FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Prepare For Your Tour

What is the Address?

All tours depart from O’ Neils Marina in St. Petersburg. The address is:
6701 Sunshine Skyway Ln S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33711

How many people does your boat hold in a booking?
Due to our USCG Licensure, we can hold up to six passengers on all of our boat charters.
Is it BYOB?
Absolutely! We are not allowed to sell drinks on board however bring your favorite beverage. For wine and mixed drinks, please be sure you have a tumbler or a lid on your cups to prevent spilling. We will provide bottled water.
Can we/do we go fast on the Boat?
Even though we have a powerboat, we primarily cruise at a safe speed and obey no wake zones. This is not a speed boat, however we do pick it up at times, again, at a safe and comfortable speed.
I would like a private tour and the entire boat and experience to myself, what are the costs?

In order to make the ends meet, we do have a (3) person/(3) paid seats minimum. If you purchased (4) seats, a party of (2) can still join the tour. If you purchase (5) seats, your trip will be 100% private.

Is gratuity included?
Gratuity is not included and we are extremely grateful if you consider tipping your Captain. Our Captains work really hard to provide you with a safe and amazing experience.
What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Full refunds will be offered for weather related cancellations and mandatory vessel maintenance. A full refund will be given 48 hours in advance of a cancellation however there are no refunds if you cancel/no show within the 48 hours of your reservation.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
There is a restroom at our departure point but if you need to go during your trip, we can certainly stop at an oceanfront restaurant or a marina.
Which Islands do we visit on the Barrier Island trips?
We primarily visit secluded parts of Shell Key, Outback Key and Tierra Verde. If the conditions are right, we occasionally visit Egmont Key. Please note that our Islands do not have docks and Moon Cycles, Winds, Tides, Swells, Surf, Weather and Currents dictate which Islands we go to. Please bring your own towels as well.
Where do i park? Is there Free Parking?

There is free parking at the Marina but very important, please text me when you arrive so I know you made it safely and successfully; 727-276-3032! You have 3 options for parking:

  1. Before you enter the gates at the marina, you can park on the grass on the left hand side. Walk straight for approximately 75 yards and my boat will be on the right, I’ll be looking out for you!
  2. Drive straight into the Marina and take a right at the “BOAT SALES” sign. Drive straight and you can park anywhere on the left hand side, near the boats on the trailer. I will be at the Main Dock in front of the Bait Shop and Fuel Pump. Again, please text me when you arrive.
  3. Drive straight into the Marina and park right right behind my Blue Honda Ridgeline Truck. Lastly, Please text me when you arrive.
What if I have over 6 people in our group, can you still take us out?
ABSOLUTELY! We partner up with another local, award winning charter company and we use (2) boats for your trip. We still depart at the same time from the same Marina and run both boats side by side. We have been doing this for years and it has always been a fun and successful experience for everyone!
I am running late for my boat tour, what do I do?
We know things happen. If you booked a private tour, we will wait for you however it is cutting into the time frame that you booked and we don’t want to be late for our next customers. If you booked a semiprivate tour, I will wait as long as we can but the boat will have to depart shortly after and you will have to reschedule with the Captain. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure to avoid being late, we do not want to keep anyone waiting.
Will my tour be private or will there be other customers joining us?
Three person tours CAN be semiprivate unless specified by the customer. Example: 1-3 people can be added to another group of 3.
Can I purchase a single ticket or a ticket for two?

ABSOLUTELY! We know that there are solo travelers out there and those that just want to get on the water. Please call Captain Joe directly and he will try to arrange that for you by adding you to an existing group of 2, 3 or 4.

Who will the Captain be for my tour?
Captain Joe primarily runs the tours however he sometimes needs a little break to maintain and sustain everyday operations of the company. Our other Captains are extremely qualified and have been serving the customers of Salt and Mist Sea Tours for many years with the highest quality, you’ll still have an amazing time and an amazing experience!
What’s the cancellation/no show refund policy for a Viator or a third-party Voucher?
Unfortunately, since you paid Viator or a third party company directly, you will have to contact their customer service. If your party is running significantly late and the boat needs to leave, the Captain has the right to redeem your Voucher as you will be considered a no show. Please note that our cancellation policy is the same when purchasing from a third party vendor. Just go directly thru us, its WAY easier!
Do you allow Dogs?
We live in the nations “Friendliest Dog City”, we would love to have your pets experience one of our tours! We ask that your dog is no heavier than 40lbs. Also, please purchase a minimum of 4 seats so your trip can be 100% private since not everyone is a pet person. Please make sure to walk your your pet so they can do their “business” before departing and bring their water bowl, a towel or their favorite blanket to lay on so they are comfortable!

Rules of the Boat

Salt and Mist Sea Tours cares about your health and the health of its staff. Please know that we are taking extra precautions to provide a clean and healthy boat for our passengers by disinfecting and scrubbing before and after every tour.

  • PLEASE BE PREPARED TO REMOVE YOUR SHOES BEFORE BOARDING OUR VESSEL
  • Please apply spray sunscreen BEFORE you get on board. The chemicals damage the seats & stain the fiberglass.
  • Absolutely no smoking
  • Customers must be sitting at all times while underway
  • No feet, standing or jumping on boat seats
  • All customers must hold onto designated handles on boat when underway
  • No shoes or sandals on the seats of the boat
  • No hanging on the archway (Shade covering) of the Boat
  • And again, PLEASE BE ON TIME

What To Bring

  • Sunscreen (please apply spray sunscreen before boarding)
  • Hat
  • Jacket
  • Alcoholic Beverages, BYOB. Adult beverages are okay if consumed responsibly; PLEASE make sure you have lids on all cups.