Commencement of hire
Weekend hires start Friday between 2-4pm and Saturday from 8am with return by 4pm Sunday (except during peak periods).  Midweek hires start  from 8.30am on the first day of hire and return by 4pm (except during peak periods) on the last day with the exception of Friday and the day before a public holiday when the vessel must return by 10am.

Payment of hire
Full payment of your rental is required on the day of your departure.  Personal and company cheques are not accepted.  Cash, Visa, Mastercard and eftpos payments are accepted on departure.  Direct deposits are accepted prior to your departure date by arrangement. 

Fuel charges
Fuel is charged on actual consumption.   We do not charge on an ‘engine running hour’ basis as we believe it is unfair to do so – if you are idling while you anchor, cruising at a leisurely pace or warming up the motors, a hefty hourly charge cannot be justified.  The vessels’ tank is full on your departure.  On your return the tank is refilled so you are charged only for what fuel you have used.

Rental price
Once you have paid your deposit the rental charge is held firm.

If you have to cancel
The deposit, less a $50 administration fee, will be returned if notified 90 days prior to the hire commencement date.  Deposit refunds for cancellations within 90 days of the hire commencement date will be refunded once the vessel has been rebooked.

Pets, firearms, candles, portable bbqs, electric appliances
The above are strictly forbidden for safety and/or health reasons.  If you require assistance for breathing equipment please phone us.

Boating license and experience are not required
We will personally brief you on board the vessel and then take you on a short cruise from our marina into the main river.  This ensures you are well versed in driving the vessel and its operation.  In addition to this, a detailed manual of operation is kept on board for reference.

Vessel insurance
All our vessels are fully insured.  An excess may apply in circumstances where the hirer is at fault.  An insurance excess waiver option is offered for your peace of mind should you choose to accept it (a charge applies which varies by vessel type).  Wilful or reckless damage is not covered.

Maps and cruising areas
Detailed maps are kept on board.  In addition the vessels (excluding Budget Riverboat 28’) are fitted with GPS tracking.  You can relax in the knowledge that you can call us at any time to check your location.
Our cruising areas include Cowan Creek through to Bobbin Head and Akuna Bay.  Berowra Creek, through to Berowra Waters. Also, the Hawkesbury River through to Spencer and as far as Wisemans Ferry.

What to pack
The essentials : Swimmers, sunglasses, sunscreen, sandshoes, fishing gear, camera, hats, games, casual clothes, food, drinks, sheets, pillow slips, towels, toiletries, cd’s, dvd’s etc.

Towing your own vessel
Towing your own trailerboat behind the houseboat is usually acceptable.  Please check with our office at the time of booking as size restrictions apply.

Driving at night
As a hire vessel the houseboats are strictly prohibited, under NSW Maritime legislation for safety reasons, to be driven at night.

Restaurants and shopping
There are a limited number of restaurants on the river.  Contact our office for a list to be included with your reservation form.
We do recommend that you do your grocery shopping prior to arriving in Brooklyn.  Whilst Brooklyn does have general stores and a bottle shop, there is no main supermarket.