Frequently Asked Questions
Here is an overview of the most commonly asked questions. If your question is not answered in this section, just let us know by e-mailing us at info@bostonharborboatrentals.com and we will answer it and if it is relevant, also add it to this FAQ section.
Q. Is it safe for a novice to take a boat
out?
A. Our Boating Safety and Small Boat Operation course is designed to
allow both novices and experienced boaters to safely operate our boats
in the waters of Boston Harbor. We give you a a complete
review
of the Rules of the Road, Coast Guard safety requirement, safe boating
practices, local and federal boating rules and regulations, plus
a thorough
check out on the boats' controls, and time behind the wheel with an
instructor. The boats are designed to be
easy to control and there
are very few obstacles to have to worry about.
Q. Will we get
lost?
A. Lost - adj. (1) strayed or missing (2) no longer visible. No,
you won't get "lost" but might get a little disoriented at times.
Especially on those days when you set out to find that cool little
island you've heard of or that snorkeling spot someone recommended to
you. But with a little patience you will find your way and no you
won't end up on "Gilligan's Island". We recommend taking our Basic
Navigation course as an ideal way to learn or review interpreting
charts and navigating within site of land. The course takes a
tour of Boston Harbor on one of our boats, pointing out places to go
and things to do, as well as understanding navigation aids. We review
anchoring principles and anchor off one of the islands for a lunch
(don't forget to bring one) before returning. Aftwards you can feel
confident about renting one of our boats and setting off on your own.
Q. Do we have enough gas for today?
A. Your boat will be full of gas at the beginning of your rental, and
that will be sufficient fuel for a full day of boating. Our boats
have large gas tanks (for their size), and refueling is usually
only necessary after several days on the water. However you should
always check the gas gauge before leaving the dock. Vigilance is the
ticket here.
Q. Are there docks to tie up to on all the islands?
A. Some of the Islands have dockage and some do not. Take a look at our
links "islands of Boston Harbor" and "places to go" to plan on which
islands you can visit. Additional dockage can be found at various
marinas, public docks and restaurants in the harbor. Dockage is not a
problem anywhere. All towns have public docks,
not always as well marked as the "private" docks, but they are there
for your use. Docks are like parking lots, every waterfront business
has one. The docks with a prominent private sign and only one boat
tied to it are the ones to avoid. You'll see which docks are getting
the traffic.
Q. How do I decide which boat is best for my needs and make a
reservation?
A. In the initial stages of deciding on the best boat for your group,
feel free to email us with specific questions and we will be happy to
answer them for you. Feel free to email us with questions or
phone us at (617) 240-2900.