How many people does the boat hold?
Maximum is 48.
May I bring a wedding or birthday cake onboard?
You are more than welcome to bring your own cake, or it may be delivered directly to us, let us know. Unfortunately, limited refrigeration is available. Our crew will cut and serve, using our service ware or use your special items.
Are there vegetarian or special diet options available?
Our chef will be happy to work with you on any menu substitutions you may need.
Are outside (carry-on) alcoholic beverages allowed?
No, due to Minnesota State Law, we do not allow any outside alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages to be brought on board. If we do not carry a particular product let us know and we will see what we can do.
May we tentatively hold a boat? (Pencil in)
Yes, we will hold a boat for you up to 3 days. If another party is requesting the same date and time, you will have the first option to confirm your date. We do ask that a deposit be immediately made by check or credit card.
What is required to book a boat?
A confirmed charter agreement and a fully refundable deposit of $300.00. Deposits are fully refundable 45 days prior to charter date. Please refer to the charter agreement for complete details.
When is our final passenger count and payment due?
Final passenger counts are due 7 days prior to your cruise. Only count increases will be allowed within 7 days prior to the cruise. Final payment must be paid in full prior to the charter or date of the charter.
Do we go rain or shine?
Absolutely! Our yacht can become partially enclosed on the outside upper decks. We sail rain or shine. In the case of severe weather conditions, we monitor the national weather service radio station. The boat may remain dockside until the weather conditions improve. Please keep in mind that weather patterns change and severe weather usually passes quickly. OtterTail Cruises assumes no responsibility for circumstances that arise due to a weather related cause. The charter time does start at the specified charter agreement time. No adjustments will be made due to your decision of cancellation of weather.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cruise deposits will be refunded in full if your event is cancelled 45 days prior to the event date. Cruises cancelled within the 45 days are non-refundable deposits. See your charter agreement for complete terms.
What are our payment options?
We accept most major credit cards, along with personal or corporate checks.
Is state sales tax included?
Sales tax is not included. A 6.5% State Sales Tax will be added to charter, food, non-alcoholic beverages and equipment. A 9% Minnesota Liquor Tax will be added to all alcoholic beverages.
What about tipping?
There will be an 18% gratuity applied to all charter, food, and host bar purchases. Gratuity is not automatically applied for a cash bar, however tipping is allowed and is appreciated during cruises.
May we bring our own decorations?
Absolutely yes, with the exception of clear tape, confetti, rice, or colored paper mache. We will instruct and assist you on decorations. We recommend arriving ½ hour before the cruise to decorate.
Are children allowed?
Of course! We do ask that responsible adults accompany their children at all times!!! We do have USCG approved life jackets for all children and adults. Let us know at the dock, or anytime underway, if one is wanted. OtterTail Cruises recommends young children to wear life jackets above deck or outside the cabin. We do not have life jackets for toddlers or infants and we encourage you to bring your own along.
Is our boat handicap accessible?
Regretfully, we offer very limited to no handicap accessibility. We are able to accommodate most wheel chairs once onboard, however assistance would be needed. Our boat does not meet the state guidelines for handicap accessibility such as bathrooms, walkways, ramps or stairs. We will do our best to help accommodate your special needs.
Are there bathrooms aboard?
Yes, two bathrooms. (Heads)
Catering?
Due to Health and Insurance regulations, we cannot allow any leftover food to be taken off the boats.
What if we don’t drink alcoholic beverages?
We stock non-alcoholic beer, some juices, soda service, as well as bottled water. Let us know if you have a special request.
Can we choose a location to be married?
Yes, the boat is yours: inside or outside, front bow or upper deck. We suggest that you come out and take a look at our boat!!! We can take you to your favorite spot out on the water, or we can make a recommendation. Whether you prefer quiet waters or being in the middle of it all - we pride ourselves in being flexible and are eager to assist you in developing the perfect wedding you desire!
What are our music and entertainment options?
We have a stereo and televisions aboard and live music is permitted as background music only. We must approve of this in advance - No exceptions!
Liability / Damages
Liability for damage to any of our premises - owned, leased, rented, gifted or by association, and or, to any other, or combination thereof, to our boat will be the sole responsibility of the function sponsor - (listed on the Charter Agreement). OtterTail Cruises will not be responsible or liable for damage or loss of any personal belongings, equipment or materials of the function sponsor, attendees or other. OtterTail Cruises reserves the right to charge an appropriate and or exuberant fee for any damages, and or extensive and or special cleaning if deemed necessary. It is agreed that a cruise event is a “ride at you own risk”.
Alcohol policy
Law prohibits alcohol consumption by persons under the age of 21. Please bring your identification. OtterTail Cruises reserves the right to refuse alcohol service to passengers who appear intoxicated, or possibly for any other reason, at our discretion. All alcohol must be served by OtterTail Cruises staff. Misconduct that compromises the safety of the passengers, crew, or our property will result in the immediate termination of the cruise. Any cruise that is terminated due to any misconduct will render the group responsible for all billable event fees, no refunds will be made.
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