Are you hosting a bachelorette party, birthday soiree, or prom cruise? Are you in the process of choosing party boats?
Believe it or not, renting boats for parties is about more than just choosing the first vessel you like. If you want to be confident you got a great deal, you’re going to need to do some research. This way, everyone who is chipping in can know that their money is well spent.
Here’s what you need to know when looking for a smooth-sailing party boat company.
1. The Right Price
You won’t want to overpay for your boat cruise, but it’s important to spend your money on something everyone’s going to be happy with. The cost of a boat cruise can vary tremendously, but probably average around $300 per hour.
Of course, what’s included in your boat cruise will impact the cost. You may, for example, get to see wildlife or go snorkeling. Other cruises may include snacks or cocktails.
The length of the cruise and gratuities may also play role in the overall cost to you. In some cases, your driver may provide a narrated tour, and in others, you may be entertaining yourself. It’s important to keep these factors in mind when comparing prices.
The least expensive option may not always be the best value. For example, less may be included or the company may have less experience with boating.
It’s important to shop around by finding out about what each cruise company can offer. Get at least three estimates but make sure you’re also taking things like activities and purchasing your own food into account.
A simple spreadsheet can help you to keep track of the total costs, as well as what each person contributing will need to pay. This way, you can provide an organized, detailed account when it’s time to ask for remittance.
2. Recommendations
A great way to start your search for the right boat cruise is to ask for recommendations from those who have planned similar outings in the past. For example, maybe you loved your cousin’s bachelorette party or you know someone who recently had a great graduation cruise.
Social media is also an excellent place to reach out for recommendations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of those who supply the name of a company.
Was the cruise organized and professional? How were the activities? Were there any unexpected costs along the way?
A little extra information can help give you confidence that you’re making the right decision. If you can’t get any personal recommendations, see if you can call up local cruise tour companies and ask them to supply the names of at least 3 references.
3. Reviews
Online reviews are another great way to find out what your experience with a particular cruise company is going to be like. You can find these on local review sites as well as the company’s websites themselves. Be on the lookout for patterns that could alert you to potential problems.
Are a lot of people saying that the boat was late? Are many former clients remarking on the unfriendly service?
On the other hand, you may notice a number of similar positive comments. For example, lots of folks may be saying that they had a great time and loved their boat driver. This can give you plenty of reassurance that you’re going to have a good time.
4. Location
You’ll want to find out where the boat tour is leaving from and make sure it’s convenient for your group. For example, if you’re planning a bachelorette party, you’ll want to make sure everyone can get there without having to drive for two or three hours. If you’re planning an after-prom party, you’ll want to be sure you can get to the boat before it leaves.
5. Types of Tours
Many cruise tours are used to hosting parties just like yours and have plenty of options available. For example, maybe they have a great sound system for music or know where to stop for great local bars and restaurants. You may want to go for a sunset cruise, enjoy some dolphin watching, or go for a swim.
The right tour guide for you will know exactly where to take you and how to help everyone in your party enjoy a great soiree. Make sure you find out about all of your options before making a final decision.
6. Get It In Writing
The right boat tour company will be willing to supply everything they are going to include in a written contract. You should also find out what will happen in the event that you need to cancel. Your agreed-upon terms need to be written down someplace in the unlikely event that you need to show proof of them.
7. Number of People
This may seem obvious, but make sure the boat can hold the number of people you are bringing along before you sign with them. For example, you won’t want to book 12 passengers on a boat that will only hold 6.
It’s also important to find out what your guests should bring with them once they set sail. For example, some of your passengers may need a driver’s license if they want to drink alcohol.
Choosing Party Boats
If you’re planning an important get-together, you’ll want to be really careful about choosing party boats that will perfectly suit your needs and wishes. With a little homework, you could be sailing into the sunset in no time.
Don’t stop getting smart about your party boat needs now. For awesome excursions in the Clearwater area, contact ustoday.
