FAQ & Cancellation Policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Please review our General Cancellation & Attendance Policy before booking any program.
Exceptions may apply; please reference the terms & conditions for the specific program in question.
If you have any questions, please contact info@thewaterfrontcenter.org or call (516) 922-SAIL [7245]
What is the cancellation policy for any programs aboard Oyster Sloop CHRISTEEN?
Full payment is required upon booking.
Cancellations are allowed a refund (not including the processing fee) up to seven days before the scheduled charter date.
Cancellations within seven days of the scheduled date may reschedule but no refunds will be issued.
No cancellations within 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. No-shows will forfeit their ability to reschedule or receive a refund (not including the processing fee).
See the statements below for exceptions to this rule.
What if the weather is bad (imminent & potentially dangerous) on the scheduled date?
Cancellations due to imminent and potentially dangerous weather are at the sole discretion of The WaterFront Center.
The WaterFront Center reserves the right to cancel any reservation due to the threat of imminent and potentially dangerous weather up to, and at any time during, any scheduled sail or rental time.
In the event of a weather cancellation by The WaterFront Center, you may choose a refund (not including the processing fee) or reschedule your appointment. The WaterFront Center will first issue a gift card credit to expedite the rescheduling process. If you wish for a full refund (not including the processing fee) please contact our booking staff with your booking and gift card information.
In the event of a 30 minute or more weather delay by The WaterFront Center, you may choose a refund (not including the processing fee) or reschedule your appointment. Delays less than 30 minutes may only choose to reschedule your appointment.
No-shows will forfeit their ability to reschedule or receive a refund.
What if my Harbor Tour or Sunset Cruise doesn’t have enough attendees to meet the Minimum Booking Requirement?
8 passengers are needed to be booked and paid in full, at least 48 hours before the scheduled booking, otherwise, the cruise will be canceled and refunds (not including the processing fee) will be issued. Passengers can also opt to rebook a different tour/cruise.
Harbor Tour Questions
Do I need a life jacket?
If you do not know how to swim, you must wear a life jacket while on the dock or any boat.
All children, twelve years (12) of age and younger, are required to wear a life jacket at all times while on the dock or any boat.
Life jackets are not required for persons over the age of twelve (12).
What is the minimum age of a child who may come aboard Christeen?
Children must be at least three (3) years of age.
What should I wear?
We would suggest, at a minimum, that participants wear a pair of well-fitting boat shoes or sneakers, a hat, and comfortable loose-fitting clothing that is appropriate for the weather forecast. Keep in mind that conditions can change suddenly while on the water, and so a day that started sunny and hot might turn cool when the afternoon prevailing Southerly breeze comes in around 3:30 or 4:00. Depending on the forecast, a light windbreaker or sweater may be appropriate as well.
What else should I bring?
We suggest that participants bring layers of clothing appropriate for the weather forecast and apply sunblock before leaving land, and reapply as necessary while on the water. A phone is a great idea to take pictures, and perhaps a pair of binoculars to more closely observe the many natural wonders there are to behold in Oyster Bay harbor. A bottle of water is a good idea as well.
Can I bring food and drinks onboard Christeen?
Yes! We simply ask that you be mindful of any garbage generated so as not to allow it to end up in the water or be left behind on board. Please avoid bringing “glassware” or fragile plates/utensils aboard CHRISTEEN other than wine/alcohol bottles. The WFC is not responsible for any damaged or lost personal items.
Is there a bathroom onboard Christeen?
Yes, but it is strongly encouraged to use the facilities on land prior to the start of your sail.
Private Charter Questions
Do my passengers need to have to sign a waiver?
Yes. The primary booking contact and every attendee must sign our electronic waiver. We prefer that all attendees sign the waiver before your charter appointment. Please share this link with all your attendees: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/5fd10d591c641/web/
Can we be picked up and/or dropped off at our dock?
Yes! Christeen can travel to you if arranged in advance. Your sail and cost will include the time it takes for Christeen to travel to and from your preferred location. Please note: Christeen's max motoring speed is roughly 5-6 knots.
Is there a good place for guests to gather before or after their time on the water?
Yes! People may gather at the gazebo by the fishing pier, Beekman Beach, or under the Blue Tent on the side of The WaterFront Center's building before the sail. Do keep in mind these are public facilities and there are other WFC programs going on and are therefore only available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Is Christeen available for private charters?
Yes. Christeen is available for private charter on a first-come, first-served basis. If you know the date and time you would like call right away!
Standard Private Charters:
Depart from The WaterFront Center, 1 West End Avenue, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
What if it rains?
Christeen goes out in a light drizzle; only the WFC may cancel a scheduled sail.
Will Christeen fit at another dock?
Christeen has a draft of 3 feet and a length overall of 40 feet.
Can Christeen accommodate wheelchairs?
No. Christeen unfortunately cannot accommodate wheelchairs. Please give staff advanced notice to prepare accordingly.