Hire & Drive

Boat hire for licensed skippers who want flexibility and control

Hire & Drive is designed for confident, licensed boat operators who want the freedom to plan and run their own time on the water. It suits those who are comfortable navigating local waters and making decisions based on weather and conditions.

While single-day hire is the norm, multi-day and extended Hire & Drive arrangements may be considered on a case-by-case and availability basis.

Licence and experience requirements

Hire & Drive is available only to licensed boat operators.

  • A valid recreational boat licence is required
  • Skipper experience will be discussed prior to confirmation

Approval is based on the skipper’s experience, familiarity with local conditions, and the suitability of the proposed trip. This ensures the vessel is operated safely and within appropriate limits for the day.

Operating areas and conditions

The vessel meets 2C survey requirements and carries safety equipment for operations up to 15 nautical miles offshore.

Survey limits are:

  • Up to 5 persons offshore

  • Up to 8 persons in smooth and partially smooth waters

For Hire & Drive operations:

  • Use is generally limited to smooth and partially smooth waters

  • Offshore operation is not standard and is assessed on a case-by-case basis

  • Consideration for offshore Hire & Drive may be given based on:

    • skipper experience

    • prevailing weather and sea conditions

    • the proposed trip plan

    • previous time on the vessel with us

Most Hire & Drive trips are conducted within sheltered or semi-sheltered waters where conditions are suitable for independent operation.

Final operating areas are confirmed prior to departure and may be adjusted on the day based on conditions.

Planning and briefing

Before each Hire & Drive departure, we conduct a practical pre-departure briefing to ensure everyone is aligned for the day.

This typically includes:

  • discussion of local conditions and weather forecasts

  • review of plan and suitable operating areas

  • overview of onboard safety equipment

  • confirmation of required documentation and hire conditions

This is not a training session, but a practical check to ensure the vessel is being operated appropriately for the conditions and proposed trip.

Bookings and administration

All Hire & Drive bookings are handled through BookMyBoat.

This covers:

  • availability and scheduling

  • pricing and hire duration

  • hire agreements and terms

  • bond and payment processing

Using BookMyBoat provides a clear and consistent process for both parties and ensures all Hire & Drive arrangements are properly documented.

Hire & Drive bookings are not managed directly through our website.

View availability and book via BookMyBoat

Pricing

Hire & Drive pricing and availability will be published shortly. They are managed through BookMyBoat.

Is Hire & Drive right for you?

Hire & Drive is best suited to licensed skippers who are confident operating independently and making decisions based on conditions on the day.

It’s a good fit if you:

  • hold a current recreational boat licence

  • are comfortable navigating local waters

  • prefer to plan and run your own day

  • understand and respect operating limits

If you’re unfamiliar with the area, not confident in prevailing conditions, or would prefer a more relaxed day with decisions handled for you, a guided adventure may be a better option.

Interested in Hire & Drive?

Check availability and pricing through BookMyBoat, or get in touch if you’re unsure whether Hire & Drive is suitable for your experience.