Frequently asked questions
What is appropriate clothing for my charter?
Depending on the weather, comfortable clothing ranges from swim suits to layered, waterproof foul weather gear.
What about food and alcoholic beverages on the boat?
Due to Covid-19, Guests are temporarily asked to provide thier own food, drinks & a cooler
What happens if there is no wind, heavy wind, or thunder storms?
What happens if there is no wind?
What kind of boat is Cloud Nine?
Cloud Nine is a 1974 Cal 2-29 sloop. She has a 29' long fiberglass hull and is equiped much like a rustic cabin. There is a head (bathroom), kitchen sink, propane stove, ice box, barbeque, and room for six Guests and crew. There is a diesel engine that will move the boat at about 5 knots per hour. Cloud Nine has undergone numerous upgrades and improvements aimed at improving her reliability, comfort, and aesthetics.
What about safety on a sailboat?
Guest safety is our top priority. Therefore, we start each cruise with a biref safety talk. We will provide appropriately-sized life jackets for each Guest. Our boat is big enough that wearing life jackets is not required, but Guests are welcome to do so if that makes you feel more comfortable. Guests are welcome to sit anywhere on the boat, but care must be taken when moving around on the deck.
Can I learn to sail on Cloud Nine?
If Guests are interested in learning to sail, I will be delighted to coach them in sailing techniques. Provided there is sufficient wind, learning basic sailing can be accomplished in just a couple of hours. My focus is to build your confidence and understanding of how sail boats work.
What does it cost to charter Cloud Nine?
Please see the booking section for all the standard booking options and costs. The basic rate for chartering is $150 for 2 Guests on a two hour cruise. The largest standard booking is $650 for 6 Guests on a four hour cruise.
Are children welcome as Guests?
Absolutely! We encourage kids to come sailing and enjoy getting them involved in operating Cloud Nine. Per my Captain's License requirements, children count as Guests. We have a variety of life jacket sizes, but to ensure an exact fit, please bring your own if you have one. Due to the large size of the boat, the requirement that children wear life jackets is typically left to parental discretion. Children need to be accompanied and supervised by at least one paying adult.
Can Guests swim from Cloud Nine?
Weather permitting, swimming is a delightful way to spend time on the Lake. Clound Nine is equipped with a swim ladder, making it easy to get back in the boat. We will drag a line with a float behind the boat as a safety tool. Please bring your own towels.
What happens during a typical two hour cruise?
We suggest Guests meet at the boat 15 minutes before your sail time. There are restrooms at the Marina and on the boat. As I get to know you, we'll determine what kind of sailing you would like and what the weather will allow.
What is a typical experience on a longer cruise?
With additional time, we can take Cloud Nine further from Hope. There are options for stopping at another marina for lunch, viewing multiple islands, or learning more about how to sail.
Can Guests fish while on Cloud Nine?
Fishing is not an option while on a Cloud Nine sailing charter. The Captain is not a fisherman, and the boat is not set up for cleaning or storing fish. There are fishing charters available out of Hope Marina.
Is there cell phone coverage on the Lake?
There is good cell phone coverage in Hope Marina. Out on Lake Pend Oreille, cell phones frequently do not have reception. We recommend "unplugging" to enjoy the beauty of your charter experience, and keeping your cell phone or camera handy for landscape and wildlife pictures.
What are Bruce's qualifications as a Charter Captain?
I have been sailing since I was a teenager in Wisconsin and sailing on Lake Pend Oreille for more than 10 years. My first boat in Sandpoint was a J24 racing sloop. Barb and I changed boats to our current Cal 2-29 four years ago and have been enjoying the cruising life style ever since.
Can I bring my pet on a Charter
Dogs are not natural sailors. Their paws do not stick to a fiberglass deck well, so they are uncomfortable and at risk of falling in the lake. While I practice man overboard drills, I do not enjoy doing them for real - for people or pets. If you have a pet, please make arrangements other than bringing them on the cruise.
What is our response to Covid-19 for safe sailing?
To balance Guests' health with beauty of sailing, Cloud Nine Sail Chaters has implemented the following protocol: