Your Complete Private Catamaran Experience in Samaná Bay

A private day on the water should feel effortless. Once you step aboard Rey De Reyes V, the purpose of the day is simple: leave the busy pace of everyday travel behind and enjoy Samaná Bay with your own group, your own space, and a professional crew taking care of the boat.

The Private Catamaran Samaná Bay – Rey De Reyes V is designed as a full-day private charter for travelers who want an exclusive Caribbean experience rather than a crowded shared excursion. The official tour page describes the experience as a private catamaran charter with professional crew, fuel, onboard music, an ice cooler, life jackets, and toilet facilities.

The experience is scheduled from approximately 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM, providing a substantial amount of time to enjoy the bay, relax aboard the catamaran, explore the surroundings, and add optional experiences such as a traditional Dominican buffet at Cayo Levantado.

For travelers who want to transform a vacation day into a private Caribbean adventure, this extended format offers the freedom to enjoy the destination without constantly watching the clock.

Full Day Itinerary: Private Catamaran Samaná Bay

Because this is a private charter rather than a rigid shared excursion, the exact rhythm of the day can depend on the selected schedule, sea conditions, group preferences, and arrangements made with the crew.

The following itinerary provides a practical picture of how your day can unfold.

Early Morning – Arrival at Samaná Bay Port

Your private catamaran adventure begins at the Samaná Bay Port in the Dominican Republic, with exact meeting or pickup arrangements confirmed after booking. The tour operator states that guests may be contacted one day before the excursion to confirm the exact hotel/Airbnb pickup time or meeting point.

This advance confirmation is particularly useful because transportation and meeting arrangements can vary depending on what was selected during the reservation process.

Before leaving your accommodation, make sure you have your essential items with you:

• Swimwear

• Sunscreen

• Sunglasses

• Towel

• Camera or smartphone

• Extra money for optional food and drinks

• Any personal medication or necessities you may need during the day

Arriving prepared means you can begin enjoying the experience immediately.

Morning Boarding – Welcome Aboard Rey De Reyes V

Once you reach the designated meeting point, your private group boards Rey De Reyes V.

This is the moment when the atmosphere changes.

The port becomes the starting point rather than the destination. Ahead of you is the open water, the tropical coastline, and a full day reserved for your group.

The professional crew will be onboard, and the catamaran is equipped with essential safety and comfort facilities, including life jackets, an onboard toilet, an ice cooler, and a music system. Fuel is also included in the charter.

Take a few moments to settle in, organize your belongings, apply sunscreen, and find your preferred place on deck.

Then the adventure begins.

Morning Cruise Through Samaná Bay

As Rey De Reyes V moves away from the port, the urban environment gradually gives way to the natural scenery of Samaná Bay.

This is when you can begin to appreciate the real advantage of experiencing the destination by private boat.

From land, you see only one perspective.

From the water, the landscape constantly changes.

The coastline stretches into the distance. The horizon opens ahead. The Caribbean breeze moves across the deck, and the boat becomes a moving viewpoint from which to experience the region.

This is a perfect time for photography.

Capture wide panoramic images of the bay. Photograph your friends and family against the water. Take candid pictures while everyone is relaxing on deck.

The morning light can also create beautiful conditions for travel photography.

But do not feel that you need to photograph every moment.

Some of the best memories come from putting the camera down and simply enjoying where you are.

Relaxation Time on the Catamaran

A private catamaran experience does not have to be nonstop activity.

In fact, one of its greatest strengths is the opportunity to slow down.

Find a comfortable place on deck.

Listen to music.

Talk with your travel companions.

Watch the coastline.

Enjoy the sea breeze.

Let the crew handle the navigation while you focus on the experience.

The onboard music system allows your group to create an atmosphere that matches the occasion. A family vacation might call for relaxed music, while a birthday or friends' celebration might have a completely different energy.

Because the catamaran is private, the experience can feel more personal than a conventional shared boat excursion.

You are traveling with the people you actually came to spend time with.

Midday – Continue Exploring the Bay

As the day progresses, your group can continue enjoying Samaná Bay from the water.

The extended full-day schedule gives you more time to appreciate the scenery rather than rushing through a short cruise.

For travelers who enjoy relaxed exploration, this part of the day can be especially rewarding.

You may spend time taking photographs, enjoying the music, relaxing in the sun, or simply watching the Caribbean landscape.

If swimming or water-based activities are part of your plans, always follow the crew's instructions and local sea-condition guidance.

Safety should remain the priority throughout the experience.

The provided life jackets and professional crew are important components of the excursion, but travelers should also listen carefully to onboard instructions and respect changing weather and sea conditions.

Optional Cayo Levantado Island Experience

One of the most attractive additions to this private catamaran experience is the option to include Cayo Levantado.

Cayo Levantado is one of the best-known island destinations associated with Samaná Bay, and its tropical setting provides a natural complement to a private boat excursion.

If your group chooses this option, the island can become a relaxing midday stop during your day on the water.

Rather than treating the island as simply another photograph from the boat, you have the opportunity to spend time there and enjoy an optional traditional Dominican buffet.

The listed price for the buffet is $15 USD per person.

This optional meal can be particularly appealing to travelers who want to combine their private sailing experience with a taste of Dominican cuisine.

Traditional Dominican Buffet at Cayo Levantado

Food is an important part of understanding a destination.

A traditional Dominican meal can add another layer to the experience, allowing you to move beyond the scenery and connect with local flavors.

The optional Cayo Levantado buffet provides a convenient opportunity to do exactly that.

After spending time on the water, sitting down for a meal in an island setting can feel like a natural pause in the day.

The combination of tropical surroundings, Caribbean atmosphere, and Dominican food creates an experience that feels connected to the destination.

The buffet is optional, so travelers who prefer to keep the day focused primarily on the catamaran can choose not to add it.

This flexibility is one of the strongest advantages of booking a private experience.

Optional Lobster and Coconut Candy Experience

For travelers looking to make the day even more indulgent, the tour page lists an optional lobster and coconut candy service for an additional $19 USD.

This option can be especially attractive for travelers celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to add a more luxurious culinary touch to their day.

The coconut element also fits naturally into the tropical Caribbean setting.

If you are planning a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon-related celebration, or VIP-style group outing, optional food upgrades can help turn the boat trip into a complete private event rather than simply a sightseeing excursion.

Food and drinks can also be arranged onboard for an additional cost.

Afternoon – Return to the Water

After lunch or your optional island experience, return to Rey De Reyes V and continue enjoying the bay.

The afternoon portion of the experience provides another opportunity to relax.

By this point, your group may have settled into the rhythm of the day.

The conversations become easier.

The cameras come out again.

The music continues.

The scenery changes with the movement of the boat.

This is also a good time to simply sit back and appreciate the fact that you have spent the day exploring Samaná Bay from your own private catamaran.

For many travelers, this relaxed period becomes one of the most enjoyable parts of the excursion.

There is no need to hurry.

There is no crowded itinerary demanding your attention.

You can enjoy the final hours of your private Caribbean adventure at a comfortable pace.

Late Afternoon – Return Toward the Port

The full-day experience is scheduled to finish around 4:30 PM.

As the catamaran makes its way back, take the opportunity to enjoy the final views of Samaná Bay.

This is often a surprisingly emotional part of a great travel experience.

At the beginning of the day, you were excited about what was ahead.

Now you have photographs, conversations, stories, and memories that did not exist when you boarded.

The return journey provides one last opportunity to enjoy the sea before returning to land.

Once back at the port or designated end point, your private catamaran experience comes to an end.

But the day itself becomes part of your Dominican Republic travel story.

What Is Included in Your Private Catamaran Charter?

The official product information lists several inclusions designed to make the day convenient and comfortable.

Private Catamaran Rental

The boat is reserved for your group, creating an exclusive environment without the crowds associated with a shared excursion.

Professional Crew

A professional crew is onboard throughout the experience, allowing guests to focus on enjoying the trip rather than managing the boat themselves.

Fuel

Fuel is included according to the tour listing, which simplifies the charter experience.

Music System

An onboard music system allows your group to enjoy music throughout the day.

Ice Cooler

The boat includes an ice cooler for practical beverage and food arrangements.

Life Jackets

Life jackets are provided onboard as part of the boat's safety equipment.

Toilet Facilities

Toilet facilities are available onboard, an especially useful feature during a full-day excursion.

These inclusions are confirmed on the official tour page.

What Is Not Included?

While the private catamaran charter includes the boat, crew, fuel, and listed onboard facilities, some experiences and services require additional payment.

These include:

• Traditional Dominican buffet at Cayo Levantado

• Lobster and coconut candy service

• Food and drinks arranged onboard

• Other personal expenses not specifically listed as included

The current tour listing specifies the buffet at $15 USD per person and lobster plus coconut candy at $19 USD extra.

Because optional services can be subject to arrangement and availability, travelers should confirm their preferred extras when organizing the reservation.

Travel Tips for the Best Samaná Bay Catamaran Experience

Arrive Prepared for a Full Day

This is not a quick one-hour cruise.

The scheduled experience lasts from approximately 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM, so prepare for a full day outdoors.

Wear comfortable clothing and bring everything you need to remain comfortable throughout the day.

Apply Sunscreen Before Boarding

Even if the weather feels comfortable, the reflection of sunlight from the water can increase sun exposure.

Apply sunscreen before boarding and reapply throughout the day.

A water-resistant sunscreen is especially practical for a boat excursion.

Bring a Towel

A towel is specifically listed among the recommended items, so do not leave it behind.

Even travelers who do not plan extensive swimming may appreciate having a towel after spending time near the water.

Protect Your Electronics

Your smartphone and camera can be excellent tools for capturing memories, but water and electronics do not mix.

Use waterproof bags or protective cases whenever appropriate.

Bring Sunglasses

The combination of bright Caribbean sunlight and water reflection can make sunglasses extremely useful.

Choose a comfortable pair that you can wear securely during the cruise.

Keep Important Items Secure

Avoid bringing unnecessary valuables.

For the items you do bring, keep them organized and protected from splashes.

A small waterproof bag can be useful for phones, documents, and other essentials.

Bring Extra Money

The tour listing recommends bringing extra cash for food and drinks.

This is particularly important if you plan to purchase optional services or refreshments.

How to Make the Most of Your Private Boat Day

The best way to enjoy a private catamaran experience is not to over-plan every minute.

Give yourself permission to relax.

You already have the boat.

You already have the bay.

You already have your travel companions.

The rest is about enjoying the moment.

Plan Your Music

If your group has a special playlist, organize it before departure.

Music can completely change the mood of a private boat day.

Prepare for Photos

Choose a few moments when everyone is together for group photographs.

The Samaná Bay scenery provides a naturally beautiful backdrop.

Consider the Lunch Upgrade

If you enjoy local food and want to experience Cayo Levantado, consider adding the traditional Dominican buffet.

Celebrate Something

Even if you are not traveling for a formal occasion, you can create one.

A private boat day is a perfect opportunity to celebrate friendship, family, travel, or simply being together.

Why Choose This Private Samaná Bay Tour?

Privacy

The catamaran is reserved exclusively for your group, making the experience ideal for travelers who value personal space and exclusivity.

Comfort

With a professional crew, onboard toilet facilities, an ice cooler, life jackets, and music system, the experience is designed around practical comfort.

Flexibility

The full-day format gives your group more time to enjoy the destination without feeling rushed.

Scenic Beauty

Samaná Bay provides an exceptional setting for a Caribbean boat adventure.

Optional Island Experience

Cayo Levantado provides an opportunity to combine time on the water with an island visit and optional Dominican lunch.

Group Friendly

The experience is particularly suited to families, friends, celebrations, and VIP-style group travel.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Families

Families looking for a private day together can enjoy the flexibility of a charter without the atmosphere of a crowded public excursion.

Couples

Couples can create a romantic private experience surrounded by Caribbean scenery.

Friends

Groups of friends can use the catamaran as a private social space for music, conversation, photography, and celebration.

Birthday Groups

A private boat is a memorable alternative to a traditional birthday activity.

Anniversary Travelers

The combination of privacy and scenery makes the experience suitable for anniversary celebrations.

Luxury Travelers

Travelers who prioritize exclusivity can choose a private catamaran instead of a standard shared boat excursion.

Corporate or Special Groups

A private charter can also provide a distinctive environment for small group outings and private events, subject to the group's specific arrangements and requirements.

Booking Advantages of a Private Catamaran Experience

Booking a private charter is about more than securing transportation on the water.

It gives your group control over the atmosphere.

It provides privacy.

It allows you to share the experience with the people you choose.

It gives you a full day rather than a short snapshot of the destination.

And it creates the possibility of adding food, drinks, and an island experience according to your preferences.

The current listing also displays a 5.0 rating from 5 reviews and indicates recent booking activity, providing additional evidence that the experience has attracted positive traveler interest.

The listed starting price currently shown on the product page is $1,500, while the booking interface displays a separate child price of $1,150. Travelers should verify the final price for their specific date, group configuration, and selected options during checkout because displayed pricing can change.

Reservation and Confirmation Process

Planning a private charter is easier when your contact information is accurate.

During the reservation process, the product page requests information including:

• Full name

• Email address

• WhatsApp number

• Tour date

• Time

• Number of adults

• Number of children

• Language preference

• Optional extras

The official tour information states that the team will contact guests one day before the tour to confirm the exact hotel/Airbnb pickup time or meeting point.

If you selected a meeting point during the reservation, the listing states that the reservation is fully confirmed and you should arrive at the selected location at the scheduled time.

This makes it particularly important to enter a valid phone number, WhatsApp contact, and email address when booking.

Weather and Special Requests

The sea is a natural environment, and weather conditions can affect boat travel.

If you have questions about weather conditions, reservation changes, or special requests, the tour operator advises guests to contact the team directly.

Travelers should also understand that marine activities may be adjusted when conditions make a planned activity unsafe.

The crew's instructions should always take priority.

A flexible mindset is useful when booking an ocean excursion because the sea and weather cannot be controlled.

The goal is not simply to follow an itinerary at all costs.

The goal is to have a safe and enjoyable experience.

A Better Way to Experience the Dominican Republic

There are many ways to experience the Dominican Republic.

You can visit beaches.

You can explore towns.

You can hike through tropical landscapes.

You can discover local food.

Or you can experience the country from the water.

The private Rey De Reyes V charter offers the final option in a particularly personal way.

Instead of seeing Samaná Bay as a distant landscape, you become part of it.

The sea surrounds your group.

The coastline becomes your backdrop.

The boat becomes your private base.

The day unfolds around you.

That is what makes a private Samaná Bay catamaran experience so memorable.

Create Your Own Caribbean Story

Every traveler has a different reason for visiting the Dominican Republic.

Maybe you are celebrating a birthday.

Maybe you are traveling with your parents and children.

Maybe you are taking a long-awaited trip with friends.

Maybe you are celebrating an anniversary.

Maybe you simply want one extraordinary day away from the resort.

Whatever brings you to Samaná, a private catamaran gives you the opportunity to turn that reason into a story.

The story begins at the port.

It continues across the bay.

It grows through conversations and photographs.

It may include Cayo Levantado and a Dominican lunch.

It may include music, sunshine, and hours spent watching the Caribbean horizon.

And eventually, as the catamaran returns toward shore, you realize that the day has become one of the defining memories of the trip.

Book Your Private Samaná Bay Catamaran Adventure

If your ideal Dominican Republic excursion involves privacy, Caribbean scenery, flexible full-day travel, professional crew, and an exclusive boat for your group, the Private Catamaran Samaná Bay – Rey De Reyes V is designed for exactly that type of experience.

Cruise through Samaná Bay.

Relax aboard your private catamaran.

Enjoy music with your group.

Capture unforgettable photographs.

Add an optional Dominican buffet at Cayo Levantado.

Upgrade with lobster and coconut candy if desired.

Enjoy food and drinks according to your arrangements.

Most importantly, spend the day with the people who matter to you.

The official tour page confirms that the experience is intended for families, friends, celebrations, and private group excursions, with a full-day schedule and optional island dining.

When you are ready to transform your Samaná vacation into a private Caribbean adventure, reserve your day aboard Rey De Reyes V and experience Samaná Bay from the water.

Your group. Your catamaran. Your Caribbean day.

Final Booking Checklist

• Select your preferred tour date.

• Confirm the number of adults and children.

• Choose your preferred meeting or pickup arrangement.

• Provide an accurate WhatsApp number and email address.

• Decide whether you want the optional Cayo Levantado buffet.

• Consider the lobster and coconut candy add-on.

• Arrange any desired food and drinks.

• Prepare swimwear, sunscreen, towels, sunglasses, and a camera.

• Bring extra cash for optional purchases.

• Check your confirmed meeting details before departure.

• Arrive at the designated location on time.

• Follow the crew's safety instructions.

• Relax and enjoy Samaná Bay.

Reserve the Private Catamaran Samaná Bay – Rey De Reyes V and make your Dominican Republic vacation a day to remember.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Private Catamaran Samaná Bay – Rey De Reyes V

1. How long is the Private Catamaran Samaná Bay experience?

The Private Catamaran Samaná Bay – Rey De Reyes V is a full-day experience scheduled approximately from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM. This extended schedule gives your private group plenty of time to cruise through Samaná Bay, relax onboard, enjoy the scenery, and potentially add an optional Cayo Levantado experience.

Because this is a private charter, the exact timing and itinerary can depend on the arrangements confirmed for your booking and prevailing sea conditions.

2. Is the catamaran private for my group?

Yes. The experience is designed as a private catamaran charter, meaning the boat is reserved exclusively for your group rather than being a standard shared excursion.

This makes it particularly suitable for families, couples, friends, celebrations, and travelers who prefer a more exclusive Caribbean experience.

3. Where does the private catamaran tour depart from?

The listed meeting point is Samaná Bay Port in the Dominican Republic.

Exact meeting, pickup, or departure details are provided after booking. The operator may contact guests before the excursion to confirm the exact meeting or pickup arrangements, so it is important to provide an accurate phone number, WhatsApp contact, and email address during the reservation process.

4. Is hotel pickup available?

Pickup or meeting arrangements depend on the booking details and selected option.

The tour information indicates that guests can receive confirmation of their exact hotel/Airbnb pickup time or meeting point before the excursion. Travelers should therefore provide accurate accommodation and contact information when making their reservation.

If pickup is important for your group, confirm the arrangement with the tour operator before departure.

5. What is included in the private catamaran tour?

The listed inclusions include:

• Private catamaran rental

• Professional crew

• Fuel

• Onboard music system

• Ice cooler

• Life jackets

• Toilet facilities

These inclusions make the experience suitable for a full day on the water without requiring travelers to organize the boat or navigation themselves.

6. Is food included in the private catamaran charter?

Food is not automatically included in the standard charter according to the listed inclusions.

However, food and drinks can be arranged for an additional cost. An optional traditional Dominican buffet at Cayo Levantado is also available for $15 USD per person.

Travelers who want a more premium culinary experience can also inquire about the optional lobster and coconut candy service.

7. Can I have lunch at Cayo Levantado?

Yes. An optional traditional Dominican buffet at Cayo Levantado can be arranged as part of the experience.

The listed price is $15 USD per person.

This option is ideal for travelers who want to combine their private Samaná Bay boat excursion with a Dominican meal in an island setting.

Because optional services may require advance arrangement, it is recommended to confirm the lunch option when booking.

8. Is lobster available during the tour?

Yes. The tour information lists an optional lobster and coconut candy service for an additional $19 USD.

This can be an appealing upgrade for travelers celebrating a special occasion or anyone looking to make their private Caribbean experience more indulgent.

Confirm availability and arrangements when booking.

9. Can I bring or arrange drinks on the catamaran?

Food and drinks can be arranged onboard at an additional cost according to the available product information.

The catamaran also includes an ice cooler, making it practical for beverage arrangements during the day.

Travelers should confirm the available food and drink options with the operator before departure, particularly when planning a celebration or special event.

10. What should I bring on the Samaná Bay catamaran tour?

Recommended items include:

• Swimwear

• Sunscreen

• Towel

• Sunglasses

• Camera or smartphone

• Extra cash for food and drinks

It is also sensible to bring waterproof protection for valuable electronics and important personal items.

Because this is a full-day ocean experience, comfortable clothing and adequate sun protection are especially important.

11. Are towels provided?

Travelers are specifically advised to bring their own towels.

Pack a towel even if you are not certain you will swim, as it can be useful after spending time around the water or in wet conditions.

12. Are there bathrooms on the catamaran?

Yes. Toilet facilities are available onboard.

This is an important convenience for a full-day private boat experience, especially for families and groups spending many hours on the water.

13. Is the tour suitable for families with children?

The private format can be a good choice for families because your group has its own space rather than sharing the boat with a large number of unrelated passengers.

The listing also provides a separate child pricing option.

Parents and guardians should consider the individual needs of their children, including comfort around boats, sun exposure, swimming ability, and the length of the full-day experience.

Children should always follow the crew's safety instructions and wear appropriate safety equipment when required.

14. Is the private catamaran suitable for seniors?

A private charter can be advantageous for older travelers because it offers a more personalized environment than a crowded group excursion.

However, the suitability of the experience depends on each traveler's mobility, comfort with boarding a boat, ability to spend several hours on the water, and individual needs.

If someone in your group has mobility limitations or specific accessibility requirements, contact the operator before booking so the practical arrangements can be confirmed.

15. Is the Samaná Bay catamaran tour good for couples?

Yes. A private catamaran is particularly appealing to couples who want an exclusive Caribbean experience.

The private setting provides opportunities for relaxed conversations, scenic photography, peaceful time on the water, and special celebrations.

It can be suitable for anniversaries, honeymoons, birthdays, romantic getaways, or simply a memorable day together in the Dominican Republic.

16. Can I book the catamaran for a birthday or special celebration?

Yes. The private format makes the experience particularly suitable for birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, group celebrations, and other special occasions.

The onboard music system and optional food and drink arrangements can help create a personalized atmosphere.

If you are planning a celebration, mention the occasion during the booking process so any special arrangements can be discussed in advance.

17. What happens if it rains or the weather changes?

A boat excursion is naturally affected by weather and sea conditions.

If conditions create a safety concern, the itinerary may need to be adjusted according to the crew's professional judgment and local operating conditions.

Travelers should follow all instructions from the crew and contact the tour operator if they have concerns about weather or changes to their reservation.

Do not assume that a specific cancellation, refund, or rescheduling policy applies unless it is confirmed in the booking terms for your reservation.

18. Is swimming included in the tour?

The experience is centered on a private catamaran cruise through Samaná Bay, and travelers are encouraged to bring swimwear.

However, swimming locations and water activities depend on the itinerary, sea conditions, weather, and crew guidance.

Always follow the crew's instructions regarding where and when it is safe to enter the water.

19. Do I need previous boating or sailing experience?

No previous boating experience is required for passengers.

The experience includes a professional crew, so guests are not expected to operate or navigate the catamaran themselves.

Your role is to relax, enjoy the scenery, spend time with your group, and follow the crew's safety instructions.

20. What makes this better than a shared Samaná Bay boat tour?

The main advantage is privacy.

With a private catamaran, your group does not have to share the boat with unrelated travelers.

You can create your own atmosphere, enjoy music with your companions, celebrate special occasions, and spend the day together in a more exclusive environment.

The full-day schedule and optional Cayo Levantado experience further enhance the flexibility of the trip.

21. Can I visit Cayo Levantado during the private catamaran tour?

Yes. Cayo Levantado is available as an optional part of the experience.

Travelers can arrange an optional traditional Dominican buffet there for $15 USD per person.

The exact itinerary should be confirmed with the operator when making the reservation because routes and stops may depend on conditions and arrangements.

22. How much does the private catamaran experience cost?

The tour page currently displays a starting price of $1,500, with a separate child price shown at $1,150.

Optional services such as the Cayo Levantado buffet, lobster and coconut candy, and food or drinks may cost extra.

Because tour pricing and availability can change, travelers should verify the final amount for their specific date, group size, and selected extras during booking.

23. What languages are available?

The booking information includes a language preference field, allowing travelers to indicate their preferred language when making the reservation.

For the most accurate information about the languages supported by the crew for your specific date, confirm this with the operator before booking.

24. How do I confirm my exact meeting time?

After making your reservation, keep an eye on your email and WhatsApp or phone contact.

The tour information indicates that guests may be contacted before the excursion to confirm the exact hotel/Airbnb pickup time or meeting point.

Providing accurate contact details during booking is therefore essential.

25. Is the Rey De Reyes V catamaran good for groups?

Yes. The private charter format is specifically suited to groups that want to travel together without joining a crowded public excursion.

It can work particularly well for families, friends, celebrations, VIP travelers, and private gatherings.

For larger groups or special event requirements, confirm the maximum passenger capacity and any special arrangements directly with the operator before booking.