As you prepare for your vacation on a yacht charter rental, you may be curious about proper etiquette on board the vessel. While a yacht charter is all about exploration and freedom, there are a few ground rules that guests should be aware of. These guidelines are in place to help make your stay more enjoyable. So, whether you are a guest of the person chartering the yacht or the charterer themselves, knowing how to conduct yourself is essential to your stay. By sticking to these guidelines you’ll ensure a better relationship with your charter’s crew. In this blog post, we will highlight some of the most basic etiquette rules for a yacht charter vacation. Follow along below to learn more.
What to Know Before Boarding the Vessel?
The first thing to remember is that, although the yacht is yours for the duration of the charter, it belongs to someone else and should be treated with the respect you’d show any private home. The crew will begin the trip with a safety briefing, and while it may seem routine, it’s essential. Yachts are powerful vehicles, and even the calmest waters pose potential risks. The captain and crew are there to keep everyone safe, so paying attention to their instructions is critical. Asking questions if anything is unclear shows that you care about safety and helps establish good communication between you and the crew.
On board, you’ll find that different areas of the yacht serve different purposes. Respecting those boundaries will help maintain a pleasant environment. The galley, for example, is where the chefs prepare your meals, and it’s best to leave them to it unless you’ve been invited in. Generally, the crew areas are similarly off-limits. By giving the crew their space when needed, you ensure that they can continue delivering top-notch service throughout your trip.
When it comes to what to wear, yacht life is usually more casual than you might expect. While there may be occasions for formal wear, the general onboard vibe is relaxed. Many yachts follow a "barefoot rule" to protect the delicate teak decking. Shoes like high heels or ones with black soles can cause damage or leave marks. The crew will usually provide a place for your shoes as you board. Otherwise, it's common to sport bare feet or wear soft-soled shoes. Packing soft luggage is also recommended. Hard suitcases can be difficult to stow and might cause damage to the yacht's interior, so opting for a flexible, soft bag will make things easier for everyone.
How to be Respectful Onboard the Yacht
Once onboard the yacht, it's important to be mindful of the onboard schedule. While you may be eager to relax and enjoy yourself, respecting the captain’s planned itinerary is important for keeping things running smoothly. The captain knows the best times to arrive at different locations, when to leave ports, and how to optimize your time at sea based on weather conditions and local regulations. By adhering to the schedule, you’ll help ensure that the trip proceeds without unnecessary stress or delays.
Moreover, if you’re traveling with children, know that most crews are happy to have them on board and will do their best to make sure they have a great time. However, it’s important to remember that crew members are not babysitters. They have multiple responsibilities to attend to, and if you need dedicated child care, it’s best to arrange for a nanny to be part of your party. Your charter broker can help confirm whether there is accommodation for a nanny on board if needed.
As for gratuities, according to the Worldwide Yachting Association, it’s customary to tip the crew at the end of the charter. The amount a party tips is usually around 5-15% of the charter fee, depending on their experience. The tip is given to the captain, who will then distribute it among the crew. While tipping is optional, it's a way to show appreciation for the crew's hard work and dedication during your stay.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the golden rule of any yacht charter is to relax and enjoy the experience. A happy and relaxed guest makes for a happy and efficient crew. By being mindful of the simple etiquette on board, you’ll ensure a great overall experience!
Contact us Today About a Yacht Charter Rental!
Whether you're adventuring to the North or exploring tropical islands, having great etiquette is essential in your yacht charter experience. By respecting the rules of the vessel, you can create a memorable experience that isn’t disrupted by conflict or minor issues onboard. Start planning your yacht adventure today and set sail on a journey through the open seas.