Terms & Conditions

Reservation & Deposit:

A non-refundable deposit or full payment as specified during booking is required to confirm your reservation with Palmilla Charters. The final payment, plus gratuity, is due 15 days before your departure date. If payment is not received within 72 hours of departure, your charter will be canceled.

Additional Charges & Fees:

• Overtime Charges: If your charter extends beyond the contracted end time due to guest request or delays, additional hourly pro-rated charter rates plus crew fees will apply.
• Excess Cleaning & Damage: Guests are responsible for any excessive mess, vandalism, or damage to the vessel, Void Acoustics sound system, furniture, or equipment incurred during the charter. Deep cleaning or repair costs will be charged to the card on file.
• Dockage & Port Fees: Standard marina pickup and drop-off at designated San Diego docks are included. Special mooring, custom docking requests, or outside port fees are the responsibility of the charterer.

Passenger Capacity & Safety First:

The Palmilla operates strictly within US Coast Guard compliance and maximum guest limits. All guests must adhere to safety briefings provided by the Captain and crew prior to getting underway.

• Captain Authority: The Captain has absolute authority at all times regarding vessel navigation, guest safety, weather decisions, and passenger behavior.
• Alcohol & Substance Policy: Moderate consumption of alcohol is permitted for guests aged 21 and older with valid ID. Illegal drugs, weapons, and smoking/vaping in enclosed cabin areas are strictly prohibited.
• Footwear & Attire: Non-marking deck shoes, boat shoes, or clean bare feet are required on deck. High heels and dark rubber-soled shoes that mark fiberglass decks are not permitted.
• DJ Booth & Sound Equipment: The onboard Void Acoustics sound system and CDJ-3000 DJ setup must be operated in accordance with crew instructions to prevent equipment damage.

Weather & Maritime Conditions:

Yachting in San Diego Bay and coastal waters is subject to shifting maritime weather. Charters run rain or shine unless weather conditions pose a direct safety threat as determined solely by the Captain.

• Captain Cancellation for Weather: If severe winds, heavy fog, or dangerous seas force the Captain to cancel the charter, you will receive a full charter credit or the opportunity to reschedule for a future date.
• Passing Light Rain or Fog: Light rain or overcast conditions in San Diego Bay do not constitute grounds for cancellation or refund.
• Motion & Motion Sickness: San Diego Bay offers protected calm waters, but ocean swells can occur. Guests prone to motion sickness are encouraged to take preventative remedies prior to boarding.

Express Assumption of Risk:

Water sports, swimming, boarding, and boating activities carry inherent risks. By stepping aboard the vessel, charterers and their guests voluntarily assume all risks of personal injury, illness, loss, or property damage associated with participation in the yacht charter.

• Personal Belongings: Palmilla Charters is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings, including cell phones, cameras, or jewelry brought onboard.
• Swimming & Water Activities: Swimming is only permitted when the vessel is safely anchored at designated locations and with express Captain approval. Swim at your own risk.
• Liability Waiver: Primary charterers must sign the official Palmilla Charters Bareboat or Charter Agreement prior to departure.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations made more than 14 days prior to departure qualify for rescheduling credit. Cancellations within 14 days of the scheduled event are non-refundable. Please refer to your specific booking agreement for detailed terms.

Data Privacy & Confidentiality:

Palmilla Charters respects your privacy. Personal information collected during online booking or inquiry forms (name, email, phone number, payment information) is securely encrypted and used solely for managing your charter reservations and customer service. We do not sell or trade guest personal information to third parties.