Booking Policy

Thank you for choosing Tide! To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, please read the following booking policy carefully before hiring.

By making a booking, you agree to the terms outlined below.

Booking Requirements

All hirers must be 18 years or older and provide valid photo identification.

Boat Licence

  • In Queensland, a Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) is required to operate a powered boat with an engine over 4hp.

  • Boats with engines over 4hp require a boat licence.

  • Our 4hp boat (e.g. “The Tinny”) can be hired without a boat licence, however valid ID is still required.

  • It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they meet legal requirements to operate the vessel.

Bond / Security Deposit

A refundable bond is required for all hires. The bond amount will be advised at the time of booking and must be paid prior to departure.

Bond Refunds

The bond is fully refundable once the boat is returned:

  • On time

  • In the same condition it was hired out

  • With all equipment returned

  • With no damage or loss

Bond Deductions

Bond deductions may apply for:

  • Damage to the boat, motor, trailer, or equipment

  • Loss of equipment (e.g. life jackets, anchor, keys, safety gear)

  • Refuelling charges (if not returned full)

  • Excess cleaning (e.g. fish waste, excessive sand/mud)

  • Late return fees

  • Any third-party damage caused while the vessel is in your possession

If costs exceed the bond amount, the hirer will be responsible for the remaining balance.

Fuel Policy

All hires operate on a full-to-full fuel policy:

  • The boat is supplied with a full tank

  • The boat must be returned with a full tank

If you’re unable to refuel prior to return, we can refuel the boat for you and deduct the cost from the bond. No extra surcharge is charged — only the cost of fuel for convenience.

Pick Up, Delivery & Launching

Boats can be hired as either: Self-Tow / Self-Launch or launched and collected on your behalf

If you tow the boat and launch/retrieve it yourself. The hirer is responsible for:

  • Safe towing

  • Correct tie-down procedures

  • Launching and retrieval

  • Trailer care while in possession

Launch & Retrieval Service

For an additional fee, we can deliver, launch and retrieve the boat from an agreed boat ramp location. This is recommended for customers who are not confident towing or launching.

Operating Area & Usage Rules

Boats may only be used in:

  • Approved waterways where motorised vessels are permitted

  • Within Moreton Bay and surrounding approved areas (unless otherwise agreed)

  • Smaller boats (such as The Tinny) should be kept to rivers, estuaries and sheltered waters.

Prohibited Use

The boat must not be used for:

  • Commercial use

  • Racing or towing other vessels

  • Dangerous or reckless operation

  • Operating outside agreed areas

  • Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Failure to comply may void insurance and result in loss of bond.

Safety & Responsibility

All boats are supplied with required safety equipment. A safety briefing will be provided prior to departure.

The hirer is responsible for:

  • Safe operation at all times

  • Following Queensland marine laws

  • Ensuring passenger numbers do not exceed the vessel capacity

  • Ensuring children and non-swimmers wear appropriate PFDs

Checking weather and conditions before and during use.

Damage, Breakdowns & Incidents

If something goes wrong during your hire:

  • Contact us immediately

  • Do not continue operating if unsafe

  • Follow the instructions provided during handover

All boats are insured; however, the hirer may be liable for damage caused by negligence, misuse, or failure to follow instructions.

Late Returns

Boats must be returned at the agreed time.

Late returns may incur additional charges, as they impact other bookings. If you expect to be late, contact us as early as possible.

Cancellations & Rescheduling Policy

We understand plans can change and weather in Queensland can be unpredictable.

Weather Cancellations

If conditions are unsafe or unsuitable for boating (e.g. storms, strong winds, heavy rain), weather-related cancellations are generally fine.

In the event of poor weather:

  • You may reschedule your booking at no charge, subject to availability

  • If weather is clearly unsafe, we will work with you to arrange the next suitable date

Safety is our priority, and the final decision may be made by us based on marine forecasts and local conditions.

Customer Cancellations

If you cancel for reasons unrelated to weather:

  • Cancellations made 48 hours or more before the booking time are free of charge

  • Cancellations made within 48 hours of the booking may result in loss of deposit / booking fee

No Shows

If you do not attend your booking, or arrive too late to proceed, it will be treated as a no show and no refund will be provided.

Cleaning & Condition on Return

Boats must be returned in reasonable condition. Please remove all rubbish and personal belongings.

Additional cleaning fees may apply if the boat is returned excessively dirty, including (but not limited to):

  • Excess fish waste / bait

  • Excess sand/mud

  • Spills, stains or odours

Agreement

By proceeding with a booking, the hirer agrees to:

  • This booking policy

  • Safe and lawful operation of the vessel

  • Responsibility for the boat, trailer and equipment during the hire period