General Terms and Conditions
Table of Contents
- Definitions
- Applicability and acceptance of the general terms and conditions
- Conclusion and amendment of the agreement
- Personal data and privacy
- Reservations, rates and payment
- Changes, Cancellations, and Refunds
- Gift cards, discount codes and vouchers
- User Code of Conduct and Responsibilities
- Liability and risk
- Complaints
- Force majeure
- Severability clause
- Applicable law and competent court
1. Definitions
1.1 User: Any person who enters into an agreement with Dobber and/or uses a Kayak or SUP rented by Dobber.
1.2 Dobber: The company Dobber, registered under company number 1005.783.595, located at Kortrijksesteenweg 689B, 9000 Ghent, Belgium. Reachable by email at ahoy@dobber.life.
1.3 Personal Data: All information that the user provides to Dobber under the user agreement.
1.4 Rental period: The period in which the material is made available to the user by Dobber.
1.5 Equipment: All items made available to the user by Dobber, including but not limited to kayaks, SUPs, paddles, life jackets and waterproof bags.
1.6 Voucher: A digital or physical document worth a certain amount that can be redeemed for services by Dobber.
2. Applicability and Acceptance of the General Terms and Conditions
2.1 These terms and conditions apply to all legal relationships between Dobber and any user with regard to the services offered by Dobber. The user's terms do not apply.
2.2 All provisions in these terms and conditions have also been drafted for the benefit of all Dobber directors and all persons who work for Dobber and/or have been engaged by Dobber.
2.3 Deviations from these general terms and conditions are only valid if they have been expressly agreed in writing by both parties.
2.4 Users will be notified by email about changes to these terms and conditions. The amended terms and conditions are deemed to have been agreed as soon as the user agrees to the terms again when making a subsequent reservation. These can be accessed at any time via https://www.dobber.life/algemene-voorwaarden.
2.5 The terms and conditions are accepted when making a reservation via the Dobber website. Without checking the terms and conditions, no reservation can be made.
2.6 Dobber's terms and conditions apply to all future transactions, including rental agreements that are transmitted orally, by phone, email or other electronic means.
2.7 Deviating terms and conditions of the user have no legal force unless they have been expressly accepted in writing by Dobber.
2.8 Dobber is only obliged to execute any agreement after delivery of a written order confirmation to the user.
2.9 The annulment of an article or clause never entails the nullity of the entire terms and conditions.
2.10 Objections or comments about the terms and conditions can be submitted in writing by e-mail to ahoy@dobber.life. Dobber undertakes to respond within 14 days of receiving the report.
3. Conclusion and Amendment of the Agreement
3.1 The user agreement is concluded when the user completes all requested information, accepts the terms and conditions, and makes payment via the specified payment methods, or when the user uses Dobber's facilities.
3.2 The terms and conditions and the user agreement jointly fully reflect the rights and obligations of Dobber and the user and replace all previous announcements, agreements and correspondence.
3.3 The user ensures that all necessary information is provided to Dobber in a timely and complete manner. Dobber's privacy policy is available on the website at https://www.dobber.life/privacybeleid.
3.4 If the user purchases additional products or services from Dobber, the terms of the user agreement and these terms and conditions remain applicable unless otherwise agreed in writing.
3.5 Dobber has the right to change the general terms and conditions unilaterally. Changes will be communicated and will be deemed to have been agreed upon as soon as the user agrees to the terms again when making a subsequent reservation.
3.6 A user who rents a kayak or SUP in their own name must be at least sixteen years old. The minimum age of users to participate in activities is 10 years, provided they have a swimming certificate and sufficient swimming skills that can reasonably be expected when using a kayak or SUP. Users under 16 must always be accompanied by a user who is over 18 years old.
4. Personal Data and Privacy
4.1 Dobber processes the user's personal data in accordance with applicable privacy laws.
4.2 Personal data requested and processed by Dobber includes, but is not limited to, the following information: name, email address, telephone number, address, and date of birth.
4.3 This personal data is only used for the execution of the agreement and is not provided to third parties without the user's consent.
4.4 Dobber's processing of personal data is in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (AVG, better known under GDPR law) and Dobber's Privacy Policy, available at https://www.dobber.life/privacybeleid.
4.5 Dobber may make images for promotional purposes, unless the user explicitly objects to this.
5. Reservations, Rates and Payment
5.1 The costs for separate rentals must be paid prior to use via the specified payment methods. A reservation is only final after receipt of payment.
5.2 Dobber reserves the right to change prices and rates. Users will be notified in advance of any price changes.
5.3 The prices on the Dobber platform are final prices including statutory sales tax. The rates are as follows:
SUP rates
1 hour: €14.99
1.5 hours: €19.99
2 hours: €24.99
3 hours: €32.99
4 hours: €39.99
Solo Kayak rates
1 hour: €14.99
1.5 hours: €19.99
2 hours: €24.99
3 hours: €32.99
4 hours: €39.99
Duo Kayak rates
1 hour: €18.99
1.5 hours: €23.99
2 hours: €28.99
3 hours: €36.99
4 hours: €43.99
5.4 After payment, the user will receive a confirmation email with reservation information and instructions for retrieving and using the equipment.
5.5 It is possible to make reservations for multiple users at the same time. The user who makes the reservation is responsible for booking and opening the locker. For large groups, Dobber offers special activities and team buildings.
5.6 Discounts and promotions are subject to specific terms and conditions as stated in the promotional communication.
5.7 Legal entities with a VAT number can request a VAT invoice at checkout.
6. Changes, Cancellations and Refunds
6.1 Changes can be made up to one hour before the start of the rental period by email, telephone or via the contact form. The change can be made free of charge, subject to another available vessel, time or day.
6.2 You can cancel up to one hour before the start of the rental period without giving a reason. In case of cancellation, the user will receive a voucher worth the original reservation. This voucher is valid for 1 year and can be used to make a new reservation.
6.3 Once the rental period has started, the reservation cannot be changed or canceled under any circumstances.
6.4 If the user does not show up without cancellation, no additional costs will be charged. In that case, the amount already paid for renting a kayak or SUP will not be recovered.
6.5 Dobber reserves the right to cancel the contract unilaterally in the event of double bookings or extraordinary circumstances, including bad weather (extreme gusts, hailstorms, cold snap), technical problems, safety risks, government regulations, or unexpected events such as fire or flood. In such cases, the full amount will be refunded to the user.
6.6 If Dobber cancels the reservation, the full amount will be refunded to the user. Refunds are made via bank transfer and deposited into the user's account within one week.
6.7 All changes and cancellations must be confirmed by Dobber via email. Users must keep the confirmation as proof of the change or cancellation.
7. Gift Cards, Discount Codes and Vouchers
7.1 Gift cards can be purchased and personalized online. After purchase, the user will receive a voucher via email.
7.2 Vouchers can be redeemed at checkout and are valid at all locations for a period of 1 year from date of receipt. Any remaining balance can be used in a subsequent session. Only one discount code can be used per transaction.
7.3 Vouchers and discount codes cannot be redeemed for cash or partial refunds. When cancelling a booking with a voucher, the user receives a new voucher worth the original amount.
7.4 Vouchers and discount codes are not named and are therefore transferable.
7.5 Dobber is not responsible for the loss or theft of gift cards and vouchers.
7.6 Business customers can receive an invoice for the purchase of gift cards.
7.7 Specific actions and the associated conditions are clearly communicated in the promotional communication.
8. User Code of Conduct and Responsibilities
8.1 General Rules
8.1.1 The user declares that he has informed himself about the local rules for sailing on and using the waterways, as provided by Dobber both online and offline in communication (https://qrco.de/bf5UZQ). The user undertakes to strictly comply with these rules.
8.1.2 The user declares to be fit, healthy and has swimming skills that can reasonably be expected when using a kayak or SUP.
8.1.3 The minimum age to participate in activities is 10 years, provided you have a swimming certificate and have swimming skills that can reasonably be expected when using a kayak or SUP.
8.1.4 The minimum age required to rent a kayak or SUP independently is 16 years. People under 16 must always be accompanied by an adult.
8.1.5 The mere use of the kayak or SUP implies that the user declares that he meets the above requirements. Business and private customers must ensure that all other group members also have this personal eligibility.
8.1.6 Any violation will be fined in accordance with applicable legal provisions.
8.2 Safety
8.2.1 Kayakers are required to wear a life jacket at all times.
8.2.2 Suppers must wear their safety leashes around their ankle or leg at all times.
8.2.3 Dobber reserves the right to exclude participants who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs from participation.
8.2.4 In case of serious emergencies, the user must call emergency services (112) and then inform Dobber via the hotline (0466903285).
8.3 Use of materials
8.3.1 The user must check the rented equipment for damage upon receipt and report any damage immediately. If Dobber does not receive a notification within the first 10 minutes of the session, it is assumed that the material is in good condition and ready to use.
8.3.2 Damage to material caused by the user must be reported before ending the session. Damage that goes beyond normal use must be reimbursed.
8.3.3 The material must be treated carefully and returned neatly to the locker within the agreed rental period.
8.3.4 By material, we mean the entire contents of the locker, which varies by type of activity:
- SUP: 1 sup board with SUP paddle, fin and leash and waterproof bag.
- Solo Kayak: one person kayak with kayak paddle, life jacket and waterproof bag.
- Duo Kayak: double kayak with 2 kayak paddles, 2 life jackets and 2 waterproof bags.
8.3.5 If the material is returned late, an additional fee of €10.00 per locker will be charged per half hour. For this purpose, a payment link will be sent. After payment, the user gets access to the locker. Call us in advance if you notice that you are not getting back to the locker in time so that we can inform the next user. This can be done at the number: 0466903285.
8.4 Dealing with Damage and Loss
8.4.1 If users are unable to start their sessions because material is missing or damaged, Dobber will provide replacement. If this is not possible, the user can cancel the contract or demand a price reduction.
8.4.2 Users must protect their valuables against loss and water damage. Electrical devices must be stored in the appropriate waterproof bag. Dobber is not responsible for loss or damage to personal property.
8.4.3 The last user is responsible for damage to or loss of material (all items listed in 8.4.5) Once the first 10 minutes of your session have elapsed, you become the last user of the material. Until the next user indicates that the material is in order, you are responsible for damage or loss.
8.4.4 In the case of groups, the user who made the reservation is responsible for payment and further processing of the fee.
8.4.5 Costs in case of loss or damage. Kayak and sup prices vary depending on the actual depreciation value:
- Paddle kayak: €50
- Paddle SUP: €75
- Waterproof bag: €20
- Life jacket: €35
- Leash: €30
- Wine: €50
- Sup board: €350-€500
- Kayak 1 person: €350-€500
- Kayak 2 people: €450-€600
8.5 Rules of conduct on the Water
8.5.1 Users are obliged to use the areas indicated by Dobber to enter and leave the water. These are always clearly displayed on the location page.
8.5.2 Users should always give priority to ships, as they have limited visibility and cannot stop quickly.
8.5.3 Users must keep to the right at all times, both when sailing and when passing oncoming traffic. Waterways must be crossed straight and smoothly to avoid dangerous situations.
8.5.4 Users should avoid locks intended for large ships. The water must be left at the indicated locations and locks must be crossed on foot.
8.5.5 Users must check the weather before leaving and should never go out on the water in case of strong wind or storm.
8.5.6 Users must respect nature by leaving no waste behind and admiring wildlife from a distance.
8.5.7 Users are not allowed to urinate. Public toilets and catering facilities are available. If necessary, ask for the location of these facilities.
8.6 Pets
8.6.1 Pets such as dogs are allowed on the kayak or SUP, but the owner is always and without exception responsible for injuries or damage to the equipment, animal or third parties.
9. Liability and Risk
9.1 The use of Dobber facilities, including kayaks and SUPs, is at the user's sole risk. The user accepts the risks of kayaking and SUPing, including possible drowning risks.
9.2 The user is responsible for the rented equipment and should treat it as a prudent and reasonable person. Any defects must be reported immediately upon receipt. Damage to the material caused by the user or third parties must be reported and reimbursed before the end of the session.
9.3 The user is liable for all damage to the rented equipment and for damage caused to third parties by using the rented material. Dobber assumes no liability for material and immaterial damage, loss or theft of user and/or third party property.
9.4 In the case of group rentals, the user who made the reservation is liable for damage caused by fellow users. Pets are allowed on the kayak or SUP, but the user is always responsible for damage to the equipment, the animal or third parties.
9.5 The user declares to comply with all applicable laws and regulations when using the rented material. In the event of a violation, the user indemnifies Dobber against all claims, damage, costs or interest arising from the unlawful use of the products or services.
9.7 Use of the material under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances is prohibited. Dobber is not liable for damage resulting from this.
9.8 Dobber is responsible for the proper functioning of the SUP & Kayak machine and for providing high-quality, safe equipment and clear instructions for use. Dobber assumes no liability for incidents during the transport, use or otherwise manipulation of the material outside the direct control of the machine.
9.12 Dobber is only liable for breach of duty if, according to the legal provisions, the intentional or grossly negligent conduct of its agents or legal representatives is attributed. In such cases, Dobber is liable up to the amount paid out by the insurer. Dobber is never liable for indirect damage, consequential damage, immaterial damage or business loss.
9.10 The exclusions and limitations of liability set out in this article also apply to Dobber's subordinates and anyone else whose assistance Dobber makes use of in executing the participant agreement.
9.9 User compensation claims expire one year after they arise, except for intentional and gross negligence claims.
10. Complaints
10.1 Complaints must be submitted to Dobber in a fully and clearly described manner within a reasonable time.
10.2 Complaints will be answered within 14 days. If the processing time is longer, the user will be informed.
11. Force majeure
11.1 Dobber is not liable for any delay, damage, or disadvantage resulting from circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, fire, floods, strikes, riots, terrorism, war, government measures, technical failures, or transportation problems.
11.2 If Dobber is unable to fulfil its obligations due to force majeure, it will immediately inform the user and make every effort to reasonably change or cancel the rental agreement, without this leading to Dobber's liability.
11.3 The user understands and accepts that force majeure situations are unpredictable and beyond Dobber's control. Dobber will make reasonable efforts to assist the user in finding an alternative solution in the event of force majeure.
11.4 Termination of the agreement due to weather conditions that prevent the performance of the service (including wind gusts over 20 km/h, hailstorms, or a cold wave) can be discussed in advance as an option and can take place at no additional cost.
12. Severability clause
12.1 If any provision of these terms and conditions is declared invalid, void or unenforceable in whole or in part by a competent court or authority, the rest of the terms and conditions will remain in full force and effect.
12.2 The parties will negotiate in good faith to replace the invalid or unenforceable provision with a valid and enforceable provision that is as close as possible to the original intent of the invalid provision.
12.3 This severability clause is intended to ensure the validity and enforceability of the terms and conditions, even if individual clauses are found to be invalid or unenforceable.
12.4 In the event of legal changes, court decisions, or other circumstances that render a provision invalid or void, the parties undertake to jointly agree, in line with the principle of good faith, a new provision that is as close as possible to the meaning and purpose of the invalid provision.
13. Applicable Law and Competent Judge
13.1 These terms and conditions are governed by Belgian law.
13.2 Disputes are submitted to the competent court in Belgium, with the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Ghent.
13.3 In the event of a dispute, both parties first try to reach a solution through negotiations. If no amicable settlement is reached, the dispute will be submitted to the competent court in Ghent.
Last change: 02/03/2025
