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Common Questions About Our Boat Charter

Flying Pelican Tours, Clearwater Florida

Where do we meet for our private charter?

Meet us at Belleair Causeway Boat Ramp located at 3900 West Bay Dr, Belleair Bluffs, FL 33770. You’ll find plenty of parking for vehicles (please don’t park in the trailer parking spaces). Parking is $2 per day & can be paid via mobile app. There are also bathrooms at this public dock.

How long is a private charter?

We offer a variety of boat tours and we can customize any of the trips to suit your party. Contact us directly.

What activities are included on the private charter?

Our guests love to relax and enjoy our spacious 25 foot SunDeck boat. Depending on the conditions out there, you’ll likely do some dolphin watching, island-hopping, see beautiful and luxurious homes, shelling on sandbars, and swimming.

What should I wear?

Depending on the weather, it is recommended to wear athletic & comfortable wear and rubber-soled shoes. For the spring & summer months, remember to wear lightweight clothing and/or SPF clothing to prevent burning. Because you’re enjoying the cool air while we are in motion, the sun is still beating down its rays. If you plan to go for a swim, don’t forget to wear your swimsuit! If the weather is cooler, it’s recommended to bring along a light jacket or long sleeve shirt. 

Can we bring our own alcohol?

Yes, you can bring your own drinks on board. However, we do not allow red wine onboard. We require responsible drinking & respectful behavior while onboard. Please, no glass bottles or glass containers.

Is there music on the boat?

Yes. Our crew members can provide music to your taste or you can connect your device via Bluetooth to our onboard Fusion sound system.

Can we bring food on board?

Yes, you can bring your own food onboard. However, please don’t bring any nacho-flavored items as the orange food color stains our upholstery. Also, no red wine nor colored hard liquor as it can also stains the boat.

What if something is damaged on the boat?

We want you to enjoy yourself. However, if you or anyone in your party damages any portion of the boat, you will held responsible for those damages. The Captain will assess the damages & provide you with a “cost estimate to remedy”.

Can we smoke on our charter?

Unfortunately, there is absolutely no smoking or vaping allowed on our boat. The scariest F-word on a boat is FIRE!

Should I take motion sickness medication?

If you are prone to motion sickness, yes, you should take it. The water conditions can vary, and the boat can be rockier than you can handle. We do not provide any motion sickness medication.

Can we fish off the boat?

Sorry. We do not allow any fishing off our boat, but we are happy to recommend our friends who are expert fishing charters.

Is there a bathroom on board?

Sorry, no. There are bathrooms available at the dock, so please use them before embarking.

Can I bring my pet along?

Sorry. We do not allow pets on our boats. Moreover, the sandbars we visit are bird sanctuaries that do not allow any pets on the islands.

What if the weather is bad on the day of our scheduled charter?

We watch the weather very carefully. If your charter is scheduled to be impacted by dangerous weather/wind conditions, the Captain reserves the right to cancel & reschedule your charter. If there is no reschedule possible, you will receive 100% refund. If YOU need to cancel your charter, please see our refund policy.

Are there life jackets on board?

Yes, our boat is equipped with coast guard approved life jackets for both adults & children. We also provide life vests for children under the age of 6 years, who are required to wear them at all times while underway.  If you prefer to bring your own lifejacket for yourself or your child, you are welcome to do so.

What is your refund policy?

If unforeseen circumstances prevent you from participating in your charter, please contact us as soon as possible to initiate your cancellation. Cancelation requests must be in writing via email: flyingpelicantours@gmail.com

  • If cancelation is within 48 hours of start of charter, you’ll receive a 50% refund.
  • If cancelation is outside 48 hours of start of charter, you’ll receive a 100% refund.

The Captain maintains the right to cancel a charter based on unsafe weather/water conditions. If the Captain cancels your charter, you’ll receive a 100% refund.

What is your tipping policy?

Tips are appreciated, but not expected. If you would like to tip the crew, the same % you use at a restaurant is normal. If cash is not your preferred tipping method, we have other online options available. Just ask!

What if there is a medical emergency on board?

If the incident is minor, we have a first aid kit on board. If it is more serious,  Captain Sharon is CPR certified. However, a boat DOES take a lot more time to cross the water than a vehicle does on the road. We will do our best to get you to the nearest dock as fast as possible to get further medical attention. It is not advised that you board our vessel with any serious health conditions.

Do you provide any shelling bags?

Yes, we have bags to collect your shells. Just ask.

Do you sell any SPF 50+ shirts?

Yes, we love our Flying Pelican Tours SPF shirts as they offer great protection from the sun while out boating.  We have them available for $35 each.

Do you offer charters for corporate events or charters for team building?

Absolutely! Contact us directly to ask about options. Please note that our charters are limited to 6 people onboard.

Is there Red Tide in your area?

Red tide is known as harmful algal blooms (HABs). One of the most well-known species is Karenia brevis, the red tide organism & the bloom of algae often turns the water red. This bloom, like many HABs, is caused by microscopic algae that produce toxins that kill fish and make shellfish dangerous to eat. When masses of algae die and decompose, the decaying process can deplete oxygen in the water, causing the water to become so low in oxygen. This causes marine animals to either leave the area or die. The toxins may also make the surrounding air difficult to breathe. You can check the red tide current status here.

Can I get sick from Red Tide?

  • Red Tide can be toxic to humans if consumed. If you eat fish or shellfish that have been in the water with toxic algae, you will also ingest the toxins and it can make you sick.
  • People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions (such as emphysema or asthma) should avoid red tide areas. Generally, symptoms are temporary and disappear within hours, once exposure is discontinued.
  • Symptoms from breathing red tide toxins usually include coughing, sneezing, and teary eyes. Wearing a particle filter mask may lessen the effects, and research shows that using over-the- counter antihistamines may decrease your symptoms.
  • Most people can swim during red tide without serious risks, but it may cause symptoms such as skin irritation and a burning sensation in the eyes. If your skin is easily irritated, avoid red tide water.