No two trips are the same. We don’t have a set destination or typical route that we sail repeatedly. S/V Freedom wants to go where the winds and currents allow us to optimize sailing and run the motor minimally. You and your friends will have plenty of room to spread out, relax and enjoy the sail. It is our hope that you have a pleasurable and memorable sail. Have fun and take in the scenery of Hampton Roads. There is always something different to experience aboard S/V Freedom. If there is not enough wind to sail, we will use the engine.

It is always a good idea to wear comfortable soft-soled shoes such as sneakers or boat shoes.  Please no black sole shoes which can scuff the decks.  Depending on the time of year, bring something for both the sun and cooler weather because it is sometimes much cooler on the water.  In Spring and Autumn, windbreakers and sweaters are recommended.  Sunglasses, hats and non-greasy sun block are always advisable.  You may also wish to bring your camera or smartphone at your own risk.  But be advised cameras/smartphones and water are not compatible!  You are more than welcome to bring food, snacks and drinks onboard.  We provide bottled water onboard for our guests.

You may bring drinks, if you wish, in your own soft-sided cooler.  Space is limited so please bring smaller soft-sided coolers.  The Captain may disallow drinking of alcoholic beverages if any passenger behaves in a manner that is unseemly or dangerous.  You may bring glass bottles, but not glass stemware.  We do provide bottled drinking water.

Yes.  Please, help us keep S/V Freedom looking shipshape by not bringing things that are greasy, drippy, or saucy.  Also keep in mind that the boat leans while underway and wind is your enemy if you are trying to hang on to paper napkins, plates, chips, etc.

Unfortunately not.  We love animals, but insurance and the conditions aboard do not allow it.

Insurance regulations do not allow swimming.

S/V Freedom will provide a USCG Licensed Captain, all required safety equipment and bottled water. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks.

Yes! S/V Freedom’s crew would love for you to be involved in operations of the boat as long as it is safe for the people onboard and the boat. It is more fun for people to be involved. Under the experienced supervision of our crew, feel free to help with the sails, tack the boat (change direction of travel) or steer S/V Freedom. If sitting back and enjoying the sail is your preference, we can accommodate that also. You are welcome to help sail the boat as much or as little as you desire at the Captain’s discretion.

Smoking is not permitted.

We take your credit card number (Visa, Master Card, Discover, Pay Pal) to secure your reservation. When you come for a sail, you can pay by cash or credit card.

Trip cancellation is at the sole discretion of the Captain. It is the Captain’s responsibility to ensure the safety of each guest, crewmembers and S/V Freedom. Generally, we will sail in light rain and sustained winds of up to approximately 20 miles per hour. These conditions can make for a fun and exciting sailing day.

In the event the Captain decides conditions are dangerous, like stormy weather, heavy rains, or mechanical issues, the Captain may decide to cancel the sail. When the Captain cancels the sail, guests have the option of a full refund or rescheduling for another time or day.

As soon as the Captain decides to cancel a trip, he will call the contact person for the charter group to discuss the options for rescheduling or refund.

Your safety and enjoyment are the foremost considerations regarding cancelling a trip. The Captain’s decision to sail or not sail are final.

Tipping is voluntary. If you decide you want to tip the captain and/or crew, then it is customary to tip 10% to 20%. Tipping is not expected nor required, but it is a wonderful way of saying thank you when you have had an enjoyable trip.

Seasickness is not common, but some people are prone to motion sickness. If you think you may get queasy, consider using a pressure wristband or taking over the counter motion sickness medicine, according to directions.

There is a marine head (toilet) aboard in a separate and private compartment. There are special instructions as to its use. These instructions will be provided when you are aboard. Please only use the toilet paper provided on the boat. There is a trash can provided under the sink for any other items you may need to throw away.

We welcome children of all ages. Many young children have sailed with us and loved it, and we love having them onboard. Per Coast Guard regulations, every child is included in our headcount and there is a charge for every child.

If you are trying to decide whether to bring your young children, our advice is this: Our trips are generally quiet and relaxing, but sailing requires attentiveness for a safe and enjoyable time. You know your children best. If you think your child will not be able to handle the length of the trip, you are probably right. In addition, children under 13 must wear a life vest at all times and cannot roam the vessel unattended. While we are sailing, you will need to be with them. It is always rewarding to see the delight and wonder of children as they experience all that S/V Freedom has to offer.

Coast Guard regulations allow up to six people to charter this boat, and that includes small children and infants. Every child must be included in our head count, no exceptions.

No, unfortunately the boat is not wheelchair accessible; therefore, we don’t recommend our sails for those in wheelchairs unless there is someone in your group that can help them board with your assistance. If you have further questions, please call or e-mail to discuss. Please note, the restroom is located below decks and requires the use of stairs to access the toilet facilities.

We think that having someone talking into a microphone for the duration of the trip both detracts from the smaller, intimate sailing experience we provide and ruins the tranquility: the wind in the sails and the sound that the vessel makes as she glides through the water. Therefore, the short answer is, the sail is not narrated. However, the Captain is knowledgeable about the boat, wildlife, the area, and landmarks that you will see and loves discussing these and many other topics with his guests aboard S/V Freedom.

No. You must book online or call to reserve, as a credit card is required.

Please arrive 10 – 15 minutes early if possible. If you are late to a cruise, the return time of the reservation will not be modified.

If the weather conditions are such that the Captain cancels, we will fully refund, postpone or reschedule the cruise. If, during our cruise, we have to come back early due to weather, we will prorate the charge. Weather related decisions made by the Captain are final.

If the Captain cancels the trip because he feels the conditions are not conducive to sailing or motoring, you will have to option to reschedule or receive a full refund.  If you cancel the trip within the timeframes specified your refund will be impacted.

• If you have a reservation and cancel at least 3 Days before your departure, you will receive a full refund.
• If you cancel less than 72 hours before your departure, you will be charged a $50 cancellation fee.
• Failure to show without cancellation or notice, you will be charged the full cruise amount.

No, Six (6) people is the maximum, as per Coast Guard regulations.

Concerning children and infants:  The Coast Guard rule on a vessel underway (not anchored or tied to the dock) states that children under 13 must wear an appropriate Coast Guard-approved PFD, unless they are below decks or in an enclosed cabin.  We require all children (12) years and under to wear a personal flotation device (PFD), which will be provided upon arrival.  If you have a life-vest that your child normally wears when you are out boating, by all means, please feel free to bring it along as long as it has a Coast Guard approved label.  Onboard, we have infant to 2x life jackets for you to use.  We recommend you wear one if that is your preference , especially if you are not a good swimmer.

Your safety is our top priority! S/V Freedom meets or exceeds all USCG safety requirements. Please note that all passengers under the age of 13 will be required to wear a life jacket (aka PFD). Any guest may request, and poor swimmers are encouraged, to wear a PFD during the cruise. Please note S/V Freedom is a drug-free vessel, illegal substances are not allowed. If anyone is found possessing or using controlled substances (other than legal prescription medications), the captain will immediately terminate the charter and return to shore without a refund. Smoking is not permitted onboard S/V Freedom.