FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS TIPSY TIKIS?
Tipsy Tikis is Ocean City's original tiki bar boat! We have 3 convenient locations – West OC (behind The Shark Restaurant) and midtown OC (at 45th St. Taphouse Bar & Grille AND at Fager's Island). Propelled through the water by a 60hp outboard motor, our 14 ft. x 26 ft. tiki boats feature an incredibly stable hull with a thatched-roof tiki bar – complete with bar stools and island music (...or bring your choice of music!). Best of all, beverages (including beer, wine and spirits) are included. Accommodating up to 12 passengers plus crew, we embark on daily cruises on the waters of Isle of Wight Bay, Sinepuxent Bay and Assawoman Bay. Our cruises are private charters that you can book in 1.5 hour (90 minute) blocks.
BOOKING
HOW DO I BOOK A CRUISE?
Booking your tiki cruise is easy!
- 1. Click on the BOOK NOW red button or BOOK A TIKI at the top of the page and select your desired cruise location.
- 2. Select your date and time.
- 3. Add your passenger info.
- 4. Checkout with a credit card using our encrypted payment platform.
- 5. To expedite your cruise's boarding process, sign our LIABILITY WAIVER HERE.
WHAT IS THE COST?
90-minute Cruise = $300 (for up to 4 passengers), $75 each additional passenger (max: 12 passengers total)
(Rates do not include Maryland sales tax plus a booking fee of 6%)
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
All cruises include a captain, a bartender and complimentary beverages, including beer, wine and spirits along with non-alcoholic beverages. You must be 21 or over to consume alcoholic beverages. Please note: A person's unconsumed alcoholic beverage(s) CANNOT be transferred to another person and drinks are NOT allowed to be taken off the boat.
WHAT DAYS AND TIMES DO YOU OPERATE?
We are OPEN EVERY DAY from APRIL 15 to OCTOBER 15.
Our WEST OCEAN CITY boat runs 90-minute cruises from 9:00am to 12:30am with a half hour between each trip: 9:00am-10:30am, 11:00am-12:30pm, 1:00pm-2:30pm, 3:00pm-4:30pm, 5:00pm-6:30pm, 7:00pm-8:30pm, 9:00pm-10:30pm, 11:00pm-12:30am (last departure).
Our MIDTOWN OCEAN CITY boat runs 90-minute cruises from 9:30am to 1:00am with a half hour between each trip: 9:30am-11:00am, 11:30am-1:00pm, 1:30pm-3:00pm, 3:30pm-5:00pm, 5:30pm-7:00pm, 7:30pm-9:00pm, 9:30pm-11:00pm, 11:30pm-1:00am (last departure).
WHAT PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU ACCEPT?
We accept credit card and debit payments only: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover.
CAN I PAY ON THE DAY OF THE CRUISE?
All cruises must be pre-booked online and paid for at the time of reservation. Cruises cannot be paid for at the boat, unless other arrangements have been made.
THE CRUISES
HOW LONG IS THE CRUISE?
Our standard cruises run approximately 90 minutes (1.5 hours) from beginning to end, including a quick safety run-down before we depart.
WHAT IF I WANT TO GO LONGER?
You can book TWO cruises back-to-back and you'll GET A HALF HOUR FREE! That's a total of 3.5 hours. You can also book THREE cruises back-to-back and you'll GET AN HOUR FREE! That's a total of 5.5 hours.
WHAT WATERS DO YOU CRUISE?
From our WEST OCEAN CITY location, we depart from the West Ocean City Harbor and embark on cruises on the waters around Ocean City (Isle of Wight Bay) and Assateague Island (Sinepuxent Bay).
From our MIDTOWN OCEAN CITY locations, we embark on cruises on the waters around Ocean City, including Isle of Wight Bay and Assawoman Bay.
WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE?
There is NO dress code for the boat! If your cruise is in the daytime, you may want to consider bringing hats and sunglasses. You may also want to wear your swimsuit as we can let passengers off on sandbars to swim. (SHALLOW WATER – NO DIVING) If your cruise is at night, you may want to consider bringing a sweatshirt or light jacket. Please note that you may be splashed due to waves and wakes as other boats pass by. To make your experience more enjoyable, you should wear shoes that you don't mind getting wet.
SHOULD I BRING SUNSCREEN?
Yes! We encourage passengers to bring sunscreen. We do ask that you refrain from bringing spray sunscreen as it tends to get everywhere when sprayed, including on the bar and can make the deck/hull slippery. We thank you in advance for your understanding.
WILL I GET WET?
Our vessel is subject to others' boat maneuvers along with strong inlet and bay currents that can create waves, wake and spray. While the amount of water also depends on weather and water conditions, all passengers should expect to get at least some spray. For this reason, you may also want to bring a hand towel.
DO YOU OFFER WEDDING PACKAGES?
Yes! We are proud to host weddings aboard the Tipsy Tikis and are especially suited for micro weddings, minimonies, destination weddings, second marriages, elopements and vow renewals. Our all-inclusive wedding package includes a wedding officiant, champagne toast, drinks and more. For more info, click on TIKI WEDDINGS at the top of the page. Please contact us for more info and availability on booking an all-inclusive wedding package.
BEVERAGES (& food options)
WHAT KIND OF ALCOHOL IS SERVED ON THE BOAT?
We serve beer, wine and spirits along with non-alcoholic beverages.
We DO NOT use straws. To help keep our waterways clean and help protect marine life, we support Surfrider Foundation's and Ocean Conservancy's "SKIP THE STRAW" campaigns.
DO YOU OFFER NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES?
Yes! We also offer non-alcoholic beverages, including sodas and bottled water.
IF SOME OF MY PASSENGERS DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL, DOES THE PRICING CHANGE?
The price is the same regardless of how many passengers drink alcoholic beverages; the price does not lower for non-drinkers. The cost is for the rental of the boat for 90 minutes.
DO YOU PROVIDE FOOD?
No, we do not provide food. You are welcome to bring your own food and snacks. Due to the sometimes windy conditions on the water, it is best to bring food and utensils in containers with lids. (Sorry, we do not provide plates, cups and utensils and there is no refrigeration available for passenger use.) You may want to grab some meals or snacks at THE SHARK ON THE HARBOR RESTAURANT (West Ocean City location) or 45TH ST. TAPHOUSE BAR & GRILLE (midtown Ocean City location) before boarding. The drinks from The Shark or 45th St. Taphouse Bar & Grille are not allowed off the docks.
THE BOATS
HOW FAST DO THE TIKI BOATS GO?
It’s a slow, relaxing ride... our tiki boats have a top cruising speed of around 6 knots (approx. 7 mph), depending on wind, current and the number of people on board.
CAN I PLAY MY OWN MUSIC ONBOARD?
Yes! We have bluetooth-capable speaker systems that can sync to your phone and play your choice of music. Feel free to dance or sign karaoke!
IS THERE A USB CHARGING PORT AVAILABLE FOR USE?
Yes, we have USB charging ports available.
IS THERE A BATHROOM ONBOARD?
No. Passengers are strongly encouraged to use bathroom facilities before boarding the boat. The West Ocean City Boat Ramp parking lot has public restrooms available. There are NO bathroom facilities available at The Shark on the Harbor Restaurant. If you need to go to the bathroom during the 90-minute tour, we may be able to stop at a public restroom if necessary.
ARE THERE LIFE JACKETS ON BOARD?
Yes! There is a type 1 wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on board for each person. All children under the age of 13 MUST WEAR a life jacket while the boat is underway. If you do not know how to (or cannot) swim, you MUST WEAR a life jacket at all times. There is also a throw ring on the boat.
THE CREW
WHO IS THE CREW?
Your crew will consist of a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain and a bartender.
WHO IS MY CAPTAIN?
All of our captains are licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard and have been vetted and trained per U.S. Coast Guard requirements. "The captain's word is the law on the boat." For the safety of all passengers and crew, please listen to and follow instructions given by your captain. Please pay attention to your captain's safety procedures at the start of your cruise. The captain will provide a short rundown regarding safety equipment and emergency protocols, including how to stop the boat in case of an emergency and man overboard procedures. This important information could save a life!
WHO IS MY BARTENDER?
All of our bartenders are professionals who are dedicated to helping you and your guests enjoy your trip. They'll take care of the drinks... you make the memories!
SHOULD I TIP MY CAPTAIN AND BARTENDER?
Gratuity is greatly appreciated as our captains and bartenders work hard to ensure your enjoyment, comfort and safety. Tips are equally split between the captain and bartender. If you are pleased with the level of service received, the customary gratuity is 15-20% of the charter fee. We appreciate your generosity!
THE PASSENGERS
HOW MANY PASSENGERS CAN WE BRING?
A minimum of 4 passengers / maximum of 12 is allowed.
IF I HAVE LESS THAN 4 PASSENGERS, DOES THE PRICING CHANGE?
The price is the same regardless of how many passengers you have. The cost is for the rental of the boat for 90 minutes.
ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED?
Yes, we are family-friendly and children are allowed! Please note that children under 13 years old MUST WEAR a life jacket which we have on board or you can bring your own U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket(s). Please let us know if you plan to bring more than two children so we can make the appropriate accommodations for life jackets.
CAN I RIDE IF I AM PREGNANT?
Since each pregnancy is different, we encourage you to consult with your physician. Please let us know upon arrival so we can accomodate you accordingly.
CAN A DISABLED PASSENGER TAKE PART IN THE TRIP?
Our passengers may be exposed to sun, rain, sea spray and other outdoor elements and may be splashed due to waves and wakes as other boats pass by. Please consider this when determining suitability for all passengers. Only passengers in good health should participate. For your safety, please consult your physician if you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, have heart, neck or back issues, have had recent surgery, suffer from motion sickness or have any other condition that may be aggravated by this boat ride. All guests, including those with disabilities or those who use a wheelchair, must be able to transfer into and out of the boat by themselves or with assistance of a member of their party.
ARE PETS ALLOWED?
We love our pets ...but for the safety of all passengers, pets and/or therapy animals are not allowed onboard.
CAN WE BRING A SERVICE DOG ON THE BOAT?
An active service dog for physically-impaired individuals is allowed. Notification that a service dog will be boarding with you is required upon making your reservation. Please bring your own dog life jacket. As a safety measure, we do not allow pet carriers onboard.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
CAN I GO SWIMMING IN THE BAY?
Yes, we can let passengers off at sandbars to swim. (SHALLOW WATER – NO DIVING)
CAN I BRING MY FISHING POLE OR CRABBING NET?
Sorry, we do not allow passengers to fish or crab from the boat.
WHAT ARE SOME OTHER ITEMS THAT ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BE BROUGHT ON BOARD?
Firearms, fireworks and drugs are not permitted onboard. No glass containers. No pets.
GETTING HERE
WHERE DOES THE CRUISE START AND END?
Our WEST OCEAN CITY boat is docked at and departs from 12924 Sunset Avenue, West Ocean City, MD 21842 (behind The Shark on the Harbor Restaurant) in slip #4.
Our MIDTOWN OCEAN CITY boat is docked at and departs from the docks at 45th St. Taphouse Bar & Grille, 4507 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842.
Our second MIDTOWN OCEAN CITY boat is docked at and departs from the docks at Fager's Island Restaurant & Bar, 201 60th St. on the Bay, Ocean City, MD 21842.
WHEN SHOULD MY GROUP ARRIVE?
For a timely departure, we ask that guests arrive 15 to 20 minutes before their scheduled cruise. Be sure to plan for delayed travel due to seasonal traffic.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING TO GET ON THE BOAT?
Passengers must bring valid I.D. (driver's license, passport, military I.D., immigration card). YOU MUST BE 21 OR OLDER WITH A VALID I.D. TO CONSUME ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. I.D.s are checked at the dock.
Before departure, our Liabilty Waiver must be completed and signed by all passengers.
WEATHER
WHAT IF IT IS RAINING? DO YOUR BOATS OPERATE IN THE RAIN?
Tipsy Tikis sails rain or shine thanks to our synthetic thatched-covered tiki roof that covers the entire bar area. However, the captain can decide at any time to cancel a trip for any reason and will make the final determination. No shows will be charged the full price.
DO YOU PROVIDE RAIN GEAR OR PONCHOS?
Sorry, we do not provide rain gear (due to lack of space) and we do not offer disposable ponchos (to better protect the environment). While the bar area is covered, getting wet is still possible when it rains. We highly recommend passengers to prepare accordingly for the weather to make their experience more enjoyable.
WHAT IS YOUR INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY?
Inclement weather may occur and a "captain's call" will be made if conditions appear too hazardous. Cruises cancelled by us in advance due to weather will be given a gift certificate to reschedule your cruise for another day. Cruises that are cancelled by us during a cruise's first 45-minutes due to weather WILL receive a gift certificate to reschedule, and WILL NOT receive a gift certificate to reschedule if cancellation occurs after the cruise's first 45-minutes due to weather. We reserve the right to cancel any cruise at anytime due to weather, safety, mechanical or behavioral issues. No refunds are given for behavioral and/or alcohol-related cancellations. No shows will be charged the full price.
CANCELLATIONS
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
We do not issue refunds for cancellations and bookings are non-refundable. We reserve the right to cancel any cruise at anytime due to weather, safety, mechanical or behavioral issues. The captain has full discretion to terminate a trip at any time that they feel the safety of passengers has become a concern. The captain has full discretion to dismiss any passenger from the boat at any time during the cruise. If you are visibly intoxicated, you will not be permitted aboard. No refunds are given for behavioral and/or alcohol-related cancellations. No shows will be charged the full price.