SUPERYACHT CHARTER ETIQUETTE

When you charter a superyacht, you get privacy along with customized service in a laid-back environment. However, that doesn’t mean there’s no etiquette at sea. Following these rules will ensure you have a stellar time onboard your chartered vessel. These simple do’s and don’ts will help you have the best sailing experience and keep you, your travel companions, and the crew happy.

 

Treat the yacht with care

Remember, you’re chartering this yacht. Damaging it can result in extra fees. So make yourself at home, and treat it with care.

 

Be kind to the crew

You might be the one with the big bucks to charter a yacht charter, but the crew has worked exceedingly hard to get to where they are in their careers too. They are all there with a job to do. Treat them with respect because you’re going to be with them the entire journey of your yacht charter. They can also be even more fun if you’re fun with them.

 

Plan all parties in advance

Your yacht charter is like a floating party full of luxury. When you step off it in one of your destinations and make new friends, it can be tempting to bring them all on board for cocktails and late-night snacks. However, springing a surprise like this on the chef and captain can result in an unforeseen shortage of food. Remember, you can customize your trip as you go along but giving your crew a heads up will ensure they’ve got you covered when you invite your newfound friends to party on the yacht.

 

Give the crew a chance to do their thing

Your crew is there to not only maneuver the yacht where you want it to go, but also to tend to the little things on the yacht for your luxury experience. That means doing the laundry, making your bed, and tidying up. Allow them to do what they need to do to make your experience amazing by taking time to relax on the upper deck or heading into town to see the sights. It’s much easier to make the beds when you’re not lazing about in them.

 

Make sure you are clear on the smoking policy

Most yacht charters forbid smoking inside the cabins. However, they usually have certain areas on the deck where you are permitted to smoke. If you smoke or someone in your party does, make sure you tell your yacht broker up front to ensure you rent a yacht that allows smoking. Be considerate when smoking on the yacht by only smoking in those designated areas and giving thought to where your smoke will blow so as not to disturb those that don’t smoke.

 

Go bare foot and love it

When you’re at sea, bare foot is the name of the game. Shoes are not permitted in the cabin, and many yachts may ask you not to wear shoes on the deck too. Whatever the case, your crew will set aside a basket at the end of the gangway or in front of the salon door for you to place your shoes. If your yacht charter does allow shoes on the deck, keep them limited to soft-soled shoes. Never wear stiletto heels or black-soled shoes that can damage the wood. It’s unbearable, pardon the pun.

 

Pay attention to safety briefings

Sure, you’re there to have fun, but the captain and crew have a job to do. Part of that job is navigating the boat and keeping you happy. The other part is keeping you safe. They will give you a briefing about safety equipment with the lifejackets and what to do in case you need to use the life rafts. Please listen first before going off and raiding the bar. It’s mandated by insurance as well as the maritime laws.

 

The crew doesn’t provide babysitting services

Children are welcome on most yacht charters, and crews always love interacting with kids and helping them to feel at home aboard the vessel. They also will have water toys, games, and videos that can entertain your kids. Despite this though, the crew does not provide babysitting services. If you’re bringing little ones with you, you’ll either need to care for them yourself, or you’ll need to bring your nanny.

 

Stay out of the crew areas

It’s impolite to intrude on the crew’s private quarters unless specifically invited to do so. The kitchen, known as the galley on a yacht, is no place for you when you have a full crew. Unless your chef invites you to come in, you should keep out. Don’t wander around the private cabins of your crew members. If you need something, they are easily reachable. If you’re hungry or want something to drink, the mini-fridges in your guest areas should be stocked with the things you’ve specified. This is exactly why you need to be specific with your broker so that if you absolutely MUST have a certain brand of vodka or you’ll go to pieces without Cool Ranch Doritos, these things will always be stocked, ready, and waiting for when the craving strikes.

 

The crew members aren’t your tour guides

Since Americans are a very informal bunch, the relationship between crew and clients tends to be more informal. However, in Europe, the crews are trained to be almost invisible unless called upon. No matter where you are in the world though, the crew is busy with their tasks, and those tasks don’t include being your sightseeing companion. They’ll help you get to and from the shore and can make the arrangements you want for when you get to shore, but other than that, you’re on your own. You can hire your tour guide if you wish once you arrive at your destinations.

 

Additionally, many vacationers want to invite the captain to join them on land for a meal, but most of the time, captains decline. You may have built up a fabulous rapport, but remember, the captain must do his job. Paperwork is astronomical for these guys, plus many of them want you to enjoy your vacation.

 

Take problems to the captain

If any problems arise, handling them yourself is a bad idea. Problems with the crew are rare, but if they occur, speak to the captain first. It’s his job and his authority to make it right. Besides, if you’ve spent the day drinking on the beach, it’s best left to the captain to handle things professionally.

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Follow the laws

You might be out at sea, but there is zero tolerance for illegal activities. The penalties are very strict, and the captain has an obligation to report you, or else the yacht could be seized, and he could lose the license he’s worked so hard for. Most countries have a penalty of jail time too so follow the laws at all times.

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By following these tips and rules, you’ll have a much better experience. It’s going to be an epic time so get out there and enjoy it!