

Can We Smoke Aboard?

Accepted Answer

No smoking. Vaping is allowed outside only. Please be advised that the charter operates in federal waters where marijuana remains illegal under federal law. The U.S. Coast Guard conducts random safety inspections and may board the vessel at any time.

Question 25

Can We Bring Fireworks?

Accepted Answer

Use or possession of consumer fireworks is strictly prohibited aboard the vessel — this includes bottle rockets, sparklers, cherry bombs, firecrackers, Roman candles, and all other types. Fireworks are also illegal within the city and county of San Diego. However, we have a full party light system and disco lights!

Question 26

Is the boat safe for older guests or children?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Guests should be aware that boarding requires climbing 3–4 unprotected stairs and navigating narrow walkways. The movement on board can vary with water conditions. For safety reasons, this experience may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility. We use professional Radar and Sonar for precision navigation and a smooth ride.

Question 27

Is the yacht Dog-Friendly?

Accepted Answer

While we love dogs, pets are not permitted aboard the yacht while underway. Out of respect for all guests, please leave your furry friends at home during your charter.

Question 28

Can I bring a caterer?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You're welcome to bring a caterer as part of your group under the Additional Service Person option. Heating or warming systems (such as Sterno trays) are permitted while the yacht is underway. We recommend electric warming trays or insulated containers. NO OPEN FLAME. Our crew does not serve drinks or food.

Question 29

Can I bring a DJ?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide an AUX cable for easy connectivity to our sound system. The yacht is equipped with two JL Audio subwoofers and full-range mids and highs distributed throughout the vessel. A small DJ table can also be provided.

Question 30

Can we be picked up at a different dock?

Accepted Answer

No. The utilization of Port public facilities such as boat launches and public docks is strictly prohibited for all charter activities. This includes: The Shelter Island, Coronado public dock, National City/Pepper Tree Park, Chula Vista boat launch ramps, Guest/Visitor's Dock at other private marinas, and Dinghy docks. A charter operating from these locations is most likely illegal and unsafe.

Question 31

What is the drone policy?

Accepted Answer

Drones are permitted during your charter and may be used while the yacht is either underway or stationary. All drone operations are the sole responsibility of the charter guests. The crew will not retrieve any drones that fall into the water or are otherwise lost.

Question 32

Excessive Messes & Toilets?

Accepted Answer

Boat plumbing is SENSITIVE. Please discard all non-toilet paper/tissues in the bathroom trash can. If you have a spill, let the crew know ASAP. There is a $250 cleaning fee for excessive messes or clogged toilets.

Question 33

Can I see the yacht before departure?

Accepted Answer

A $50 viewing fee is required prior to the tour. A licensed captain or crew member must be present. Please note that our captains and crew are independent contractors and may not always be available, so advance scheduling is required.

Question 34

Are these "illegal charters" I hear about?

Accepted Answer

No. We are a legally licensed charter boat with the San Diego Port Authority. We carry full commercial insurance and only employ USCG licensed Captains. Always ask for these credentials when booking a boat hire cruise in San Diego.

Question 35

What happens if it rains or gets cold?

Accepted Answer

We feature a fully enclosed and heated salon. You can enjoy your San Diego bay cruise in a climate-controlled environment regardless of the coastal marine layer. All charters operate weather permitting. If the charter must be canceled due to hazardous weather conditions, you may reschedule at no additional charge.

Question 36

Is it safe to swim in San Diego Bay?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We anchor in the calm, protected waters along Coronado Island, which is the primary anchorage used by recreational yachts and charter boats throughout San Diego Bay. This area is well known for its calmer conditions and is a popular spot for swimming, floating, and relaxing on the water. Water quality concerns you may have heard about generally refer to ocean waters near the U.S.–Mexico border, not the protected waters within San Diego Bay where we anchor.

Question 37

What is the Cancellation Policy?

Accepted Answer

• Cancellations 14+ days before charter: 50% refund minus processing fees
• Cancellations less than 14 days before charter: No refund
• Same-day cancellations or no-shows: Full charter amount is forfeited

We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule a charter due to unsafe weather conditions, mechanical issues, or other circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, guests will have the option to reschedule at no additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Arrive

At the Marina

On Board

Activities & Policies

Safety & Legal