Terms and Conditions - General

Cancellations and refunds

All trips and courses are subject to weather, tide times and, where noted, minimum numbers.  Ventures West reserves the right to withdraw a course or trip at short notice.  We will endeavour to contact you at least 48 hours in advance if for any reason outside our control (eg adverse weather) we need to re-arrange.

The decision whether the boat goes out or not rests ultimately with the skipper.  The skipper's decision will be backed by Ventures West, in the interest of passengers' safety.

Ventures West will honour any bookings that have to be cancelled due to adverse weather or other factors outside our control.  If no alternative date/time can be arranged, a full refund will be made.

Ventures West trips/charters cancelled by the purchaser 21 days in advance will be refunded at the discretion of the management but will be subject to an administration charge of 20% or less the deposit, whichever is the greater.  Cancellations after 21 days will be made only at the discretion of the management.

Cancellations for Four Points West courses made 21 days before the course start date will be refunded less the 20% deposit.  Cancellations after 21 days will be made only at the discretion of the management.

All vessels owned or operated by Ventures West Ltd are full insured against any accidents resulting from Ventures West and carry third party liability and public indemnity up to £10m.

We accept no responsibility for loss or damage to the boats or personal belongings due to passengers' negligence or failure to follow code of conduct while on board or in the marina.  Damage or loss occurring as a result of your party's negligence must be made good by you/your party either by repair or replacement.

Prior to all trips, charters and courses, passengers will be given a safety briefing by the skipper or Ventures West staff.  You may be asked to complete a health declaration, informing us of any heart conditions, epilepsy, back or neck problems, pregnancy or generally debilitating conditions.  Ventures West reserves the right to cancel your booking if it is unsafe for any member of your party to participate.

You will be asked to provide emergency contact details prior to departure.  In the event of an emergency, Ventures West will contact them immediately.

Valid MCA licence discs are displayed on the vessels.  All licensing paperwork and policies can be made available for inspection on request.

If, at any time on board or in the marina, any member of your party's behaviour is deemed irresponsible or dangerous to others (including Ventures West staff), the skipper has the right to ask you to leave the vessel at the nearest port of call.  In such cases, no refunds will be given.

Children are welcome but should be accompanied by an adult if under 14 or if their feet do not touch the deck when seated.

For all trips/courses, Ventures West will provide:  waterproofs, safety equipment, vessel in full working order and skipper/instructor (unless specifically bareboat charter).  Passengers are responsible for personal possessions and wearing sensible clothing and non-slip footwear.

Gift vouchers are sold subject to the following terms and conditions:

1. 1.  as per
2. 2.  Vouchers are to be redeemed at the time of booking (usually in advance, see How to Book for more details).
3. 3.  Bookings using a gift voucher are subject to the usual Ventures West terms and conditions and booking procedures, which can be found on this website or can be posted on request.
4. 4.  Vouchers will be sent to the delivery address specified on the booking form, by first class post on receipt of full payment.  See How to Book for payment methods.  A receipt can be sent to the purchaser on request.
5. 5.  No cash alternatives are available.  Refunds for part usage will not usually be given.  Full cash refunds after 7 days from date of issue will only be made in exceptional circumstances, at the discretion of the management and to the purchaser (if different to the recipient).  Any refunds may be subject to cancellation or administration charges (20%).
6. 6.  Vouchers are usually non-transferable, for redemption by the named recipient only, unless we are notified otherwise by the purchaser.

Please note:  all trips and courses are subject to weather, tide times and, where noted, minimum numbers.  Ventures West reserves the right to withdraw a course or trip at short notice.  We will endeavour to contact you at least 48 hours in advance if for any reason outside our control (eg adverse weather) we need to re-arrange.