Your Questions, Answered

If something isn’t covered here, just get in touch — we’re always happy to help.

  • No. A boat licence is not required.

    Our vessels operate in sheltered waterways and are cruised at a relaxed pace. Before departure, you’ll receive a clear safety and operation briefing so you feel confident handling the boat.

    Many of our guests are first-time boaters.

  • That’s very common — and completely fine.

    We take the time to tailor the briefing to your experience level and make sure you’re comfortable before you leave the marina. The waterways are calm and forgiving, and there’s no pressure to rush or travel far.

    If you have any concerns, just let us know when booking.

  • Most people are surprised by how manageable the boats are.

    During your briefing, we’ll show you:

    • All safety equipment

    • How to use the controls and systems

    • How to approach and secure to a mooring

    You’ll also receive local advice for the day, and on-water support is available if needed.

  • Every charter includes a safety and operation briefing covering:

    • Safe operation of the vessel

    • Use of onboard systems

    • Mooring and tender use

    • Local conditions and suggestions

    The briefing is practical, unhurried and designed to help you relax and enjoy the experience.

  • Each vessel is equipped slightly differently, but all boats include:

    • Required safety equipment

    • A rowing tender for getting ashore

    • A Bluetooth sound system

    • Cooking, bathroom and sleeping facilities appropriate to the boat

    • Most vessels have BBQ's

    Full details for each vessel are listed on the individual boat pages.

  • Our charter area includes:

    • Pittwater

    • The lower Hawkesbury River

    • Cowan Creek

    • Berowra Waters

    • Smiths Creek


    This area is larger than Sydney Harbour and offers calm, sheltered cruising with a mix of quiet bays and village stops.

    Boats remain within this sheltered charter area and do not venture offshore.

  • No — charters use moorings rather than anchoring.

    There are hundreds of public and private moorings throughout the charter area, making it easy to stop, swim and stay overnight.

    Pink public moorings are available at Morning Bay, Coasters Retreat, Refuge Bay and America Bay. NSW Parks & Wildlife Service provide a further 54 moorings in 17 locations. They are Yellow beehive moorings with a NPWS logo. These are all accessible to the public.

    A rowing tender is included with every charter. Outboard motors are available as an optional extra.

  • Yes. Going ashore is part of the experience.

    Village stops, walks and meals are all planned using moorings and tenders. Many locations are well set up for this, and we’ll point out good options during your briefing.

    We will supply a rowing tender for this purpose. Outboards motors are available as extra.

  • Yes, but lunch stops need to be planned carefully. A restaurant booking does not automatically give permission to tie up the vessel. You may need to use an authorised mooring, tender transfer, water taxi or pre-arranged marina access. All movements must be completed in daylight.

  • Not unless access has been expressly arranged and approved. CPC vessels must use authorised moorings only. Do not tie up to private jetties, public wharves, marina berths or restaurant pontoons without permission.

  • Yes, but transfers must be planned safely. Options may include water taxis, tender transfers from suitable shore access points, ferry to The Basin, or pre-arranged access at places such as Cottage Point or Bobbin Head. Transfers must be completed in daylight and suitable conditions.

  • Yes, hiring the optional outboard motor make bot to shore transfers much easier.

  • Boating is kept simple and relaxed by cruising during daylight hours only.

    Overnight stays are planned around calm bays and free moorings, with boats settled in well before sunset and cruising resuming after sunrise.

  • We recommend bringing:

    • Bedding: pillows, sheets, blankets, towels
    • Loo paper
    • Dishwashing liquid
    • Food, drinks & rubbish bags
    • Two bags of ice for the fridge
    • Sunscreen, hat, swimmers
    • Children’s lifejackets upto 12 years old (must be fitted correctly)
    • Phone charging cables for the USB outlets

    Once booked, you’ll receive a booking summary with more detailed suggestions.

  • Yes. Many guests use click and collect from a supermarket or bottle shop before arriving at Princes Street Marina, Newport. Delivery services such as Uber Groceries or MILKRUN may also be useful, subject to availability. Alcohol deliveries require valid adult ID, and the skipper must remain fit to operate the vessel while underway.

  • Yes, swimming and paddleboarding are all popular activities.

    Conditions and suitability vary by location and vessel, and we’re happy to offer guidance on good spots and what to expect.

  • Yes, casual fishing is welcome, although our vessels are set up primarily for cruising.

    A current NSW recreational fishing license is required when fishing in all waters.

    Please bring an esky for your bait.

    To keep the boats clean and fresh we do not allow bait to be placed in any of the onboard fridges or iceboxes.

    A cleaning fee may apply if the boat comes back smelling like bait.

  • Pets are not permitted on our charter vessels.

    This helps us maintain vessels to a consistent standard for all guests and avoid issues with allergies, cleaning and onboard safety.

    If you have questions or special circumstances you’d like to discuss, please get in touch before booking.

  • Free, secure parking is available at the marina, close to the boats.

    Public transport options are also nearby, including Northern Beaches bus routes L90 & 199

    Our marina is wheelchair accessible — please let us know if you have specific access needs.

    • A 25% deposit is required to confirm your booking

    • Final payment is made before departure

    • Payments are usually made online by bank transfer or card. We also accept cash.

    All pricing is shown in Australian dollars and includes GST. Seasonal pricing applies.

    A $2,500 security bond is required for all charters.

    • The bond is pre-authorised, not charged

    • Payable by credit card online

    • Automatically released after the vessel is returned and checked

  • Your safety and enjoyment always come first.
    If weather conditions are unsuitable:

    • We’ll discuss options with you before departure

    • In many cases, a one-time free reschedule can be offered (subject to availability)

    • If rescheduling isn’t suitable, we’ll work through alternatives with you