【42 Hong Kong Charter FAQs】Yacht boat P process, avoid consumption traps

Part 1: Booking and choosing a Hong Kong yacht charter

Want to rent a boat in Hong Kong to enjoy a leisurely time at sea, but don’t know how to start? From booking time to boat type selection, this section will answer the most common questions for you.

Q1. How far in advance should I book a boat?

A: It depends on your sailing date:

• Peak Season (Weekends and Public Holidays from June to September): It is highly recommended to book 2 to 3 months in advance. Popular large yachts or cost-effective boats are highly sought after.
• Peak Season Weekdays (Monday to Thursday from June to September): 3 to 4 weeks in advance is recommended.
• Low season (about October to April of the following year): Generally 1 to 2 weeks in advance, but if there are specific dates or boat requirements, it is still recommended to book as early as possible.

Q2. What is the difference between a Western-style yacht, a Chinese yacht (Junk Boat), a fishing boat, and a speedboat? How do I choose?

A: Choosing the right boat for you should be based on your event needs, number of people, and budget:

• Yacht: The most common choice, with boats ranging in size from over 30 feet to over 100 feet, it is the most popular way to go to sea for entertainment. The facilities are usually very complete, including air conditioning, separate toilets, karaoke, kitchens, etc., suitable for most customers, tourists and different groups of people.
  • Chinese-made yachts: The space is wider, mostly event boats, suitable for multiple people or corporate events (40-60 people).
  • Taiwanese-made yachts: For example, brands such as V-tech and Ruby are cost-effective, have better interior design, and are affordable.
  • European Brand Yachts: Guaranteed quality and performance, fast sailing, outstanding design, ideal for business receptions, celebrations of anniversaries, and high-end customers looking for comfort.
• Chinese Junk Boat: A unique event yacht in Hong Kong, with a classic shape and open deck space, most of which are open spaces and small indoor spaces (some boats are not equipped with air conditioning). It is very distinctive and is loved by young people, college students or general families. However, the age is generally higher, the boats are older, the service is not as good as that of Western-style yachts, and the cabin facilities are more basic. However, the prices are very reasonable.
• Wakesurf/Wakeboard: Designed for playing cordless water skiing or water skiing, it can also be used for water activities such as towing banana boats. The boat is smaller, usually only carrying less than 10 people, and the goal is simply to do water sports, or as a shuttle boat for yachts, to take guests to the beach or ashore.

Q3. Is it better to book through a boat charter platform or contact the boatman directly?

A: Each has its pros and cons, depending on your needs and experience:

Charter platforms (e.g. Holimood):

• Virtue:
  • Most Choices: Compare prices, amenities, and schedules for different boats at once.
  • Process specifications: Payment is guaranteed, and professional customer service will follow up.
  • Lots of discounts: There are often different offers and you can earn membership points for next use.
  • Safety and security: All boats hold rental licenses and insurance, providing high protection for guests.
  • Transparent Policy: Has a clear cancellation and severe weather policy to avoid disputes.
  • Confidence Guarantee: Licensed travel agency for more credibility.
• Demerit:
  • Too many choices: There may be a lot of information in the interface, and reading can be time-consuming.
  • Time Constraints: Customer assistance can only be contacted during office hours, and orders can only be placed directly online outside of office hours.

Contact the boater directly (mostly through social media or friends):

• Virtue:
  • Price discounts: Regular customers may get better prices (but generally not much different).
  • Direct communication: More flexibility.
• Demerit:
  • Higher risk: You need to judge whether the boatman is reliable or not, and the quality of the vessel varies.
  • Insufficient protection: Most of them do not have detailed lease contracts, and payment and contract details require extra attention.
  • Fraud risk: In recent years, there have been many cases of boat charter scams on social media, making it difficult for beginners to guard against them.

Recommendation: Newcomers are advised to use platforms like Holimood , and those with experience or trusted introductions should only contact boaters directly.

Q4. I see that the same ship has different quotations in different places, how to judge whether it is a “seafood price”?

A: This is a common phenomenon. The price difference may be due to different brokerage commissions, different package content (e.g., one offer already includes water toys, the other does not), or whether it is a direct quote from the boatman. The best way to do this is to ask for a detailed quote that clearly lists what is and is not included, and then compare it, not just the total price.

Part 2: Pricing and payment details

Understand the fee structure and payment process for Hong Kong boat charters, avoid hidden charges, and ensure clarity and transparency on your budget.

Q5. What is typically included in the basic charter fee?

A: Generally, the basic cost of chartering a boat in Hong Kong typically includes:

• Boat-Owned Rental Fee: The cost of using the boat for a specified period of time, typically 4 or 8 hours.
• Service fee for the captain and 1-2 crew members.
• Basic Fuel Charges: Applies to fuel consumption for standard trips.
• Access to basic facilities on board: such as audio, refrigerator, air conditioning, etc.
• Basic water toys: Such as large floating mats or floating strips.

Q6. What are some common “hidden charges” or additional fees to be aware of?

A: Be sure to ask the shipping company or platform about the following additional fees:

• Ice: Some boats do not offer free ice cubes, which need to be purchased additionally and cost around $100 – $200.
• Attendance service handling fee/corkage fee/cake cutting fee: If you bring your own food or drinks, some companies will charge these fees.
• Dock Fees: Pick up and drop off at some private clubhouses or specific piers, which may incur additional fees.
• Fuel surcharge for remote areas: For example, to more distant locations such as Lang Chia and Guo Chau Islands.
• Large water toys: Inflatable slides, water pools, etc. almost all cost extra, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the size.
• Overtime Charges: Overtime charges are usually calculated on an hourly basis, please refer to the package information or contact customer service.
• Vomiting or soiling cleaning fees: If the cabin is unusually dirty, the owner has the right to charge a cleaning fee of hundreds to thousands of yuan.

Q7. What is the payment process? How much deposit do I need to pay?

A: The standard process is to pay the deposit first and pay the balance later:

• Deposit: 50% of the total amount is required as a deposit at confirmation of booking to lock in the schedule.
• Surplus: Usually paid 3 to 7 days before departure . A few yachts allow cash payment at the marina on the day of departure, but be sure to check beforehand.

Q8. Does boat P need to tip the crew? How much should I give?

A: This is not mandatory, but it has become an industry practice and a recognition of the hard work of the crew:

• Amount: Generally 5-10% of the total rent, or based on service satisfaction. You can make up an integer, for example, if the rent is $12,000, you can give $800 – $1,000.
• Method: At the end of the trip, hand it over to the captain, who will assign it to the crew on his behalf.

Part 3: Catering and water sports arrangements

Renting a boat in Hong Kong to enjoy a party at sea, dining and water activities are indispensable. Learn how to choose and arrange to make your boat more enjoyable.

Q9. Is it better to choose the platform’s sea catering delivery (to the meeting) or prepare your own food (BYO)?

A: Both have their pros and cons, which you can consider based on convenience and budget:

• Attendance:
  • Advantages: Convenient and hassle-free, with a wide variety of food and guaranteed quality. Holimood has been selecting the best quality and cost-effective attendance services for many years. From economical party packages to high-end business cocktail packages, everything is available.
• Bring Your Own Food (BYO):
  • Pros: Affordable, complete freedom of choice.
  • Disadvantages: You need to purchase, prepare, carry, and clean up afterwards, which is more time-consuming and labor-intensive.
• Onboard BBQ: This is a popular choice, but only limited to some boats with barbecue grills. Generally, you need to book a barbecue package on the boat to use the barbecue grill, the barbecue on board is more expensive, the crew will generally be responsible for the barbecue, and guests cannot use the stove by themselves for safety.

Q10. If you bring your own drinks, is the fridge on board enough?

A: Refrigerators have limited capacity and are usually only large enough to refrigerate a small amount of drinks and food. For a party of 20-30 people, it is definitely not enough. You must additionally purchase plenty of ice and take advantage of the large cooler box on the yacht to chill most of the drinks.

Q11. How is the speedboat arranged for Wakesurf/Banana Boat?

A: This is separate from the main ship Extras:

• Reservation: When renting the main boat, you need to book the speedboat service together.
• Time: The speedboat usually only operates in the afternoon for about 3-4 hours.
• Operation: After the main boat is docked, the speedboat will pick up guests to play in batches. The instructor will provide basic guidance.
• Cost: This is a significant additional expense, around $4000 – $5,500.

Q12. What are the usual “free” water toys offered by yachts? What is the quality?

A: Usually basic floating mats and floating noodles. The quality and the degree of newness are uneven, so don’t expect too much. If you want to play in the water pool, slides, SUP, kayak (Kayak) or large inflatables, you will basically need to rent them for an additional fee.

Part 4: Itinerary and Safety Considerations

Learn about Hong Kong charter sailing routes, legality, insurance coverage, and inclement weather preparedness to ensure a safe and smooth journey at sea.

Q13. Can I customize the sailing route?

A: You can suggest the destination you want to visit (e.g. Pak Lap Bay in Sai Kung, Deep Water Bay in the Southern District of Hong Kong Island, etc.), and the captain will give professional advice based on the weather, wind direction and current conditions of the day. Safety is always a top priority, and the captain has the right to change or veto unsafe routes in response to sea conditions.

Q14. What is the difference between departing from Sai Kung and departing from City (Central/Tsim Sha Tsui)?

A: Choosing a departure location can impact your voyage experience:

From Saigon:

• Advantages: It can quickly reach beautiful beaches with clear water and fine sand (such as Nanfeng Bay, Whiskey Bay, Jiao Sai Bay, etc.), and the voyage is mainly in the inner bay, with less wind and waves.
• Disadvantages: Transportation is more inconvenient than urban areas. On holidays, there is often traffic jams, so you need to arrive at least 1 hour early. Most of the rental boats in Sai Kung are mainly Chinese yachts, and there are few high-quality Western-style yachts.

From the city:

• Advantages: Convenient transportation, suitable for friends from various districts in Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories. You can choose to take a Harbour tour or go to classic attractions such as Sai Kung Clear Water Bay, Tai Temple, Lamma Island, Deep Water Bay, Repulse Bay, etc.
• Disadvantages: It takes a long time to travel to the waters of the Sai Kung Inland Sea (up to 1.5-2 hours one way), which will shorten the time to stay at the destination for fun. The water quality in other areas is generally inferior to that of Sai Kung.

Q15. How can I confirm that my chartered boat is legal?

A: This is the most important safety issue. Legally chartered vessels must hold a Class IV License for Pleasure Vessels issued by the Marine Department. All vessels on Holimood must hold this licence. You have the right to request a copy of the licence from the shipping company. The maximum passenger capacity of the vessel will be stated on the licence, which must not be exceeded. Riding on illegally rented “white plate boats” is extremely dangerous, and in the event of an accident, the insurance may be invalidated.

Q16. What insurance is included in the charter fee? Do I need to buy it myself?

A: The law requires that legally chartered vessels must have third-party liability insurance. This covers death or injury to a third party (i.e. passengers) or loss of property caused by the negligence of the vessel or crew. But it is not personal accident insurance and does not cover injuries caused by personal actions (e.g., diving mistakes, falling yourself while playing water sports). Therefore, it is recommended that you and your friends consider purchasing a single-day personal accident insurance policy that covers water activities to be prepared.

Q17. What if bad weather occurs on the day of departure?

A: In case of bad weather, the owner will decide whether to set sail or change the course of the day, all on the basis of safety. The owner reserves the right to set sail or not and to decide the route itinerary.

• The shipping schedule will remain normal and no refunds will be given if:
  1. If typhoon signal No. 1 or red rainstorm warning is hoisted before sailing;
  2. Typhoon Signal No. 1 or Red Rainstorm Warning will be hoisted before boarding, or the higher Typhoon Signal will be changed to Typhoon Signal No. 1 two hours before boarding, and the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal will be changed to Red Rainstorm Warning.

The charterer should maintain close contact with the owner to determine the itinerary for the day.

If Typhoon Signal No. 3 or above or the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal is still hoisted two hours before the boarding time, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled.

Reschedule:

The renter is required to change the booking to an equal date in the same year based on availability, and the renter may be responsible for additional costs (please contact Holimood for details), and the difference in the updated booking is non-refundable.

Abrogate:

If the order is canceled due to bad weather, the full or part of the fee paid will be refunded. The cancellation policy for general yachts is as follows (please refer to the relevant policies on the booking page).

Q18. Can I play my own music and connect Bluetooth on board?

A: Absolutely. Most yachts are equipped with Bluetooth sound systems, so you can easily connect your phone to play the playlist. It is recommended that you ask the crew how to connect before boarding the boat.

Part 5: Handling of special circumstances

Facing various special situations that may be encountered when chartering a boat at sea, understanding the countermeasures in advance can make your journey more secure.

Q19. What to do if someone gets seasick (seasickness)?

A: There are no medications available on board. Passengers prone to seasickness should:

• Take the stun pill 30-60 minutes before boarding.
• Try to stay on the deck and other places with good air and a good view.
• Avoid looking at your phone or reading in the cabin.
• If you feel unwell, let the crew know immediately, they are experienced and can help.

Q20. What can be done if there is a temporary change in the number of passengers?

A:

• Increased numbers: Holimood must be notified immediately. The premise is that the total number of people must not exceed the statutory limit of the vessel’s licence. The additional number of people may need to be covered per capita for meals or set meals.
• Reduced numbers: Early notice must be given. However, the deposit or full amount paid is usually non-refundable, as Holimood has reserved the relevant food and services for the entire ship.

Q21. Can we bring pets on board?

A: Pets are not allowed on most boats. It is mainly based on safety, hygiene and other passenger considerations. A few yachts may make exceptions, but there will be a surcharge, please refer to the additional charges on the booking page, please do not bring your pet to the pier.

Q22. If I accidentally damage the facilities on board (such as karaoke microphones, sofas), do I need to compensate?

A: Yes. Passengers are responsible for taking care of the facilities on board. If the damage is caused by accident or unreasonable use, the owner has the right to claim the cost of repair or reset. Therefore, keep your sanity when the party is in full swing.

Part 6: Advanced logistics and onboard experience

Dive into the logistics and onboard amenities of Hong Kong boat charters, ensuring a seamless and seamless party experience at sea.

Q23. Can the dock for getting on and off the boat be changed? For example, I wanted to board a boat in Central, but I disbanded at Sai Kung Pier.

A: Theoretically possible, but extremely uncommon and costly. This is called a “one-way trip”. You will have to pay a high “repositioning fee” because the owner needs to calculate the cost of fuel and time for the vessel to sail from its final destination to its usual berth. The cost can be thousands or even tens of thousands of yuan, so most people choose to get on and off at the same location.

Q24. Can I designate a specific captain or crew member?

A: Generally speaking, no. The shipping company will arrange manpower according to internal scheduling. However, if you are a regular customer of the company and are happy to work with a certain captain, you can “try to make a request” when booking, and the shipping company may try to arrange as much as the situation allows, but it is not guaranteed.

Q25. Can a generator sound on a boat be loud? Can it be turned off when parked?

A: That’s a great question. After the vessel is docked, the generator needs to run continuously to supply power to the air conditioning, stereo, refrigerator and lighting. It cannot be turned off. Once turned off, all power on board is cut off and the air conditioning stops, which is unbearable in the hot summer.

• Sound Volume: The generator is typically located aft or in the engine room, and the operating hum can be heard clearly on the aft deck. It will be relatively quiet at the bow or on the flybridge.
• Off: Cannot be turned off. If you are sensitive to noise, it is recommended to choose to move in the bow area.

Q26. We thought of having lunch at a seafood restaurant outside, could the captain cooperate?

A: Yes, and it’s a popular itinerary. You can ask the captain to sail the boat to Lamma Island, Lei Yue Mun, or seafood restaurants along the coast of Saigon. Boats will moor at the public pier near the restaurant for you to dine ashore. Meal time (approximately 1.5-2 hours) will be counted towards your 8-hour rental time. Remember to book your seat in advance.

Q27. How is the hygiene of the restrooms on board? Can I take a bath?

A:

• Restrooms: The restrooms on the yacht are called “heads.” The space is usually smaller, and with a marine toilet system, the water is slower to drain water. Hygiene is generally acceptable depending on vessel maintenance. Do not flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, especially feminine hygiene products, as this can lead to severe blockages, which is the most common compensation incident. If there is a blockage, the customer will have to pay the relevant drainage or replacement parts fee.
• Bathing: Most Western-style yachts have showers in the washrooms, but only fresh water showers, and the water pressure and hot water supply may be unstable. It is usually only used for simple rinsing after entering the water, and it is not recommended to wash your hair and use shower gel as you would at home. Some Western-style yachts do not have shower facilities in the toilets. All yachts usually have outdoor showers on the aft deck, so guests can simply rinse off the salt at the stern.

Q28. Can it be charged on board? What about Wi-Fi?

A:

• Charging: There are usually standard 13A outlets available for charging in the cabin, but there are limited quantities. It is recommended to bring your own fully charged power bank.
• Wi-Fi: Most yachts do not offer Wi-Fi service. You need to use your own cellular data network. In most of Hong Kong’s nearshore waters, 4G/5G signal reception is good, but in some remote bays (e.g. Lang Chia) or on the back of islands, the signal may be weakened or interrupted.

Q29. How is 8 hours rental time calculated? From the moment you get on the ship, or do you start the boat?

A: Counts from the agreed booking time, regardless of whether you arrive on time or not. For example, if you book at the pier at 10 am, even if you arrive at 10:30 a.m., the rental time will still start at 10 a.m. and end on time at 6 p.m. Therefore, be sure to remind all friends to arrive at the pier on time.

Part 7: Safety and Emergency Details

Learn about Hong Kong charter safety measures, onboard first aid resources, and ways to respond to emergencies to make your sea journey more secure.

Q30. Is there a first aid kit on board? Do crew members know first aid?

A:

• First-Aid Kit: The law requires that ships must be equipped with basic first aid kits, including disinfectants, adhesive tape, bandages, etc. But there will be no oral medications, including stun pills.
• Crew First Aid Knowledge: Professional crew members are typically trained in basic first aid and survival at sea. In case of cuts, jellyfish stings, etc., they can provide initial assistance. However, if there is serious discomfort or injury, the captain should be informed immediately, and he will determine whether it is necessary to call the Marine Police or rescue.

Q31. What if I lose my personal belongings (e.g., mobile phone, ring) at sea?

A: This is difficult to deal with. Once an item falls into the sea, the chances of recovering it are slim. The shipowner is not responsible for this. Therefore, all valuables, electronics, jewelry, etc. should be properly stored in a bag in the cabin before launching.

Q32. If the weather is normal that day, the wind and waves are a bit strong, but it is not up to the rescheduling standard, can I ask to go to some calmer waters?

A: Absolutely, and it should be. An experienced captain will offer to do so. For example, when the east wind is strong, the eastern waters (such as Lang Ke) to Sai Kung will be very bumpy, and the captain may suggest going to Tai Miu instead, or to the area of Kau Sai Chau in the west if departing from Sai Kung, which will be a safe haven and the wind and waves will be much calmer. Please trust and follow the captain’s professional judgment. Ensuring passenger safety, the captain has absolute power to decide the final route.

Q33. What special precautions should children pay attention to when boarding the ship? Are there life jackets for children?

A: Safety first, especially with children:

• Child Life Jackets: Qualified vessels must be equipped with a sufficient number of life jackets suitable for children of different weights as required by the licence. However, the general floating suits for swimming are not different for each boat, and most yachts are equipped with several children’s floating suits, if you have special needs, you can contact customer service for inquiries.
• Parental supervision: Parents have the primary responsibility to supervise the children accompanying them. Do not allow children to run, climb or come near the boat alone at any time.
• Entering the water: Children must wear life jackets and be accompanied by an adult at all times when entering the water.

Q34. When playing water sports (such as Wakesurf), will the coach always be there to guide you?

A: Yes. Speedboats that offer Wakesurf services usually include an operator and instructor. For beginners, instructors provide instructions on shore or on the boat, and support and guide you in the water on your first attempt. But once you have mastered the basic skills, the instructor will mainly be responsible for sailing the boat and giving verbal cues.

Part 8: Rules and Etiquette

When chartering a ship in Hong Kong, understanding the basic rules and etiquette on board can not only ensure your own safety but also maintain a harmonious environment for the ship.

Q35. Can you smoke on board?

A: You have to ask first. Different yachts have different regulations:

• Allowed: Most yachts allow smoking in designated open areas (lower aft deck).
• Prohibition: Smoking is strictly prohibited in the cabin, on the upper flybridge or where fuel is stored.
• Cigarette butt handling: Cigarette butts should never be thrown into the sea. It is essential to use the ashtray on the yacht and ensure that it is completely extinguished.

Q36. Can we board the boat early to set up the venue? For example, birthday parties.

A: Generally speaking, no. Because before your rental period, the vessel may be being cleaned, refueled, or just completed its last voyage. All set-up times are counted within your rental time. If you need a lot of time to set up, it is recommended to book a longer rental period. Simple balloons, banners can be quickly arranged after sailing.

Q37. Do we need help cleaning after the trip?

A: You don’t need to do a thorough cleaning, but you should do basic responsibility. Please collect all personal waste (plastic bottles, snack bags, paper towels, etc.) and put them in the garbage bag. Clean up food scraps. Keeping your boat basically tidy is a form of respect and avoids being charged extra for cleaning.

Q38. What happens if we come back later than scheduled?

A: The captain is very strict about the time, as there may be another appointment or need to be refueled on the return trip. Late returns are subject to overtime fees, usually per hour, and can be charged at a higher rate than the regular rental rate. The captain will usually remind you to prepare for the return trip 30-45 minutes before the end.

Part 9: Finance and Dispute Resolution

Learn about payment methods, invoice reimbursement, and how to handle financial and dispute issues such as unsatisfactory service in Hong Kong to protect your consumer rights.

Q39. What can I do if I am not satisfied with the service (e.g. poor crew attitude, vessel facilities do not match the description)?

A:

• On-the-Spot Communication: If circumstances allow, politely report the issue to the captain during the voyage to see if it can be resolved promptly.
• Record and store evidence: Use your mobile phone to take pictures of evidence of incorrect goods (such as damaged facilities).
• Complain immediately: We recommend contacting Holimood customer service immediately to submit your complaint and evidence. Holimood will do its best to mediate and handle complaints for you before disembarking, if you make a complaint and appeal for a refund or compensation after the trip, please be sure to keep enough evidence to prove that the goods are not in order, and we will do our best to investigate.

Q40. Can I pay the balance or tip with electronic payment methods besides cash?

A: More and more shipowners are accepting Faster Payment System (FPS) or bank transfer to pay the last number. But for tips, the industry custom is still to pay in cash , as it is convenient for captains to distribute them to the crew in real time. It is recommended that you prepare an appropriate amount of cash before departure.

Q41. Can the charter invoice or receipt be used for reimbursement by the company?

A: Holimood can provide an official receipt (Receipt) or invoice (Invoice). You will receive an official e-receipt in the confirmation email. If customers need an invoice before payment, please contact customer service to obtain it.

Q42. Can I get my deposit back if I cancel my booking?

A: The cancellation policy for general yachts is as follows (some yachts may be exceptional, please refer to the relevant policies on the booking page):

Change the date of the reservation

• If the change is made at least 30 days before the boarding date, the lesser will be required to pay an administrative fee of 10% of the total order amount;
• If the change is made at least 14 days before the boarding date, the charterer will be required to pay an administrative fee of 20% of the total order amount;
• If the change is made at least 7 days before the boarding date, the charterer will be required to pay an administrative fee of 50% of the total order amount;
• No changes will be made within 7 working days of the boarding date.
• Depending on the availability of the reservation, the booking can be changed to a date on or after October of the current year, and if the reservation is to be changed to a date before October of the current year, the renter will be required to pay an additional handling fee (20% of the total order amount).
• If the date of the renter’s initial reservation is a weekday, the date of the change must also be a weekday. If the date of the original reservation of the renter falls on a holiday, the changed booking date must be a holiday, and the renter shall be responsible for the difference in the renewal of the reservation.
• The renter can only change the booking time once.
• The charterer is not allowed to select another vessel when changing the booking.
• If the reservation needs to be rescheduled or cancelled, all food and beverages in the pre-ordered cannot be changed or cancelled. Due to food preparation or other factors, the charterer will still be responsible for the full cost (please contact the owner for details) and will pick up the food and drinks at the selected location as scheduled without any compensation.

Cancel reservations

• Cancellations made at least 45 days before the boarding date will be subject to an administrative fee of 20% of the total order amount.
• For cancellations made at least 30 days before the boarding date, the charterer will be required to pay an administrative fee of 30% of the total order amount;
• Cancellations made at least 14 days before the boarding date will be paid by the charterer of 50% of the total order amount.
• No cancellation will be made within 14 working days of the boarding date.