AYLESBURY CANAL SOCIETY “Catalina” Day Boat – Conditions of Hire

Please read these conditions carefully. By booking and paying for the day boat Catalina, you are entering into a legally binding contract with Aylesbury Canal Society.

Definitions

  • “The Society” means Aylesbury Canal Society.
  • “The Hirer” means the person named on the booking confirmation (the designated Skipper). Where more than one person is named, they are jointly and individually liable.

1. Booking and Contract

  • Submission of a booking and payment of the full hire fee constitutes acceptance of these conditions.
  • The contract is formed when the Society confirms the booking and payment has been received.
  • The entire agreement is contained in these conditions. No verbal promises or representations outside these terms shall be binding.
  • No agent or representative of the Society may vary or waive any of these conditions.

2. Payment

  • Full payment is taken online via Stripe at the time of booking.
  • All prices include VAT unless otherwise stated.
  • A £100 damage deposit is payable on the day of hire by cash or card reader. This will be refunded to the original card (or cash) within 14 days of the end of the hire, provided the boat is returned on time, clean, undamaged, and with no outstanding claims.

3. Damage Deposit & Boat Condition

  • The Hirer is responsible for the boat and all equipment during the hire period.
  • Any damage, breakages, or excessive cleaning required will be deducted from the £100 damage deposit.
  • All damage must be reported to the Society immediately.
  • The Society reserves the right to retain part or all of the damage deposit if the boat is returned late, dirty, or damaged.

4. Group Size, Age & Suitability

  • The boat is licensed for a maximum of 8 people (including children). This limit must not be exceeded.
  • The designated Skipper must be 21 years or over.
  • The Society reserves the right to refuse to hand over the boat (or repossess it) if, in our reasonable opinion, the Hirer or group is unsuitable due to intoxication, lack of competence, or behaviour that puts the boat, passengers, or others at risk.
  • In such cases, no refund will be given.

5. Cancellations and Changes

  • Because full payment is taken at the time of booking, cancellations are subject to the following:
    • More than 28 days before the hire date: Full refund minus £30 administration fee.
    • Less than 28 days before the hire date: No refund will be given unless the Society is able to re-let the boat.
  • Changes to the booking date are at the Society’s discretion and may incur a £30 administration fee.

6. Hire Period

  • The hire period is strictly 09:00 to 17:00 (8 hours).
  • The Hirer must arrive by 09:00 for briefing and training.
  • Late return will be charged at £30 per hour or part thereof.

7. Rules of the Waterways & Safety

The Hirer agrees to:

  • Observe all speed limits (maximum 4 mph) and not create excessive wash.
  • Comply with all Canal & River Trust bylaws and instructions.
  • Never exceed the maximum of 8 people on board.
  • Not allow anyone to sit or walk on the roof.
  • Not tow or be towed except in an emergency by professional assistance.
  • Not carry live fishing bait.
  • Ensure all children and non-swimmers wear life jackets at all times when on deck or near the water’s edge.

8. Accidents & Breakdowns

  • The designated Skipper is fully responsible for the safe navigation of the boat.
  • In the event of any accident, the Hirer must notify the Society immediately and provide full details.
  • The Hirer must not admit liability to any third party.
  • No repairs may be carried out without the Society’s prior approval.

9. Parking & Personal Property

  • Parking is provided free of charge for customer convenience.
  • The Society accepts no liability for loss or damage to vehicles or their contents.
  • Valuables should not be left in vehicles.

10. Liability

The Society shall not be liable for any loss, damage, injury, or inconvenience caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control (including mechanical failure, waterway restrictions, weather, etc.).

By booking and paying for the day boat, the Hirer confirms they have read, understood, and agree to abide by these Conditions of Hire.