Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to CDM Yachts FAQ page! Here, we’ve compiled answers to commonly asked questions about our premium yacht services and offerings. Whether you’re curious about our yacht models, booking process, or onboard amenities, you’ll find helpful information to guide you through your yacht journey. If you don’t see your question addressed, feel free to reach out to our team directly for personalized assistance.

Captain Don Marine offers private motor yacht charters for groups up to 13.

Our yachts can accommodate up to 13 passengers, including the renter, per USCG law. Children and infants all count as passengers. If you have more than 13 passengers, we can refer you to one of our preferred certified yachts for larger parties.

Send an online inquiry form through the website or call us directly at (619) 866-6966.

The renter must be at least 18 years old. Payment must be made in full to secure your reservation.

Most of our yachts have a two-hour minimum rental time; though we do find guests prefer 4+ hours on the water. We also offer overnight and multi-day charters on a custom quote basis.

Yes, we offer overnight and multi-day rentals on a custom quote basis.

The renter must be at least 18 years old. There is no minimum age requirement for passengers. We have infant and child life jackets available on each vessel.

Cancellations may be made up to 5 days prior to reservation for a full refund. Reservation is non-refundable within 5 days of the reservation date. In the case of unsafe boating weather, we will reschedule at a mutually convenient time.

  • Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure time for boarding and safety briefing from your captain. Late arrival will not alter reservation time. All passengers must sign a waiver of liability at the time of reservation. Renter must review and complete the electronic rental agreement PRIOR to arrival.

Cancellations may be made up to 5 days prior to reservation for a full refund. Reservation is non-refundable within 5 days of the reservation date.

In the case of unsafe boating weather, we will reschedule at a mutually convenient time. We do not cancel for less than favorable weather conditions such as overcast, cloudy, or cold weather.

Rental rate includes the yacht rental, captain hourly fees, crew hourly fees, port taxes, and marina fees, unless otherwise noted. Gratuity is not included. Standard gratuity is 10-20% of the rental rate.

We accept major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. We also accept ACH, PayPal, Venmo, and Apple Pay. All payments are processed through a secure booking system. We do not accept checks or wires.

You will receive an email confirmation with your reservation details, boarding location, directions, and boarding instructions. You will also receive a rental agreement to review and electronically sign before you arrive via Adobe. Completing this before arrival will expedite the boarding process.

There is a public parking lot across the street near the Shelter Island pier, as well as limited street parking along Shelter Island Drive. We recommend using ride-share services during the summer and holiday weekends.

Pets are not allowed on our yachts, with the exception of properly documented service animals.

Yes, we will introduce you to a USCG licensed captain to operate the vessel.

Yes, life jackets will be onboard for each passenger. Life jackets are optional to be worn for passengers 13 years and older. Under California law, every child under 13 years of age must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. We have child and infant life jackets available as well.

We are fortunate in San Diego to have fairly mild weather year-round. The yachts have enclosed areas to enjoy the views while being protected from wind. Each yacht also has plenty of space to store extra jackets or blankets if you choose to bring them.

Each charter is unique and can be tailored to the guest’s requests. Guests typically tour San Diego Bay which stretches from Point Loma to Coronado to see sights like the Downtown skyline, Navy ships, and Coronado bridge.  There are several places in the bay to anchor and swim.  San Diego Bay also offers some waterfront restaurants if you wish to dock and dine. If there are any sights or things you wish to do, let us or your captain know!

Almost all renters stay within San Diego Bay which is very calm water compared to the open ocean so it is uncommon for guests to experience sea sickness. If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend bringing Dramamine.

Yes, you may bring your own food and or beverages including alcohol. We do now allow red wine on any yacht. If bringing glass onboard, we ask you to pour into plastic cups for safety. Excessive drunk behavior, disorderly conduct, or alcohol consumption by any guest under age 21 will result in early termination of rental.

Pets (with the exception of properly documented service animals), smoking, and illegal drugs including marijuana are prohibited. Renter understands bringing any prohibited items onboard will result in early termination of rental.