Question 1

How do I book a trip?

Accepted Answer

Click the "Book a trip" button on any trip page to go directly to our Brizo booking portal, where you can check availability, select a date, and pay a deposit to hold your spot. For questions before booking, use our contact form and we'll get back to you quickly.

Question 2

What is the deposit policy?

Accepted Answer

A deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due before or at departure. Deposit amounts vary by trip — you'll see the exact breakdown during the Brizo checkout process.

Question 3

How many people can come on a private charter?

Accepted Answer

Private charter capacity depends on the trip: fishing and diving charters accommodate up to 4–6 guests; sandbar, eco cruise, and family water trips can hold up to 8. Each trip page lists the exact capacity. For groups larger than the max, contact us — we may be able to arrange a second boat.

Question 4

Is there a minimum age for trips?

Accepted Answer

Age requirements vary by trip. Sandbar, snorkeling, and eco cruise trips are family-friendly with no hard age minimum (children must be able to swim). Fishing and spearfishing charters recommend ages 10+ for an enjoyable experience. Freedive and scuba certification courses have PADI-set minimums (typically 15+ for Level 1 freediving; 10+ for Junior Open Water scuba). Contact us if you have questions about a specific trip and group.

Question 5

What happens if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

Safety is our top priority. If conditions are unsafe (high seas, lightning, or high winds), your captain will cancel the trip. You'll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule at no additional cost. We monitor forecasts closely and will contact you 24–48 hours in advance if a cancellation is likely.

Question 6

What is the guest cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations made 7 or more days before your trip receive a full refund of your deposit. Cancellations within 7 days are generally non-refundable unless the trip is rebooked. We understand life happens — contact us and we'll do our best to work with you. See the full policy during Brizo checkout.

Question 7

Should I be worried about seasickness?

Accepted Answer

Inshore and nearshore trips (4 feet of water or less) are generally very calm. Offshore runs can be bumpy depending on swell and wind conditions. If you're prone to motion sickness, we strongly recommend taking an over-the-counter medication like Bonine or Dramamine the evening before and again the morning of your trip. Once you're seasick on a boat, the remedy is time and dry land — prevention is everything.

Question 8

What should I bring on a fishing trip?

Accepted Answer

We provide rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Bring sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, non-marking soled shoes, and a valid Florida fishing license (easily purchased online at myfwc.com before your trip). A light jacket or long-sleeve layer is smart for early morning offshore runs.

Question 9

Do I need my own scuba or freediving gear?

Accepted Answer

We provide tanks, weights, dive flags, and basic safety equipment. For scuba trips, we recommend bringing your own BCD, regulator, mask, and fins — or renting from a local dive shop before your trip. Freedivers should always bring their own speargun, wetsuit, and personal kit. Certification cards (C-cards) are required for all scuba and freedive certification trips.

Question 10

Do I need a Florida fishing license?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Florida requires all anglers over 16 to hold a valid Florida recreational saltwater fishing license. You can purchase one quickly online at myfwc.com before your trip. We are happy to remind you, but cannot fish without everyone on board being licensed. Scalloping trips include a harvest license in the trip fee.

Question 11

Is the captain USCG-licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All Hernando Beach Charters captains and mates hold active USCG (United States Coast Guard) merchant mariner licenses appropriate for the waters they operate in. Our boats are inspected and insured. Safety briefings are conducted at the start of every trip.

Question 12

Are life jackets provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes. USCG-approved life jackets are on board for every passenger. Children are required to wear life jackets while underway. We also carry safety flares, a first aid kit, and emergency communication equipment on every trip.

Question 13

Can non-swimmers participate in water trips?

Accepted Answer

Non-swimmers are welcome on eco cruises, sandbar trips, and fishing charters where they don't need to enter the water. For snorkeling, scalloping, and diving trips, the ability to swim comfortably in open water is required. Flotation aids are available, but we don't provide swimming instruction. Please disclose swimming ability when booking so your captain can plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking

Weather & Cancellation

Equipment & What to Bring

Safety & Licenses