Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions We've had thousands of guests choose our boats for their outings. These are the topics that come up the most. Have something else to ask?
All of our boats may have 12-13 people plus the captain/crew. The boats that are 45-foot or more can have 13. The rest are limited to 12. See each listing for the capacity designation.
People of all ages are considered passengers, i.e., babies and children count toward the capacity.
Due to these US Coast Guard regulated capacities, our boats are not permitted to be tied up to other boats.
Yes! You can bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol.
Recommendations:
– Finger foods tend to be easier for guests to manage.
– Avoid red wine and other items that are likely to stain the boat. Many of the surfaces are white.
-Choose cans over bottles when possible. This is for your own safety and the safety of our cleaning and dock staff. Beer bottles are very easily broken on the boat. Generally champagne and wine bottles are ok.
-Consume alcohol in a moderate and responsible manner. Most of the problems our charterers have had on the boat have been linked to excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol also increases the likelihood of sea-sickness.
No. Due to US Coast Guard regulated capacities, our boats are not permitted to be tied up to other boats.
Live A Little Yachting does not provide catering, but we can provide recommendations. If you would like Live A Little Yachting to receive food and beverage deliveries and set it out, please reach out to us for a quote for this service.
Yes, all the boats speakers that you can connect to from your phone via Bluetooth.
All of our boats have swim platform and ladders to facilitate swimming while the boat is safely anchored.
Swimming is not recommended in dangerous conditions or after dark. We recommend that you discuss swimming conditions with your captain. All swimmers – even those that consider themselves experienced, should wear a life jacket in the water.
Yes. All boats have at least 14 life jackets on board. Please let us know if any of your guests are 13 years old or under ahead of your rental, so that we can make sure to have child’s life jacket on board. If you’re bringing an infant we highly recommend bringing your own USCG certified infant life jacket.
Any illegal substances. This includes marijuana as it is still illegal federally and Lake Michigan is a federal body of water.
Items with a flame, including cigarettes and cigars.
The most common itinerary is a cruise north past downtown to Navy Pier. Then, the boat anchors in the playpen for a while before heading back. There is a second anchorage at the Monroe harbor that is also very popular.
Cruising up the river is an option but please let Live A Little Yachting and your hired captain know in advance so we can evaluate if there is enough time for this itinerary. In order to go onto the river, the boat must go through the locks in both directions. Waiting for the locks varies significantly and can take up to an hour, in both directions, during a busy time. There may also be a fuel surcharge for a river cruise. Contact Live A Little Yachting for more details.
Any operator of the boat must:
Be over 21 years old
Have no criminal convictions or pleas of no contest on their record
Have no marine insurance claims in the last 10 years
Have no violations / suspensions (including auto) in the last 5 years
Have at least 2 years of experience operating similar size (within 10 feet) boat
Be approved by Live A Little Yachting to operate the boat. The approval process includes a screening of the operator’s experience and a pre-charter orientation and on-water skills test with a member of Live A Little Yachting staff. There is a $150 cost for this “check out”. Live A Little Yachting reserves the right to approve or reject a proposed operator.
Our customers use Live A Little Yachting rents boats for all kinds of events, gatherings and celebrations! Whether you’re looking for a unique way to catch up with family or coworkers OR have an epic boat party with friends, you can count on an unforgettable experience!
Bachelorette parties
Bachelor parties
Birthday parties
Corporate Outings
Team Building events
Family gatherings
Family Outings
Kids party
Engagement
Graduation Parties