Introduction

At OpenInformationSquare, we know that plans can shift, and our goal is to maintain clear and straightforward policies regarding refunds. This document details the scenarios in which refunds for yacht charter services might be granted.

Before confirming a reservation, please examine this policy thoroughly. Booking a yacht charter with OpenInformationSquare signifies your consent and adherence to these stipulations regarding refunds.

Cancellation and Reimbursement Timeline

Over 72 Hours Prior to Charter

100% Refund

Eligible for: Complete refund minus handling charges

Timeframe for Processing: 5-7 working days

Handling Charge: €50 for card transactions

Requisites: Must be formally requested via written communication or telephone

Between 24 to 72 Hours Prior to Charter

50% Refund

Eligible for: Half the total price of the charter

Timeframe for Processing: 7-10 working days

Handling Charge: €25 deducted from the reimbursement

Requisites: A valid cause is needed; administrative expenses will be incurred

Less than 24 Hours Prior to Charter

No Refund

Eligible for: No refund provided

Exception: Cases of urgency may receive consideration

Alternative: At the discretion of the management, a credit for chartering may be offered

Requisites: Evidence is necessary for claims of emergency situations

Cancellations Due to Weather

Our Commitment to Weather Safety

Safety remains our foremost concern. In the event that our skilled captain determines that weather conditions are unsafe for sailing:

  • Complete Refund: A full refund if rescheduling is unattainable
  • Rescheduling: Transfer your reservation to another date without extra charges
  • Charter Credit: Issue of credit effective for one year from the initial charter date

Review Process for Weather Conditions

Our evaluation of weather conditions encompasses:

  • Examination of wind force and course
  • Assessment of swell magnitude and sea state
  • Outlook for visibility and rainfall
  • Notices and cautions from the Coast Guard
  • Professional assessment of safety by the captain

Time for Decision: Determinations regarding cancellation due to weather will be made no more than 4 hours before the planned departure time.

Refund Considerations for Medical Emergencies

Cases of Emergency

We are sympathetic to the occurrence of unforeseen medical situations. Special considerations may be made for scenarios such as:

  • Unexpected illness or injuries requiring hospital stay
  • Bereavement within the immediate family
  • Summoning or urgent orders for military service
  • Serving on a jury or being subpoenaed to court
  • Natural calamities impacting travel

Requirements for Documentation

For the facilitation of refunds in emergency scenarios, please present the following:

  • Healthcare certification or documentation from a hospital
  • Certificate of death, if relevant
  • Formal military directives
  • Notifications for jury service or subpoenas
  • Advisories for travel or declarations of crisis

Procedure: Emergency reimbursements are executed within 3-5 business days upon delivery of the necessary evidence.

Cancellations Due to Operational Factors

Equipment Malfunctions

In the case of mechanical failures on the designated yacht that cannot be rectified:

  • Replacement Vessel: We shall endeavor to supply an equivalent alternative
  • Entire Refund: Issued if an adequate alternative is not accessible
  • Partial Refund: Conferred if the alternative vessel holds a different rate
  • Compensation: Additional recompense could be dispensed for the inconvenience experienced

Non-Availability of Crew

In the unusual circumstance that certified crew members are not available:

  • Substitute crew will be secured when feasible
  • Total refund if the charter cannot proceed for this reason
  • Rebooking with no supplementary fees

Process for Refund Issuance

Refund Transaction Method

Reimbursements are refunded through the original transaction medium employed during booking:

  • Cards: Credited within 5-7 business days
  • Wire Transfers: Credited within 7-10 business days
  • Cash or Cheque: Credited within 3-5 business days

Fees for Processing

Processing for Card Transactions

A fee of €50 for cancellations initiated over 72 hours ahead

Processing for Wire Transfers

A fee of €25 for all reimbursements via bank transfer

Processing for International Transfers

Extra fees can be applicable for transactions crossing national borders

Credit for Charter Booking

Conditions for Offering Credits

In place of refunds, charter credits might be proposed under certain conditions:

  • For cancellation notices given less than 24 hours before the charter
  • Due to weather-related cancellations
  • For voluntary reschedule requests
  • In case of operational disruptions

Stipulations for Credits

  • Duration of Validity: Usable for 12 months post issue
  • Transfer Regulation: Non-transferrable to different individuals
  • Amount: Reflects the full value of the charter, exempt from processing fees
  • Application: May be utilized towards any charter subject to availability
  • End of Validity: Not extendable past the 12-month period

Refunds for Incomplete Services

Interruption of Services

In instances where your charter experience is disrupted or curtailed due to factors we control:

  • Refund proportional to the unspent period
  • Credit equivalent to the future charter of the same value
  • Complimentary enhancements or services

Interruptions Caused by Guests

Should the charter end prematurely because of guests' behavior or safety infractions:

  • No refund for the time not utilized
  • Final payment is still obligatory
  • Extra fees might be incurred

Settlement of Disagreements

If there's a discrepancy regarding a refund outcome, the next steps may be taken:

  • Call for a reassessment by our senior team
  • Presentation of supplemental proof or documents
  • Engage consumer protection bodies for resolution
  • Pursue legal courses of action as mandated by relevant laws

Guidelines for Refund Requests

Step 1: Get in Touch

For initiation of your refund, reach out via:

Step 2: Compile Necessary Details

Ensure your application includes:

  • Proof of booking number
  • Date and time of the charter
  • Justification for cancelling
  • Supportive material (when appropriate)
  • Chosen method for refunding

Step 3: Evaluation and Fulfillment

Upon submission, our team will confirm your request within a day, assess in accordance with our policy, communicate a decision within two days, and issue authorised refunds within the periods stated above.

Essential Information

  • All petitions for refunds must be lodged in written form
  • Reimbursements are issued in €, regardless of the currency used for the initial payment
  • It is highly suggested that you arrange travel insurance
  • This policy is subject to alterations, with a notice period of 30 days
  • Refunds are inclusive of relevant taxes and abide by regulatory standards

Contact Data

To query about reimbursements or to lodge a petition for a refund:

Department of Refunds
OpenInformationSquare Marine Services Ltd.
Marina Point
Hamburg 20457
Germany

Telephone: +49 40 99999999
Email Contact: [email protected]
Business Hours: From Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM