Refund Policy

Our refund policy ensures your satisfaction and peace of mind

Introduction

At OpenWindowSeat, we realize that sometimes plans change, and we are committed to a transparent and just refund policy. This policy details the terms under which refunds are provided for our yacht charter services.

It is important that you review this policy thoroughly prior to making a reservation. In booking a charter with OpenWindowSeat, you are consenting to this refund policy.

Cancellation and Refund Guidelines

If Canceled Over 72 Hours Before Charter

100% Refund

Qualified for: Complete refund excluding any service charges

Processing Duration: 5-7 working days

Service Charge: €50 for payments via credit cards

Requirements: Requests must be made in writing through email or telephone

From 24 to 72 Hours Before Charter

50% Refund

Qualified for: Half the total cost of the charter

Processing Duration: 7-10 working days

Service Charge: €25 will be subtracted from the refund sum

Requirements: A legitimate justification is required; administration charges apply

Less Than 24 Hours Before Charter

No Refund

Qualified for: Refund not available

Exception: Cases of emergencies may be taken into consideration

Alternative: A credit for chartering might be granted at the discretion of the management

Requirements: Emergency situations require proof documentation

Cancellations Due to Weather Conditions

Weather Guarantee

Your safety is paramount to us. Should the weather conditions be assessed as unsafe for sailing by our certified captain, we'll offer options with flexibility:

  • Full Refund: In the event that rescheduling is unfeasible
  • Reschedule: We'll arrange your charter for the next available slot without extra costs
  • Charter Credit: A voucher valid for a year from your initial charter date

Procedure for Weather Evaluation

Our assessment of weather includes:

  • Analysis of wind force and orientation
  • Survey of wave amplitude and oceanic conditions
  • Visibility and precipitation projections
  • Marine safety alerts and bulletins
  • Final judgement on safety by our professional captain

Decision Timetable: The final call on weather-related cancellation is made no later than 4 hours before the planned departure time.

Refund Considerations for Medical Emergencies

Critical Situations

We acknowledge that unexpected medical situations can arise. Special exceptions might be given in the following instances:

  • Impromptu illness or injury that necessitates hospitalization
  • Passing of a direct family member
  • Call to duty or urgent redeployment for military personnel
  • Summon to court or mandatory jury duty
  • Natural calamities disrupting travel plans

Proof Documentation Requirements

To process an emergency refund, the following proofs are required:

  • A medical statement or documentation from the hospital
  • Death certificate, if the claim is due to bereavement
  • Formal military instruction
  • Legal summons or jury notification
  • Travel warnings or declarations of emergency

Process: Emergency refunds are handled within a period of 3-5 working days after receiving the correct documents.

Cancellations Due to Operational Causes

Technical Problems with the Vessel

Should your designated yacht encounter irreparable mechanical issues:

  • Replacement Vessel: Efforts will be made to find a similar yacht
  • Full Refund: Should an alternative not be available
  • Partial Refund: If the substitute vessel has a different value
  • Compensation: You might be entitled to additional compensation for the inconvenience

Lack of Available Crew

On the rare occasion that a qualified crew member is unavailable:

  • Replacement crew will be sought out if possible
  • Complete refund if the charter cannot go forward
  • Option to reschedule with no additional expense

Procedure for Refund Issuance

Method of Reimbursement

Refunds are issued back to the original payment method employed for the booking:

  • Credit Cards: From 5 to 7 business days
  • Wire Transfers: From 7 to 10 business days
  • Cash or Check: From 3 to 5 business days

Fees for Processing

Credit Card Transactions

A €50 charge for cancellations initiated more than 72 hours beforehand

Wire Transfer Processing

A €25 fee applies for all bank transfer refunds

International Transaction Processing

Additional fees could be imposed for international processing

Issuance of Charter Credits

Scenarios for Credit Provision

In some cases, a charter credit might be offered as an alternative to a monetary refund:

  • Late cancellations (under 24 hours)
  • Cancellations due to weather
  • Voluntary requests for rescheduling
  • Operational disruptions

Terms for the Credit

  • Validity Period: 12 months from the date of issuance
  • Non-Transferable: Cannot be transferred to other individuals
  • Amount: The complete value of the charter (excluding service charges)
  • Application: May be applied towards any future charters available
  • Expiration: No renewal beyond the 12-month limit

Reimbursements for Partial Services

Disruptions During Service

If your yacht trip is interrupted or cut short due to issues we are responsible for:

  • A proportional refund corresponding to the unused portion
  • Voucher for a future charter experience of equivalent value
  • Complimentary services or possible upgrades

Interruptions Related to Guests

In the event that a charter is prematurely ended due to misconduct or safety breaches by guests:

  • No reimbursement for the remaining time will be provided
  • The full fee will still be due
  • Additional fees may be incurred

Resolving Concerns Over Refunds

Should there be a dispute with the refund provided, you may:

  • Seek a reassessment from our management department
  • Supply additional proof or clarification
  • Look for resolution through consumer advocacy entities
  • Consider legal avenues in keeping with relevant legislation

Steps to Apply for a Refund

First Step: Reach Out to Us

To initiate a refund request, please make contact through:

Second Step: Supply Required Information

Your request should include:

  • The confirmation code for your booking
  • The scheduled date and time of your charter
  • The specific reason for cancelling
  • Any relevant documentation that may be needed
  • Your preferred mode of refund

Third Step: Evaluation and Refund Process

Our support will confirm your submission within one day, assess it based on our policy, make a decision within two days, and enact approved refunds within the provided timelines.

Key Points to Remember

  • All requests for refunds must be presented in a written format
  • Refunds will be administered in €, irrespective of the original currency used for payment
  • Getting travel insurance is highly advised
  • This policy may be revised with notification provided 30 days prior
  • Refund amounts are subject to applicable taxes and laws

Refund Department Contact Details

Should you need to inquire further about refunds or to submit a request for one:

Refunds Department
OpenWindowSeat Marine Services Ltd.
Marina Point
Hamburg 20457
Germany

Phone: +49 40 9999 9999
Email: refunds@openwindowseat.rest
Operating Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Last Modified: August 21, 2026

Our refund policy is developed to be straightforward and clear-cut. We suggest that you go through these terms with diligence before making a reservation, and please reach out with any queries.