1. Commitment to Safety

At VIRA Charters, safety is our highest operational priority. Every charter aboard the Axopar 45 Sun Top Brabus is conducted in compliance with applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations and Florida maritime laws.

All safety decisions are made with the protection of passengers, crew, and vessel as the primary consideration.

2. Captain Authority

The assigned licensed captain has full and final authority over:

• Navigation and routing

• Weather-related decisions

• Passenger safety

• Departure delays or cancellation

• Onboard conduct

All guests must follow the captain’s instructions at all times. Failure to comply may result in immediate termination of the charter without refund.

3. Weather & Sea Conditions

Charters operate weather permitting.

The captain monitors:

• Marine weather forecasts

• Wind speed and direction

• Storm systems

• Water traffic conditions

• Sea state and visibility

Light rain or overcast conditions do not automatically constitute unsafe weather.

If conditions are deemed unsafe, the captain may delay departure, modify the route, or cancel the charter in accordance with our Cancellation Policy.

4. Maximum Guest Capacity

The vessel may not exceed its legally permitted passenger capacity under any circumstances.

All bookings must accurately disclose the number of guests. Exceeding the approved guest count is strictly prohibited.

5. Safety Equipment

The vessel is equipped with safety equipment including but not limited to:

• U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets

• Fire extinguishers

• Emergency signaling devices

• First aid kit

• Navigation and communication systems

Life jackets are available onboard and may be required to be worn in certain situations at the captain’s discretion.

6. Boarding & Movement Onboard

Guests must exercise caution while:

• Boarding or disembarking

• Moving on wet or slippery surfaces

• Using stairs or deck transitions

• Entering or exiting the water

Running, jumping between docks, or unsafe movement onboard is strictly prohibited.

Footwear with hard or sharp heels may be restricted to protect both safety and vessel surfaces.

7. Swimming & Water Activities

Swimming and water activities are permitted only when:

• Approved by the captain

• The vessel is safely anchored

• Conditions are suitable

Guests enter the water at their own risk.

Children must be supervised at all times.

No guest may swim while the vessel engines are engaged or while the vessel is in motion.

8. Alcohol & Substance Policy

Alcohol consumption is permitted in moderation for guests 21 years of age or older.

Excessive intoxication, reckless behavior, or the use of illegal substances is strictly prohibited and may result in immediate termination of the charter without refund.

9. Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency:

• Guests must remain calm

• Follow captain and crew instructions immediately

• Avoid obstructing navigation or safety equipment

Emergency communication systems are onboard and monitored.

10. Medical Conditions

Guests with medical conditions, mobility limitations, or special safety concerns should notify VIRA prior to departure.

VIRA is not responsible for undisclosed medical conditions that may be aggravated by marine activity.

11. Damage or Unsafe Conduct

Any behavior that endangers:

• Guests

• Crew

• The vessel

• Other marine traffic

may result in immediate termination of the charter.

The Client assumes responsibility for damages caused by members of their party.

12. Assumption of Risk

By boarding the vessel, all guests acknowledge that marine environments involve inherent risks including:

• Sudden vessel movement

• Weather changes

• Slippery surfaces

• Water-related hazards

Guests voluntarily assume these risks as a condition of participation.

13. Policy Updates

VIRA Charters reserves the right to update this Safety Policy at any time. The policy in effect at the time of booking applies.