What's Included When You Hire a Boat - The Complete Guide
If you've never hired a boat before, you might be wondering what exactly comes with the booking. At Boat Hire Australia, we want you to feel fully prepared before you step aboard. This guide covers everything that's typically included in a charter, plus the optional extras that can take your experience to the next level.
What's Included as Standard
Almost every charter booking includes the vessel itself, a professional licensed skipper, fuel for the duration of your cruise, and all required safety equipment including life jackets and first aid kits. Your skipper handles navigation, docking, and ensures everyone's safety - so no boating licence or experience is needed from your end. Many vessels also include basic amenities like a sound system, eskies or fridges, and bathroom facilities.
Catering and Beverage Options
Food and drinks are usually the biggest optional extra. Many of our charter vessels offer catering packages ranging from canape platters and BBQ spreads to multi-course sit-down meals. Prices typically range from $30 to $120 per person depending on the menu and service level. For beverages, you have three main options: BYO (bring your own), a bar tab through the vessel's onboard bar, or a pre-paid beverage package. BYO vessels are the most cost-effective option - just bring your own drinks and save significantly.
Entertainment and Extras
Want to make your charter truly memorable? Many vessels offer optional extras including DJs and live music, event decorations and theming, professional photographers, water sports equipment such as paddleboards, kayaks, and inflatable toys, as well as fishing gear for those who want to cast a line. For corporate events, some boats provide AV equipment, microphones, and screens for presentations. These extras are typically arranged through the charter operator, and our team can help coordinate everything.
BYO Policies and Tips
BYO policies vary between vessels. Some allow full BYO food and drinks with no corkage fee, while others charge a small per-person corkage fee (usually $5 to $15). A few licensed vessels require you to use their onboard bar for drinks. Always check the BYO policy when booking. If you're bringing your own food, prepare platters and finger food that's easy to serve on a moving vessel - avoid anything that needs last-minute cooking or complicated plating.
Getting the Most from Your Charter
To maximise your time on the water, arrive at the wharf 15 minutes early so boarding is smooth. Brief your guests on the departure time - late arrivals can eat into your booking. Let your skipper know about any planned activities (speeches, cake cutting, swimming stops) so they can plan the route accordingly. And don't forget sunscreen, even in winter - the water reflects UV rays.
Ready to Book?
Contact Boat Hire Australia today for a free, no-obligation quote. With 175+ boats across Sydney, Gold Coast, and the Whitsundays, we'll help you choose the perfect vessel and extras for your event. Get a free quote or call us - Sydney: 02 9469 6620 | Gold Coast: 0429 917 456 | Whitsundays: 0407 187 194.