FAQ

  • What's the cost?

    Pricing varies depending on desired date and length of booking. 4 hour weekday charters start at $450. Click on BOOK NOW and select a date / package to see exact pricing. Gas and taxes not included in pricing.

  • How many people are allowed on a charter?

    We are currently limited to 6 passengers, regardless of age. This is in compliance with our current US Coast Guard regulations. That being said, there is plenty of room on our vessel as it’s rated for 12 passengers / 2,600lbs

  • Can I rent a boat without a Captain?

    No. At Waves WNY we provide the boat and the captain. Leave the responsibilities to us and enjoy your time out on the water.

  • Where do we depart from?

    We depart from Sun Life Marina at the Buffalo Outer Harbor. If you intend on spending the majority of your charter elsewhere, we can accommodate other public marina’s / docks.

  • What happens if it rains?

    We do our best to pre-plan all scheduled charters. If the weather forecast is inadequate, your charter will have to be rescheduled. Re-scheduling should occur prior to the start of your charter but in the unlikely event that the weather changes unexpectedly during your charter, your charter will be pro-rated and refunded.

  • Can I reschedule?

    Rescheduling is permitted due to poor weather conditions only. We check in with you on the morning of your scheduled departure and if the weather does not meet our expectations, we will reschedule your charter for the next available date of your choice. Note that cloud coverage alone does not constitute poor weather.

  • Can I cancel and receive a refund?

    50% deposit is due at the time of booking. The remaining 50% along with gas usage and tax is charged on the day of your charter. If reservation is canceled within 3 days of the charter, the initial 50% deposit will be nonrefundable. Rescheduling is always an option and encouraged!

  • Is there a bathroom on the boat?

    No. No bathroom services aboard. However we can stop at establishments along the way for bathroom services. Note that we do not provide changing areas either.

  • Can I drive the boat?

    Negative. The captain is provided and responsible for all operating responsibilities.

  • Can I fish?

    No, fishing is not allowed. However we might be able to point you in the right direction towards a fishing charter.

  • Are pets allowed?

    No. Please leave your furry friends at home.

  • Do I need to bring anything?

    Sunscreen! Preferably lotion based instead of spray-on. Also bring appropriate clothing to allocate for weather changes. Note that no footwear is allowed on the boat, bring sandals for embarking/disembarking . Bring your favorite towel, sunglasses, snacks and beverages to stay hydrated.

  • Is there anything I can't bring?

    No glass of any sort is permitted on the boat. ABSOLUTELY no drugs of any sort! This includes marijuana or any form of it. No liquor / spirits. No smoking or vaping on board.

  • Can I bring food?

    Absolutely! We encourage you to bring your favorite snacks but do keep in mind dining limitations on a boat. We do not provide ovens, microwaves, or refrigerators. We recommend sandwiches, packaged snacks, fruits, or other simple options that you would bring on an outdoor outing. We do provide a standard cooler with ice and encourage you to bring your own as well. Trash bags/containers are also provided on board.

  • Is alcohol allowed?

    Wine, beer, and seltzers are allowed - BYOB as no alcohol is sold on board. Note that no glass or liquor spirits are allowed. Please see our alcohol policy at the booking checkout.

  • Where do I put my belongings?

    Our vessel does provide multiple storage compartments. Keep in mind that we are on open waters and the odds of items getting wet are high. You are responsible for your own belongings. We encourage you to bring the least amount of bags, coolers, and belongings as possible.

  • Do I need to bring my own life jacket?

    USCG Type I lifejackets are provided for use by all charter guests. Standard adult and child size. However if you’d like to bring your own PFD, such is also permitted. Type I lifejackets are the orange commercial style PFDs you may have seen in movies, although not the most comfortable, they are the safest. You are more than welcomed to bring your own recreational zip-up / buckle style lifejacket.

  • Where do I park / meet the captain?

    Please adhere to all posted signs and regulations. Your captain will contact you prior to your charter for specific meeting information. We encourage you to park on Fuhrmann Blvd or in the large public parking lot at Buffalo Harbor State Park.

  • Are there any age limits?

    The booking representative must be at least 18 years of age and present for the entire length of the charter. Charters will not ensue if a guest at least 18 years of age is not present and on the boat for the entire length of the charter.

  • How is gas calculated?

    Our 2022 Yamaha AR250 is one of the most fuel efficient vessels on the market in it’s size and category. Fuel capacity is 75 gallons. You pay only for the amount of gas used on your charter. We leave the dock with a full tank (100%) and re-fuel upon our return.

  • Do I tip the Captain?

    Tips are never expected but always appreciated.