Frequently Asked Questions.
Are kids allowed onboard?
Yes! We welcome the whole family including your well-behaved little groms. Life jackets are available from infants all the way up to 6XL. Please remember to bring your ID if you’re 18 or older.
Do you sell alcohol on the boat?
Yes! For this reason we will not be able to permit anyone to bring their own drinks onboard. Please remember to bring your ID, and the bar is cash only, so bring your wallet! We do have an ATM onboard for any last-minute cash needs with a $3 fee (which is left empty overnight). We offer a variety of handcrafted cocktails in addition to beer, wine, soda, and of course water. Many handcrafted beverages can be ordered non-alcoholic as well.
Can we swim from the boat?
Generally, no. We take pride in offering a unique experience with safety as or top priority. While there maybe exceptions for certain private tours, the conditions in Big Bear Lake are generally not ideal for swimming.
Do you sell food on the tiki boat?
Yes, we do have a limited selection of packaged snacks available for purchase. If you are looking for catering for a private party, we will be happy to help you set something up in advance!
What should I bring on the tour?
We recommend that everyone pack warm layer as the breeze on Big Bear Lake can be cool even in the heat of summer. If you like to take pictures of beautiful places, we always recommend a camera. We also suggest you bring cash for any onboard purchases and to tip your crew!
Is there a bathroom onboard?
Yes! Technically on a boat a bathroom is called a ”head,” and yes we do have one of those. You can check it out in our virtual tour! We always recommend that you use the restroom before boarding the boat, but for those of us with small bladders, we got you.
Where does the tour go on the lake?
Our tours are not narrated, so your captain will be able to suit each route to the weather conditions an preferences of the passengers. Most of the time you’ll stay on the west end of the lake which is the more scenic side!
Can I play my own music?
We have a fully-loaded sound system onboard the tiki boat, and a preloaded selection of playlists for all of our public or mixed-group tours. If you are on a private tour, we’ll be happy to help you hook up your own beats, though we do recommend downloading your tunes in advance as service on the lake can be spotty at times.
Are dogs allowed on tours?
We do love your furry companions, but unfortunately we have to encourage you to leave your pets at home. Captains may allow pets on board at their discretion, however if any other passengers object, we will have to ask you to leave your pet somewhere safe on land. On a private tour you’re more than welcome to bring your friend along, and we’re happy to offer a refreshing beverage (water) and a little Astroturf patch for their comfort.
How many people can fit on the boat?
Safety is our top priority, so we have to cap our capacity at 20 passengers and heed our weight limits. If you have a large group, please feel free to give us a ring and we’ll see if we can work out an accommodation for you.
Can I tie up with my own boat?
Unfortunately side-tying is not possible. We must adhere to our liquor license and lake safety regulations. If you want to sit and grab a beer with us, please book a tour through the official booking platform, or give us a call!
Will I be refunded if there’s bad weather?
With our lovely palapa roof, there is ample protection from any inclement weather, and we’ll still go out! There’s something magical about the rain on the lake, and when you’re out there after it clears up it’s like falling through a wardrobe to Narnia (which is to say, it’s stunningly beautiful on the lake after a rain). We also have a limited number of blankets onboard in case you forget a jacket.
What if I get motion sick?
There’s nothing worse than being seasick while you’re out having a good time. We recommend talking to your doctor about taking a Dramamine or similar anti-nausea medication the night before coming on the tour if you’re prone to getting sea sick. The good news is that Big Bear Lake tends to be a lot calmer than any ocean even on its worst day, and it’s really uncommon to get seasick on the lake even if you frequently do in the ocean.
I booked and I need to cancel. Can I get a refund?
We will do our absolute best to work with you to find a solution if you need to cancel last minute. Any cancelations 72 hours or more in advance will be fully refunded. Unfortunately cancelations within 24 hours cannot be refunded, but we will be more than happy to help you reschedule, or we can provide you with a voucher for a future tour. (We have to be able to pay our captains once they’ve been scheduled - some of them drive all the way up the mountain just to provide this incredible experience for you on the lake!)