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ADDITIONAL TERMS

Once the reservation is confirmed, the Guest is responsible for the entirety of the dates reserved. As such, no refunds will be given after arrival or departure based on late arrival/early departure. Reservation Deposits and payments made toward the Balance of Rent Due shall be deemed non-refundable 30 days from the Guest's Arrival Date. Only the Security Deposit held shall be refunded to the Guest

Please note that the prices do not include credit card fees. 

Rules and Policy

If your reservation is made more than 60 days before your Arrival Date, 50% Reservation Deposit is due upon execution of this Agreement or instant booking. If your reservation is made 60 days or fewer before your Arrival Date, payment of the entire Rental Amount is due upon execution of this Agreement or instant booking .

Reservation Deposit

Check-in is a firm 4 pm Vaca Lodge Management, LLC, previously approved it. Due to the safety of our housekeeping staff, guests are not allowed to enter the home before 4 pm or their approved check-in time. Guests who do not comply and enter the home before 4 pm or their approved early check-in shall forfeit their Security Deposit in full. For purposes of this paragraph, "Guest" also applies to all members of the Guest's party,

Early Check-In

Our homes are located in Marathon Keys Florida, and although we perform regular cleaning and appropriate pest control on the homes, we cannot guarantee they will be pest-free of all bugs, animals, and pests. We cannot compensate for the presence of pests, insects, and animals. We also ask that all guests respect nature and that you Do Not Feed wildlife, especially Key deer, on or near a home location.

Pest Control

The credit card fee of 3% is non-refundable, as this is a processing fee. If you must cancel the reservation and are eligible for a refund, the credit card fee will be non-refundable.

Credit Card Fee

Your reservation will be confirmed, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, upon our receipt of a signed copy of this Agreement or Instant booking

Confirmation of Reservation

are not given after departure if the guests fail to report any issues during their stay. Issues/concerns should be reported immediately to Vaca Lodge Management.

Refunds

If the reservation which is the subject of this Agreement is canceled by the Guest more than 60 days from the Arrival Date, we will gladly refund your Reservation Deposit, Security Deposit, and any payments made toward the Balance of Rent, less a $250.00 cancellation fee.

Travel Insurance We offer cancelation insurance for a small fee that will cover a reservation cancelation for any reason up to the date of check in

Cancelations

Any changes to this reservation's arrival date, departure date, or property are subject to our availability when requested and may result in a possible rate change and/or service fee.

We reserve the right to cancel or modify reservations where a customer has engaged in a fraudulent or inappropriate activity or under other circumstances where the reservations contain or resulted from a mistake or error.

Date/Property Changes

Your full Security Deposit is due upon execution of this Agreement. Your Security Deposit will be returned within two (2) weeks of your departure date . Please note that we Security Deposit refunds are subject to adjustment, late checkout, property damage (including fixtures, appliances, and/or furnishings) caused by you or your guests, and unusual cleaning expenses.

Security Deposit

KAYAKS, PADDLE BOARDS,  INFORMATION

Make Yourself As Visible as Possible

Marathon has s a vast body of water containing a wide range of watercraft, many of which sit exceptionally high off the water. Because of this elevation, many boats cannot see kayaks or other low-water equipment. To avoid any perilous scenarios, paddlers should take extra precautions.

While wearing neon colors is a valiant effort to protect yourself, bright and flashy colors tend to fade out of view for boats while at a distance. Flares, smoke signals, flags, and lights can help illuminate your kayak for the boaters around you. No Use of paddleboards or Kayaks after dark

If you happen to come close to a boat, assume that they don't know the right of way and stay to your right, out of their way. Make your action distinct and substantial so the boater knows what direction you plan on veering to avoid a collision. Another precaution to take is to paddle closer to shore. Danger substantially increases when kayaks are out in the middle of the water in channels , where boats cruise.

Keep updated tabs on the weather and if any storms or hazardous conditions are possible for your day on the water. Dress appropriately for the weather; wear sunscreen, even on a cloudy day. Most importantly, wear a life preserver at all times on the water. Should you capsize, you must not struggle to push yourself back into your kayak. Your life preserver is your best friend and safety net.

Wear Proper Attire & Equipment

The rules of the road apply to waterways as well. Hopping in a kayak or any other watercraft while impaired can potentially cause grave harm to you or the people around you. Paddle sober, or get pulled over. This summer, we hope you enjoy your time on the lake and use these tips to stay safe on the water!

Never Get in a Kayakor Paddle Board Impaired

If the reservation, which is the subject of this Agreement, is canceled by the Guest more than thirty days before the date of arrival, a full refund will be given minus any credit card fees. No refunds will be given after that or within thirty days of arrival. 

Kayak and Paddle Board Cancellation Policy

The undersigned understands that Vaca Lodge Management LLC and Marathon Sunsation LLC  DBA Oceans Cay   does not carry participant insurance. The undersigned acknowledges that they have appropriate insurance or, in its absence, agree to pay all costs of rescue and/or medical services as may be incurred on their behalf.

Insurance

The undersigned agrees to pay for any or all damages to any property caused by the undersigned either negligently, willfully, or otherwise.

Property Damage

The undersigned has executed this Release of Liability for themselves, their children, and everyone in their rental unit.

Representatives

As a participant in the subject activity, the undersigned consents to medical treatment in a medical emergency where the undersigned cannot consent to such treatment.

Emergency Treatment Consent

Cribs, High Chairs, Booster Seats, and Rollaway Beds.

These items are all available at no extra charge

Guest Options Services

610 12th St C  - High Exposure Visuals

POOL/ SPA TUB
TERMS & SAFETY

The Guest will use the Pool/Spa at the Guest's own risk. Vava Lodge Management and Oceans Cay LLC  will not be responsible for any injuries sustained by the Guest and/or the Guest's occupants when using the Pool/Spa.


The Guest is responsible for the general maintenance of the Pool/Spa. This includes (but is not limited to) keeping the Pool/Spa  clean of debris, keeping areas clean, neat, and organized.


The Guest must immediately notify Vaca Lodge Management  of any issues with Pool/Spa Immediately


Guests can forfeit their security deposit if any of the above-mentioned is violated by the Guest or the Guest's occupants.

The undersigned acknowledges that they have read and understood all the rules, policies, and procedures relating to water activities and that the safe and proper use of the facilities, equipment, and participation in water activities depends on carefully following such rules, policies, and procedures. I agree to wear a properly fitted and fastened U.S. Coastguard-approved flotation device (lifejacket) while aboard a boat or on or in the water. The undersigned understands that Boating , kayaking and paddleboarding should only be undertaken after proper instruction and training and that Vaca Lodge Management and Oceans Cay is not providing such training in connection with equipment rental. The undersigned is responsible for deciding where, when, and with whom to paddle. The undersigned acknowledges and agrees that the rental equipment provided by Vaca Lodge Management  is for the sole and exclusive use of the undersigned and may not be used by any other person.

Acknowledgment Of Rules, Policies, And Procedures

The undersigned represents that they have the requisite physical and mental skills to properly and safely use the equipment, facilities, and services and participate in water activities. The undersigned agrees that if they have any questions about what skills, qualifications, or training are necessary to use the equipment properly, facilities, or to participate in water activities, they shall direct such questions to the appropriate staff member on-site.

Physical Conditions And Skills

The undersigned at this moment releases, discharges, waives, disclaims, and relinquishes all claims, actions, or causes of action against Vaca Lodge Management LLC and Marathon Sunsation LLC  DBA Oceans Cay  and its officers, employees, and agents and agrees not to sue them on account of or in conjunction with any claims, causes of action, injuries, damage, cost or expenses arising out of water activities, including those based on death, bodily injury, or property damage whether or not caused by participation in water activities or the negligence of Vaca Lodge Management LLC and Marathon Sunsation LLC  DBA Oceans Cay   provided, however, the preceding release shall not apply to claims solely based on gross negligence by  Vaca Lodge Management LLC and Marathon Sunsation LLC  DBA Oceans Cay  Management.

Release

The undersigned has read and understands this Release of Liability and realizes it relates to surrendering valuable legal rights and assuming critical legal responsibilities and does so freely and voluntarily.

Acknowledgment

PETS

Absolutely no pets are allowed, including emotional support pets of any kind. Violation of the Strick rule will result in a $1000 fine and the immediate cancelation of your stay with us and you will forfeit and moneys paid including security deposit and be reported to all major booking platforms.

BOAT SAFETY AND
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Liability – OWNER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOSS, THEFT, OR PERSONAL INJURIES SUSTAINED BY THE GUEST AND/OR PERSONS ACCOMPANYING THE GUEST. You and all persons accompanying you agree to abide by the Rules herein. Should a guest’s behavior necessitate eviction, all prepaid rents, and deposits shall be considered earned.

The Florida Keys' surrounding waters are protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, extending from south of Miami westward to encompass the Dry Tortugas, excluding Dry Tortugas National Park. FKNMS has spectacular and unique resources such as coral reefs, shipwrecks, seagrass beds and fisheries that are the source of commercial and recreational activities like diving, fishing and boating.

This page is designed to help provide visitor with simple, sea smart and safe boating and reef etiquette tips, as well as share informational resources to better acquaint first-time and repeat pleasure boaters with on-the-water guidelines and important features of protected Florida Keys waterways.

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MOORING BUOYS

Image by Nancy Diersing, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

One of our most precious natural ecosystems is the coral reef that parallels the Florida Keys — the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

Mooring buoys help make protecting this resource possible with a system of 18-inch diameter blue-striped buoy markers that boaters can tie off to, and avoid damaging the coral reef with anchors.

Since 1981, the Florida Key National Marine Sanctuary has maintained more than 470 mooring buoys in an effort to avoid breakage and damage to the reef formations.

These buoys mark various locations of artificial reefs, sanctuary preservation areas (SPA), shipwreck trail sites and more. There is no fee to use these mooring buoys.

How to Use a Mooring Buoy

(courtesy of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary)

  • Buoys are available on a first come, first served basis.

  • Steer the boat from a helm station that enables you to see the buoy during the entire hook up.

  • Approach slowly from down wind or down current, so that the floating yellow pick-up line is closest to you. Keep the buoy on the same side as the helm station so you can see it as you approach.

  • Safely retrieve the yellow pick-up line with a boat hook. Put your vessel in neutral to avoid entanglement.

  • Run your boat's bow line through the loop of the yellow pick-up line. Cleat both ends of your bow line to the bow of your boat. Never tie the yellow pick-up line directly to your boat as it puts undue stress on the mooring anchor.

  • Let out enough line so that the buoy is not pulled underwater and the line is horizontal. Rougher days may require even more line. Adding extra line will produce a more comfortable experience for your vessel while moored and reduce wear on the buoy system.

  • Inspect the buoy your boat is tied to; you are responsible for your vessel. Check that it is holding as intended and report problems to any of the sanctuary offices.
     

Click here for a map of buoys within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

TIPS FOR FISHERMEN & BOATERS

​(Courtesy of Reef Relief)

  • Practice good seamanship, and safe boating. Maintain a safe distance from other fishermen, and divers. Do not troll over or near divers. Stay at least 100 feet from a red and white diver down flag and watch for bubbles.

  • Know and observe size and catch limits; release any fish you can't eat. Florida law requires a fishing license. Applicable size, bag limits, and seasons must be observed when harvesting seafood. NOTE: Avoid throwing fish carcasses and wrung lobsters overboard or into canals, as they decompose and degrade water quality.

  • Use reef mooring buoys if available. Otherwise, anchor in sandy areas away from coral and seagrasses so that anchor and chain do not drag or grate on nearby corals or tear-up seagrass beds.

  • Accidental boat groundings damage the reef. Consult tide and navigational charts and steer clear of shallow areas (shallow, seagrass beds appear brown in color). Accidental boat groundings damage coral and seagrasses, and fines are imposed for such damage. Remember, "Brown, brown, run aground. Blue, blue, sail on through."

  • Avoid disturbing wildlife, harassing fish and invertebrates; it only makes them wary of people.

  • Keep boating speeds and noise to a minimum, and avoid boat wakes near isolated mangroves. When in a diving area, slow down to an idle speed.

  • It is illegal to dump trash at sea; plastic bags and other debris can injure or kill marine animals. Try to retrieve fishing gear and equipment, especially monofilament line. Bring your trash back to shore and recycle it.

  • Camping, campfires, and collecting of any kind is prohibited on all National Wildlife Refuges. Personal watercraft and airboats are prohibited in all National Parks and Wildlife Refuges in the Florida Keys.

TIPS FOR SNOWBIRDS & ANNUAL BOATERS DURING HIGH BOATING SEASON

(Courtesy of Sea Tow Services International and Reef Relief)

  • Do annual maintenance. Make sure your maintenance is up to date. The manufacturer's recommendation is to service the engine "at 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first" whether you do it yourself or take it to a dealer or service shop.

  • Inspect the water pump. If the pump has dried out or the impeller has disintegrated or is broken, the next time you run it may cause severe damage. It is recommended to start every (boating) season with a new one.

  • Check the fuel filter. If sitting unused for three months or longer, today's ethanol-enhanced fuel can precipitate out water. Remove the filter and pour some fuel into a cup to inspect it. Remove any water from your tank and change the filter.

  • Top off the batteries. Use distilled water, not tap water. Sun and heat in the south can evaporate water in the batteries quickly. Clean and tighten all terminals. Start your engine and let it warm up to be sure it has a good charge before leaving the boat ramp or dock.

  • Maintain your trailer. Avoid a blowout from an under inflated tire, by checking the tire pressure. Re-grease the hubs or buddy bearings annually. Remember to put the drain plug back in before launching it on the water.

  • Inspect your life saving equipment. Inspect and/or replace any expired flares, fire extinguishers, damaged life jackets. Keep plenty of PFD's on board, including extras for guests and sizes that can fit children.

  • Use sewage pump-out facility and biodegradable bilge cleaner and never discharge bilge water at the reef.

  • If you run around; immediately turn the engine off, and tilt it up if possible. Do not try to motor off. Wait until high tide to remove the vessel. Call for assistance when necessary.

  • Before heading out, check weather conditions. Strong winds and rough seas can result in poor visibility and reduce safe interaction at the reef.

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LEARN MORE ABOUT FLORIDA KEYS FISHING

Ramp at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation)

Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder — Select "Monroe" from the County dropdown menu to find public boat ramps in the Florida Keys.

Florida Boating Regulations — Learn more about waterway speeds, vessel registrations, requirements for personal watercraft, updated information about boating safety, divers-down and marker systems.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Boater Education Course — Developed specifically for the Florida Keys, this free online course provides information for responsible boating and stewardship, and highlights relevant rules and regulations.

PADDLEBOARDS

Did you know the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has determined that a paddleboard is a vessel in most situations and is required to have the same safety equipment as other small human-powered vessels (canoes/kayaks)?

Click here to learn more about safety equipment for paddleboards.

There are things you can do in and on the water to minimize impact to the reef while enjoying its beauty. Here are seven tips:

  • Don't stand or rest on coral — if you need to adjust your gear, float on your back or in a seated postion. If you need to stand, return to your boat.

  • Maintain buoyancy — streamline gear, and use proper dive posture, with feet elevated slightly above the head.

  • Secure all equipment — make sure it does not come in contact with the reef. Avoid wearing gloves in coral reef environments.

  • Keep your distance — maintain a comfortable distance, and avoid very shallow areas, especially at entry and exit points.

  • Leave marine life alone — do not touch, handle, feed or ride marine life. You are in their home.

  • Keep the reef at the reef — animals or corals from the reef are not souvenirs. Remember, it is illegal to harvest coral in Florida.

  • Look but don't touch — even a minor brush with a hand, fins or other dive and snorkel equipment can damage sensitive corals.
     

Reef Etiquette

BLUE STAR PROGRAM

Recreational divers and snorkelers can use a Blue Star-recognized dive operator/charter, a designation that ensures the operator is dedicated to coral reef education and actively involved with conservation-related activities.

Blue Star operators also promote responsible tourism and teach divers and snorkelers in-water etiquette, including practicing good buoyancy, taking care in placement of hands and fins and avoiding touching or standing on coral. Blue Star–rated operator vessels display a decal with the Blue Star logo and current calendar year.

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Book your stay with us

Luxury Redefined at Oceans Cay Villas

HELP PROTECT THE KEYS: FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY BOATER EDUCATION COURSE

Boating in the Florida Keys can be complicated, especially for first-time visitors navigating shallow island waters.

The sustained health of the Florida Keys is vital. Disturbance and direct impacts, including damage by boat propellers, groundings, turbidity, and water quality, are major contributing factors to declines in habitat essential for birds, fish and other animals.

This free online course provides information for responsible boating and stewardship, and highlights relevant rules and regulations.

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