---
slug: "safety-and-licensing"
title: "Safety & Licensing"
business_name: "The Marlin Hunter"
template_kind: "custom-owner-edit"
template_version: "v2"
---

# Safety & Licensing

**Meta description:** Fishing license requirements, safety practices, and what to confirm before a Cabo San Lucas charter or villa stay with The Marlin Hunter.

## What's required to fish legally in Cabo?

The Marlin Hunter's operation is licensed and insured for sportfishing in Cabo San Lucas. A personal fishing license is separate from the charter booking itself.

- **Cost:** $25 USD per person, per day
- **Children under 12** don't need a fishing license
- **To arrange a license,** The Marlin Hunter needs each licensed guest's full legal name in advance

The under-12 license exemption is specifically about the license requirement — it doesn't replace confirming that a child can safely participate in the planned trip.

## What does a standard charter booking actually cover?

A standard booking includes the boat and crew only. Not included unless arranged in advance:

- Fishing licenses ($25 USD/person/day)
- Bait ($4 per piece; roughly 10 per trip is typical)
- Food
- Drinks

These are kept separate from the charter price so the total is clear before departure — make sure names and license requirements are confirmed for everyone in the party ahead of time, particularly when children are joining.

## Where do I meet the crew, and who do I contact?

The Marlin Hunter's charters operate from the Cabo San Lucas marina area.

- **Carlos** (Spanish-speaking Dockmaster): +52 (624) 115-3684
- **Frank Bonise** (sportfishing contact and founder): +1 (416) 435-5990
- **Email:** [info@themarlinhunter.com](mailto:info@themarlinhunter.com)
- **Contact form:** [themarlinhunter.com/contact](https://themarlinhunter.com/contact)

Allow enough time to reach the marina, meet the crew, complete any license arrangements, and load personal items before departure.

**What to bring:** hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a light jacket, and a fully charged phone.

## What happens if the weather turns?

Safety comes first — a booked date doesn't guarantee departure in every weather condition. If conditions are changing, or current operating guidance is needed for a specific reservation, contact The Marlin Hunter before departure. Anyone with mobility, medical, seasickness, or other concerns that could affect their ability to remain safely aboard should ask The Marlin Hunter to confirm the plan for that date in advance.

## What about children or guests with specific needs?

All ages and experience levels may be considered, including first-timers. Children under 12 don't need a fishing license — but share every child's age and any relevant guest needs before booking, so The Marlin Hunter can confirm the selected boat, crew, and trip plan are actually appropriate.

**Onboard:** keep personal belongings secure, follow crew instructions, and stay attentive while moving around the vessel or handling fishing equipment.

## What about safety at a villa stay?

The Marlin Hunter also coordinates stays at Villa Serena in Cabo San Lucas, including private airport transportation, grocery stops, and pre-stock services. **Renee is the point of contact in Cabo for villa stays** — for safety questions, an issue during a stay, or a combined villa-and-charter itinerary, reach her directly or email [info@themarlinhunter.com](mailto:info@themarlinhunter.com) before arrival. [Booking information](https://themarlinhunter.com/booking) is also available directly.

## What should I confirm before I reserve?

- Fishing-license arrangements and full legal names for licensed guests
- Whether bait, food, drinks, or other add-ons will be arranged in advance
- The weather-decision and communication procedure for the chosen date
- Child and passenger requirements for the specific boat
- Insurance documentation or coverage information, if the group needs it
- Villa emergency and property-safety details for an overnight stay

Confirming these in advance lets The Marlin Hunter match the trip and arrangements to a party's actual needs before arrival at the marina or villa.