9042741665

Ask A Captain

Ask A CaptainAsk A CaptainAsk A Captain

Ask A Captain

Ask A CaptainAsk A CaptainAsk A Captain
  • Home
  • What We Do
  • About
  • Services

Quick Captain Consultation - 15 Minutes. $49

Overview:
Fast, focused help for a single question or quick troubleshooting. Ideal when you need one clear answer without a long session.

Who it’s for:
New or experienced boaters with a specific, time-bound question (e.g., “Can I run this used outboard?”, “What does this bilge smell mean?”, “What’s the next step on this listing?”).

What I do (step-by-step):

  1. You book a 15-minute slot and describe the issue in the booking form.
  2. I review your short submission before the call (listing link, photo, or brief notes).
  3. We meet by phone or video; I answer the single question, provide 1–3 recommended next steps, and a short safety note if relevant.
  4. I close with a clear, prioritized action the client can execute immediately.

Client prep:

  • Add a 1–2 sentence summary in booking form.
  • If relevant, attach a photo or link to a listing.
  • Have the boat on/nearby for live checks if practical.

Deliverables (sent after the call):

  • Short follow-up email (3–5 bullets) summarizing advice and next steps.
  • Links to any recommended checklists or quick reference.

Duration: 15 minutes (strict)
Price: $49
Cancellation/Refund: Full refund if canceled >24 hours before appointment. No refund for no-shows or cancellations <24 hours. Reschedule once free if needed.
Expected outcome: Clear answer and a prioritized action plan to resolve a specific problem or confidently proceed.
FAQs:
Q: Can I ask multiple questions? A: Focus is one main issue — if you add several, consider the 45-minute option.

Book Now

Full Consultation 45-60 minutes. $99

Overview:
An extended session to solve multi-part problems, deep-dive into planning, or get a strategic buy/coaching session.

Who it’s for:
Buyers comparing boats, owners planning a weekend cruise, or anyone needing a detailed walkthrough of systems, trip logistics, or troubleshooting.

What I do (step-by-step):

  1. You complete a pre-call form (concise checklist prompts).
  2. I review any attachments (listings, photos, maintenance logs).
  3. We hold a 45-minute video/phone session covering: assessment, prioritized fixes, safety risks, part recommendations, and a step-by-step plan.
  4. I create a follow-up action list and resource bundle (links, checklists, recommended vendors).

Client prep:

  • Complete pre-call form (sent on booking).
  • Include 3–6 photos or documents (listing link, engine model, known symptoms).
  • Be ready to share goals (buy date, trip date, learning objectives).

Deliverables:

  • 1–2 page written summary with prioritized action items.
  • Checklist tailored to topic (e.g., pre-launch checklist, buying negotiation points).
  • Suggested price range or repair cost estimates where applicable.

Duration: 45 minutes
Price: $99
Cancellation/Refund: Full refund if canceled >48 hours prior; 50% refund 24–48 hours; none <24 hrs. One free reschedule within 7 days.
Expected outcome: A clear, implementable plan resolving complex questions with confidence to act.
FAQs:
Q: Will you do a remote systems diagnosis? A: Yes — based on photos, symptoms, and owner checks I’ll prescribe likely causes and next steps; on-water diagnosis may need in-person work.

Book Now

Buyer Guidance Package - $199

Overview:
A bundled service for serious buyers who want thorough vetting, strategy, and support across multiple listings.

Who it’s for:
Buyers actively shopping who want professional oversight through the purchase decision.

What I do (step-by-step):

  1. Intake call to set priorities, budget, and must-have features.
  2. Evaluate up to 3 listings (Listing Evaluation ×3).
  3. One 30-minute strategy call to compare options and recommend best candidate.
  4. Provide an organized checklist for survey day and a negotiation script.

Client prep:

  • Share 3 top listings and budget goals.
  • Be ready for a short intake call.

Deliverables:

  • Comparative evaluation matrix (PDF) listing pros/cons, estimated repair costs, and value ranking.
  • One 30-minute consultation.
  • Survey day checklist & negotiation email template.

Duration: 5–7 days to complete full package.
Price: $199
Cancellation/Refund: Full refund within 24 hours; 50% refund thereafter if work hasn’t started.
Expected outcome: A confident purchase decision with data-backed recommendations and fewer financial surprises.
FAQs:
Q: Can you attend the survey? A: Yes — upgrade to Pre-Survey Captain Companion for an on-site presence.

Book Now

Pre-Survey Captain Companion - $350

Overview:
An on-site (or dockside) captain’s inspection prior to a formal marine surveyor visit to identify obvious failures, take-aways, and dealbreakers so you don’t waste survey dollars.

Who it’s for:
Buyers who want a captain’s practical check before committing to a paid survey.

What I do (step-by-step):

  1. Meet at the boat (in water or on a trailer) with seller present (if applicable).
  2. Perform practical checks: engine start/run, compression checks (if possible), steering play, hull soft spots probe, battery condition check, visual electrical inspection, bilge inspection, and trailer condition.
  3. Run a short sea trial if allowed.
  4. Provide immediate verbal feedback and a detailed written report with photos.

Client prep:

  • Coordinate access with seller.
  • Confirm surveyor is not yet hired (option: we can attend with surveyor for an add-on).
  • Bring PPE (shoes, lifevest optional).

Deliverables:

  • 8–12 page Captain’s Report with photos, severity ratings (minor, moderate, major), recommended next steps, and whether the boat is worth survey investment.
  • 20-minute post-inspection call to review.

Duration: Typically 2–3 hours on site, 48-hour report turnaround.
Price: $350
Cancellation/Refund: Full refund if canceled >72 hrs prior; 50% 24–72 hrs; none <24 hrs.
Expected outcome: Save money by avoiding bad purchases, or go into survey with targeted questions and negotiation leverage.
FAQs:
Q: Is this a certified survey? A: No — it’s a captain’s practical inspection to complement, not replace, a formal surveyor’s work.

Book Now

Boater Hotline Membership - $39/Month

 Overview:
Ongoing access for basic, rapid advice via text/email plus discounts on paid services.

Who it’s for:
New owners or seasonal boaters who want confident, on-hand answers without booking individual calls.

What it includes:

  • Unlimited simple questions via email/text (response within 48 hours).
  • 10% off consultations and in-person sessions.
  • Access to member-only monthly tip email.

Member rules & limits:

  • Advice limited to brief Q&A and guidance; longer diagnostic sessions billed at pro-rata consultation rates.
  • No on-site work included.

Deliverables:

  • Email receipts of advice exchanges and member resources.

Price: $39/mo; cancel any time.
Cancellation/Refund: Pro-rated refunds not provided; cancel to avoid future charge.
Expected outcome: Faster answers to day-to-day boating questions and cheaper access to deeper services.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use this for trip planning? A: Basic route questions OK; full trip plans are a paid service (members receive discount).

Book Now

Premium Membership - $79/Month

Overview:
Full support package for owners who want proactive planning, priority access, and a monthly check-in.

Who it’s for:
Frequent boaters, liveaboards, or owners who value proactive maintenance and planning help.

What it includes:

  • Everything in Boater Hotline.
  • One 30-minute monthly consultation (call/video).
  • Priority scheduling for in-person sessions.
  • 20% discount on Pre-Survey and On-Water Training.
  • Priority route tweaks and trip planning support.

Deliverables:

  • Monthly 30-minute session notes and action items.
  • Expedited email response (within 24 hours).

Price: $79/mo; 3-month recommended minimum to see value.
Cancellation/Refund: Cancel any time; no proration. Special annual plan available at two months free.
Expected outcome: Proactive issue avoidance, quicker problem resolution, and planned training progression.
FAQs:
Q: Can I roll unused monthly calls forward? A: Up to 1 unused call can be rolled to the next month; otherwise they expire.

Book Now

Trip Planning and Route Management - $250

Trip Planning & Route Management 

Overview:
Detailed, professional trip planning for ICW passages or coastal runs — includes weather windows, bridge schedules, fuel stops, anchorages, and contingency plans.

Who it’s for:
Cruisers, weekenders, or first-time ICW/Loop/Ocean Crossing travelers who want a safe, timely, and enjoyable route.

What I do (step-by-step):

  1. Intake: origin, destination, vessel specs (draft, cruising speed), desired pace, and date range.
  2. Research: tides, bridge schedules, fuel availability, recommended anchorages, marinas, hazards, and local notices to mariners.
  3. Produce a route plan with timing windows (based on tide and bridge ops), ETA projections, and alternative stops.
  4. Include specific local tips (shoaling hot spots, recommended phone numbers, fuel docks with pump-out, preferred marinas).

Client prep:

  • Provide vessel draft and speed, passenger comfort preferences, and any time constraints.

Deliverables:

  • Detailed route PDF (maps + step-by-step legs).
  • Timing table (departure times to match tide/bridges).
  • Contact list of marinas, fuel stops, and emergency numbers.
  • Weather monitoring checklist and suggested check times.

Duration: 3–5 business days (quicker for an expedited fee).
Price: $250
Cancellation/Refund: Full refund if canceled before work starts; 50% if in progress.
Expected outcome: A safe, practical plan that minimizes surprises and maximizes good travel windows.
FAQs:
Q: Do you monitor weather during the trip? A: Not included — I provide the plan and teach how/when to check; route monitoring during transit is available as a concierge add-on.

Book Now

New Owner Coaching & Boat Orientation — $250 (2.5 hours)

Overview:
A comprehensive systems walkthrough for new owners: learn your boat’s systems, routine maintenance, safety checks, and emergency procedures.

Who it’s for:
Anyone who recently purchased a boat or inherited one and wants to understand how it operates and how to keep it seaworthy.

What I do (step-by-step):

  1. Pre-session intake: make/model, known issues, and owner questions.
  2. Onboard walkthrough: electrical (battery banks, shore power, breakers), fuel system, bilge pumps, sanitation (if present), steering, engine/drive basics, navigation electronics, and safety gear placement.
  3. Demonstrations: starting/stopping procedures, emergency shutoffs, and routine maintenance tasks (fuel/water filters, battery checks).
  4. Create a customized owner maintenance checklist and seasonal schedule.

Client prep:

  • Have owner’s manuals or access to boat model info if available.
  • Ensure vessel is accessible and powered on if possible.

Deliverables:

  • 6–8 page Owner Orientation Guide (custom) maintenance schedule, and troubleshooting tips.
  • Checklist for pre-departure and post-arrival.
  • One follow-up Q&A email within 7 days.

Duration: 2.5 hours typical
Price: $250
Cancellation/Refund: Full refund >72 hrs prior; 50% 24–72 hrs; none <24 hrs.
Expected outcome: Owner understands critical systems, can perform basic maintenance checks, and knows emergency responses.
FAQs:
Q: Will you perform maintenance tasks for me? A: Coaching includes demonstrations and guided checks; hands-on maintenance work is available as an add-on referral.

Book Now

Copyright © 2025 Ask A Captain - All Rights Reserved.

  • What We Do
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions

Powered by

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

Accept