Weddings

Chartering refers to renting a private space on the ship for a specific group or event, which provides an exclusive alternative to purchasing individual tickets for a public cruise. While the option exists to charter the entire vessel for very large events, the most common practice is chartering a single deck. This arrangement grants your group private access to a specific indoor level and its corresponding outdoor space, ensuring that only your invited guests are permitted in those reserved areas while the rest of the ship may remain open to other passengers.

Essentially, to charter is to transition from being a passenger on a public outing to being the host of a private, customized event on Lake Champlain.

The charter rate is an all-inclusive rate that covers the facility fee for a private event, including the use of the deck, a dance floor, and several hours of cruising.  The rate also includes all tables, chairs, linens, china, and glassware—there's no need to rent your own!  

This rate also encompasses professional staffing—such as waitstaff, bar staff, and a United States Coast Guard-certified captain—as well as the setup and cleanup of tables, chairs, linens, china, and glassware. 

This rate does not include food and beverage options, entertainment, specialty linens, or service charges.  

The Spirit of Ethan Allen is the exclusive on-board caterer for all events.  The ship features a professional, full-service galley and an executive chef who prepares all meals fresh on-site. The company maintains total control over food and alcohol service to ensure compliance with licensing and health regulations, which would be compromised by outside catering or snacks.

To accommodate guests with dietary restrictions, the ship’s culinary team provides a variety of options including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free meals, though we remind you that we are not a celiac-certified facility. There are several pre-set buffet or plated menus that can be chosen for your event, or ask your Salesperson for custom menu options. If you have specific allergy concerns, please notify us well in advance so the kitchen can prepare accordingly.

The Spirit of Ethan Allen does offer dessert options though our on-board galley and dessert staff.  However, for private charter events, we do allow cakes and desserts to be brought on-board if prepared and delivered by a licensed bakery.

You are more than welcome to bring your own entertainment aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen for a private charter. The ship has a long-standing partnership with SuperSounds DJ and can handle the booking for you at a slight discount.  

You are also welcome to hire outside DJs, live bands, string duos, or other performers. If you do plan to hire outside entertainment, please check with our Sales team regarding space limitations.  Also, outside vendors must bring their own speakers, mixers, microphones, and cables and cannot interface with the ship's systems.

If you aren't looking for a traditional DJ or band, the ship also allows for themed entertainment and interactive activities like photo booths or karaoke to be brought on board.