Important Safety Information

At North Bay Charters, nothing is more important to us than your safety.  We want you and you family to have a great time, and enjoy the memories for years to come.  For that reason, we have enacted a few rules that experience has taught us are prudent. . .

ALCOHOL: Adult beverages are allowed on board the vessel and coolers are provided for this purpose.  The captain asks that they be enjoyed in moderation and that you designate a driver prior to departure on the vessel.  The Captain reserves the right to refuse service to anyone who is obviously intoxicated or who is acting in a manner that would put the Captain, crew, or fellow passengers in harms way.  NO GLASS, and please respect the Bay.  Recycling receptacles are provided for your use on board the vessel. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE TO BE CONSUMED BY ANYONE UNDER THE AGE OF 21 YEARS OLD!

SHOES: Please only wear light, soft-soled shoes on board the vessel.  While the deck is treated to prevent slipping, it can get wet and dangerous without the proper footwear.  Additionally, dark soled shoes scar up the deck, and cause the Captain to become very moody.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS: The Captain is a licensed Emergency Medical Technician and trained Firefighter.  The vessel carries a full compliment of First Aid apparatus.  Please remember to notify the captain before departure of any medical conditions he should be aware of.  Examples include Asthma, Heart Conditions, Propensity for Seasickness, Vertigo, and Seizures or Epilepsy.  Always report any injuries to the Captain or Crew.

ORDERS AT SEA: The Captain is in charge of the vessel at all times.  We want you to have a great time and enjoy yourself, however it is important to note that Maritime Law differs from traditionl rules in some regards.  The Captain is in charge of the vessel at all times, and will take whatever measures necessary to ensure the safety of the vessel's other passengers.  Fortunately we have never found ourselves in this position.

COMMON SENSE: Commercial Crabbing and Fishing is an inherently dangerous, unavoidable risky activity.  You will be on board a WORKING, commercial crabbing vessel.  The pitching and yawing of the boat, combined with uncertain seas, changing weather conditions, equipment failures, and nature dictate that all aboard must use a heavy measure of common sense.  Do not stand near operating equipment, interfere with the operations of the crew, position yourself near moving equipment with loose clothing or jewelry, or disregard the Captain.  Always listen to the safety briefing carefully before departure.  Have a plan in the event of a fire, or sea-borne emergency.  Know the location of safety equipment, flares, personal flotation devices (PFD's) and life-saving equipment, and know how to use them properly.  If this is your first time on a boat, please tell the Captain so that he can ensure you have the most comfortable voyage possible.

FOOTNOTE: We have taken extensive measures to ensure your safety, but you must do your part as well..  The vessel is equipped with multiple VHF radios, cellular communications, satellite-based GPS tracking, man overboard tracking (MOB), flotation devices for all passengers and RADAR navigation up to 25 miles (2.5kw) in the event of fog.  The boat is extremely seaworthy and built for heavy, uncertain Chesapeake Bay weather and seas, additionally, it is regularly inspected by the United States Coast Guard, as well as the MD Dept. of Natural Resources Police to ensure compliance  If you feel nauseous, or notice a safety concern, notify the Captain at once. know what to do in the event of an emergency.  Never jump overboard and always listen to the Captain for instructions.

We hope you find these guidelines useful, and that you will have a wonderful time aboard!