The charter/party industry...

[Pete]

There are just far too many variables here to give the right answer. There are boats with many amenities heat / ac, bigger faster engines, larger cockpits, shaded area, etc. etc. In the end though it is about catching fish. The better captains always manage to find them, even in the worst conditions. That is not to say they haven't ever returned to port with the donut. A one price minimum fits all just doesn't make sense. I have fished on boats with all the creature comforts, and the captain and crew did everything but wipe my arse. And, other boats where the fuel burned was at a minimum and the mate was more occupied with his I-phone rather than the fares. I prefer to do most of the heavy lifting myself, baiting, tying rigs, hook removal etc. But, not everyone does. There are many boats that I plunk down the higher end fare to, because they are worth it. And, others that I'd never sail with again. If I can experiment and find out firsthand who does it just as good for cheaper, lucky me. But, I have been burned as well. Cheaper can be just as good, sometimes even better. The guys who think (and I emphasize think) they are good at it, but aren't, won't be around very long at any price.

If there are guys doing this and losing money due to cheap fares, and no other reason, I say, shame on them. That just doesn't make sense.