FAQs

Below are some of the questions we are often asked, with the appropriate answers. Please call us on 01929 462383 if you have not been able to find the answer to your query on our website and for all information and bookings.

Bicycles – bicycles are permitted on our boats, subject to availability and always at the discretion of the vessel’s Master. Please note that the National Trust does not allow bicycles on to Brownsea Island.

Booking – PLEASE NOTE BOOKING ONLY REQUIRED FOR GROUPS OF 15 OR MORE

We do not take payment at this stage and it would be appreciated if you could telephone and cancel if you no longer require the booking. There are ticket booths on the quay at Poole and at Sandbanks – look for the yellow ticket booths (and see the Google map on the contact page).

Camping Gear & Luggage – reasonably sized luggage such as standard backpacks may be carried onto our boats. Large items and equipment for groups such as camping may be arranged at an additional fee – please check for details by telephoning our main number.

Car Parking – At Poole there are various pay and display car parks nearby including a large multi-storey car park. At Sandbanks there is a large pay and display car park.

Disabled Access – click here to see our access page

Dogs – Well behaved dogs on leads are permitted on our boats – however, please note that the National Trust does NOT allow dogs on to Brownsea Island.

Food & Drink – All of our boats are all fully licensed, with bars, drinking areas and catering facilities. Excluding our smaller Picnic boat (The Maid of the Islands) which does not have bar and catering facilities – however it is ideal for bringing your own picnic meals and drinks.

Opening Hours –

Telephone enquiries and bookings – we are a family run business and believe in old fashioned good service. This means we will often answer calls outside normal office hours, so please feel free to call at any time.

Payment –  cash is preferred and we also accept cheques with proper identification/guarantee cards. Groups and private hire bookings can be confirmed by paying by cheque in advance. Payment for individuals will be collected at our ticket booths prior to boarding.

Safety – all our boats are regularly inspected and licensed by the appropriate authorities and are excellently maintained. They are operated in strict compliance with passenger vessel and maritime regulations.

Tides & Weather – tide conditions and extreme weather can affect sailings, although it is very rare for us not to operate as per our published schedules.

Toilets – all our boats have W.C. facilities