Being invited aboard a yacht is a special privilege, whether it’s a friend’s sailboat, a corporate charter, or a luxury superyacht. Understanding proper yacht etiquette ensures you’re a welcome guest who respects the vessel, the crew, and your host. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to navigate your yacht experience with confidence and grace.
Before You Board
Confirm Details in Advance
Always confirm your arrival time, departure location, and what to bring. Yachts operate on tight schedules, especially those that are chartered. Being late can disrupt the entire day’s itinerary and inconvenience everyone aboard.
Pack Appropriately
Bring soft-sided luggage only. Hard-shell suitcases damage teak decks and don’t fit in compact yacht cabins. A duffel bag or soft backpack is ideal. Pack light, yacht storage is limited, and you’ll likely spend most of your time in swimwear and casual attire.
Ask About Provisions
Check whether you should bring food, drinks, or specific items. On private yachts, hosts often appreciate contributions. On chartered yachts with crew, provisions are typically handled, but confirming preferences shows thoughtfulness.
The Golden Rule: Footwear
The Non-Negotiable Shoe Policy
This is the most important rule of yacht etiquette: no street shoes on deck. Ever. The soles of street shoes damage teak decks, track dirt and oils, and can scratch fiberglass. This rule applies to all yachts, from small sailboats to superyachts.
What to Wear Instead
- Bare feet: Always acceptable and often preferred
- Boat shoes: Non-marking rubber soles specifically designed for marine use (Sperry, Sebago)
- Deck shoes: Flat, non-marking athletic shoes approved by your host
- Never: High heels, black-soled shoes, flip-flops with hard soles, or any street footwear
The Procedure
Leave your street shoes at the boarding area or gangway. Most yachts provide a designated shoe storage area. If you must wear shoes aboard, bring your boat shoes in your bag and change after boarding.
Read More: What to Pack for a Cruise: The Real Essentials
Interacting with the Crew
Understand the Hierarchy
On crewed yachts, there’s a clear structure: Captain (ultimate authority), First Mate, Chef, Steward/Stewardess, and Deckhands. The captain makes all decisions regarding safety, navigation, and itinerary changes.
Show Respect and Appreciation
- Address crew members by their names (ask if unsure)
- Say “please” and “thank you” consistently
- Acknowledge their expertise and hard work
- Compliment meals and service genuinely
Maintain Professional Boundaries
Crew members are working professionals, not your personal friends or servants. Be friendly but respectful. Don’t:
- Ask overly personal questions
- Expect crew to socialize during off-hours
- Flirt or make inappropriate comments
- Complain to crew about other guests or the owner
Let Crew Do Their Job
If a crew member offers to help with something, accept graciously. They’re trained professionals who know the vessel. Don’t:
- Adjust sails, lines, or equipment without permission
- Enter restricted areas (bridge, crew quarters, engine room)
- Attempt tasks you’re not qualified to do
- Second-guess the captain’s decisions
Tipping Etiquette
Charter Yachts with Professional Crew
Standard Rate: 15-20% of the charter fee, divided among crew members
How to Tip:
- Give tips at the end of your charter
- Use cash in local currency or US dollars
- Place in individual envelopes for each crew member (ask the captain for guidance on amounts)
- Alternatively, give a lump sum to the captain to distribute
Factors Affecting Tip Amount:
- Service quality (exceptional service warrants 20%+)
- Trip length and complexity
- Special accommodations or requests fulfilled
- Crew size and individual contributions
Private Yachts (Owner-Operated)
Owner’s Yacht: Do not tip the owner, but consider a thoughtful host gift (fine wine, specialty foods, or nautical items)
Owner’s Yacht with Crew: Tip crew members $50-200 per person, depending on service length and quality
Day Charters: $20-50 per crew member for day trips
When Tips Aren’t Expected
Some luxury charters include gratuity in the charter fee. Always ask beforehand to avoid awkwardness or duplicate tipping.
Read More: Staying Connected at Sea: Internet & Phone Tips
Dining and Galley Etiquette
Respect Meal Times
Yachts operate on schedules. Be punctual for meals. If you have dietary restrictions, communicate them well in advance, not when food is being served.
Galley Rules
The galley (kitchen) is the chef’s domain. Never:
- Enter without permission
- Help yourself to food or drinks unannounced
- Criticize food preparation methods
- Leave dirty dishes or messes
On smaller private yachts without crew, always ask before accessing the galley and clean up thoroughly after yourself.
Dining Manners
- Wait for everyone to be served before eating
- Keep conversations pleasant (avoid controversial topics)
- Offer to help clear dishes (crew will usually decline, but the offer is appreciated)
- Be mindful of alcohol consumption, overindulgence is disrespectful and potentially dangerous
Safety Basics Every Guest Must Know
Listen to the Safety Briefing
Pay close attention when the captain conducts the safety briefing. Know:
- Life jacket locations and how to use them
- Emergency procedures and muster points
- Location of fire extinguishers and first aid kits
- Radio protocols if applicable
- Man overboard procedures
Follow All Safety Instructions
When the captain says to put on a life jacket, do it immediately. When told to go below deck during rough weather, comply without argument. The captain’s word on safety is absolute.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
- Watch your head (yachts have low clearances)
- Hold on when moving about in choppy waters
- Stay seated when the yacht is underway unless necessary
- Keep hands and feet away from moving lines and equipment
- Never stand on the bow while docking or in rough seas
Hazards to Avoid
- The boom: The horizontal pole attached to the mast can swing suddenly and cause serious injury
- Lines and winches: Keep fingers, hair, and clothing away from moving lines
- Swimming: Only swim when the captain says it’s safe and the engines are off
- Alcohol and sun: The combination can be dangerous; stay hydrated and use sunscreen
Respecting the Vessel
Keep Everything Shipshape
Yachts require meticulous maintenance. Help maintain cleanliness:
- Rinse off salt water and sand before going below
- Keep belongings in your cabin, not strewn about
- Use towels designated for the deck vs. the cabin
- Report any damage or issues immediately
- Don’t hang wet towels or clothes on inappropriate fixtures
Water and Power Conservation
Yachts have limited fresh water and power:
- Take short showers (Navy showers: wet, soap, rinse)
- Turn off the lights and air conditioning when leaving your cabin
- Don’t leave water running
- Ask before charging multiple devices simultaneously
- Be mindful of water usage when washing dishes
What Goes Where
- Never flush anything except toilet paper (use marine-head toilets properly)
- Dispose of trash in designated containers
- Never throw anything overboard except in approved areas
- Respect recycling systems if in place
- Ask before moving or touching yacht equipment
Social Etiquette
Be a Gracious Guest
- Offer to help when appropriate (but don’t be offended if declined)
- Be flexible with itinerary changes (weather and conditions change plans)
- Keep complaints to yourself unless it’s a legitimate safety concern
- Don’t monopolize the best spots or amenities
- Share the experience – take photos, but don’t live behind your phone
Respect Privacy and Space
Yachts are close quarters:
- Keep noise levels reasonable, especially early morning and late night
- Respect cabin privacy (knock before entering)
- Be considerate in shared bathrooms
- Don’t eavesdrop on conversations
- Give others space to enjoy the experience
Guest Dynamics
- Be inclusive of all guests
- Avoid creating cliques or excluding others
- Help children understand and follow yacht rules
- Don’t bring uninvited guests
- Respect romantic couples’ desire for private moments
Special Situations
Seasickness
If you’re prone to seasickness:
- Take medication before boarding (not after symptoms start)
- Stay on deck and focus on the horizon
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals
- Tell the crew immediately if you’re feeling unwell
- Stay in fresh air if possible
Bad Weather
- Follow all instructions from the captain without question
- Stay out of the crew’s way during challenging conditions
- Remain positive and calm (anxiety spreads)
- Secure all loose items when asked
- Be prepared for itinerary changes
Technical Issues or Delays
Mechanical problems happen. Be patient, understanding, and avoid:
- Complaining or showing frustration
- Questioning the crew’s competence
- Demanding compensation or changes
- Posting negative comments on social media immediately
- Making the situation more stressful for everyone
Expressing Gratitude
During Your Stay
- Thank the crew throughout your trip for specific services
- Compliment excellent meals, smooth sailing, or special touches
- Show appreciation for the accommodations made for your preferences
After Your Departure
- Send a handwritten thank-you note to your host within a week
- For chartered yachts, consider leaving positive reviews online
- Send a thank-you email to the charter company, mentioning outstanding crew members by name
- Share photos with hosts and crew (with permission)
- If you had an exceptional experience, recommend the yacht or crew to others
The Perfect Guest Checklist
Before Boarding:
- ✓ Confirm all details and timing
- ✓ Pack soft-sided luggage
- ✓ Bring appropriate boat shoes
- ✓ Bring sunscreen, medications, and essentials
- ✓ Prepare cash for tipping
During Your Stay:
- ✓ Remove street shoes immediately
- ✓ Attend and pay attention to the safety briefing
- ✓ Be punctual for meals and activities
- ✓ Conserve water and power
- ✓ Keep your belongings organized
- ✓ Follow all crew instructions
- ✓ Be respectful, positive, and flexible
Before Departing:
- ✓ Clean and tidy your cabin
- ✓ Return all borrowed items
- ✓ Tip crew appropriately
- ✓ Thank everyone personally
- ✓ Take all personal belongings
After Departure:
- ✓ Send thank-you notes
- ✓ Leave positive reviews if applicable
- ✓ Share photos with hosts/crew
The Ultimate Rule
When in doubt, ask. It’s always better to ask a question than to make a mistake that could damage the vessel, endanger safety, or cause offense. Crew members and experienced yachters would rather answer a hundred questions than deal with one avoidable problem.
Remember, being a perfect yacht guest is being respectful, considerate, safety-conscious, and appreciative. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll not only be invited back but you’ll also have an incredible experience on the water.
Read More: How to Plan the Perfect Yacht Party
