About Maison Neptune
FAQs
Learn Maison Neptune about our company, including our history and founding principles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What you need to know before chartering a yacht
What type of contract shall be stipulated and who takes part in it?
The contract is entered into between the Charterer and Maison Neptune, which acts as both a principal party to the agreement and the primary point of contact throughout the charter process.
Upon execution of the Yacht Charter Agreement, a deposit amounting to 50% of the total charter fee is required to secure the booking. The remaining 50%, together with the APA, applicable VAT, and any delivery or redelivery fees, is generally payable no later than fourteen (14) business days prior to the charter’s commencement, unless otherwise specified within the terms of the agreement.
Which payment methods are available?
At this time, Maison Neptune accepts payment exclusively via bank transfer. In exceptional last-minute bookings, an instant transfer or credit card may be accommodated, but only where the specific yacht and associated parties are able to accept such forms of payment.
What is APA?
The APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) is a fund collected in advance to cover variable costs associated with your charter. While this is not required for all charters, overnights or bespoke services typically with operate with an APA.
The APA—generally ranging from 25% to 35% of the charter fee—is transferred ahead of time and managed by the yacht’s captain. It is used to pay for expenses such as fuel, provisioning (food and drinks), dockage, gratuities, and other guest-specific requests made during the charter.
At the conclusion of your trip, the captain will present a detailed statement of expenses, supported by receipts where available. Any unused funds will be refunded to the Charterer, or additional costs may be settled if the expenses exceeded the initial APA.
Who decides the menu? How can guests specify their food preferences?
Approximately four weeks prior to the start of your charter – or at the time of booking for shorter lead times – Maison Neptune will provide a detailed preference sheet for guests to complete. This form allows you to indicate your culinary preferences, dietary restrictions, allergies, and any special requests.
This process ensures the crew – particularly the chef – has ample time to understand your tastes and stock the pantry accordingly, allowing for a highly personalized dining experience.
During the charter, the chef will prepare daily menus based on your preferences and the availability of fresh local ingredients. Specific diets and requests are never an issue, provided they are communicated in advance.
Can we bring our own food and beverages?
On some vessels, yes. Guests may bring their own food or beverages on board, provided the yacht allows it. Most vessels carrying more than 12 passengers – or those operating under a liquor license – do not permit outside alcohol or catering due to regulatory restrictions.
If your charter includes a galley fee, that typically indicates you’re permitted to bring your own provisions or hire an outside caterer. This information will be listed on the vessel’s details or provided at the time of booking.
Can I bring my own bartender, waiter, or chef?
Unfortunately, outside service staff are not permitted on board.
Maison Neptune provides experienced crew members who are trained in luxury yacht service and familiar with onboard protocols, safety, and motion at sea. Our team is here to ensure seamless hospitality – from expert mixology to fine dining – without the risks that can come from untrained or unfamiliar staff.
Trust us – no one wants a chef who gets seasick mid-service. We’ve got you covered.
A Note on Items to Avoid
To protect the yacht’s interior, we kindly ask guests to avoid bringing items that may cause staining or damage, including red wine, blue or red frosting, glitter, or anything difficult to clean from upholstery, teak, or leather surfaces.
If you’re unsure, just ask – we’ll clarify what’s allowed for your specific charter.
What is the best time for departure?
Morning departures are typically ideal. Early hours tend to offer the calmest sea conditions, making for a smoother start to your charter. Midday is perfect for soaking up the sun, while evening departures are well-suited for sunset cruises or dinner on board. We’ll help you choose the best departure time based on your itinerary and preferences.
How long does it take to reach Catalina Island?
The journey to Catalina Island typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours each way, cruising at standard speeds of 14 – 17 knots. If you’d like to arrive faster, some vessels are capable of making the trip in as little as 1 to 1.5 hours – however, this may significantly increase fuel consumption and cost.
In most cases, a 2 – 2.5 hour cruise each way is ideal, especially on full-day charters, as it allows 3 – 4 hours of exploration and leisure time on the island. If you’re interested in a faster transfer, just let us know and we’ll guide you through the available options
Is it possible to cruise at night?
Yes, night cruising is possible aboard certain vessels. However, this is always subject to the captain’s discretion and dependent on favorable weather and navigational conditions.
Can we stay at anchor overnight instead of docking in port?
Yes, overnight anchorage is possible when weather conditions allow and with the captain’s approval. For smaller yachts, anchoring overnight is typically limited to 2-3 nights per charter week to ensure proper rest for the crew and to preserve onboard systems such as generators.
For medium and large yachts, overnight anchoring is generally not an issue and can be done more freely, provided conditions remain safe and appropriate.
What is the boarding policy and where do we board our yacht?
Guests may begin boarding 15 minutes prior to the confirmed charter start time. Once the captain, crew, and vessel have been assigned, Maison Neptune will provide a confirmation email with precise boarding instructions and the designated location.
We kindly request that all guests disembark within 15 minutes following the scheduled end time. Should the vessel return later than agreed due to delayed disembarkation, an overtime fee may be applied in accordance with your reservation terms.
How many people can we invite?
For safety and regulatory compliance, most private yachts are limited to 6 or 12 passengers, depending on their certification. Commercial yachts, which are inspected and licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard, may legally accommodate more than 12 guests.
Are there any restrictions on what we can wear or bring?
Guests must comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the cruising region throughout the duration of the charter. The number of guests on board must not exceed the vessel’s certified capacity. For minors under the age of 18, adult supervision may be required, and security personnel may be mandated for certain charters at Maison Neptune’s discretion.
Alcohol consumption is restricted to guests 21 and over, and service of alcohol may be limited accordingly. No outside alcohol may be brought aboard without prior written approval. Similarly, animals are not permitted on board unless explicitly approved in advance.
Certain footwear – such as high heels or marking soles – may be prohibited to protect the yacht’s surfaces. Clothing restrictions may apply depending on the vessel, and guests will be notified in advance if any attire considerations are required.
Smoking is only permitted in designated areas on select vessels. Any merchandise or equipment brought aboard must be disclosed in advance and may be subject to customs clearance, where applicable.
Please note that Charterers are responsible for the conduct and safety of their guests. Maison Neptune assumes no liability for guest behavior or personal items brought on board.
Are life jackets required? Do children have to wear them?
Generally, children under the age of 13 are required to wear a Coast Guard–approved life jacket while on board a moving vessel. Regulations may vary depending on the cruising location, flag state of the yacht, and applicable maritime laws.
Maison Neptune adheres to all safety requirements based on local and international regulations. Guests will be informed of all life jacket requirements prior to departure, including any specific rules that apply to children or during water-based activities.
Life jackets are not mandatory for adults, but properly fitted and serviceable life jackets are available on board for all guests. Your safety is our priority, and our crew is always available to offer guidance based on conditions and activities during your trip.
Do my guests and I need to sign waivers before departure?
Possibly. Some yachts require guests to sign a waiver, depending on the owner’s policy and the activities planned during your charter. If a waiver is needed, it will either be sent to you in advance or provided on board for signature before departure.
Waiver requirements are ultimately at the discretion of the yacht owner and captain.
Is it possible to cancel a charter booking?
Cancellation policies are outlined in detail within each Charter Agreement and become binding once the contract is executed.
In general:
- Cancellations made 120 days or more prior to the charter start date may be eligible for a partial refund, minus a service fee.
- Cancellations made within 120 to 10 days of the charter are non-refundable.
- Cancellations within 10 days of departure are strictly non-refundable and must be paid in full.
- Third-party services (such as entertainment or catering) canceled within 30 days of the charter are subject to a minimum 50% cancellation fee, and the client remains responsible for any non-refundable vendor costs.
All refund decisions are at the sole discretion of Maison Neptune and are not guaranteed. Please see this link for more on our Refund and Cancellation Policy
What do we need to go fishing?
If you’d like to fish during your charter, you’ll need a valid fishing license, and we highly recommend booking a dedicated fishing vessel. These boats often come equipped with gear like poles, bait tanks, and other essentials—but be sure to check the specific yacht listing to confirm what’s included.
If your vessel isn’t a designated fishing boat, you’ll need to bring your own equipment and supplies. In certain destinations, all individuals fishing recreationally must hold a current fishing license, which can be purchased online prior to your trip. Please research your area and obtain a license before your trip.
Is anything prohibited on board our yacht?
Yes. For safety and legal reasons, certain items and behaviors are strictly prohibited.
Prohibited Items & Conduct
Legal Responsibility
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