Start with everyone traveling, including children and anyone joining for part of the day. Then tell the operator the ages and any boarding or access needs. A booking limit is a useful first filter; it does not answer how comfortable the group will be.
For six guests
You may have several boat categories to compare. Instead of automatically choosing the smallest, ask about seating, shade, a toilet and the route. The lowest-priced vessel can be a poor match if someone will spend the entire trip on board while others swim.
For eight guests
Check whether the price shown is actually for eight people and whether it changes with the selected boat. If you are between capacity bands, compare the full quote for each appropriate option. Verify that “maximum passengers” refers to paying guests and ask how the crew is counted.
For ten to twelve guests
Get the exact vessel and passenger allowance in writing. Do not add an extra child or assume two infants count as one passenger. If a listing offers several boats, the largest capacity number may only apply to a particular option. Twelve people need a boat confirmed for that party, not a sales-page headline.
Count the payers separately
The per-traveler cost is a useful comparison. The amount each adult pays can differ if children are not sharing the bill. Calculate the full group total first, then agree how to divide it. Do not choose a boat based on a split that some members have not agreed to.
Ask about comfort directly
Request the amount of covered seating, boarding steps or ladder, toilet arrangements and space for bags. Describe the group’s actual priorities. These questions are more informative than asking whether a boat is “family friendly” without saying what the family needs.
Whole Boat Guide · Reviewed 15 September 2026 · Editorial method