Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions of Hire

Our vessels all operate within a code of conduct adhered to by the Passenger Boat Association, and governed in their operation by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. Our safety standards are over and above the levels required and insurances meet the existing statutes recommended by Maritime law.

1. VAT: Boat Hire rates are zero rated at present. All other prices shown exclude VAT at the current standard rate, except otherwise stated.
2. All prices are based on cruises starting and finishing at Hobbs boatyard Henley, or for pick ups and drop offs on the Henley Reach between Marsh and Hambleden Locks.
3. Catering prices are based on minimum numbers stated. A 20% surcharge will apply for numbers less than the minimum. Catering prices, including surcharge, are subject to a minimum of 15 guests. For fewer than 15 guests please enquire.
4. All entertainment prices are based on a four hour charter. Longer sailing times will incur extra charges. Special prices apply for Regatta charters.
5. Staffing rates are included in the price on a 4 hour charter (Regatta charters: 6 hours) charter. Longer sailing times will incur extra charges.
6. A deposit will only be refunded by the company when eight weeks written notice is given. The Hirer is liable for the balance of the hire fee and the cost of any goods or services reserved on the hirer's behalf should cancellation, for any reason, take place during the eight weeks prior to the date reserved.
7. All Catering, Bar, Music, and sailing direction details should be clearly stated when completing the Reservation Form. Instructions thereafter will only be accepted in writing from one organiser or representative. Written confirmation of the final number of poeple to be catered for must be received and paid for in full no later than fourteen days prior to the date reserved. No Alterations are accepted within the fourteen days prior to the event. We reserve the right to replace menu items according to availability. Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can be provided for all menus. If an account bar is requested, any outstanding amounts must be settled at the end of the charter. If this is not possible, Hobbs of Henley must be informed in advance of the charter commencing and a deposit paid. This deposit will be £10 per person, based on confirmed numbers attending. Additional invoices or refunds will follow after the charter.
8. The number of guests confirmed for catering purposes will be the number of guests permitted on the vessel for the charter.
9. The New Orleans, The Waterman and The Hibernia are not available for Charter without catering, and are not available for 18th or 21st Birthday Celebrations. The Consuta is available for hire without catering.
10. Hirers are not allowed to supply their own catering or beverages on board the Hobbs of Henley vessels - The New Orleans, Hibernia and The Waterman, but can on The Consuta.
11. Reservation Terms for Henley Royal Regatta and other special events are subject to special conditions which are available on request.
12. Passengers are permitted to board no earlier than 15 minutes prior to departure. Return time for evening cruises is no later than 23:45. Return time for afternoon cruises is no later than 17:00
13. During the hire period the vessel shall remain under the complete control of the Captain and crew and the hirer shall be responsible for the conduct of the passengers on board, and on disembarking from Hobbs of Henley vessels at night.
14. The company may at the discretion of the Captain vary the course of the cruise should circumstances make this necessary. The company does not guarantee that any vessel will commence or complete any journey or part thereof in any given time if conditions are beyond the control of the company.
15. Passenger Boat charters are subject to the river and weather conditions being satisfactory at the time of sailing. If strong stream and/or wind conditions prevent a sailing taking place, the vessel would remain moored at Hobbs of Henley Boatyard, Henley-on-Thames for the duration of the charter. If adverse river conditions prevent a vessel from collecting passengers from a venue other than Hobbs of Henley Ltd, Henley-on-Thames, the company's liability to the client shall be no greater than the amount paid by the client to the company in respect of the function.
16. All persons using any part of the premises, boats or facilities, for whatever purpose and whether by invitation or otherwise, do so at their own risk, unless injury or damage to person or property sustained within the premises, boats or facilities was caused by, or resulted from our negligence or deliberate act or that of those for whom we are responsible.
17. In accordance with The Environment Agency (Thames Region) By-laws, all music must be stopped when approaching and passing through a lock. Hirers are requested to control their parties from making undue noise when passing through a lock, and particularly late at night when disembarking from Hobbs of Henley vessels.
18. The Hirer shall make good/and or pay for all losses, damage or breakages to any fixture, fittings machinery or equipment. The Hirer will be liable for any costs incurred by Hobbs of Henley in respect of specialist cleaning due to vomiting or spillage by the hirer or any of the hirer's guests during a charter.
19. It is the responsibility of the hirer to acquaint each member of his party with the above conditions of hire as laid down by the company.
20. Hobbs of Henley Ltd have been granted a Premises Licence from South Oxfordshire District Council under the Licensing Act 2003. The vessels are permitted to serve alcohol from 10:00 to 24:00. Hobbs of Henley Ltd operate a zero tolerance policy towards underage drinking, the taking and possesion of illegal substances and drunken aggresive behavior towards passagers or crew. If a cruise has to be abandoned due to breaches of our Premises Licence conditions, no refund shall be given. Details of our Premises licence are available on request.
21. Information is correct at the time of publication and maybe subject to change. Please refer to website or contact Hobbs of Henley.