Terms and Conditions

Terms & Conditions of Hire

1. Definitions & Applicability

“Company” means Daisy Mutler Holiday Boat Hire. “Hirer” means the person named on the booking confirmation, and all members of their party. These Terms & Conditions form the basis of the legal agreement between the Company and the Hirer, superseding any prior verbal or written communications.

2. Booking & Payment

All bookings require a signed booking form and payment of a non-refundable deposit of 25% of the total hire charge (unless otherwise agreed), due at the time of booking.
The balance is due 8 weeks prior to the hire start date. Bookings made within 8 weeks require full payment immediately.
We accept payment via credit/debit card or bank transfer. Cards issued outside the UK may incur foreign transaction fees.

3. Cancellation & Amendments

Cancellations must be made in writing and are effective on receipt by the Company.
Withdrawal of booking results in forfeiture of the deposit. Additional charges based on notice period may apply (e.g., 50% if cancelled 28–59 days before departure, 100% if within 14 days).
Amendments to bookings may incur an administration fee of £40–£50.

4. Suitability & Conduct

Hirers must be aged 18 or over. A responsible adult must accompany any under-18s at all times.
We reserve the right to refuse boarding or repossess the vessel if the Hirer or party is deemed inexperienced, irresponsible, under the influence of alcohol/drugs, or behaving in a manner that puts the boat or others at risk (e.g., speeding or anti-social activity).

5. Handover & Return

Standard check-in begins at 2:30 pm (or as specified). A full safety briefing and boat orientation is mandatory.
The boat must be returned by 9:30 am–10 am on the final day (or as stated), clean, tidy, with the fuel tank topped up. Late returns may incur a minimum charge of £50 per hour.

6. Insurance, Damage Waiver & Deposit

A refundable security deposit is required on arrival (amount to be specified). It covers damage to the boat, equipment, or third-party property, excluding wear and tear.
A non-refundable Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) fee (e.g., £45–£50) applies. The CDW excludes damage from cill-strikes, negligence, vandalism, or failure to follow instructions.

7. Fuel, Pump-Out & Mooring Charges

Boats are handed over with a full tank of fuel; refuel before return or a charge will be applied.
Pump-out cards are provided; Hirers are responsible for any pump-out charges incurred en route.
Mooring fees, water charges, or any tolls encountered during the hire are the responsibility of the Hirer.

8. Navigation, Safety & Use

Boats are insured for daylight cruising only; navigation after dark is prohibited.
Hirers must comply with all navigation authority byelaws, speed limits, and official instructions. Towing is forbidden unless in an emergency.
No minors may navigate unsupervised. Alcohol or drug use while in control of the boat is strictly forbidden.

9. Pets

Pets are allowed if declared in advance. They are not permitted on furniture or bedding, and must not be left unattended. Any damage or extra cleaning caused by pets may be charged up to a specified limit.

10. Accidents & Damage Reporting

All accidents, collisions or damage must be reported immediately; details must be exchanged with other parties involved. No repairs or admissions of liability should be made without our prior consent.
Hirers are responsible for any waterway authority charges arising from loss of water or property damage.

11. Delays, Disruptions & Force Majeure

The Company will promptly attend to breakdowns or equipment faults but cannot compensate for losses due to circumstances beyond its control (e.g., canal closures, flooding, drought, strikes).

12. Complaints & Liability

Any on-trip complaints must be reported immediately so we can attempt a resolution. Written complaints must be submitted within 7–28 days of trip conclusion.
Our liability for personal injury or loss is limited to proven negligence; we’re not liable for indirect or business losses.

13. Personal Data

By booking, you consent to us processing necessary personal information, which may be shared with insurers or navigation authorities if required.

14. Governing Law & Jurisdiction

This contract is governed by the law of England & Wales. Disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts or resolved via arbitration by mutual agreement.