Booking Conditions
We want booking your escape to be simple and clear. Here’s everything you need to know about deposits, payments, cancellations and your security bond, set out in plain English. If anything is unclear, our team is happy to talk you through it.
Key terms at a glance
- $750 deposit secures your charter when booked 90 or more days before departure
- Balance due 90 days before your charter starts
- Additional charges due 14 days before your charter starts
- Security bond taken as a credit card pre-authorisation on arrival, with a maximum liability of $4,000
- Travel insurance strongly recommended to protect your booking
Payments
| When you book | To confirm your charter | What’s dues next |
| 90 days or more before departure | $750 deposit | Balance of the charter fee, 90 days before your charter starts |
| Less than 90 days before departure | Full charter fee | Nothing further, apart from additional charges |
| Any time | Additional charges (extra and hire items) are due 14 days before your charter starts | |
| On arrival | Security bond (see below) |
Cancellations and Changes
| When you cancel | Your options |
| More than 90 days before your charter starts | Cancel: your deposit is refunded, less a $150 administration fee; or
Defer: we hold your full $750 deposit in trust for up to 5 years, to use towards another charter |
| Within 90 days of your charter start | Charter fees are non-refundable |
We strongly recommend travel insurance that cover cancellation, so you’re protected once fees become non-refundable.
Security Bond
| Why it’s required | The bond is a requirement of the boat owners’ insurance |
| How it’s taken | A credit card pre-authorisation on arrival. The amount is held on your card, not withdrawn |
| When funds are used | Only if the boat is damaged during your charter |
| What you need | Sufficient available funds on your credit card |
| Maximum liability | $4,000 |
| Insurance option | Yachties Insurance offers charter travel insurance that can include your bond, so you can claim reimbursement after an accident |
On Board
| Fuel | Not included. Paid at the fuel dock on your return. |
| Smoking | Not permitted inside any boat |
| Weather & Cyclones | Boats must return to the marina when advised by Whitsunday Escape |
| Mechanical Faults |
Report any fault early. A pro rata remedy may be considered if a verified maintenance fault requires a recall to base. No refund applies if a fault is fixed within 24 hours of being reported, if systems were used incorrectly, or if you decline assistance or choose not to return when advised |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit? $750, when you book 90 or more days before departure. Bookings within 90 days require full payment.
When is the balance due? 90 days before your charter starts. Additional charges are due 14 days before.
Can I cancel my charter? More than 90 days out, you can cancel (your deposit is refunded less a $150 administration fee) or defer your full $750 deposit for up to 5 years. Within 90 days, fees are non-refundable.
How does the security bond work? It’s taken as a credit card pre-authorisation on arrival. Funds are only used if the boat is damaged, and your maximum liability is $4,000.
Do I need travel insurance? We strongly recommend it, including cancellation cover. Some policies can also cover your security bond.
Clear Terms. Confident Booking.
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Questions about booking? Talk to our team on 07 4946 5222, available 7 days a week.