Terms and Conditions for Boat Skipper Services
Scope of Work
The skipper is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel during hired periods.
The skipper will navigate, supervise, and ensure compliance with all relevant maritime laws and safety regulations.
Up to three calendar days will be allocated prior to the trip to allow for safety inspections, spars and rigging inspections, voyage planning, adequate stowage for sea and/or sea trials if deemed necessary by the skipper.
Where required deckhands shall maintain responsible assistance in the provision of safe mooring, anchoring, maintaining a safe deck and providing watchkeeping duties.
Where required stewardesses shall provide guest services such as preparation and serving of food and drinks, table setting, turn-down services (overnight trips) and maintaining a clean interior onboard.
Hire Period
The hire duration will be specified in the agreement and must be adhered to.
Early departure or extension must be agreed upon in writing and may incur additional charges.
Payment Terms
An upfront deposit of 40% of the net quote is required to secure calendar booking and any pre-trip provision/travel costs.
Any additional expenses incurred during the trip (fuel, dockage, permits) are the responsibility of the client.
The client understands that travel expenses to and from the boat as well as any travel expenses required for the crew to return to Cape Town post-delivery will be included in the net quote.
The client is responsible for any overnight accommodation expenses required for the crew as a result of the vessel delivery.
The remaining 60% payment will be made upon completion of the voyage. Payments can be made via EFT, cash or credit card.
Responsible Conduct
The skipper and crew shall maintain professional conduct and operate the vessel responsibly.
The skipper is responsible for ensuring safety standards are met and that all crew and passengers observe safety protocols.
Liability and Insurance
The vessel is insured; however, the skipper is responsible for exercising due care.
The vessel must have a valid registration certificate and certificate of fitness (CoF) onboard.
The client shall be responsible for any damages caused by negligence or misconduct.
It is the responsibility of the client to inform their insurance agency that a certified third-party skipper will be in command of the vessel for the duration of the voyage.
Weather and Safety
The skipper has the authority to cancel or postpone trips due to adverse weather conditions or safety concerns.
Safety of passengers, crew, and the vessel takes precedence over all activities.
Permits and Regulations
The skipper will ensure all necessary permits, licenses, and documentation are in place prior to departure.
The client agrees to abide by all relevant maritime laws and regulations.
Cancellation Policy and Refunds
Cancellations must be communicated at least 48 hours in advance.
A cancellation fee of R1000.00 may apply depending on the timing and circumstances.
In the event that the skipper cancels the voyage for whatever reason there will be no cancellation fee and the 40% deposit will be returned to the customer in full.
The client understands that returns may take up to 10 business days to be fully refunded.
Responsibilities & Limitations
The skipper is not responsible for passengers' personal belongings, unless due to negligence.
The skipper is not responsible for technical malfunctions outside their control.
Termination
Either party may terminate the agreement with written notice if terms are breached.
In such cases, payment for work completed to date shall be payable to Shimmer Pro.
Provisions and Responsibilities
a. Delivery or Long-Distance Trips:
For delivery voyages, extended cruises, or long-distance trips, the client is solely responsible for providing all necessary provisions, including food, water, and other supplies for the crew and passengers for the entire duration of the journey. The skipper and crew are not responsible for provisioning during these trips unless explicitly agreed upon.
b. Short-Term or Day Charters with Crew:
For day charters or short-term hires with crew members such as a stewardess or chef onboard, provisions for food and water are typically managed by the crew as part of their duties.
The client shall ensure that sufficient provisions are supplied or arranged in advance before the trip.
The crew (e.g., stewardess, chef) will handle storage, preparation, and distribution of the provisions during the trip.
Any requests for provisioning by Shimmer Pro must be communicated in advance along with any dietary requirements or special requests that Shimmer Pro should be made aware of.
c. Additional Provisions:
Any additional or special provisions requested during the trip (for e.g. specialty drinks) must be communicated with Shimmer Pro prior to the trip.
d. Liability:
The client is responsible for the accuracy of provisions supplied and their safety. The crew shall take reasonable care in managing provisions, but liability for spoilage, allergic reactions, or other food-related issues rests with the client.
*This is a legally binding document. By signing this, I (Customer) agree to the terms and conditions of service, as listed above.
Safety Equipment Compliance
The vessel shall be equipped with all required safety equipment in accordance with South African maritime regulations for Category B vessels. This includes, but is not limited to:
Personal flotation devices (life jackets) suitable for all passengers and crew
Flares and distress signals
Fire extinguishers of appropriate types and quantities
Visual and sound signaling devices
First aid kit
Safety and stability documentation onboard
Navigation lights and equipment
Radio communication equipment compliant with maritime standards
The client acknowledges that the vessel complies with the South African Maritime and Aeronautical Search and Rescue (SAMSA) safety standards for Category B vessels, and that safety equipment inspections are up-to-date as required by law.
Failure to comply with safety equipment requirements may result in cancellation of the trip, and the skipper or client may be held liable for any fines, penalties, or safety-related incidents arising from non-compliance.