Frequently Asked Questions
+ Where should we meet you for our tour?
Our meeting point will depend on which tour you choose. We have options to meet at the Town Dock in Port Washington, Long Island, Liberty Harbor in Jersey City, Pier 5 in Brooklyn, or Pier 25 in Manhattan. To learn more about our tours and select the one that’s right for you, visit our Tours page.
+ What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather. Wear shoes with soft, non-marking soles. Plan for temperatures on the water to feel 10-15 degrees cooler than on land. Sunglasses and hats can help give relief from the sun but both have a tendency to go overboard so please make sure that you secure them in some way. The sun is strong on the water even on cloudy days, so be sure to pack and wear sunscreen for your outing.
+ What if it rains?
We sail rain or shine and showers are not an uncommon occurrence on the water. Keeping our passengers safe is always the number one priority, however, so if the weather becomes dangerous, we will contact you to reschedule. Please see below for our full weather policy.
+ What landmarks will we see on our tour?
Depending on which tour you select you could see a variety of famous landmarks! If you have your heart set on seeing something in particular, I would suggest contacting Captain Jay to help you create a custom experience. Also, for the safety of our passengers, we will always keep weather and water traffic in mind which may change routes slightly. Please contact us for any specific landmark questions.
+ What time are your tours?
Day sails can begin at any time but need to end by 5:30pm. Sunset sails begin at 6:30pm.
+ Is food or water provided? Do you sell alcohol?
We have bottled water available to keep our guests hydrated but do not serve food or alcohol. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks (including alcohol) on board. Pack a romantic picnic, a bottle of bubbly, or a big family feast; it’s completely up to you! Guppy is stocked with glassware, plates, and cutlery.
+ Can we cook on the boat?
Guppy is equipped with a stove and oven for warming, but we recommend coming with prepared food so you can sit back and relax. As a rule, if you would pack it in a picnic basket, it will be even better aboard a boat. If you have more complex cooking needs for your trip, please contact Captain Jay for advice and planning. He has cooked many meals underway and knows what works.
+ Is there a bathroom?
Yes. There is a USCG compliant marine head and holding tank aboard Guppy.
+ Are children allowed on tours?
Absolutely! Please note that all children under 16 must wear a life jacket at all times. Guppy has plenty on board!
+ Can we stop and swim?
Yes, if you are on a Long Island Sound tour, swimming is a perfect activity for a hot summer day! We can anchor in an outlet in the bay and stop for a swim.
+ May I smoke?
No smoking of any type or any format is allowed on board including vaporizers.
+ What do you recommend for seasickness?
Try ginger pills, motion sickness wristbands, and over the counter medication. We do recommend taking these at least 1 hour before your sail so you will be feeling good by the time we’re out on the water. If you’re feeling seasick, staying above decks and looking at the horizon will also help.
+ What if I’m running late?
Please try to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure and plan for busy New York traffic. No worries if you’re running late, but we will still need to finish at your scheduled time.
+ How can we be sure that we will be safe on our sail?
Captain Jay Fish is a US Coast Guard licensed captain with over 30 years sailing experience on many types of boats and in many different contitions. He has experience as an EMT, works in sports medicine, and is CPR and First Aid Certified. Safety is our first priority, so please listen to any directions from your captain during your sail!
+ What is your weather policy?
Guppy Adventures reserves the right to cancel any sail due to adverse weather conditions. Adverse conditions include but are not limited to:
- Excessive winds (sustained winds over 25 knots or gusts above 35)
- Thunder or lightning
- Rain with temperatures below 70 degrees
- Waves greater than 4 feet
We will make every attempt to notify you 24 hours prior to your sail if there will be a cancellation however, there may be times when we are not able to contact you with 24 hours notice. Only the captain of the vessel can cancel a sail due to weather conditions. If Guppy Adventures cancels your sail due to adverse weather conditions you will receive an email voucher valid until the end of the following sailing season. If your entire party has arrived in New York by airline and cannot book another sail during your stay we will make an exception to our cancellation policy and offer you a full refund minus a 15% service fee. Please note that sailing will occur during the following conditions: Light rain, cloudy skies, cold or hot temperatures and humid conditions.
+ What is your cancellation policy?
When you book an appointment, we reserve that time especially for you! Depending on your departure location, we may need to spend significant time arriving at the dock to pick you up, and we incur docking fees to do so. As such, we have created the following cancellation policy:
- 15 days prior to sail booked: You may cancel and receive a refund minus a 15% service fee.
- Within 5 to 15 days of sail booked: You can reschedule your sail up to August 31st of the next years sailing season and no refund will be made available.
- Within 5 days of sail booked: No re-booking and no refund will be made available.
