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Frequently Asked Questions

🎉 What is it?

The Yacht Social Club runs exclusive floating festival raft-up events on Sydney Harbour. A fleet of yachts sails to a secret location, where they raft-up (connect side-by-side) to form a unique floating venue. Expect DJs, dancing, drinks, and unforgettable views.

We also collaborate with third-party promoters like Shiprekt and Sail Gustavo to bring additional themed experiences throughout the season.

📅 When do they happen?

Every weekend from November 2nd, 2024 to April 12th, 2025.

Head to our Upcoming Events page to see all dates.

📍 Where do they take place?

All events are held on Sydney Harbour. The raft-up location is chosen based on the weather on the day to ensure the best and safest experience.

🚢 Where do we board and return?

All boats depart from and return to Rose Bay Public Wharf.

⏰ What time does the event run?

  • Standard events: Boarding from 10:00–10:15am, drop-off around 4:00pm

  • Third-party events (e.g. Shiprekt): Boarding from 10:30–10:45am, drop-off around 4:30pm

💰 How much does it cost?

  • Whole yacht bookings start at $3,000

  • Single DJ boat tickets start from $165 per person
    Check event pages for specific pricing and availability.

🎟️ What’s included in the ticket price?

  • Whole yacht bookings include: yacht hire, skipper, deckhand, BBQ, Esky, access to the raft-up, DJs, and safety crew.

  • DJ boat tickets include: a spot onboard the DJ boat with full access to the event.

🔁 What is your cancellation policy?

All bookings are non-refundable unless:

  • Your event is cancelled due to unsafe sailing conditions (e.g. gale-force winds), or

  • There is a mechanical breakdown of the yacht

In such cases, you may be offered a credit or refund, depending on the situation.

🥂 Is it BYO?

Yes!
You can BYO:

  • Drinks, food, ice, and inflatables

Important: BYO food is mandatory if you want to bring alcohol. You must bring enough substantial food (like a meal) to board.

🔞 Age restriction?

Yes — strictly 21+ only for all events.

🚤 What’s the difference between Standard and Premium yachts?

  • Premium Yachts: Offer enhanced comfort — lounge areas, upgraded features, etc.

  • Standard Yachts: Great fun, more basic setup.

🎧 Will there be music?

Yes — a dedicated DJ yacht will be pumping music once the raft-up begins. The sound carries across all connected boats.

🎶 What kind of music do DJs play?

Expect a summer soundtrack across:

  • House

  • Disco

  • Funk

  • Soul

Vibes only.

🍔 Is there a BBQ onboard?

Yes — all boats have BBQs and utensils. Our crew can help cook if needed.

💵 Do I need to pay a bond?

  • Whole yacht bookings: $1,500 bond per yacht, payable via bank transfer before your event

  • Single ticket holders: No bond required

🌧️ What happens in bad weather?

Events go ahead rain or shine, unless unsafe sailing conditions are forecast (e.g. gale-force winds). We’ll notify you in advance if we need to postpone or cancel.

📲 What if I lose my ticket or need to update details?

  1. Log into theyachtsocialclub.com

  2. Click your name (top right) > My Tickets

  3. Select View Tickets > Attendee Info > Update Ticket

👜 What should I bring?

Bring:

  • Substantial food (see BYO note above)

  • Drinks

  • Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, inflatables, ice

  • Plastic cups/plates — no glass allowed

  • Leave valuables at home

🚫 What items are banned?

  • Glass containers

  • Illegal substances

  • Pets

  • Black-soled shoes

  • Unregistered guests

  • Valuables (we’re not liable for loss)

🚷 What behaviours are not allowed?

  • Arriving late

  • Excessive intoxication

  • Littering

  • Harassing the skipper or crew

  • Damaging the yacht

👰 Can we celebrate a Hens or Bucks Party?

  • Hens Party – Yes! The Hen goes free + gets a complimentary bottle of bubbly. Email info@theyachtsocialclub.com.

  • Bucks Party – Sorry, no bucks parties or all-male groups (except Shiprekt events). Minimum group ratio: 25% female.

🌊 Where can we sail?

Your skipper can take you to most locations within Sydney Harbour, as long as they’re within surveyed boundaries.
If you have a specific destination in mind (e.g. a beach or iconic spot), let us know during the safety briefing.

👨‍👩‍👧 Are children allowed?

Yes — children of all ages are welcome on private charters.
Kids under 12 will be provided with a life jacket, which must be worn throughout the cruise.

📝 How do we book?

  1. Head to our Private Boat Charter page

  2. Choose your preferred vessel

  3. Submit an enquiry using the form on the boat’s page

  4. We’ll confirm availability within 24 hours

  5. Pay a 50% deposit via bank transfer to secure your booking

  6. Final payment is due 14 days before your charter

❌ What is your cancellation policy?

We don’t offer refunds for cancellations.

If the weather is deemed unsafe for boating by the operator or captain, we’ll issue a 6-month rescheduling voucher, subject to availability.

🍽️ Can we organise catering?

Yes — catering is available on most vessels.
Check each boat’s menu or download the full catering guide from our website.

🔊 Can we play music onboard?

Absolutely — you can connect your phone to the onboard sound system via Bluetooth or AUX.
Planning a DJ? Email us first to confirm setup compatibility.

🎒 What should we bring?

Recommended items include:

  • Hat & sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • Swimwear

  • Towel

  • Jacket or jumper (especially for evening charters)

⏱️ What time should we arrive?

All guests must be at the pickup point at least 15 minutes before departure for boarding and the safety briefing.
Late arrivals may reduce your cruising time.

✅ Are the boats safe and in survey?

Yes — all our vessels are in commercial survey with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
They undergo regular inspections and meet all safety standards.

⏳ Can we extend the charter while onboard?

Yes — if the boat and crew are available, extensions can be arranged directly with the skipper.
Payment for any extension will be processed after the charter.

📆 How far in advance should we book?

For peak season (Nov–April), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
Short-notice bookings can often be accommodated — get in touch and we’ll try to help.

🕐 What are the available hire times?

Most charters are available during:

  • Afternoon sessions: 12pm or 1pm start

  • Evening sessions: 5pm or 6pm start
    Ask us if you’re interested in overnight hire.

🌧️ What if the weather is poor?

If weather conditions are deemed unsafe, your charter will be rescheduled.
Vouchers are valid for 6 to 12 months, depending on the vessel.

Note: Catering costs and certain admin/skipper fees may still apply depending on the boat you booked.

🚤 Can a guest be picked up or dropped off from another wharf?

We strongly discourage multiple pickup/drop-off locations, as it can reduce your charter time.
If needed, we recommend arranging a private water taxi at the guest’s own expense.

💵 How much is the bond?

A refundable bond of $1,000 to $2,000 (depending on the vessel) is payable via bank transfer before your charter.
It will be refunded within 7 days post-charter, unless:

  • Damage has occurred

  • Additional cleaning is required

  • You extended the charter time

📩 Need more help?

Feel free to contact us at info@theyachtsocialclub.com for anything else.