Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
Q1: Where are you and can I charter the boats for a private or business gathering?Q2: What is you cancellation Policy for Scheduled Cruises?
SHORT SAILS IN PORTLAND
Q3: How many people does the boat hold?Q4: Can I bring kids?
Q5: When should I arrive at the dock?
Q6. What is the reservation process?
CHARTERS
Q7: Are private accommodations available?Q8: What other kinds of accommodations are onboard?
Q9: What kind of food will we eat while on a charter?
Q10: What is a participatory Charter?
Q11: Do I have to sign up with a group?
Q12: How does weather affect a charter itinerary?
Q13: What activities are available onboard Scovare?
Q14: When we are anchored or in harbors what are my options?
Q15. What is the reservation process for charters?
PASSAGES
Q16: How much experience do I need before joining a passage crew?Q17: How much experience do I need before joining a passage crew?
Q18: What will we eat on the 3 week trip across the pacific?
Q19: Where will I sleep?
Q20: How is travel to and from the boat handled?
Q21: What makes an Ideal Crewmember?
Q22: What if I take medication or have other on going medical needs?
Q23. What is the application process for passages?
GENERAL
Q1:
Where are you and can I charter the boats for a private or business gathering?
A1: Please note your confirmation email for departure dock location. Most Summer Cruises Depart from the Willamette Park Launch Ramp Dock located 2 blocks SE of 6500 SW Macadam Ave. 97239 In the middle of the
park. We pick up on the long left side dock. (NOT the Sailing Club). We have four boats ranging in size from 21' to 50' that can accommodate from 6 to 12 guests each. We can provide a custom cruise, party or team building event
for up to 24 people on multiple boats for one hour to one year in length. Let us know what type of sailing event you would like to have!!!
Q2:
What is you cancellation Policy for Scheduled Cruises?
A2: We require 48 hr notice of cancellation as any less than that would not give us enough time to fill the seat.
If you must cancel with less than 48hrs notice their is a $30 per person re-booking fee. We rarely cancel for weather but
call if you are concerned as we do cancel if Thunderstorms are forecast. If a cruise is canceled we will also post it on our home page.
SHORT SAILS IN PORTLAND
Q3:
How many people does the boat hold?
A3: The boat can accommodate up to six people, plus your Captain. If you have a larger group you want to accommodate just let us know and we can add additional boats and sail groups up to 24 people together.
Q4:
Can I bring kids?
A4:Yes, of course, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult who can oversee their movement on the boats. Children 10 and younger are half priced.
Q5:
When should I arrive at the dock?
A5: It's best to arrive at the dock 10 minutes early so you don’t miss the boat or keep other people waiting.
The boat leaves within 5 minutes of start time to be able to complete the tour in time for the next group. Our boats are out on Tour
most of the time and the park only allows us a short time at the dock So don't be surprised if it is not at the dock if you are early.
The boat will arrive about the time of your cruise.
Q6.
What is the reservation process?
A6: The best way to book a cruise is our "schedule Now" button on our home page but you can also email info@sailscovare.com with the date and time you would like to sail and include your purchase certificate number or paypal receipt.
Reservations and full payment must be completed at least 24 hrs in advance to confirm a spot on a cruise. Shorter notice is acceptable on
a space available basis. No refunds- but every effort will be
made to reschedule on another cruise if 48hrs notice is given.
CHARTERS
Q7:
Are private accommodations available on overnight voyages?
A7: Yes,Scovare 2 has two private cabins and Gallant has 4 private cabins, Our other boats can be chartered for overnight camp sails on local islands.
Q8:
What other kinds of accommodations are onboard?
A8: We have a complete and fully stocked galley. Guest will have many
snack options in addition to the meals served on board. The “Head”
is our onboard bathroom and is complete with hot pressure water for the
shower, toilet and vanity on the two larger boats.
Q9:
What kind of food will we eat while on a charter?
A9: Grilled steak and salmon for dinners, sandwiches for lunches and hearty breakfasts are the norm.
During a 6-day itinerary there are two suppers designated as onshore meals
that are the responsibility of the guests. Our Captains and crew will
assist you with recommendations and reservations if you would like.
Q10:
What is a participatory Charter?
A10: On participatory charters each guest will be assigned meals to prepare
for the group and help with sailing the vessel and will learn sailing
techniques from a licensed Captain who is also a certified Sailing instructor.
If you are interested in becoming ASA Certified so you can do bareboat
charters please let us know at the time of your booking.
Q11:
Do I have to sign up with a group?
A11: No, we offer participatory charters as shared experiences. This is
a great way to meet new friends. You can also sign up for a private charter
with your own group of 2 or more.
Q12:
How does weather affect a charter itinerary?
A12: Weather is always a big part of any sailing experience. Wind is what
we use to power our vessel. While we have the ability to motor anywhere
and have the advantage of a comfortable wheelhouse in the foulest of storms,
this is not always the most pleasurable experience. Therefore our Captains
have the ability and reserve the right to alter any itinerary to insure
the best and safest experience while you are aboard Scovare. If ternaries
need to be changed the captain will discuss the options with you and together
with our guest decide on new destinations or activities.
Q13:
What activities are available onboard Gallant?
A13: We have a 14' sailing dinghy, and will have access to remote beaches for a romantic stroll or to search
for treasures, you can relax on deck in a hammock or swim from the aft deck, we also have a selection of board games, cards and other
entertainment such as a DVD player and a limited DVD library.
Q14:
When we are anchored or in harbors what are my options?
A14: Many itineraries have time for exploring the area. There are a multitude
of activities available ashore. Your captain will be able to make recommendations
of shopping, eating and other entertainment in each town.
Q15.
What is the reservation process for charters?
A15: Reservation forms and a 50% deposit are required at the time of booking
to hold a spot with the balance due one month before sailing (unless you
have booked a shorter notice cruise in which case the full fare is due
upon reservation confirmation. Refunds less 25% of the fare are given
up to 6 weeks before sailing date. This refund will be given after 6 weeks
IF we are able to rebook your cruise dates with another party.
PASSAGES
Q16:
How much experience do I need before joining a passage crew?
A16: No previous experience required however we would like crew to have
either experienced at least one over night sail on a boat less than 100
feet and to have previously day-sailed. If you are interested in a passage
and have no experience on board or would like additional experience we
recommend signing up for one of our 3,6 or 12 day exploration charters
or create your own overnight experience aboard Scovare. This will allow
you to get to know the vessel and her Captains before you embark on an
ocean passage.
Q17:
What will my day be like on a passage?
A17: Please go to a “typical day on a passage” on this site
for a full description.
Q18:
What will we eat on the 3 week trip across the pacific?
A18: The crew and captain all take their turns at making us delicious,
healthy fair. . Breakfast might include Eggs, tofu sausages, Toast bagels,
Fruit, French Toast, pancakes, Hot and cold cereals creatively combined
to get each morning off to a GREAT start. Lunches and Dinners will vary
with dishes such as curried chicken/fish and vegetables over rice, Italian
dishes like pasta, chicken Picata, or veal Marsala. Sandwiches are an
easy solution for those rougher days or when we’re having too much
fun for a sit down meal. Each passage is different as we add new recipes
to our favorite meals recipe box. Bring your favorite casserole, pasta
or other recipe to add to the fun!
Q19:
Where will I sleep?
A19: Each crewmember will have an assigned bunk and a cabinet for stowage
of personal gear. Bunks are all located in the large and comfortable main
cabin. Berth sizes range from 27’x80” to our smallest berth
at 22”x72”. We have one double berth (60”x80”)
available. All crew will share community spaces.
Q20:
How is travel to and from the boat handled?
A20: We recommend you book tickets following a passage that can be changed
as passages do not always take as long or finish as early as our itinerary
states. Time to cross is dependent on weather, currents and circumstances.
We also recommend you take a few extra days upon arrival to readjust to
life on land and to explore the beauty of our destination. Please call
us for recommendations on travel agents who can assist you in these arrangements.
Q21:
What makes an Ideal Crewmember?
A21: We try to select passage crew who have a desire to realize a sailing
dream, want to participate and are capable of working together in a close
team oriented environment to make the passage a success for all onboard.
Crewmembers must be physically fit enough to step up 18” inches
carry the equivalent of 50 lbs and the ability to make quick assessments
and decisions to maintain the safety of the boat and all her crew. It
is important that all crew are able to hear and see possible hazards both
on board and in the surrounding waters. Scovare is a smoke free boat.
Q22:
What if I take medication or have other on going medical needs?
A22: You should bring a one-month supply of any medication prescription
or over the counter that you regularly take. We have a limited supply
of Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Acetaminophen, anti-diarrhea and other things in
our first aid kit for minor problems that could occur during the passage.
While our Captains are experienced in first aid and emergency medical
care we do not have access to doctors or hospitals while crossing. If
you are diabetic, have seizure disorders or other on going medical care
needs we require written approval from your physician and you must be
able to self regulate and administer any medications required during a
one-month period.
Q23.
What is the application process for passages?
A23: A signed and notarized application, medical and liability release
form and the signed ships articles along with a $500 deposit are required
to reserve a spot on a passage. A confirmation letter will be sent after
your application is reviewed. If you are not selected your deposit will
be returned with in 30 days. 50% of the passage fare is due two weeks
after we send the confirmation letter and the balance is due two months
before the sailing date. In the case of short notice passage application
(less than three months from sailing date) the full fare is due two weeks
after the date on your confirmation letter. Refunds less the $500 deposit
will be given 5 months or more before sailing date. Less than five months
prior to sailing date this refund will be given IF we are able to rebook
another person in your slot.