⚓ General Questions & Requirements
Q: Do I need a boat license to rent a boat?
Answer: No, according to Greek maritime law, no license or prior experience is required for boats with engines up to 30 horsepower (HP). However, if you wish to rent a boat with an engine larger than 30 HP, a valid speedboat license is strictly mandatory.
Q: I have never driven a boat before. Will I be able to manage?
Answer: Absolutely! The majority of our guests are beginners trying it for the very first time. Before you set sail, our experienced team will provide a detailed, 10-to-20-minute safety and operational briefing on land and on the boat. We will show you exactly how to operate the steering wheel and throttle, how to anchor safely, and explain the sea rules so that you feel 100% confident.
Q: What is the age limit to captain a boat?
Answer: To rent and captain a boat, you must be at least 18 years old. Upon your arrival at our location, you will need to present a valid form of identification (ID card or passport).
Q: Is alcohol allowed on board?
Answer: Just like driving a car, the captain of the boat is strictly forbidden from consuming alcohol for safety reasons. The Port Authority conducts regular breathalyzer checks at sea, and the fines are very severe. Passengers are welcome to enjoy drinks, but always in moderation.
🚤 About the Boats & Equipment
Q: How many people can fit on a boat?
Answer: The capacity depends on the size and specifications of each boat model (typically ranging from 4 to 9 people max). Every boat has a strict legal capacity limit certified by the Port Authority for safety reasons. This limit cannot be exceeded under any circumstances, regardless of the passengers’ age (including children and infants).
Q: What equipment is included on your boats?
Answer: All Blue Lagoon Corfu boats are fully equipped to ensure a comfortable day at sea. They feature a large sun canopy (bimini awning) for shade, comfortable sunbathing cushions, a swimming ladder for easy access to and from the water, and a portable cooler (icebox) with ice to keep your drinks and snacks chilled.
Q: Do the boats have a backup engine?
Answer: Yes, your safety is our top priority. Every single boat in our fleet is equipped with a secondary, smaller backup engine. In the unlikely event of a technical issue with the main engine, the backup engine ensures you will always have propulsion at sea.
💳 Bookings, Payments & Cancellations
Q: How can I book a boat?
Answer: You can secure your booking quickly and easily online through the booking system on our website, by phone, or by sending us an email. Due to high demand in Paleokastritsa, we strongly recommend booking several days in advance, especially during July and August.
Q: What is included and what is excluded from the rental price?
Answer: The initial price includes the boat rental for your selected duration, VAT, the basic instructional briefing before departure, all mandatory safety equipment, and third-party liability insurance. Fuel costs are NOT included in the initial rental price.
Q: How is the fuel cost calculated and paid?
Answer: The boat is delivered to you with a full tank of fuel. You have two options for the fuel payment:
- Pay upon return: If you do not choose the pre-paid option, we will check the fuel consumed together when you return to the harbor, and you will be charged an extra fee (in cash or by card) based on the current market price.
- Pre-paid fuel option: During the booking process, you can select the corresponding field in our booking form to pre-pay for your fuel. If you choose this option, you will have absolutely no obligation to pay anything extra for fuel upon your return.
Q: What is the cancellation policy regarding bad weather?
Answer: We monitor the weather forecast daily. If the Port Authority or our team determines that weather conditions on the day of your rental are unsafe or prohibited for sailing, your booking will be rescheduled to another available day. If this is not possible due to your holiday schedule, we will issue a full 100% refund of your deposit.
Q: What if I need to cancel my booking for personal reasons?
Answer: You can cancel your reservation free of charge up to 3 days prior to your scheduled rental date, and your deposit will be fully refunded. For cancellations made less than 3 days before the rental, the deposit is non-refundable.
🦺 Safety & Cruising Limits
Q: What safety equipment is available on board?
Answer: All our vessels fully comply with the regulations of the Hellenic Coast Guard and the European Union. They are equipped with approved life jackets for all passengers (including special sizes for children, just let us know in advance), a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, distress flares, a lifebuoy ring, and backup oars.
Q: Where am I allowed to sail and what are the cruising boundaries?
Answer: During our briefing, we will provide you with a detailed map of the area. You are allowed to cruise along the breathtaking coastline of Paleokastritsa and visit the famous beaches accessible only by boat (such as Stelari, Iliodoros, Lmni beach, Kstelli). For your safety, crossing outside the designated map boundaries or heading into the open sea is strictly prohibited.
Q: What happens if I encounter a problem or if the weather suddenly changes?
Answer: There is absolutely no need to worry. All our boats are tracked, and our team is constantly on standby with our own safety speedboat. If you face any difficulties, get lost, or if the wind picks up, you just call us immediately on the emergency mobile number we provide, and we will be there within minutes to assist you or escort you safely back to port.
Question: Is insurance included? What if I accidentally damage the boat?
Answer: Third-party liability insurance is included in the rental price. However, this insurance does NOT cover damages caused to the boat’s hull, propeller, or engine due to reckless driving, negligence, or driver error (such as hitting rocks or shallow reefs). Any such damages must be paid for in full on-site by the renter.
🎒 Handy Information & Extras
Q: Can I rent a boat with a professional Skipper?
Answer: Absolutely! If you prefer to sit back and relax without the responsibility of driving and anchoring, or if you simply want to enjoy your drinks while an expert guides you to Corfu’s best-hidden secrets, you can book a boat with a professional skipper (available upon request for an additional daily fee).
Q: What should I bring with me on the day of the rental?
Answer: We highly recommend bringing: a valid ID or passport, a fully charged mobile phone, high-factor sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, beach towels, your swimwear, and any snacks or drinks you would like to enjoy throughout the day.
Q: Are pets allowed on the boat?
Answer: Unfortunately, for hygiene and safety reasons for all of our passengers, pets are not allowed on board our boats. Thank you for your understanding.