Important BYO Food / Drink Charter Information
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General BYO Drinks Information
There will be a large eski - BYO ice (2-3 bags) Some fridge space to store and cool all food/drinks.
You can use the disposable cups or feel free to bring your own if you would like something a little nicer.
Drinking water - There is some Sydney tap water onboard or you can bring your own bottled water.
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General BYO Food Information
BYO Food:
Please bring substantial food to abide by the RSA.
Disposable plates and cutlery are onboard for your use, or feel free to bring your own.
You can use the BBQ onboard and the captain will do the cooking.
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What happens in poor weather?
The majority of cruises go ahead in all conditions. The rain does not allow for a cancellation. If conditions become dangerous the skipper will be notified by Marine services and you will be provided options to postpone. The skipper will notify you with as much time as possible to prevent inconvenience to you and your other guests
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Are plates, glasses / cups, cutlery included?
Hestia offers disposable plates, cutlery, cups etc on board. There is also non disposable plastic cups and champagne glasses and plates and cutlery for sit down meals. There will be different types of platters for cheese, chips, dips, meat and other food.
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Are BYO spirits allowed?
Responsible consumption of spirits is permitted
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Is ice provided onboard?
Can be supplied on request $50 per charter.
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Is there a BBQ onboard?
Yes and the crew will cook the food for you.
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Is drinking water included?
Tap water from the tanks is available but we suggest bringing bottled water also if you prefer
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What cool storage is there onboard?
Hestia has 2 x brand new 130 liter fridges, 2 large eskies and extra plastic tubs. Normally one fridge is for guests (food and cakes etc) but if more refrigeration is needed please check with us first to maximise the best way to chill (fridges will take a long time to get drinks cold in summer especially if they are constantly opened which is why eskies and ice are the most effective way of cooling drinks in summer.)
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Can I dropoff supplies at the boat before the charter?
You are welcome to meet us and load F&B supplies by arrangement 1/2 hour before we leave the marina to get to the wharf. Please contact us in advance to check the boat is available and to make final arrangements.
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Does the boat provide napkins/serviettes?
This is a consumable so we recommend bringing your own for BYO Charters.
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Are glass bottles allowed onboard or just cans?
Glass bottles are allowed but consider bringing cans since they are lighter and safer since they won't smash.
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Can we bring a baby? Is there an age limit? Are they counted as guests?
Yes babies are allowed onboard - there is no age limit. Yes, kids of all ages are included in your guest count.
If you have young kids coming, please let us know in advance.
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What is the bond for?
The bond is taken incase there are damages caused by your group during your charter.
The no.1 cause for bond claims is broken toilets so please tell your guests not to flush things like wipes or tampons down the toilets - just a small amount of toilet paper is Ok.
Vomiting around the boat will incur fees. Don't bring Sparklers, confetti balloons, glitter (candles by request only) as they will stain the boat.
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What happens in poor weather?
The majority of cruises go ahead in all conditions. The rain does not allow for a cancellation. If conditions become dangerous the skipper will be notified by Marine services and you will be provided options to postpone. The skipper will notify you with as much time as possible to prevent inconvenience to you and your other guests
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Are there any water toys onboard?
Yes, free to use are a small Kayak, lilypad and a paddleboard. We also have pool noodles and some inflatable toys and boogie board.
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Smoking - is it permitted and are there any restrictions?
Smoking is permitted on the rear port side
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Is there a sound system and what connectivity is there?
Hestia has a 6 speaker Bluetooth sound system with a power amplifier running inside and outside of the boat. Please discuss with us beforehand for your use.
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Footwear - are there any restrictions?
Hestia has a no shoes policy due to safety and damage caused to boat deck. Bags will be provided when boarding for your shoes to be kept safe.
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Can we have a DJ?
Yes you can BYO DJ sufficient power. PLease bring all your own equipment or you can hire our BHS DJ for $750 (4 hours).
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Is swimming allowed?
Swimming is allowed but under your own responsibility, we take no responsibility if injured while swimming or moving around boat whilst swimming. The captain will let you know when you can swim.
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Where can we pickup and dropoff?
There are many pick up and drop off points in Sydney Harbour the most popular is Kings St Wharf but let our staff know your location and we can find the best wharf for you
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Any other rules the organisers and guests should know?
Highlights of Terms of Service (please read the full version at link above)
Covid - If Government restrictions prevent the boat owner from delivering your charter initially booked for, then your charter can be postponed to another available date within 6 months (conditions apply).
Unfortunately refunds are not available for any Covid related cancellations.
If you cancel your charter for any Covid related reason you will not be entitled to a refund or postponement.
View some Covid FAQs
here.
Date Changes/Cancellations - your deposit is used to secure your booking with the boat owner so this can only be refunded (minus an admin fee) if we are able to find another person to replace your booking and if sufficient notice is given.
Weather - Cruises go ahead in wet weather on all boats that have shelter for all guests - your charter would only be cancelled if the skipper deemed the conditions unsafe. View some weather FAQs
here.
Please complete the required information highlighted above.
Please tick the orange boxes above to confirm you have read the relevant Vessel Rules.