Yacht Charter Etiquette
A GUIDE TO PROPER CONDUCT ON A YACHT
T H E D O ’ S
01 Honor Your Space: Treat the yacht as if it were your own home. The crew is dedicated to ensuring your comfort, and the boat owner will greatly appreciate the care you show for their property.
02 Show Appreciation to the Crew: Always address the crew with courtesy. A kind word or gesture goes a long way, as each member is there to ensure your vacation is exceptional.
03 Pay Attention to Safety Briefings: Your safety is the top priority for both the captain and crew. Participate attentively in the safety briefing regarding life jackets and rafts—this is crucial for compliance with maritime regulations and insurance policies.
04 Allow Time for Crew Duties: Give the crew the opportunity to clean and maintain the yacht while you enjoy onshore activities like exploring or shopping. If you can’t leave the boat, try to allow them some time to perform their tasks while you relax in the sun or swim.
05 Supervise Your Children: Always keep an eye on your kids. Parents hold the responsibility for their safety, especially around water.
06 Be Open to Itinerary Changes: While your captain and crew will strive to follow your planned itinerary, safety comes first. Be flexible, as weather conditions may require adjustments to your plans.
07 Consider Tipping the Crew: A customary tip ranges from 10% for larger yachts (over 30m) to 15% for smaller ones. This is ultimately at your discretion and can be adjusted based on your level of satisfaction. You can present the tip in an envelope to the captain for equitable distribution among the crew, unless you specify otherwise.
08 Have a Great Time: Ultimately, your yacht charter is about relaxation and enjoyment. Embrace the experience and make the most of it!
T H E D O N T ’ S
01 Remember the Barefoot Policy: Shoes are generally not permitted on the yacht to protect the deck and prevent scuff marks. Embrace the barefoot lifestyle while onboard!
02 Adhere to Smoking Policies: Smoking is permitted only in specific outdoor areas of the yacht. We appreciate your cooperation in following this guideline to help keep the atmosphere enjoyable for all guests.
03 Respect Crew-Only Areas: Certain spaces, such as the galley and crew cabins, are off-limits to guests. Please respect their privacy and only enter these areas if invited.
04 Be Mindful of Toilet Usage: Yacht toilets, known as “heads,” function differently from regular ones. Follow the crew’s instructions carefully to avoid issues. Many yachts prohibit flushing items like baby wipes or even toilet paper, so use the provided bins for disposal. This is standard practice, and the crew will handle the waste promptly.
05 Avoid Causing Damage: Take care to prevent any damage to the yacht and its equipment. If any accidents occur, report them to the crew immediately.
06 Adhere to Legal Guidelines: Illegal activities are strictly prohibited aboard yachts. Engaging in such actions can lead to severe consequences, including seizure of the yacht and termination of your charter. The captain and crew will not hesitate to return you to shore if any unlawful behavior is detected.
07 Respect Crew Rest Periods: The crew works hard, often rising early to prepare for your day. It’s important to allow them to rest after 11:30 PM (midnight at the latest). Your cooperation ensures they can provide you with excellent service throughout your trip.
THE LAST & MORE IMPORTANT
Don’t forget the main reason you are there, and that is to have fun, relax and enjoy your time.
Don’t get caught up thinking about too many rules, the crew is always there to give a friendly reminder.
So kick off your shoes, relax, and enjoy the luxury and beauty of a yacht charter.
