I have thought long and hard about this and have talked to many different people, trying to determine what to do. With my insurance, berthage and fuel costs continually headed up, I have been trying to decide whether to increase the rate of the charters or shorten the 5 hour trip to a 4 hour trip.I have searched the rate pages of my competition and realize that they are charging $450 for a 4 hour trip and $550 for a 5 hour trip to go to the same off shore places as I do ! The exception is a couple of local light tackle boats that fish close to home charge the same as I do for a 4 hour trip as long as its 4 passengers. Addition passengers are charged more on a per-head basis.
Since I feel a less crowded boat provides a more quality fishing experience, I have decided that this is the way I want to do it. For the 2004 fishing year, the rate will be $400 for a 5 hour trip and $550 for the 7 hour trip, (which is no change) but only for UP TO 4 PASSENGERS. Each added person on the charter will be charged $25 additional. Considering what the fishing is like here off the coast of Orleans and Chatham, you will still be getting a fantastic return on your money.
Thank You,
Bruce
