Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at cardinalchartersnh@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
A charter boat means one thing: zero worries for you! No boating license? No problem. Your captain is fully licensed and knows the lake like the back of their hand. (Mostly 😉)
You don’t have to stress about dodging hidden hazards or navigating tricky spots—just bring yourself, your crew, your favorite snacks and drinks, and kick back while your captain handles the rest.
Pro tip: Arrive about 15 minutes early so you can get settled in and ready for an awesome day on the water!
Great question! The top reason? Because I’m awesome! Don’t just take my word for it—ask anyone who’s been out with me. 😎
But seriously, Lake Winnipesaukee is a stunning natural lake shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago. To keep it that way, the folks at New Hampshire Lake Management leave things pretty wild—including some hidden underwater obstacles like rocks just below the surface.
If you’re not familiar with the lake, hitting one of those can mean some serious boat trouble (and expensive repairs). That’s why having an experienced captain is a game-changer—you get to kick back and enjoy the day, while I handle all the tricky stuff. We take the risks, you reap the rewards. Sound good? Let’s go!
Boarding Options
- Public Boat Docks at Weirs Beach (Primary Location)
We’ll pick you up right at the public docks next to Weirs Beach, where there’s plenty of parking nearby. This is our main pick-up and drop-off spot.
Click here for directions — the docks are just down the stairs from this location.
- Hotel Dock Pick-Up
If your hotel has a private dock on the lake, we can pick you up and drop you off right there—no driving needed. Just let us know which hotel you’re staying at.
- Private Home Dock Pick-Up
Renting a house with a dock? We can come to pick you up and drop you off at your rental dock. Just send us the address.
Looking forward to seeing you on the water!
Please Note:
- If we pick you up and drop you off at your own dock, fuel must be prepaid.
- Sunset Cruises do NOT offer hotel or private home pickups—all sunset cruise guests must board at the public docks at Weirs Beach.
- Fuel charges vary based on your location on the lake.
Although the boat can technically hold more, we limit guests to 10 adults to ensure everyone has plenty of space and comfort. Parties larger than 10 can feel crowded, and while we can occasionally accommodate up to 12 guests, it’s not recommended. If you’re planning a bigger group, please get in touch so we can explore the best options for you!
Whether you’re up for a quick half-day splash, a full-day adventure, or a magical sunset cruise, we’ve got you covered! Check out the booking page for prices and available dates—your perfect day on the water awaits!
Pricing and Add-Ons:
Prices depend on your choices. Would you like to spend a half day or a full day on the lake? Interested in renting a tube for water sports, a cooler with ice, or a swim platform? All these options are available for you to choose from.
We’re here to make your experience smooth and enjoyable!
Note: If you'd like to pay off your balance before your charter, please email us at cardinalchartersnh@gmail.com, and we’ll send you an invoice for the remaining amount.
Gratuities are not included in the price and are completely optional. If you feel the Captain has gone above and beyond, tips are always welcomed and appreciated.
Add-On Rentals for Extra Fun & Convenience:
Enhance your day on the lake with these optional add-ons, available for rent:
- Swim Platform – $50 per rental
- Lay-Down Tube – $35 per rental
- Cooler with Ice – $30 per rental
These extras are a great way to make the most of your time on the water!
Stay safe—and have a great time!
Please Note:
All water sports and related activities are undertaken at your own risk. Cardinal Charter is not responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur before, during, or after participation. By choosing to engage in these activities, you are acknowledging and accepting full responsibility for your own safety. All guests that will be tubing must sign a waiver form.
Yes, but you have a couple of options. Fuel costs are separate from the boat rental, and the boat will be fully fueled when you board—plenty for a full day on the water.
We offer two fuel payment options:
1) Prepay for Fuel
Prepaying allows you to maximize your time on the lake by skipping the fuel stop at the end.
- Half-day charters: $80–$120*
- Full-day charters: $150–$180*
(*Prices vary based on current lake fuel rates and are subject to change.)
While this may cost slightly more, you'll gain 30–45 extra minutes of lake time.
2) Pay at the Dock
We return 20–30 minutes early, stop at the gas dock, and you pay for the fuel used. This may save a little money, but it does cut into your time on the water.
Let us know which option works best for you—either way, we've got you covered!.
Additional Notes:
- Prepayment for fuel is required for any dockside pickups/drop-offs (not at Weirs Beach). Additional charges may apply based on distance from Weirs Beach Public Docks.
- Fuel is included in all Fall Leaf Peeping Charters only.
You're welcome to bring your own life jacket, but it’s not required—we have U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets onboard for all passengers.
If you're bringing young children, and you have a properly fitting life jacket for them, we recommend bringing it to ensure the best fit and comfort. Just make sure any life jacket you bring is USCG-approved.
Safety first—especially for the little ones!.
Important Safety Note:
All children under the age of 13 are required by law to wear a life jacket any time the boat is moving.
Can You Bring Alcohol? YES!
One of the great perks of renting a boat with a captain is that you don’t have to worry about who’s staying sober to drive. We want you to relax and have an amazing time on the lake—so feel free to bring your favorite (legal) beverages, kick back, and enjoy the ride.
Cheers to a great day on the water!.
Please remember:
- You must be 21 or older to consume alcohol onboard.
- No underage drinking is allowed—this will be strictly enforced.
- Illegal drugs are absolutely prohibited.
- And of course, we ask that you drink responsibly for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy:
We understand that plans can change, and we aim to be as flexible as possible. Here's how our cancellation policy works:
- Cancel 14 days or more before your scheduled charter:
Receive a full refund of your deposit, minus a $10 processing fee.
- Cancel 7–13 days before your charter:
Receive a 50% refund of your deposit.
- Cancel less than 7 days before your charter:
Unfortunately, your deposit is non-refundable.
If you need to reschedule, we’ll do our best to accommodate you, depending on availability.
To cancel or reschedule, please email us at [cardinalchartersnh@gmail.com]
or call/text us at [603-203-8202].
Thank you for your understanding!
Weather Policy:
This is lake life—and weather happens. Most of the time, any passing weather is brief and not an issue. However, safety is our top priority. If conditions are unsafe for passengers, crew, or the boat, we will not go out. (Final decisions are made at the captain’s discretion.)
If your trip is canceled due to weather, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for another available time. If rescheduling isn't possible, you’ll receive a full refund, minus a $10 processing fee.
Thank you for understanding, and for staying flexible with Mother Nature!
Honoring Those Who Serve
As a Veteran-led company, we recognize the dedication and sacrifices made by our Veterans and First Responders. To show our appreciation, we proudly offer a 10% discount on boat rentals for all Veterans, active-duty military, police officers, firefighters, nurses, doctors, and first responders.
Thank you for your service — we are grateful for all that you do.
(Please note: The discount applies to the base rental rate only and does not include fuel or optional add-ons.)
Enjoy Fireworks from the Water with Our Sunset Cruise!
Join us for five spectacular nights of fireworks at Weirs Beach in 2025! Experience the show from the best seat in the house—on the water during our unforgettable Sunset Cruise.
Fireworks Nights:
- Thursday, July 3rd
- Saturday, July 19th
- Saturday, August 2nd
- Saturday, August 16th
- Saturday, August 31st
Don't miss this unique and breathtaking way to watch the fireworks!.
Please Note:
- No pickups are available for Sunset Cruises—you must board at the public docks at Weirs Beach.
- Prepayment for gas is required.
Fall Foliage Tours Are Back for 2025!
Join us for a 2-hour scenic tour around the lake and take in the breathtaking beauty of autumn in full color. Whether you're snapping photos or simply relaxing, it's the perfect way to enjoy the season.
Bring a cozy sweatshirt or your favorite jacket, grab your beverage of choice, and get ready to unwind as we cruise through nature’s fall masterpiece.
Come enjoy the crisp air and stunning views—fall is calling.
Please Note:
- Fuel cost is included in the price of the Fall Foliage Tour.
- While we hope for a vibrant and spectacular display, the timing and brilliance of the foliage depend on Mother Nature—and she doesn’t take reservations!
Announcement
FOR SAME DAY AND LAST MINUTE CHARTERS PLEASE CALL FOR AVAILABILITY. (603) 203-8202
Summer’s heating up, and so is the demand for our party boat charters! Don’t wait—lock in your date now and get ready to set sail for an epic time!
For the week of July 4th, we’re extending our hours all week long to make sure the celebration never stops. Just click on the "4th of July Week" booking tabs to grab your spot. Plus, don’t miss out on our sunset cruise fireworks viewing experience July 3rd—watch the sky light up from the best seat on the water!
We can't wait to see you on the water for a summer full o