When you’re planning your holiday itinerary, there are a lot of factors to consider. There are potentially many different tours you want to take part in, and perhaps you have to narrow it down, or want to make sure you get the absolute best deal.
It’s worth knowing what is included in the price of your ticket ahead of time for budgeting purposes, and so that you can prepare for the day. If you’ve decided to go on a fishing charter or whale watching cruise, here are a few things to consider when comparing costs:
Costs per person
It’s not always as black and white as counting the members of your family, and budgeting for one ticket per person. Many charter companies will have reduced prices (or free tickets) for children, and discounts for concession card holders. In addition, in the instance of a fishing charter, it’s possible that not every member of your family needs their own rod. Perhaps your reluctant spouse won’t want to fish for the whole day, or you’d like to share a rod with your child. Often there are options for a ‘shared line’, so that a single rod can be shared between two people, and discounts are usually offered here. It’s worth asking the questions if you are not sure if your family members should each have their own rods, or share.
Equipment and supplies
When choosing a company for a fishing charter, find out if the quoted price includes equipment and supplies, and what exactly that entails if they do. Keep in mind you will need a fishing rod and reel, bait, bags for your catch, eskies and towels. Often fishing charter companies will allow you to bring your own fishing gear, so check if there is an additional renting fee if you need to borrow rods and equipment. Make sure you know ahead of time so you can prepare as necessary if you want to bring your own gear.
Some fishing charter ticket prices will be inclusive of bait, or perhaps a limited amount of bait. Again, double check before you book.
[H2] – Food and refreshments
No matter the length of your fishing charter or whale watching cruise, you will need to make sure you’ve got plenty of water and food. Check before booking to see if the price includes refreshments and appetisers, or if you need to bring your own. Sometimes there will be a bar onboard, or the ability to BYO.
Transport to and from
Some tour companies will include transport to and from your accommodation, acknowledging that you are on a holiday and likely don’t want the hassle of finding your way to the tour. Some tourist towns have regular buses that carry guests to and from the main tours and attractions, but if this isn’t an option, you may need to hire a car if your destination is out of the way, which is another cost worth considering. Before booking your charter or cruise, check with the company to see if they have a complimentary bus to collect you and drop you back off after the tour, or look at local public bus routes.
How many other passengers?
It’s worth finding out how each company runs their charters before committing to one. Finding out how many passengers they will allow onboard at one time, or how many different fishing spots or viewing platforms they have, might give you an indication for how your tour with them will go. Make sure there is everything on board to fit your needs, including entertainment for the kids, guided commentary on the area, seating if necessary or perhaps smaller crowds if preferred.
Other things to consider
Remember to bring weather-appropriate clothing, and other necessities such as sunscreen, sunglasses and hats. If you’re going to be out on the water in the morning or evening, remember to bring a jacket or jumper just in case.
If you’ve got little ones, make sure you bring everything they will need for the day – changes of clothes, activities to keep them entertained (though many fishing charters and whale watching cruises have great onboard activities for kids included in their itinerary). Encourage the kids to ask lots of questions, as the staff onboard are sure to be knowledgeable. And make sure you pack your camera – there’s guaranteed to be plenty of things to see and capture behind the lens!
There are many different factors to consider when comparing costs of different tours and charters, and it’s always worth doing your research before booking. Where some upfront costs may seem higher, their inclusions may save you money in other aspects such as equipment or refreshments. Do your research beforehand, so that you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve gotten the very best deal – and that everything is organised so that you can just sit back and enjoy your holiday!