Charter Policy for Hinatea Sportfishing Charters

At Hinatea Sport Fishing, we strive to provide a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience on the water. To ensure the best possible service for all of our guests, please review our Charter Policy before booking your fishing trip.

1. Booking and Payment

  • Reservations: To secure your spot aboard Hinatea III, a reservation is required. Bookings can be made through our website or by contacting us directly via phone or email.
  • Deposit: No deposit is required at the time of booking, however we will need to hold a credit card number on file. This will be charged in full the day before your charter. Hinatea Sportfishing accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. 
  • Payment Methods: We accept payments via credit card, debit card, and cash, however if you want to pay cash you will need to discuss this with our reservations department in advance. Please note that change is not given. 
  • Cancellations: To cancel or reschedule your charter, please notify us at least 72 hours before your scheduled departure. “No Shows” forfeit the full cost of their charter. 

2. Cancellation and Refund Policy

  • Cancellations by Guests: Cancellations made at least 72 hours in advance will not be charged. 
  • Cancellations by Hinatea III: We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule charters due to inclement weather, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, guests will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule for a later date.
  • Weather Policy: The captain will make the final decision regarding cancellations due to weather. If we determine that conditions are unsafe for a charter, we will notify guests as soon as possible and offer a refund or rescheduling option.

3. Charter Inclusions

Each fishing charter with Hinatea Sportfishing includes:

  • All necessary fishing equipment, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait
  • The assistance of our expert crew. 
  • A large cooler with ice where guests can store their perishables.
  • Fish cleaning and filleting upon request

4. Guest Responsibilities

  • Arrival Time: Guests are expected to arrive at Ma’alaea Harbor slip #8 at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Late arrivals may result in a shortened trip.
  • Personal Items: We recommend bringing sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and any personal items you may need during the trip. Please avoid bringing glass containers. 
  • Health and Safety: Guests should inform the crew of any medical conditions or mobility issues that may affect their ability to participate in the trip. Due to the rather narrow confines below deck, the captain has implemented a 250 lb individual weight limit for all guests. The safety of all passengers is our top priority, and the captain reserves the right to adjust or cancel a trip if conditions are deemed unsafe.
  • Children: Hinatea welcomes children ages 8+ pn private charters, and 12+ on shared charters. 

5. Catch Policy

  • Keeping the Fish: Eating the fish you catch is part of the experience! Your crew will clean and cut a portion of the day’s catch for guests to enjoy while they’re here – usually enough for a couple of excellent fresh fish dinners! Any fish not caught will be sold to local restaurants who rely on boats like Hinatea III to supply them with the freshest fish! 
  • Catch and Release: We encourage catch-and-release practices for certain species like marlin, in order to conserve local fish populations. “Food fish” like mahi mahi, ono, and ahi, are usually kept, and will be sold to local restaurants if not cut for our guests.
  • Fishing Regulations: All fishing activities aboard Hinatea III comply with Hawaii’s state regulations regarding size limits, catch limits, and protected species.

6. Liability Waiver

All guests must sign a liability waiver before boarding the vessel. By signing, you acknowledge the inherent risks associated with deep-sea fishing and agree that Hinatea III Fishing Charters, its crew, and its owners are not responsible for any accidents, injuries, or lost personal items during the trip. 

7. Alcohol and Smoking

  • Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption is permitted on board, but we ask that guests drink responsibly. The captain reserves the right to end the trip if alcohol consumption endangers the safety of passengers or crew.
  • Smoking: Smoking is not allowed on board for the safety and comfort of all guests.

8. Gratuities

While gratuities are not required, they are greatly appreciated for our hardworking crew. A customary tip of 15-20% of the charter price is a kind gesture for excellent service.

9. Changes to Policy

We reserve the right to update or modify this Charter Policy at any time. Any changes will be posted on our website and will take effect immediately for new bookings.

10. Contact Us

For any questions or concerns regarding this Charter Policy, please contact us:

Hinatea Sportfishing, Inc.
Email: reservations@hinateasportfishing.com
Phone: (808) 667-7548
Address: Ma’alaea Harbor, Slip 8, Maui, HI

We look forward to having you aboard Hinatea III for a thrilling fishing adventure on the beautiful waters of Maui Hawaii.