Refunds & Returns Policy

The Chesapeake Queen, Inc.
Effective Date: July 9, 2026

The Chesapeake Queen, Inc. is committed to providing safe, enjoyable experiences on the Chesapeake Bay. Because the safety of our guests and crew is our highest priority, all cruises are subject to weather, marine conditions, and operational considerations.

Please review the following Refunds & Returns Policy before making your reservation.


Cruise Cancellations by The Chesapeake Queen

Cruises may be cancelled or delayed due to circumstances including, but not limited to:

  • Severe weather
  • High winds
  • Rough water conditions
  • Dense fog
  • Thunderstorms
  • Tropical weather systems
  • Unsafe marine conditions
  • Mechanical issues
  • U.S. Coast Guard restrictions
  • Other conditions affecting passenger safety

Weather-related cancellation decisions are made by The Chesapeake Queen, Inc. using current and forecasted marine conditions, including reports and forecasts issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), along with the professional judgment of the vessel’s Captain.

If The Chesapeake Queen cancels a cruise, guests may choose one of the following:

  • A full refund to the original form of payment.
  • Reschedule to another available cruise date.
  • Receive a gift certificate or booking credit valid for future cruises (if offered).

Refunds are generally processed within 5–10 business days, depending on your financial institution.


Weather That Does Not Result in Cancellation

Cruises operate during light rain, overcast skies, and other ordinary weather conditions.

A cruise will not be cancelled solely because of:

  • Light rain
  • Cloudy weather
  • Cooler temperatures
  • Light winds
  • Forecasts that do not create unsafe operating conditions

Guests who choose not to attend because of weather when the cruise is operating are subject to the Guest Cancellation Policy below.


Guest Cancellation Policy

Reservations cancelled by guests:

  • 14 or more days before departure: Full refund or rescheduling without penalty.
  • 7–13 days before departure: Eligible for a booking credit or rescheduling, subject to availability.
  • Less than 7 days before departure: No refund.
  • No-shows: No refund.

Guests unable to attend may transfer their reservation to another person before departure by contacting The Chesapeake Queen, Inc.

Private charter agreements may have separate cancellation terms specified in the charter contract.


Food & Beverage Orders

Many food items are purchased fresh and prepared specifically for your reservation.

Pre-Ordered Food

Food orders cancelled:

  • More than 72 hours before departure: Full refund.
  • 24–72 hours before departure: 50% refund, provided preparation has not begun.
  • Less than 24 hours before departure: No refund.

If The Chesapeake Queen cancels the cruise due to weather or operational reasons, all pre-paid food and beverage orders will be fully refunded, unless the guest elects to transfer the order to a rescheduled cruise when available.


Merchandise

Unused merchandise purchased through The Chesapeake Queen website may be returned within 30 days of purchase.

Returned merchandise must:

  • Be unused
  • Be in original condition
  • Include original packaging when applicable

Personalized or custom merchandise cannot be returned unless defective.


Refund Processing

Approved refunds are generally processed within 5–10 business days.

Processing times may vary depending upon your bank or credit card provider.


Force Majeure

The Chesapeake Queen, Inc. shall not be liable for cancellations or interruptions caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to:

  • Hurricanes
  • Tropical storms
  • Flooding
  • Government actions
  • Public health emergencies
  • Acts of God
  • Utility outages
  • Acts of terrorism
  • Civil disturbances
  • Other unforeseen circumstances affecting safe vessel operations

In such circumstances, we will make every reasonable effort to reschedule reservations or issue refunds as appropriate.


Contact Us

Questions regarding cancellations, refunds, or returns may be directed to:

The Chesapeake Queen, Inc.
Cape Charles, Virginia

Email: marianne.tcq@gmail.com

Phone: 757-678-6065

Website: thechesapeakequeen.com


 

The Chesapeake Queen, Inc. reserves the right to modify this Refunds & Returns Policy at any time. Changes become effective upon posting to our website.

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