Weather

Weather on the Hudson can change rapidly—and often for the better. For this reason, we wait until one hour before your scheduled charter for the Captain to make the final decision on whether we will sail.

Our team closely monitors weather reports and radar throughout the day. If we determine that conditions are unsafe to sail, we will contact you at least one hour before your charter to reschedule at no additional cost.

Please note: the decision to sail rests solely with the Captain. If you choose to reschedule on your own without a weather-related cancellation from us, rescheduling fees will apply. We do not offer refunds for charters canceled due to weather.

Rest assured, we do our best to avoid sailing in poor conditions—just as you’d prefer not to go out in bad weather, so do we. Our approach is fair and flexible, and we aim to make the best call for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

If severe weather interferes with your scheduled charter, you may reschedule to any available date before October 31st of the same calendar year.

Charter Fee and Rescheduling Fee

The charter fee is considered earned once a reservation is made for a specific date and time. By booking with City Lights Sailing, you agree to pay this fee in full.

Requests to reschedule are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and are subject to a rescheduling fee based on how much advance notice is provided:

14 days or more before the scheduled charter: 10% rescheduling fee

4 to 13 days before the scheduled charter: 25% rescheduling fee

24 to 72 hours before the scheduled charter: 50% rescheduling fee

Cancellation

For safety reasons, City Lights Sailing reserves the right to cancel a charter at any time due to severe weather or mechanical issues. If this occurs, your sail will be rescheduled at no additional cost to a mutually agreed-upon date before October 31st of the current calendar year.

Please note: refunds are not offered. The determination of severe weather is at the sole discretion of the vessel’s Captain.

Smoking and Substance Abuse

Smoking and vaping of any kind are strictly prohibited on board the vessel.

The use of illegal substances, as well as underage consumption of alcohol or tobacco, is not allowed at any time.

Any violation of these rules will result in immediate termination of the charter without a refund.

Risks

By booking a charter with City Lights Sailing, you acknowledge that activities at marinas and aboard sailboats carry inherent risks of personal injury or accident. You agree to release and hold harmless City Lights Sailing, including its owners and employees, from any liability or responsibility for personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death, regardless of the cause, including but not limited to product defects or negligence by the released parties.

You confirm that you have informed your guests about these risks, and they agree to release and hold harmless City Lights Sailing, its owners, and employees under the same terms outlined above. Furthermore, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless City Lights Sailing, its owners, and employees from any claims or liabilities brought by your guests.

Medical

You acknowledge that you and your guests are fully responsible for any medical expenses incurred during the charter. City Lights Sailing and its representatives are authorized to make decisions regarding hospitalization and medical treatment for you and your guests as necessary.

Disputes

All disputes arising in connection with this charter shall be governed by Federal Maritime Law. In any legal action brought against City Lights Sailing, its owners, or employees, if the final decision, judgment, decree, order, stipulation, or settlement substantially favors City Lights Sailing, the opposing party agrees to reimburse City Lights Sailing for all attorney’s fees, court costs, and related expenses.

What is the maximum passenger capacity?

Our sailing yacht have a maximum capacity of 6 passengers, including all children and toddlers.

What is included in the charter price?

All charters include a US Coast Guard licensed captain, bottled water, ice, plates, napkins, cups and utensils.

Can we bring our own food and drinks?

Yes, you're welcome to bring your own food and beverages. Canned beer only, no bottled beer, white or rośe wine only, no red wine. No hard liquor.

Can we play our own music?

Yes of course. Bring your favorite playlists and link up to our built in Bluetooth sound system.

Is there a fridge?

Yes, we have a fridge and a small cooler that we can keep in the cockpit for easy access.

Is there parking?

Parking is a available in the marina lot or Liberty State Park for a fee.

Where do we board the boat?

Meet at Liberty Landing Marina. It’s a quick ferry ride from Brookfield Place Terminal in Manhattan. If you’re coming from New Jersey, take NJ Route 78 East, exit 14B, Jersey City/Liberty Science Center. Follow signs to Liberty Landing Marina.

Do you host engagements on the boat?

Yes, and they are always a memorable experience. Flowers, champagne and a photographer can be arranged for an additional fee.