Beware of Bellhaven in Bellingham

rayengle · #1 (**permalink**) 06-30-2006

We recently chartered a 36' trawler from Bellhaven Yacht Charters in Bellingham. The yacht was filthy. We were delayed by 1/2 day in picking up the boat because the owners were still on board. Had to return a day early because of transmission problems. Requested a refund but got a song and dance and no refund. Do not recommend them for San Juans or Pacific Northwest chartering.

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 07-01-2006

Hope you paid via credit card.. then you can have your credit card company go after them... you didn't get what you paid for... definitely worth looking at getting a refund or price adjustment. If they won't deal...talk to the consumer affairs division of your local government or the local attorney general's office.

sanjuan2R · #3 (**permalink**) 07-03-2006

Lesson learned:I agree with sailingdog -

1. Tell every boater you know : NOT to do business with Bellhaven Charters.
2. Get your credit card refund by calling them & formally writing them explaining
your situation and the reason you want an adjustment on your charter bill.
3. Email them daily - complaining of your grievance
4. Call them weekly to ask for an adjustment on your charter fees.
5. Contact the Bellingham Better Business Bureau and file a formal complaint and demand restitution on your charter fees.
6. Bring a small claims suit against said Bellhaven for damages

It merely depends on how persistant you are in your endeavors. Remember, the customer is always right - unless you deal with Bellhaven in Bellingham, WA.
Only you can decide on who is going to lose your sea battles !