Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is it?
       The Yacht Social Club hosts exclusive floating festival raft-up events where we gather a fleet of yachts at a secret location on Sydney Harbour, connect them all together, for a day of fun and music. We also partner with 3rd party promoters to organise similar events such as Shiprekt & Sail Gustavo.
  • When do they take place?
       Our floating festival raft-up events are held every weekend from November 2nd, 2024, to April 12th, 2025. Head to ‘Upcoming events’ to see all dates.
  • Where do they take place?
       Events take place on Sydney Harbour. The exact raft-up location is determined based on weather conditions on the event day.
  • Where do the yachts pick up and drop off?
       Yachts depart and return to Rose Bay Public Wharf.
  • What are the event times?
       Registration & Boarding begins at 10-10:15 am, and drop-off is around 4:00 pm. For events with 3rd party promoters’ registration & boarding begins at 10:30-10:45 am, and drop-off is around 4:30 pm.
  • How much does it cost to attend?
       Prices vary. Visit our event pages for current pricing and availability.
  • What is included in the ticket price?
       Whole yacht bookings include yacht hire, skipper, deckhand, BBQ facilities, Esky, and access to the event with DJs and lifeguards. DJ boat tickets include entry aboard the DJ boat at the event.
  • What is your cancellation policy?
       All payments are non-refundable unless your event cannot go ahead due to either a mechanical breakdown of the yacht or we must cancel or postpone due to unsafe sailing conditions. If this is the case, we can offer credit or a refund depending on the circumstance
  • Is it BYO?
    Yes it is BYO drinks, food, inflatables & ice. BYO food is mandatory in order to allow BYO alcohol.
  • Is there an age restriction?
    Yes all our events are strictly 21 and over
  • What is the difference between a standard and premium yacht?
       Premium yacht offers more luxurious amenities such as lounge areas, while standard yachts are more basic.
  • Will there be DJs?
       Yes, DJs will be onboard one of the yachts, providing music once all the yachts are connected. You can hear the music from all the yachts
  • What type of music do the DJs play?
    The DJs will be playing anything between house, disco, funk & soul. Summer vibes!
  • Is there a BBQ available?
       Yes, the yachts and DJ boat are equipped with onboard BBQ facilities and utensils. Our friendly staff will assist you with cooking your food.
  • Do I need to pay a security bond?
       A security bond of $1500 per vessel is required for whole yacht bookings, payable via bank transfer before the event date. You will be sent the bank details to pay into 2 weeks before your event date. No bond is payable if you have bought a DJ boat ticket.
  • What happens in case of bad weather?
       Events proceed rain or shine. They will be only be cancelled or postponed in unsafe sailing conditions (Gale force winds or above). Check our terms and conditions for more details.
  • What if I lose my ticket or need to change its details?
       a) Log into theyachtsocialclub.com b) Click on your name in the top right hand corner and select “MY TICKETS” from the drop down menu c) Click “VIEW TICKETS” d) Click “ATTENDEE INFO” e) Click “UPDATE TICKET”.
  • What should I bring?
       Bring substantial food, inflatables, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, drinks, plastic ware, and ice. Avoid glass and valuables. Substantial food means enough for a meal. This is mandatory to allow BYO alcohol. You will not be allowed to board without substantial food.
  • What items are prohibited?
       Prohibited items include illegal substances, valuables, pets, unregistered guests, black-soled shoes, and glass containers.
  • What behaviours are not allowed?
       Please arrive on time, avoid excessive intoxication, littering, disturbing the skipper, or damaging the yacht.
  • Can I have my Hens/Bucks Party at your event?
    Hens Party – Yes and we have a special season long promo where the Hen goes for free and receives a complimentary bottle of bubble. Please email info@theyachtsocialclub.com for more details. Bucks Party – Sorry, strictly no bucks parties or all male groups allowed. All groups must be minimum 25% female. This does not apply to the Shiprekt events
  • For any further questions, please email us at info@theyachtsocialclub.com
  • Where can we sail?
       Your skipper can navigate most areas within Sydney Harbour within surveyed boundaries. If you have a specific destination in mind, please inform us during the briefing.
  • Are children allowed onboard?
       Yes, children of all ages are welcome. Those under 12 will be provided with a life jacket to wear throughout the charter.
  • How do we book?
    Firstly, select the boat you are interested in via our Private Boat Charter page, then send us an enquiry via the online form on each boat page. We will endeavour to get back to you with availability of your chosen boat or similar within 24 hours. A 50% deposit via bank transfer is required to confirm your booking, with the balance due 14 days before the charter begins.
  • What is your cancellation policy?
       We do not offer refunds for cancellations. In unsafe boating conditions, as determined by the operator, we provide a six-month voucher for rescheduling based on availability.
  • Can we organize catering?
       Yes, catering options are available. Please refer to our downloadable menu for details.
  • Can we have music onboard?
       Yes, you can connect your phone to the onboard sound system. For DJs, please contact us via email.
  • What should we bring
       Recommended items include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, and a seasonal jacket or jumper.
  • What time should our party arrive?
       All guests should be at the designated pick-up point at least 15 minutes before the charter time for loading, safety briefing, and departure.
  • Is the boat safe and well-maintained for private boat hire?
       Yes, all vessels are in survey with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), meeting strict safety standards and undergoing regular inspections.
  • Can we extend our charter time?
       Charter extension is possible based on availability and the captain’s decision onboard. Payment for the extension will be processed post-charter.
  • How far in advance should we book?
       We recommend booking at least 3 months in advance during peak season to secure your preferred date and time. Last-minute bookings can often be accommodated, so feel free to contact us.
  • What hire times are available?
       Most boats are available for afternoon or evening hires. Afternoon charters typically start at 12pm or 1pm, and evening charters at 5pm or 6pm. Contact us for available times or inquire about overnight options.
  • What happens if the weather is poor?
       If conditions are unsafe for boating, we’ll reschedule the charter at the discretion of the operator and captain. Rescheduled charters must be used within 6 to 12 months, depending on the vessel booked. Catering costs will still apply and additional costs such as skipper & admin may still apply depending on the vessel you book. Please contact us for more details.  
  • Can one of our guests be picked up late or dropped off early from another wharf?
       Multiple pick-up and drop-off points are not recommended as it may shorten your charter time significantly. Guests needing alternative transportation should arrange a water taxi at their own cost.
  • How much is the bond?
       A bond of $1000 to $2000, depending on the vessel you book, is payable via bank transfer before the charter, will be refunded within seven days post-charter unless damages occur or the charter is extended.
  • For any further questions, please email us at info@theyachtsocialclub.com