Ph: 410-639-7140
Fax: 410-639-7194
sail@havencharters.com

Bareboat Sailing Charters on the Chesapeake Bay

FAQ

Q:  What qualifications are needed in order to charter a boat?
A:  Certification is not required. You should have a thorough understanding of boat systems, running rigging, navigation, boat handling & anchoring.  If you require a refresher course or just a brush up please inquire at the time of booking your charter. If you would like to obtain ASA instruction/certification, Maryland School of Seamanship offers many courses for all skill levels.
Q:  Will someone be available to answer any questions I might have regarding the vessel or navigating the area?
A:  A Haven Charters representative will be available at 8am the morning of your charter to go over the vessel's systems and answer any questions that you might have.
Q:  What are my responsibilities and fees incurred upon the return of the vessel I have chartered?
A:  The vessel should be topped off with diesel fuel (paid at fuel dock). The holding (waste) tank(s) must be pumped out ($5/tank). A general clean up including the removal of trash should be performed when you get back to your slip. Any anchor mud or drink spills should be washed off the deck.
Q:  Are linens provided?
A: For folks flying to the area, linens are available by request at a fee of $10.00 per set. Anyone driving to our area please remember to bring sheets, pillows and towels.
Q:  Is there a coffee pot on board?
A: All vessels are equipped with a stove top percolator. In addition a full compliment of galley ware is provided.
Q:  What equipment is on board?
A: All required USCG Safety Equipment/Navigation Chart/Cruising Guide/Nav Tools/ Binoculars/Traveling set of Dock Lines/Basic Tool Kit are provided.
Q:  When am I able to board the vessel?
A:  You are allowed to board the vessel any time after 6pm the night before your charter. Night before boarding is not available for "mid-week specials". The boat will be unlocked and the slip assignments will be posted on our office door.
Q:  What are the prevailing winds on the Chesapeake Bay?
A: Although the direction can change with the weather, typically we have NE to NW in Spring and Fall and SSW during the Summer.
Q:  Is there somewhere locally to purchase provisions?
A: There is a well stocked grocery store about one mile from the marina. They have a a good selection of groceries including beer and wine. There is a small liquor store across the street from the grocery store. A larger ACME is located in Chestertown.
Q:  What is a reasonable itinerary for a two or three day charter?
A: Ports within 4 to 6 hours of sailing from Rock Hall are Annapolis, Baltimore Inner Harbor, Kent Island and St.Michaels. Popular anchorages on the eastern shore north of Rock Hall are Still Pond and Fairlee Creek. South of Rock Hall: Grays Inn Creek, and Corsica River off the Chester River, Crab Alley Bay and Wye River are south of Kent Narrows. Western shore anchorages are Magothy River, Back Creek, Spa Creek, Severn River and South River.
Q:  Will I need a dinghy?
A: We seldom get requests for dinghies since most ports offer water taxi services. When anchoring, the shore line is privately or state owned and therefore not accessible.