Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Why is chartering our vessels better than just renting a boat?
    Besides the "Fun Factor" there are several reasons to also consider - We know the lake- no worries about getting lost. - You don't have to worry about driving and being responsible for others safety. - No worry about having a few drinks and getting caught "BWI" - No extra expenses such as fuel charges or damage charges when you rent a boat. - When it's over you don't have to do anything except shake hands and leave!.

  2. Are there other advantages by chartering?
    Yes, there are several more! - Our boats are well maintained and cleaned by us. - Our captains run our boats vs who was the last person to rent the other boat and how did they leave it for you? - You are not responcible for hitting under-water objects and damaging our boats - We are! - Our fees are clearand up front, no additions like expensive fuel and oil.

  3. What dangers do I need to look out for if I rent a boat or bring mine to the lake?
    One of the biggest dangers are shallow waters and sand bars when the water is lower than normal. If you are not familar with the lake always consult with a marina, Game Wardens or ourselves as to danger spots that may be encountered. Stop by and we can show you on a map.

  4. If I rent a boat what are the costs??
    There are several rental shops on the lake, each having their own specific charges. Always consult with them and know what extra charges there may be and always know what the charges are if you damage their vessel.

  5. Do cell phones work on the lake?
    This is a tuff question! First of all it depends on your cell carrier, some carriers cellphones work better than others. There are however dead spots for most carriers on the lake. You cannot be sure that your phone will work on the lake at all locations.

  6. What is a Marine VHF radio?
    A marine VHF radio is one that operates on specific marine radio frequencies. They are not CB radios and must be operated in accordance with FCC rules. Most marina's, and other operators monitor channel 16, the distress, safety and calling channel. We at Cap'n Dave's also monitor it 24/7 as we also operate a TowBoatUS towing service on the lake.

  7. Do I need a license to drive a boat in Texas?
    No you do not but be aware that you are responsable for your vessel at all times and the liability that comes with that also.

  8. Why do you have U.S. Coast Guard Captains pilot your boats?
    Cap'n Dave's operates under the guidance of the Federal CFR's as a commercial carrier for hire. Therefore our vessels have to be inspected, have certain safety gear on board and must be operated by a Master Captain if more than 6 passanges are on board or a Captain with 6 or less on board. Obtaining a U.S. Coast Guard Captain License takes years of operational experence to get along with very involved testing requirements. Captains must also maintain both scheduled and unscheduled drug testing to keep their license current.

  9. Your website makes mention of Cap'n Dave's Bikini Girls, who and what are they?
    We use local young women to assist the captains on the boats and to provide assistance to you the paying customer. You can think of them as a stewardess of sorts. They make sure your needs are met, provide you refreshments and keep the boat cleaned up and safe. They are also the captains safety person and are trained to assist in boat emergency operations and egress. Besides all that they are cute!

  10. What is there to see on the lake?
    Lake Whitney is one of the most scenic in the area from the white cliffs to the high cliff of the upper river area. There are numberous attractions such as Bee Bluff and the wonderful parks in the area.

  11. How big is Lake Whitney?
    Lake Whitney is more than 27 miles river miles long and is 4 miles wide at the widest part of the lake. The depth at the dam is approximately 100 feet. The Lake is a limestone lake which makes the water very clear.

  12. Who must take boater education?
    Anyone born on or after September 1, 1984 and under the age of 18 must complete a TPWD - approved course and be certified with TPWD to operate:
    • any vessel over 10 horsepower,
    • wind-blown vessel over 14 feet and
    • all personal watercraft.

    Some violations of the Water Safety Act also require course completion.

  13. Who must be certified to operate a vessel alone?
    In Texas a person cannot operate a windblown vessel over 14 feet in length, a motorboat with more than 10 horsepower, or personal watercraft with more than 10 horsepowern unless he/she:
    • was born aftern September 1, 1984 and has passed a boater education class or equivalency examination prescribed by the department.
    • is 18 years of age or older or born before September 1, 1984, or
    • is under 16 years of age and is accompanied by a person 18 years of age or older, or
    • is at least 13 years of age and have passed a boater education course or equivalency examination prescribed by the department.


  14. Who can operate a PWC?
    NOTE: Children under 13 are specifically prohibited from operating a PWC unless accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years of age.

    To operate a PWC, the operator must meet one of the following:
    • Born after September 1, 1984 and passed a boater education class or equivalency examination prescribed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, or
    • 18 years of age or older or born before September 1, 1984, or
    • At least 13 years of age and have passed a boater education course or equivalency examination prescribed by the department.