FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I get this question a lot and the truth is that every boat I offer to my clients has earned their spot on the Don Chingon Team, by proving the highest standard of quality customer service as well as fishing ability and skill over the last several years!

All of my boats and crews all fish the same style, same techniques and the same spots and do their best to find the fish. If you prefer a certain style of fishing like trolling, bottom fishing, live bait, jigging etc… please just add it in the special requests section at the time of checkout.

So when choosing which boat, it really just comes down to your group size and what size/style boat that you prefer.

Just be aware of the max capacity listed for each boat and whichever boat appeals to you the most, just book that boat and I promise you will have a good time!

I do not recommend maxing out the boats to their full capacity! For example if you have 4 people in your group, it’s best to get a boat that has a max capacity of 6 or more.  When fishing with other people on a boat it’s nice to have a little elbow room.

Please note that Captain Travis does go on some of the trips but due to high demand, he is not always available.

There are two ways to make a reservation to secure your charter.

1. Easily book your trip on the website. The boat calendars have Real-Time availability, which just means that if the boat is available for the day you want, you will be able to book it. If it’s not available, you won’t be able to book it and will need to choose another day or time slot.. There is a small booking fee when booking online.

2.  When deciding on how many hours to book, we usually recommend at least 6 hours if you are wanting to go offshore and catch some good fish.  It can take some time to catch bait and to head offshore.  Expect 45 min to an hour each way.

3. To avoid paying the booking fee and to get all your questions answered, I’m always available to take a call. Or just send me your phone number and tell me when a good time to call is. Travis cell phone +52 998-187-1937

Each boat is located at a different marina in the Cancun area. All boats are centrally located and usually take anywhere from 5 min to 30 min drive depending on where you are staying. Click the “Learn More” button on the boat you are interested in and you will be directed to a detailed page with more info and a google map link and address of the Marina where the boat is located.

Yes, I offer convenient round-trip transportation for an additional fee. This service includes a hassle-free transfer from your hotel to the marina, coordinated by Travis to ensure a smooth start to your fishing adventure. More details below…

*If you do not require my transport service, a google map link with arrival instructions to the marina will be in your confirmation email.

Pros of Using Travis’ Pre-Arranged Transportation:

1. Familiarity and Efficiency: Don Chingon Charters uses the same drivers regularly, ensuring they are well-acquainted with the location of the boats and the marina, making your journey hassle-free.
2. Fixed Pricing: The cost for transportation is predetermined, eliminating the need to negotiate fares or face unexpected price hikes.
3. Convenience: Opting for Travis’ service removes the stress of locating the marina and dealing with unpredictable taxi fares. This “Convenience Factor” might result in a slightly higher cost (about 15%-20% more), but it provides peace of mind and ease of travel.
4. Communication and Coordination: The service allows for direct communication with Travis for any changes in schedule or special requests, enhancing the flexibility of your travel plans.

Cons of Using Travis’ Pre-Arranged Transportation:

We use a third party transportation company which means that the driver has additional pickups and drop-offs therefore, last minute changes to the original schedule can be challenging.

1.  Strict Scheduling: The drivers adhere to a tight schedule. Any deviation from your planned return time without prior notification may lead to missing your ride and still being responsible for the transportation fee.
2. Potential Additional Costs: If you return early or late due to reasons like extended fishing time, dining at the marina, or seasickness, you might have to pay for the pre-arranged transport and also find alternative transportation back to your hotel.  We will do our best to reschedule your transport but you may experience delays due to last minute changes.
3. Responsibility for Coordination: If your plans change (returning early or late), it’s your responsibility to inform Travis or the captain to adjust the pickup time. Failure to communicate effectively can lead to inconveniences and additional expenses.

Flexibility in Scheduling: We strive to accommodate changes when possible, but it’s your responsibility to communicate any early or late returns to Travis or instruct the captain to do so. This allows us to attempt to adjust the pick-up time with the driver, ensuring a smoother experience.

Additional Information:

• Transportation Request Process: After booking your charter, you’ll receive a link to request transportation. Fill out the form, and Travis will provide a quote.
• Payment For Transportation: Our transportation services are provided through a third-party transport company. As a result, Don Chingon Charters does not accept payment for this portion of your trip.  The driver will require payment in cash for the round-trip service at the time of your morning pick-up.
• Hotel Coordination: Upon hotel check-in, inform Travis of your pickup location and room number for security purposes and to facilitate smooth pickup by the driver. * Some big hotels have multiple lobby’s, be sure to let us know which lobby you are at.

Recommendations:

• Be Proactive in Communication: To ensure a smooth experience, keep Travis and your Captain informed of any changes in your plans or schedule. This proactive approach will help in adjusting transportation arrangements accordingly and avoiding any misunderstandings or additional costs.

VERY IMPORTANT: Adhering to Your Scheduled Pick-Up Time

When you pre-arrange your return trip with Travis, it’s crucial to be punctual for your scheduled pick-up. Our drivers follow a strict schedule, and last-minute changes can lead to missing your pick-up time. Here are some scenarios where you might miss your pre-arranged transportation back to your hotel:

1. Delayed Return to the Dock: Sometimes, the captain may offer extra time if the fishing is slow. Be aware this could affect your scheduled pick-up.
2. Dining at the Marina Restaurant: If you plan to eat your catch at the Marina Restaurant and haven’t informed us in advance, this could delay your return.
3. Waiting for Fish Cleaning: Time spent waiting for your fish to be cleaned may also delay you.
4. Early Return Due to Seasickness: If seasickness prompts an early return, the driver might not be available immediately, necessitating a wait at the marina or the use of a taxi or Uber.

For instance, on a 6-hour excursion planned from 7 am to 1 pm, our transportation will be available for pick-up between 1 pm and 1:30 pm. It’s important to be at the agreed-upon pick-up spot within this window.  We will do our best to adjust Failing to do so may result in missing your arranged transport. In such cases, you will still be obligated to cover the transportation fee and will need to arrange alternative means to return to your hotel, while also bearing the cost of the pre-arranged round-trip service.

The most common species offshore here are Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Blackfin Tuna, Grouper, Snapper, Amberjack, Yellow-Jack, Horse-eyed jack, Barracuda, King-fish, Trigger fish.

• • Sailfish – Dec. – June
  • Marlin – Summer time (rare)
  • Mahi Mahi – Summer time (April – September)
  • Wahoo – (Aug. – Feb.)
  • Grouper, Snapper, Barracuda, Trigger we catch year-round.

Fishing conditions change day to day and weather/sea conditions are a major factor in determining where we can go and what we will target.

 Unless you are coming to Cancun for the sole purpose of catching a specific trophy species, I wouldn’t worry too much about what you’re going to catch.

 ​Trust me when I say this, “My self, my Captain’s and Crew’s want to catch the biggest, baddest and highest quantity of fish possible”.

However, our main priority, is to give you the experience that you desire so my best recommendation is to just come on board and the Captain will let you know your options based on weather conditions and whats biting and together you can make a plan of action for the day.

It’s your day out, so you call the shots! Fish your way, and make the trip truly yours.

 We are lucky to be able to catch pretty much the same species year round but there are some months that we are better than others for certain species.

Yes! However, since each boat is in a different location, please just ask the Captain where you can take your fish to have it prepared. Some boats have a restaurant at the marina and some do not and you will need to take a taxi to a restaurant that the Captain suggests.

 If you want to take the fish to your hotel to have it prepared there, please check with the Chef of the hotel to ensure it’s okay, you don’t want to bring fish back to the hotel just to find out they won’t prepare it for you.

 Whatever fish you do not take, the Captain and Crew will divide it between themselves to share with their families and friends. No fish goes to waste!

 We do not assist with fish shipping back home. The best fish is fresh fish and we recommend that you have your fresh fish prepared for you the same day or day after your trip if you have the ability to keep it cold.

Non-Refundable Policy

• 1. Cancellations less than 7 days before your trip are non-refundable.
  2. If you don’t show up for your trip, you will not be issued a refund. (NO SHOW, NO REFUND)
  3. There are no refunds once you leave the dock if you get sea sick or if you think the seas are too rough. We will advise you before the trip on sea conditions.

Refundable Policy

• 1. Deposits are refundable due to cancellations because of Port Closure due to foul weather conditions. (The weather can still be rough but if the port is open, the trip will remain on schedule but ultimately will be up to the Captain to cancel the trip for bad weather for everyone’s safety.)
  2. Also, you will receive a refund if the trip is canceled due to an issue with the boat.
      *Boats sometimes break down or have mechanical issues that are unexpected. 9 times out of 10 we have a back up boat ready in-case this happens. The back up boat is not always the same price, therefore we will send photos and pricing of new boat and let you decide what you would like to do.
  3. You will have up to 7 days before the trip to cancel for any personal reasons. For any and all refunds there is a 10% administrative fee for payment processing.

At Don Chingon Charters, we prioritize not just the excitement of the trip, but also your safety and comfort. That’s why Captain Travis takes a proactive approach to weather monitoring.

A few days before your scheduled trip, Captain Travis will update you on the weather forecast. We understand that the perfect fishing experience requires ideal conditions, so if the weather looks unfavorable, we’ll make every effort to reschedule your trip for a day with better weather.

However, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans, and if poor weather persists during your planned trip, we may have to cancel. We know this can be disappointing, but your safety is our top concern. In the event of a weather-related cancellation, we assure you a hassle-free refund process. You’ll receive a full refund, minus a nominal 10% of your deposit to cover administrative fees and wire transfer costs.

We believe in transparency and fairness in all our dealings, and this policy is designed to protect both your interests and the operational aspects of our business. So, when you book with Don Chingon Charters, rest assured that you’re in good hands – come rain or shine!

Stay tuned to our blog for more insights and updates from the world of deep-sea fishing with Captain Travis and the team. Happy fishing, and here’s to clear skies and calm seas! 🌊🎣

When planning the perfect fishing charter in Cancun, it’s important to choose a service that truly understands your needs and desires. That’s where Captain Travis and Don Chingon Charters come in. We’ve built our reputation around meeting and exceeding our customers’ expectations in every aspect of their fishing adventure.

Imagine setting sail on the beautiful waters of Cancun with some of the most experienced and tournament-winning captains and crews. That’s exactly what you get with Captain Travis’ fleet. We’re committed to providing you with the ultimate fishing experience.

One of the key factors in a successful fishing trip is the weather. With us, you won’t have to worry about that. Captain Travis personally keeps an eye on the forecast and communicates with you directly. If the weather looks unfavorable, we’ll proactively offer to reschedule or refund your trip. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities, unlike other companies that might disregard weather concerns.

We understand that planning a trip can be overwhelming, which is why we offer the support of an English-speaking logistics coordinator. This ensures that every detail of your trip is handled smoothly and efficiently. Our state-of-the-art reservation system guarantees your booking details are accurate, your payments are secure, and your experience is hassle-free. You’ll receive an automated email confirmation with all the necessary trip details, and our system prevents double bookings, ensuring you get the day you prefer.

At Don Chingon Charters, we’re not just about fishing; we’re about creating an unforgettable experience. From the moment you reach out to us, you’ll be treated with the utmost respect and professionalism. We pride ourselves on our prompt communication and transparency – there are no hidden fees or last-minute surprises with us.

Captain Travis has orchestrated thousands of trips and is well-equipped to answer any questions and solve any issues that may arise. From your first inquiry to the moment you step aboard, Captain Travis will be there to guide you, ensuring your fishing trip with family and friends is nothing short of perfect.

Choose us for your next fishing adventure in Cancun, and let us show you what makes Don Chingon Charters a cut above the rest!

You will depart the hotel in the morning whether it be by taxi or pre-arranged transport with us.

You will arrive to the marina where the Capt. and or representative of the company will greet you.

You will then be asked to (pay the balance) of the trip at this time. You will board the boat and the Capt. and Crew will introduce themselves and you will be able to speak with the captain to make a plan for the day based off of the previous days fishing report, weather/sea conditions as well as the length of your trip will all be factors in what the plan of the day will be and which fish you’ll target and where you will go. If you prefer a certain style of fishing or if your looking for a certain species, just tell the captain and he will advise you on what the options could be.

 After you get acquainted with the Capt., and Crew, you will head out to a shallow area to troll sabiki to catch hardtail for live bait. Finding bait is never guaranteed, as well as the time to find them and catch enough. It can take 5 min to an hour sometimes but its well worth it to have some live bait in your arsenal once your offshore. After you find and catch some live blue runners, you will continue your way to deeper water, to the hunting grounds.

 You will get to experience the different styles and fishing techniques commonly used in our area like trolling, live bait, drifting, bottom fishing and jigging! I would always recommend taking the Captain’s advice but if you prefer a certain style of fishing, please feel free to tell the Captain what you would like to do and he will make it happen. 

The Captain will always have the final say when it comes to safety but you’re paying for this trip so we will cater to you in every way possible.  Talk with the captain once you arrive at the boat and he will let you know what has been biting and what he recommends and together you can make a plan if you have any fishing style preferences or bucket list fish you are wanting to target.

 After you return to the marina, please let the Captain know what you would like to do with the fish. Your options are….

• Give it to the crew for them to split up and share amongst their friends and family. The crew always appreciates bringing fish home for their families.
• Have some fish fileted and cooked at the restaurant at the dock/marina.
• Take the fish home with you. (come prepared, we do not assist in packing or shipping your fish)
   After you eat or have your filets and you are ready to go, you are finished with your adventure and you can head back to your hotel.

Cancun is safe for tourists.  The media hypes everything up and what you read on the internet is not always the real story, you have nothing to worry about as long as you stick to some basic rules:

1. Don’t get super intoxicated and go somewhere you are unfamiliar with.
2. Only trust reliable sources for information or help… Like me, Capt. Travis.
3. Don’t Buy Drugs
4. Just be smart and aware of your surroundings just as you would anywhere else.

That’s all you have to do to be careful in Cancun. Same as anywhere else back home in the States. However, you can trust in Don Chingon Charters and Capt. Travis to provide a 100% safe and secure adventure for you and your group.

You may take the fish home with you in your checked or carry on if you would like but I recommend being fully prepared for this which includes some needed supplies.  

Airlines require everything to be 100% leak-proof and the supplies listed below will help you achieve this. 

1. Suran/Plastic wrap to wrap the individual filets to prevent freezer burn and leaks.
2. Gallon size ziploc freezer bags.
3. Medium sized soft insulated cooler bag 
4. Freezable gel packs

*Also, you must have a way to FREEZE and STORE your FISH! 

I recommend checking with the hotel if they can assist you before going through all the trouble bringing the supplies down here.  *We do not assist in freezing or prepping your fish so this is all up to you if this is what you’d like to do.  

I can only speak for myself and my experience when flying to Texas with my properly frozen and packed filets.  I have done it many times and if you do it the right way your filets will stay frozen for up to 6-8 hours.

Try to bring as little as possible and if traveling in a group, try to consolidate everything into as few bags as you can. Some things to bring are…

1. Towel – This is an excellent towel to travel with.. Light weight, quick dry, doesn’t take much space.
2. Reef Friendly Sunscreen – Buy this non-toxic sunscreen and help us protect our reefs.
3. Waterproof Phone Case  – This is an excellent case to protect your phone for your trip.
4. Quick Dry Long Sleeve Shirt  – When sunscreen just isn’t enough, a shirt like this will keep you protected from the sun.
5. Tumbler – Great for the resort and the boat! No one likes to run out of drinks!
6. Dry Bag – Great for the pool and to bring on the boat to keep your things safe and dry!
7. Camera
8. Hat
9. Sandals
10. Phone
11. Sunscreen
12. Sunglasses
13. Hat
14. Long sleeve sport fishing polyester shirt with UV protection.
15. Waterproof shoes or sandals
16. Bathing Suit
17. Rain Jacket if forecasts say there’s a chance of rain
18. Cash for tips and/or taxis 
19. Snacks if you would like (you can add box lunch at time of checkout

All deposits are taken with all major credit cards including American Express and Apple Pay.

Remaining balances must be paid in cash, if you do not bring cash please expect to pay 10% credit card fee.  We also believe that 10% is high but so are taxes… Mexico sales tax is 16% so for all credit card transactions, that’s what we have to pay so cash is better for all of us.

Some of my clients have expressed concern of bringing and carrying cash in Mexico but I can assure you that you have a better chance of winning the lottery than you do of getting mugged here.

After 10 years of living and doing business in Cancun, myself nor any of my clients have ever had any issues with safety.  Also, all hotels have lock boxes in the rooms.

Please be sure to bring enough cash to pay for transportation, trip balance and tips.