Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions while sailing on Keelforce include what to bring, how the weather impacts your charter and will we see dolphins? Take a look at Capt. Rick’s advice to make your sailing cruise a breeze.
What should I bring?
Charleston’s protected harbor generally provides a smooth ride and the crew can reduce sail area to limit motion, but if you’re concerned about seasickness, consult your physician for a recommendation on the best anti-nausea medication.
Advanced reservations are strongly suggested. Peak demand begins in mid-March continuing through late November with weekends and holidays often booking weeks ahead. We’re happy to accommodate last-minute requests, but a safe and comfortable cruise is crew and equipment dependent.
While never mandatory, if you feel the captain and crew provided exceptional service, then gratuities are sincerely appreciated. A normal gratuity is in the 15 – 20% range. Your safety, comfort and experience are our priority and hope you depart the vessel with a once in a lifetime experience.
Cancellation, with a full refund is allowed with seven or more days advance notice. Within the seven-day window, no cancellations are allowed as we must schedule crew and other provisions within this time.
Absolutely, bring as much or as little as you like to make the voyage enjoyable. Your cruise includes complimentary water, soft drinks and ice with ample storage in the refrigerator and auxiliary cooler. We proudly work with Caviar & Bananas for catering options. Check out the Caviar & Bananas Maritime Menu.
99.9% guaranteed! Charleston harbor is one of the best places to view Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in their natural habitat along with diving pelicans, schools of baitfish and the ever-present seagulls.
No, Keelforce is stabilized with 6,000 pounds of ballast making the boat fast and stable! Our crew can adjust the sail area controlling heel (tipping/leaning over) to your comfort level.
Yes, join the captain and crew handling sails, steering and making important tactical decisions such as navigating to the nearest bar, restaurant or special site on the harbor. Sailing is our passion and we’re delighted to share the knowledge or have you sit back and enjoy the cruise.
United States Coast Guard regulations limit the number of passengers to six on uninspected vessels. Keelforce can accommodate any number between one and six passengers, but it’s more fun with friends. There are no exceptions to this rule with children & infants counting as a passenger. Children under 13 years of age must wear a USCG approved Type 1 Personal Floatation Device (PFD) commonly known as a life jacket. You are responsible for providing the child/children’s PFD which are sized by weight. If you require assistance securing a child’s PFD, please contact us in advance for information on several local marine suppliers. Adult PFD’s are included in the package.
Weather, we don’t control it, just work with it! Captain Rick and the crew take every action to ensure your safety and comfort for your sailing cruise. On the rare occasions when weather forces a cancellation, Keelforce will reschedule or provide a full refund.
January & February are traditionally the coldest months is Charleston with temperatures averaging 60 F with wild swings on both sides of the average. By March, temperatures will rise into the 70 F range increasing steadily into the 90’s by July and slowly decreasing by early Fall. December is again hit or miss with temperatures in the 60’s. The biggest threat is afternoon thundershowers in July & August. However, due to the daily prevailing, southwesterly sea breeze, many of the thundershowers do not reach the coastal/harbor areas.