General Sailing Charter Terms & Conditions

Effective March 17, 2026

Gone Sailing Adventures operates corporate sailing charters, team-building events, and private yacht experiences on Toronto’s waterfront under strict safety and operational standards. These terms govern all charter agreements and protect the interests of both the company and its guests while ensuring safe maritime operations on Lake Ontario.

Arrival & Check-In Requirements

All guests must arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled departure for check-in procedures. All charters depart promptly at the stated times. You are responsible for arriving at the correct location specified in your confirmation email. Gone Sailing Adventures operates from multiple waterfront locations in Toronto. Late arrival or arrival at the incorrect marina will result in forfeiture of your charter or delayed boarding with no refund or rescheduling consideration. Please account for downtown Toronto traffic conditions, including sporting events, concerts, and ferry schedules that may affect travel time. All vessels operate under a barefoot policy, with the exception of Sky Oasis. Footwear must be removed before boarding to protect the teak decking and maintain vessel condition.

Pet & Service Animal Policy

For the safety of all passengers and animals, no pets are permitted aboard any Gone Sailing Adventures vessel. This policy extends to service animals as permitted under applicable provincial legislation. These restrictions are implemented to ensure both human and animal safety in the maritime environment.

Weather & Sailing Conditions

Operating Standards

Gone Sailing Adventures operates in all weather conditions except those determined to be unsafe by the vessel captain. Toronto’s waterfront microclimate differs significantly from inland weather forecasts, and conditions on Lake Ontario are subject to rapid change. Guests are advised to dress appropriately for marine conditions. Lake Ontario temperatures typically register 5–10 degrees Celsius below ambient air temperature, and offshore winds can significantly affect perceived temperature. Layered clothing is recommended: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a weather-resistant outer layer. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective headwear are advised.

Weather Cancellation Protocol

Due to the unpredictable nature of Lake Ontario weather conditions, Gone Sailing Adventures does not cancel charters in advance. Cancellation determinations are made at departure time based on:
  • Real-time marine radar and Environment Canada marine forecasts
  • Measured wind speeds and wave heights in our operating region
  • Electrical storm activity over Lake Ontario
  • Captain’s professional assessment of safe operating parameters
Company-initiated cancellation: If conditions exceed safe operating parameters (localized electrical storms, sustained winds exceeding 25 knots, or persistent heavy precipitation), clients receive a raincheck valid for rescheduling within the same sailing season. Weather delays: Sails may be delayed up to 60 minutes while awaiting improved conditions. Should conditions become suitable for sailing, the full sailing duration will be provided. If conditions do not improve within 60 minutes, the sail may be cancelled and a raincheck is issued. Client-initiated cancellation: When conditions are deemed safe for operation and the client chooses not to proceed, no refund or credit is issued. Refund exception: Guests residing more than 50 kilometres from Toronto who have secured overnight accommodations may qualify for a refund less a $250 administrative fee for private charters or $50 for shared sails. Documentation of residence and local accommodation will be required.

Motion & Seasickness Advisory

Vessel Motion Disclosure

Lake Ontario sailing involves natural vessel motion resulting from wind and wave action. Once offshore, immediate return to dock is frequently not feasible. Captains evaluate wind speeds, wave patterns, forecast conditions, and vessel stability based on passenger dynamics before authorizing departure. Guests susceptible to motion sickness are advised to seek medical advice for remedies, check our FAQ page, or not to board. No refunds or prorated fees apply if a guest experiences seasickness after departure. When conditions permit, vessels may utilize sheltered areas near the Toronto Islands to minimize passenger discomfort. However, all routing decisions are made by the captain based on safety considerations, weather conditions, and time constraints. Captain decisions regarding vessel operations are final.

Limitations of Sail-Powered Operation

Sailboat operation requires adequate wind conditions. During periods of calm or when returning to harbour against unfavourable wind direction, motor propulsion may be utilized. This represents standard sailing practice, and no fee adjustments are made when wind conditions do not permit continuous sailing.

Onboard Operational Policies

Prohibited Products & Substances

Aerosol spray products are prohibited aboard all vessels, as they damage yacht finishes. This restriction includes sunscreen spray, hairspray, and perfume aerosols. Lotion-based sunscreen formulations are permitted. Smoking, e-cigarettes, and vaping are strictly prohibited on all vessels, docks, and company equipment. This prohibition extends to all tobacco products and cannabis. General policy: Smoking and vaping are prohibited on all Gone Sailing Adventures vessels. Smoking may be permitted on motor yachts only in designated exterior areas, subject to the captain’s authorization. Not all captains authorize smoking on their vessels. No recreational drugs, including cannabis in any form, are permitted during charter periods. Balloons are prohibited on all vessels due to documented environmental impact on Lake Ontario aquatic ecosystems. Marine debris from balloon releases has been demonstrated to harm fish, avian species, and aquatic wildlife.

Physical Requirements & Limitations

Guests must possess sufficient mobility to step up, down, and forward 18 inches (50 centimetres) unassisted to safely board vessels. Boarding may be denied without refund if minimum mobility requirements are not met. Maximum passenger weight is 125 kilograms (275 pounds) to maintain vessel stability, personal safety, and ensure safe operation.

Lost or Abandoned Property

Gone Sailing Adventures accepts no responsibility for items left, lost, or damaged aboard vessels or dock facilities. Guests are responsible for securing all personal valuables before departure.

Identification & Payment Verification

Prior to boarding, guests must present valid government-issued photo identification and the original credit card used for payment authorization. Failure to provide required documentation may result in denied boarding with no refund or credit. This policy prevents charter fraud and verifies payment authorization.

Captain Authority & Charter Modifications

Captain’s Operational Authority

The vessel captain maintains exclusive authority to cancel, delay, or suspend sailing operations due to:
  • Unsafe forecasted or actual weather conditions
  • Unsafe passenger behaviour or non-compliance with instructions
  • Mechanical issues or vessel safety concerns
If a charter is less than 60% complete when cancelled by the captain for weather-related reasons, clients may reschedule within the same calendar season at no charge. Cash refunds are not issued under these circumstances. If the captain terminates a charter early for reasons other than weather or mechanical failure, no refund or credit is provided. This includes early termination due to passenger misconduct, intoxication, or safety violations.

Vessel Substitution Rights

Gone Sailing Adventures reserves the right to substitute an equivalent or superior vessel for mechanical, scheduling, or operational requirements. “Equivalent” is defined as a vessel of comparable size and passenger capacity. Exact vessel matching is not guaranteed.

Schedule Modification Rights

Gone Sailing Adventures may adjust charter start times by up to 60 minutes with a minimum of one week’s advance notice, without compensation to the client. This accommodation allows for vessel maintenance, preceding charter delays, or operational requirements.

Child Safety Requirements

Children must remain within arm’s length of their designated guardian at all times while aboard. Unaccompanied movement about the vessel is prohibited due to moving equipment (booms, lines), vessel heeling, and open water access. Public shared sails: Children under 12 years of age require Transport Canada-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) or lifejackets. These must be provided by guardians or rented from Gone Sailing Adventures at a cost of $15 per child with advance notice via info@gosailto.com. Children’s flotation devices must be worn continuously when the vessel is not anchored. Children under 5 years of age are not permitted on public shared sails except Sunday, 9:30 AM and 12:30 PM departures, and only with prior notification and captain approval.

Alcohol & Intoxication Policy

The vessel captain maintains absolute authority to deny boarding to any individual appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. No refund is provided when boarding is denied for this reason. Ontario marine alcohol regulations apply to all vessel operations. Refer to the Food & Beverage section below for vessel-specific alcohol policies based on licensing. Intoxicated or disruptive behaviour may result in immediate charter termination without refund. Gone Sailing Adventures maintains the absolute right to refuse alcohol service to any guest. This policy protects all passengers and maintains safe vessel operations.

Damage Liability & Guest Responsibility

All guests are financially liable for damage caused by deliberate or accidental actions, failure to comply with captain or crew instructions, or negligent behaviour. Charterers are responsible for all guest actions during private charter periods. This responsibility extends to corporate groups, wedding parties, bachelor/bachelorette events, or any private function. Damage costs may be charged to the credit card on file immediately following the charter. This includes, but is not limited to:
  • Clogged or damaged marine sanitation systems ($100 minimum; $300 minimum if hoses require disassembly)
  • Evidence of smoking aboard vessel ($500 minimum)
  • Vomit or bodily fluids requiring professional cleaning ($75–$500)
  • Scratched, damaged, or stained vessel surfaces (actual cost of repair or replacement)
  • Lost revenue resulting from vessel downtime during repairs

Refund Policy & Administrative Fees

Customer-initiated refunds, including those for lack of service delivery, incur a 3% processing fee to cover payment processor chargeback fees and administrative costs. Company credits (rainchecks) are issued without service fees but expire 24 months from the date of issue unless otherwise specified. Service fees included in billing cover operational costs and are separate from crew gratuities.

Crew Gratuities

Gratuities of 15–20% of the charter fee are customary for exceptional service and may be adjusted based on service quality. Gratuities may be paid directly to the captain or crew in cash, by credit card, or added to the final payment.

Sailing Instruction Physical Requirements

All sailing instruction requires moderate physical exertion including pulling lines (sheets and halyards) with 10–50 pounds of resistance, moving around a heeling vessel, standing or crouching for extended periods, and operating winches and cleats. No make-up classes are provided for missed lessons. Sailing courses operate on fixed schedules, and absent students may not join subsequent sessions. Prospective students should review the Physical Requirements for Students Notice before enrolling in instruction programs.

Swimming & Water Entry Policy

Assumption of Risk

All water entry is undertaken at the participant’s own risk. Water depth where the boat anchors exceeds 10 feet (3 metres). Lake Ontario contains hazards including submerged obstacles and debris, aquatic vegetation, vessel traffic and wake, variable currents near harbour channels, and temperature differential (lake temperature typically 10–15 degrees Celsius below air temperature). The captain maintains exclusive authority to permit or deny swimming based on weather and wave conditions, vessel traffic, participant reported swimming ability, and time constraints. Swimming is permitted only during full daylight hours. Swimming after sunset is prohibited under all circumstances. Guardians assume sole responsibility for minors in their care who enter the water. Strict adherence to captain safety protocols is mandatory. Violations result in immediate charter termination without refund. Gone Sailing Adventures may provide flotation equipment with advance notice. Transport Canada-approved lifejackets are not to be used as recreational swimming flotation devices.

Marine Sanitation System Policy

Critical Operating Requirements

Only bodily waste may be deposited in marine toilets. All paper products, feminine hygiene products, wipes, and other materials must be placed in the waste receptacle provided. Clogged toilet remediation fee: $100 minimum. If hoses require disassembly: $300 minimum plus lost charter revenue during the repair period. Marine sanitation systems are sensitive to foreign materials. Improper disposal of items can disable the sanitation system for the current charter and subsequent charters, resulting in substantial lost revenue and repair costs.

Seasickness Management Protocol

Reporting Requirements

Guests experiencing nausea should notify the captain or crew immediately. Upon feeling unwell:
  1. Notify the captain or crew without delay
  2. Remain on deck — do not proceed below decks
  3. Face the horizon and maintain fresh air exposure
  4. Request a seasickness bag from the crew
Do not utilize the marine toilet or vessel washroom if experiencing seasickness. Vomiting in the toilet can cause permanent damage to the marine sanitation system. Cleanup fees:
  • $75 if deposited in the marine toilet (plus cost of sanitation system repairs)
  • $100–$500 for below-deck remediation, depending on the extent of cleaning
  • Additional charges apply for upholstery or teak damage
The crew will provide safe and discreet assistance. Seasickness is a common physiological response to vessel motion. Following proper protocol protects vessel systems and other passengers.

Privacy & Data Collection

Refer to the Gone Sailing Adventures Privacy Policy for detailed information regarding collection, storage, use, and destruction of guest data, including online waiver information, payment details, charter photographs and video content, and contact information for marketing purposes.

Political Expression Prohibition

The promotion or expression of political views, affiliations, or support for any political party, candidate, or cause is prohibited on company premises and aboard company-owned vessels. This prohibition includes but is not limited to the display of signs, banners, posters, flags, or visual representations, as well as clothing, accessories, or badges conveying political or cause messages. This policy ensures all guests experience a neutral, welcoming environment regardless of political affiliation or personal opinions.

Payment Authorization & Dispute Resolution

Credit Card Authorization

All purchasers authorize Gone Sailing Adventures to charge the credit card on file for outstanding balances, damage fees discovered after charter completion, additional fees incurred before, during, or after sailing, cleaning fees, and equipment replacement costs.

Dispute Resolution Protocol

Before initiating chargebacks or payment disputes, clients agree to:
  1. Contact Gone Sailing Adventures directly at info@gosailto.com or (416) 240-0202
  2. Allow 10 business days for investigation and resolution
  3. Utilize arbitration as the sole remedy if issues remain unresolved — not chargeback procedures
All expenses incurred by Gone Sailing Adventures from unauthorized chargebacks, including legal fees, payment processor penalties, and lost revenue, become the charterer’s financial responsibility. Chargeback fraud is prosecuted to the full extent of Ontario and Canadian law.

Website Accuracy & Rate Errors

Gone Sailing Adventures maintains reasonable efforts to ensure website accuracy. However, errors may occur due to technical deficiencies, software malfunctions, malicious interference, data synchronization issues, or human error. Gone Sailing Adventures is not bound to rates, pricing, or availability resulting from website errors, omissions, or malicious interference. Email confirmations are subject to review and cancellation for obvious pricing discrepancies. Confirmed rate errors will be corrected with notice. Clients may accept the corrected rate or cancel with a full refund.

Liability Waiver & Limitation of Liability

Terms of Boarding

By boarding any vessel operated by Gone Sailing Adventures, its Agents, and Affiliates, you acknowledge and agree that Gone Sailing Adventures (GSA) and all affiliated organizers, agents, officials, servants, employees, and representatives (Owner Representatives) shall not be held responsible for any injury, death, damages, or losses whatsoever suffered by you, whether or not such injury, death, damages, or losses resulted from the negligence, gross negligence, willful misconduct, or omission of Gone Sailing Adventures.

Indemnification

You shall hold harmless and indemnify Gone Sailing Adventures, its employees, agents, and contractors, and the vessel against all injuries, death, damages, and losses, and against all claims in respect thereof, including legal defense costs and costs associated with vessel release from arrest or pending arrest.

Limitation of Liability

Should liability be established against Gone Sailing Adventures or any guest, both parties shall be entitled to limit liability in accordance with the Marine Liability Act of Canada. Specifically, you and Gone Sailing Adventures agree that the vessel boarded is a commercial vessel with a tonnage of less than 15 gross tons for purposes of limitation of liability. Should liability be established against Gone Sailing Adventures or the vessel, liability shall be limited to the price paid for the charter.

Notice of Claim Requirement

You must notify Gone Sailing Adventures in writing or electronically within 48 hours of the date of the incident from which any alleged damage or loss arose. Failure to provide notification within this timeframe bars any claim for damage or loss in accordance with maritime law.

Public Shared Sail Terms

Reservation & Ticketing Policy

All reservations are final. Payment in full is required at the time of booking for public shared sails. Change requests: Modifications requested 7 or more days before departure are at Gone Sailing Adventures’ discretion and subject to a $25 change fee per ticket. No changes are permitted within 7 days of departure. Ticket transfers: Tickets are transferable to a different participant at no charge. Contact info@gosailto.com with transfer details. Memberships and membership reservations are non-transferable.

Minimum Participation Requirements

Public shared sails require a minimum of 3 full-price participants to operate. If minimum participation is not achieved, notification will be provided via email and SMS 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Three options are available:
  1. Reschedule to an alternative date
  2. Purchase a Guaranteed Sail Ticket at the posted rate (charter proceeds regardless of additional participants)
  3. Purchase additional full-price tickets — if additional full-price tickets are subsequently sold, your tickets will be refunded
No cash refunds are issued when minimum participation is not achieved — only rescheduling or guaranteed sail options.

Food Policy

Outside food is not permitted on public shared sails. This policy protects guests with severe allergies from cross-contamination and maintains vessel cleanliness standards. Gone Sailing Adventures offers onboard catering options. Refer to the Food & Beverage section below for details.

Taxes & Service Fees

All pre-purchased tickets include 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) and applicable service fees. Tickets purchased through social media vendors may be subject to additional platform fees.

Private Charter Terms & Conditions

Payment & Reservation Policy

All private charter reservations are final. No cancellations, changes, or refunds except as specifically outlined below. Charter fees are earned when payment is received. Payment schedule:
  • Charters within 30 days: Full payment due at time of booking
  • Charters 30+ days in advance: Minimum $700 deposit (or full charter fee if under $700) due at reservation, with balance due 20 days before charter date
Payment default: Failure to remit the balance 20 days before charter results in automatic cancellation with full deposit forfeiture. Catering orders are non-refundable in weather cancellations. Catering may be retrieved at the dock at the scheduled departure time. Exception: Weather Protection Insurance (see below).

Damage Deposit Requirements

Gone Sailing Adventures may require a $500 damage deposit per vessel, payable by cash or credit card prior to boarding. The deposit is returned without deduction if post-charter inspection reveals no damage caused by the charterer or guests through negligence, accident, or willful action. Damage includes but is not limited to:
  • Clogged marine sanitation systems
  • Evidence of smoking aboard vessel
  • Vomit or bodily fluids requiring professional cleaning
  • Scratches or damaged vessel components
  • Stains on upholstery, teak, or fiberglass surfaces
The charterer remains liable for all damage costs exceeding the deposit amount, including lost charter revenue during repair periods. Additional charges are billed to the credit card on file immediately following damage assessment.

Any-Reason Cancellation Protection

Optional Cancellation Protection

When purchased at the time of initial booking, Any-Reason Cancellation Insurance provides the following benefits:
  • Cancellation or rescheduling permitted up to 72 hours prior to scheduled departure
  • Full refund of charter fee without penalties or deductions
  • No explanation required for cancellation
Coverage exclusions:
  • Catering orders are non-refundable within 14 days of scheduled departure
  • Insurance must be purchased at the time of booking — cannot be added subsequently
  • Insurance premium is non-refundable if coverage is not utilized
Insurance cost: As priced online with reservation. This insurance is recommended for corporate events with uncertain schedules, out-of-town guests with unpredictable travel, weather-sensitive guests, or any client desiring maximum scheduling flexibility..

Weather Protection (Included — Private Charters Only)

Coverage Terms

At 4 hours prior to scheduled departure, the charterer may:
  • Reschedule within the same sailing season (September/October charters may be extended to June 19 of the following year)
  • Cancel due to Gone Sailing Adventures-verified weather concerns
Cancellation/Rescheduling Fees:
  • Client-initiated reschedule: 10% of charter fee
  • Client-initiated cancellation: 15% of charter fee (balance refunded)
  • Captain-initiated cancellation or reschedule: No charge
Catering exception: Catering orders remain non-refundable. Orders may be retrieved at dock at scheduled time.

Weather Assessment Protocol

Our sailing neighbourhood receives approximately 20% of the general forecasted weather seen on TV, heard on radio, and read on the internet. Environment Canada forecasts for “Toronto” apply regionally and not specifically for our sailing neighbourhood. Captains utilize live radar over Toronto Harbour & Lake Ontario, marine forecasts specific to western Lake Ontario, real-time wind data from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and Toronto Islands, wave height data from NOAA Lake Ontario monitoring buoys, and subscription-based weather monitoring and forecasting tools. This allows us to have much greater insight into weather patterns than readily available on public broadcasts. Four-hour advance notice permits accurate hyperlocal forecasting, captain and crew coordination, guest notification prior to travel to downtown Toronto, and the opportunity to delay rather than cancel for temporary weather conditions. Captain-initiated delays: If weather conditions improve within 60 minutes, the charter proceeds for the full originally scheduled duration.

Without Weather Protection

If Weather Protection Insurance is not purchased, only Gone Sailing Adventures may initiate cancellation or rescheduling. Standard weather policy applies (raincheck only, no cash refunds).

Food & Beverage Policies

Regulatory Compliance

All Gone Sailing Adventures vessels operate in accordance with Ontario alcohol licensing regulations and public health requirements. Each yacht maintains vessel-specific licensing based on vessel classification and passenger capacity. All catering orders are non-refundable once placed.

Motor Yachts (Multi-Passenger Capacity)

Food: Outside catering permitted (subject to restrictions detailed below) Beverages:
  • BYOB permitted (red wine prohibited due to staining risk)
  • Consumption permitted only while docked or anchored — not underway
  • Provincial Liquor Licence Act regulations apply — guests are responsible for fines if alcohol is consumed underway contrary to regulations
  • Captain enforces all compliance requirements

WhiRLYgirl / UnPlugged / Aimant pour les Femmes

Food: Gone Sailing Adventures catering exclusively — outside catering not permitted Beverages:
  • Onboard purchase available: White wine, beer, Prosecco, Champagne, coolers, soft drinks
  • Spirits and red wine not available (vessel licensing restriction)
  • Beverage service provided by Gone Sailing Adventures crew
  • Consumption permitted underway at all times

Anything Goes

Food: Gone Sailing Adventures Small Boat Menu exclusively — outside catering not permitted Beverages:
  • Onboard purchase available: White wine, beer, Prosecco, Champagne, coolers, soft drinks
  • Spirits and red wine not available
  • Beverage service provided by Gone Sailing Adventures crew
  • Consumption permitted underway

HotFlash

Food: Gone Sailing Adventures Small Boat Menu exclusively — outside catering not permitted Beverages:
  • Non-alcoholic beverages only (vessel does not maintain alcohol license)
  • Soft drinks available for purchase
  • Beverage service provided by Gone Sailing Adventures crew

Sky Oasis (Premium Motor Yacht)

Food: Outside catering permitted with $250 catering setup fee Beverages:
  • Onboard purchase exclusively — BYOB not permitted
  • Full beverage service available
  • Consumption permitted underway at all times
  • Professional service provided by yacht crew

Outside Food Policy (Where Permitted)

When outside catering is authorized, the following requirements apply to maintain food safety, protect guests from allergen exposure, and preserve vessel condition. Food Safety Standards: Only commercially prepared food or factory-sealed items may be brought aboard. Home-prepared food is prohibited due to allergen cross-contamination risks, foodborne illness liability, unknown ingredient contamination, and Ontario public health regulations. All food must arrive on prepared platters or serving dishes with all required serving utensils, ready to serve without onboard food preparation. Prohibited Food Items:
  • Wet sauces or staining sauces (soy sauce, tomato-based sauces, blueberry, beet-based items, or any substance causing permanent staining to teak or upholstery)
  • Leafy or lightweight foods that may be displaced by wind
  • Custom cakes exceeding 5 inches in height (vessel motion creates instability — cupcakes strongly recommended)
  • Individual plated meals (buffet or family-style service only due to vessel motion)
  • Plastic straws (environmental protection policy)
Pre-Approval Requirement: All menu items require approval by Gone Sailing Adventures a minimum of 7 days prior to charter date. Complete menu details and catering company contact information must be submitted to info@gosailto.com.

Public Health Emergency Provisions

COVID-19 terms and conditions or other public health emergency protocols may supersede policies outlined in this document. In the event of government-mandated closures, capacity restrictions, or public health orders:
  • All affected charters receive rainchecks for rescheduling
  • Cash refunds are not issued except as required by law
  • Cancellation Protection terms may be modified to reflect public health mandates

Promotional & Discount Policies

Only one discount or promotional offer may be applied per transaction. Promotional codes, seasonal discounts, membership pricing, and group rates may not be combined. Examples of non-combinable discounts:
  • Early booking discount + group rate
  • Promotional code for membership sailing
  • Corporate rate + seasonal sale pricing
Exception: Mandatory fees, including HST, service fees, and catering setup fees, apply to all transactions regardless of promotional discounts.

Electronic Waiver Requirements

All guests must complete the online electronic waiver before boarding. The waiver includes liability acknowledgment, medical condition disclosure, and photo/video usage consent. Incomplete waivers may delay departure. Guests are advised and requested to complete waivers before arriving at the dock. For group charters, the primary charterer is responsible for ensuring all guests complete waivers before arrival. Delayed departures resulting from incomplete waivers do not extend charter duration.

Industry Certifications & Affiliations

Transport Canada Safety Certification

All Gone Sailing Adventures vessels maintain Transport Canada Safety Certification under the Canada Shipping Act, meeting or exceeding vessel construction and stability standards, required safety equipment mandates, regular safety inspection protocols, captain licensing and certification requirements, and passenger capacity limits based on vessel specifications and operating conditions.

Alcohol & Gaming Commission of Ontario Licensing

Gone Sailing Adventures maintains vessel-specific licensing from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), authorizing legal alcohol service aboard vessels in compliance with the Liquor Licence Act of Ontario, responsible beverage service training for all crew, identification verification protocols, and intoxication management procedures.

Professional Memberships

  • Ontario Sailing Association: Supporting sailing education and competitive sailing in Ontario
  • Destination Toronto: Promoting Toronto’s tourism
  • Waterfront Business Improvement Area (BIA): Contributing to Toronto Harbour economic development
  • Passenger & Commercial Vessel Association (PCVA): Advocating for passenger safety within the marine industry
  • Toronto Attractions Council (TAC): Connecting top attractions in the Greater Toronto Area
  • Attractions Ontario
  • Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)
  • CanBoat (Canadian Power & Sail Squadron): Promoting safe boating in Canada

Contact Information

Questions regarding these terms and conditions may be directed to Gone Sailing Adventures:

Legal Jurisdiction

These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of Ontario, Canada, and the Marine Liability Act of Canada. All disputes are subject to binding arbitration in Toronto, Ontario. By completing a booking with Gone Sailing Adventures, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these complete terms and conditions.
Gone Sailing Adventures Operating Transport Canada-certified vessels with licensed captains on Toronto Harbour, Lake Ontario, and Toronto Islands

YOUR SAFETY IS AT RISK

When considering chartering a yacht in Canada, we know you have many options. Some of these options look super exciting and at ridiculously great prices. Recent trends in the industry have opened the door for many unqualified individuals to purchase boats and offer charter services to the unsuspecting public. It’s easy to create a website and even easier to just list a boat on sites such as Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, Getmyboat, Boat Setter and many others.

Unfortunately, many of these operators are NOT licensed, insured or qualified to accept your trust on the water.

In order to be licensed and insured a number of items MUST be in place. Listed are just a few.

  • The operator must be licensed by Transport Canada with a commercial license known as either:
    – Limited Master under 60tonne.
    – Small Vessel Operators Permit (SVOP).
  • The name of the vessel must be visible on the stern (back) or the registration number beginning with the letter “C” must be visible on the side of the vessel near the front. Boats with a registration number beginning with “ON” are not licensed for passengers.
  • If the vessel is under 12m (40’) it should participate in the Transport Canada Small Vessel Compliance Program and display a “Blue Decal” and have corresponding certificate.
  • If the vessel is over 12m (40’) or carries more than 12 passengers, it MUST BE INSPECTED by Transport Canada and have an inspection certificate on board.
  • All vessels must have commercial liability insurance and coverage specifically for the number of passengers approved to be carried on board.
  • The vessel must comply with commercial safety requirements beyond recreational standards. Many of these illegal operators do not have the proper training, carry proper safety equipment, nor do their recreational boats meet the design/construction requirements of a commercial, passenger carrying vessel. These illegal operators try to stay under the radar of Police/OPP/RCMP/Transport Canada by:
  • hiding the name of their vessel by hanging items over the stern
  • not letting you know where they will have you board until just before the start of your charter.
  • pick you up at a public park (where docking is not permitted).
  • suggest to you that you are friends of the owner/operator out for a ride and not a paying customer.
  • allow you to drink alcohol while the boat is underway (illegal-same as a car) but tell you to hide your bottles etc.
  • insist on a cash transaction or part of it as a way of defrauding the internet listing company.
  • Make you sign a “Charter Agreement” just before you board without giving you details of the document beforehand.

    Over the last few years there have been a number of deaths and even more accidents resulting from these types of operators. Be safe and know who you are getting on a boat with. All licensed operators should willingly display their credentials, and most are members of the Passenger & Commercial Vessel Association (PCVA).

    Link to Global News Report on Charter Accidents

Check before you book
&
Know before you Go!