Refunds vs Credits: What Works Best for Charters
This guide covers refunds vs credits: what works best for charters for fishing charter businesses, with emphasis on deposit policy, pricing clarity, and cancellation rules.
Overview
Refunds vs Credits: What Works Best for Charters is a practical reference for charter operators who want to improve deposit policy and pricing clarity.
Use this guide when reviewing your trip pages, booking flow, or guest communication standards.
Key points
- Show pricing ranges and inclusions up front.
- Set clear cancellation windows and policies.
- Collect deposits during booking checkout.
- Explain weather reschedule rules clearly.
Checklist
- Decide on flat or percentage deposits.
- Define cancellation windows by trip type.
- Publish weather policies on the booking page.
- List what is included in the price.
- Repeat deposit terms in confirmations.
Common mistakes
- Using vague or hidden cancellation policies.
- Changing deposit rules by guest without explanation.
- Allowing deposits without clear reschedule rules.
- Leaving add-on pricing unclear.
Examples
- A flat deposit for half-day trips and percentage for offshore.
- A 72-hour cancellation window stated on the booking page.
- A separate add-ons section for fuel or cleaning.