GROUNDSWELL CHARTERS
LAST UPDATED: December 18th, 2025
Safety & Charter Policies.
1. General Information
This website and all charter services are operated from Prince Rupert. By accessing this website, booking a charter, or participating in any on-water activities, you acknowledge and agree to the policies outlined below.
These policies exist to protect the safety of our guests and crew, ensure regulatory compliance, and set clear expectations for all parties.
2. Booking & Payment Policy
All fishing charters must be booked in advance.
A deposit is required to secure your reservation date.
The remaining balance must be paid prior to departure, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
A booking is not considered confirmed until payment has been received.
Prices are subject to change without notice until a booking is confirmed.
3. Cancellation, Rescheduling & Weather Policy
Guest Cancellations
Cancellations made with sufficient notice may be eligible for a refund or reschedule. Cancellations made within a short window prior to the charter date may result in forfeiture of the deposit, as the date cannot typically be rebooked.
Weather & Sea Conditions
Charters operate rain or shine. Ocean conditions, tides, and weather forecasts are monitored continuously.
The captain retains full authority to delay, modify, or cancel a charter if conditions are deemed unsafe.
If a charter is cancelled by us due to unsafe conditions, guests will be offered a reschedule or full refund.
No refunds will be issued for shortened trips or modified plans caused by changing weather or sea conditions once the charter has commenced.
Safety decisions are made conservatively and in accordance with professional maritime standards.
4. Safety Policy
Vessel & Crew
All vessels are operated by qualified captains and crew.
Vessels are equipped with Transport Canada–required safety equipment, including life jackets, emergency signaling devices, and communication systems.
Guest Responsibilities
All guests must:
Follow the captain’s instructions at all times
Wear safety equipment when requested
Remain seated or hold secure handholds while underway
Act in a manner that does not endanger themselves, other guests, or crew
Failure to comply may result in removal from the charter without refund.
5. Alcohol, Drugs & Conduct
For the safety of everyone on board:
Excessive alcohol consumption is not permitted.
Illegal drugs are strictly prohibited.
Guests who appear impaired or behave unsafely may be denied boarding or removed from the charter without refund.
Respectful behavior toward crew, other guests, and wildlife is required at all times.
6. Fishing Licences & Regulations
All guests are responsible for obtaining a valid British Columbia tidal fishing licence prior to departure.
Fishing activities are conducted in accordance with:
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) regulations
Species limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures
Guests must comply with all regulations. Any illegal retention of fish will result in immediate termination of fishing privileges.
7. Catch Policy
While every effort is made to provide a high-quality fishing experience, catch is never guaranteed.
Retention of fish is subject to legal limits and conditions on the day of fishing.
Fish cleaning may be available depending on the charter and circumstances.
Guests are responsible for transporting their catch home in a suitable cooler.
8. Physical Ability & Medical Considerations
Fishing charters involve inherent risks, including vessel motion, slippery surfaces, sharp equipment, and exposure to weather.
Guests should:
Be comfortable boarding and moving around a vessel
Inform us in advance of any medical conditions or mobility concerns
Bring necessary medications (including seasickness medication)
Participation is at the guest’s own risk.
9. Liability & Assumption of Risk
By participating in a fishing charter, guests acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with marine travel and fishing activities.
Guests may be required to sign a liability waiver prior to departure. This waiver releases the operator, crew, and affiliates from claims arising from ordinary risks associated with the activity.
10. Children & Minors
Children are welcome on select charters but must be:
Supervised at all times by a parent or legal guardian
Capable of following safety instructions
Life jackets are mandatory for minors when required by the captain.
11. Wildlife & Environmental Responsibility
We operate with respect for the marine environment and local ecosystems.
Wildlife harassment is strictly prohibited
All waste must be disposed of properly
Catch-and-release practices may be encouraged when appropriate
12. Media & Photography
Photos and videos may be taken during charters for promotional and marketing purposes.
If you do not wish to appear in marketing materials, please notify us prior to departure, and we will respect your request.
13. Website Use & Accuracy
We make every effort to ensure the information on this website is accurate and up to date. However, schedules, availability, and conditions may change without notice.
Use of this website does not guarantee charter availability.
14. Policy Updates
These policies may be updated periodically to reflect regulatory changes, safety requirements, or business operations. The most current version will always be available on this page.
Questions
If you have any questions about these policies, safety procedures, or charter expectations, please contact us prior to booking. We are happy to clarify anything to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.