
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the weather change before or during and impact the trip?
Yes! Sometimes the weather changes very quickly on the Central Coast. We try and schedule the adventures during the best times of the day but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas. This can be either dense fog where we cannot see anything or winds that come up very quickly, forcing us to manuever back to a safer and more protected part of the trip. Your safety is first!
If we cancel the trip entirely due to weather, you will automatically be given a full refund or we can reschedule your adventure for another day or time.
Will I be guaranteed to see at least ONE whale on each Whale Watching Adventure.
Vincent has years of experience spending time on the water searching for the humpback whales but even he has been eluded by these great animals. It doesn’t happen often and thats why we only do trips when we know the humpback whales are here and accessible for us and enjoyable for you as a customer.
What is a good tour for young people and first time boat adventurers?
Our Port To Pirates Tour we can do pretty much all year and most times of the day. The Central Coast is notorious for big swell and alot of wind! This adventure we explore the kelp beds and learn more about what makes the Port San Luis area so unique. Its tame! But FUN.
Will I get seasick? (VERY IMPORTANT!)
Rigid Inflatable Boats (Zodiacs) are known to be a very stable and also a safe vessel. Also keep in mind that a smaller, fast moving vessel can have a tendency to cause less seasickness symptoms. The awesome thing is our RIB is an ‘open boat deck’ which allows fresh ocean air all around and this seems to help also.
If you think you get seasick please take appropriate measures.
TAKE MOTION SICKNESS TABS THE NIGHT BEFORE AND THE MORNING OF.
Ginger chews do help with this or motion sickness tabs. We do not carry motion sickness medicine onboard because by the time you are seasick, there is not a remedy that will work quickly while onboard vessel. Remember, each person is different and can be affected by being on a vessel in the open water differently.
Is there a bathroom onboard the vessel?
Sorry, no there is not. Please make sure you limit your coffee or beverage intake before the trips. The maximum time on the ocean is right around 2.5 hours so please plan accordingly. There is NO PRIVACY on the boat! Please keep this in mind.
Is the vessel covered? What should I wear?
Our vessel is a 20’ RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) boat and is not covered and open to the elements. Even when the weather is super nice inside Port San Luis Harbor/Avila Beach the air temperature will be much cooler outside the breakwater. Please bring layers! Even a small compact rain jacket is appropriate.
I am pregnant? I have neck or back issues? Can I still go?
Due to the sometimes fast, bumpy and bouncy nature of the ride of the vessel, people who are pregnant or people with neck or back issues, people who are frail and children under 7 years of age cannot be allow on the adventures.
Everyone is required to fill out a confidential medical waiver and information sheet before the adventure and that is how we get our information. Please be honest! Your safety and comfort is our biggest priority.
We have operated a very successful paddlesport business in Port San Luis/Avila Beach for many many years and want you to have the best time you can on the water in the safest way possible. Communication is the key to a positive experience.
Food and/or drinks aboard the vessel?
We do not supply any food and/or drinks aboard the vessel during the adventure. There is no alcoholic beverages allowed on board. We do, however, encourage you to bring your own snacks and drinks about preferably in a backpack or small bag. Please visit Mermaid Market which is 5 minutes away from the Harford Pier Public Landing which is our Departure Location.
Cancellation policy?
We have a very strict 48 hour cancellation policy and there is no refund within that time frame. However, within 48 hours we do offer a full refund minus fees charged to us by Fareharbor or credit card companies. These are usually really minimal.
If your adventure is either cancelled by us due to any sort of safety concerns due to weather and any other factor then we will refund you 100% of what you paid for the adventure. We will always work with you to also move that adventure to another day or time that is more suitable for a small boat adventure.
Can I take my camera?
We encourage you take your camera. If you choose to do this please make sure that the camera is protected from the elements in a dry bag or dry case like a Pelican Case. We cannot be responsible for your valuable equipment while on board the vessel.
What animals will I see? Am I guaranteed to see a whale?
Great questions! We can guarantee that you will see many different life forms that call the ocean and coastline home. From the endangered southern sea otter, harbor seals, sea lions to seabirds such as cormorants, pelicans, and shearwaters (and sometimes much more!)
This is the ocean and we are not ‘guaranteed’ to see a whale or really any sealife at all! With that being said, Captain Vincent Shay has lived on the Central Coast and explored these waters since 1989 and has spent many years and hours photographing whales usually can find them, BUT, even he gets stumped from time to time.
Our goal is to respectfully view these animals in their natural habitats which means we strive to not alter behavior of these animals in any way.
How many people on board the vessel during the adventure?
We are limited to 6 passengers but really like to keep the adventures to four (4) people maximum. The vessel has comfortable seating for four (4) adults but is able to sea two more people relatively comfortably.
Where can I download and view the Liability Waiver?
Great question! We need you to sign this waiver during your checkout with Fareharbor or bring with you and submit to the Captain before your adventure starts. You can download a copy of it here.