Member Support
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about Escape Boat Club membership, booking, and life on The Solent. Can't find your answer? Our team is here to help.
Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about Escape Boat Club membership, booking, and life on The Solent.
Membership & Booking
Certifications, booking windows, and cancellation.
What certifications do I need to book a boat?
You'll need a minimum of RYA Powerboat Level 2 and a VHF Short Range Certificate (SRC). Both must be uploaded and verified in the app before your first booking is confirmed. If you're working towards your qualifications, our membership team can point you in the right direction.
How far in advance can I book?
Full members can hold up to two future bookings at any time and can book up to 30 days ahead. Weekday members can hold one booking at a time within the same 30-day window. Pay As You Go bookings are available from 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 48 hours before your booking are fully refunded or the booking credit is returned to your account. Cancellations within 48 hours of departure are non-refundable. In the event of severe weather or a safety advisory, we will rearrange or refund your booking at no charge.
What does membership include?
All membership tiers include access to the full Escape Boat Club fleet, the online booking platform, pre-departure safety briefings, and shoreside support from our marina team. Full and Weekday plans also include priority customer support and monthly member newsletters.
Safety & Practicalities
Safety equipment, guests, fuel, and marina location.
Is fuel included in my membership?
Fuel is not included in the membership fee. It is charged separately at current marina pump rates and billed to your account at the end of each trip based on actual usage. You'll always see the estimated fuel cost before you depart.
What safety equipment is on board?
Every vessel is equipped with personal lifejackets for all passengers, coastal flares, a waterproof VHF handheld radio, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and an anchor. All equipment is inspected and logged before each trip as part of our pre-departure checklist.
Can I bring guests on board?
Yes — each booking allows you to bring up to the vessel's rated passenger capacity. Guests do not need any qualifications, but the RYA-certified member must always be at the helm. You are responsible for briefing your guests on safety procedures before departure.
Where is the marina located?
Escape Boat Club is based on The Solent in Hampshire, UK — one of the premier cruising grounds on the south coast. The exact berth address and what3words location are shared with you upon membership activation. Parking is available on site.
Still have questions?
Our membership team is happy to help. Drop us a line and we'll get back to you within one working day.
Helpful Resources
Explore these guides for more detailed information.
Getting Started Guide
A step-by-step walkthrough: join the club, upload your RYA certifications, and make your first booking.
Read the guideThe Journal
Tips, guides, and stories from members and the Escape Boat Club team — from Solent tides to choosing the right vessel.
Browse articlesKnowledge Base
Detailed documentation for every feature in the Escape Boat Club platform, from booking to post-trip inspection.
Search the knowledge base