Matt and Jen Fodor of suburban Philadelphia took their three strapping boys sailing in a fine easterly breeze on the York River. Dillon Fodor took the helm and held stead through three tacks before we saw darkening clouds ten miles to the north.
I checked the radar and a cell of thunderstorms had popped up. So we slowly headed in a different direction to see if we could outrun the storm. Within minutes I changed course to head back to port and beat the storm that way. We settled at a T-head and disembarked to the ship’s store as a gentle rain began to fall harder. Before long, we were washed out for the trip. The storm lingered for hours, forcing a cancellation of the second trip. Safety first.
I get questions about refunds on rain-outs. The occasional rain-out is one reason why I don’t require prepayment or down payment by guests days or weeks ahead of the trip. It becomes a hassle for everyone to do a refund because of a wash-out, but the more frequent event is simply a change in plans. The last thing I want to do is cause a problem on vacation. Once paid at the dock and under way, my policy is analogous to that of Major League Baseball. If they can get 7 of the 9 innings in, it’s an official game. If I can get nearly two hours in for a three=hour sail, it’s an official trip.
Matt offered to forgo the refund since I had taken the trouble to set the cruise and set up the boat for the day. But I insisted since we were only halfway and not two-thirds through the trip. Everyone was happy. And safe and dry.
Let’s Go Sail
Check rates and pick a day for a sailboat charter. See reviews on Trip Advisor from sailors like you.
