Yacht Charter Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules of Life Onboard
First-time guests often worry about getting things 'wrong' onboard. The truth is gentler than you'd think — but a few things are good to know.
Yacht charter etiquette isn't elaborate. There's no dress code, no test, no secret handshake. But there are a handful of conventions that make life onboard smooth for everyone — and knowing them in advance means you arrive relaxed instead of self-conscious. These are the five that actually matter.
Shoes off — bare feet or soft soles only
The first rule almost everywhere: no street shoes on deck. Hard soles and heels mark and damage teak and pristine surfaces. Most guests go barefoot, or wear soft, light-soled deck shoes. The crew will guide you on day one, gently.
Pack soft-soled shoes and expect to be barefoot often. It's part of the pleasure.Our founder, on the water
The crew — warm, but let them keep their roles
The crew are professionals, not staff to be commanded nor friends to be over-familiar with. Treat them with warmth and respect, let them do their jobs, and you'll find they anticipate your needs beautifully. A good rapport makes the week; blurred lines quietly complicate it.
Friendly and gracious is perfect. They'll match your energy while keeping things seamless.Our founder, on the water
The gratuity — customary, and simpler than it seems
A crew gratuity is expected at the end of a yacht charter — typically 10–15% of the base yacht charter fee, given to the captain to share among the team. It reflects the service of the whole week, not any single moment.
Budget for it from the start, and hand it to the captain discreetly on the final day. Cash or wire transfer is fine; the captain will tell you what's most practical.
Just ask — you can ask for far more than you'd think
Want to change the itinerary, eat later, stop for a swim, have a particular drink at sunset, dine on shore tonight? Ask. Within reason of weather and safety, the answer is almost always yes — delighting you is the entire point. The only real mistake is staying quiet and missing out.
If you're wondering 'can we...?' — ask. The crew would far rather you did.Our founder, on the water
The captain decides on safety — and that's a gift
You set the wishes; the captain sets what's safe. If they move an anchorage at 2am, change plans for weather, or say no to something, it's always for good reason. Trusting that judgement is part of being a gracious guest — and it keeps everyone safe.
A captain's 'no' is rare, and always in your interest. Trust it.
The golden rule? Simply be gracious.
Beyond a few practicalities, etiquette onboard is just ordinary good manners and a little trust in the crew. Be warm, be honest about what you want, and let them take care of the rest. That's the whole secret.
Talk to the FounderQuick answers
Is there a dress code on a yacht charter?+
Very rarely. Days are casual — swimwear, kaftans, shorts, linen. Evenings vary by guest preference, from barefoot dinners on deck to smart-casual ashore. The crew dress smartly; you don't need to match.
How much should I tip a yacht charter crew?+
The industry standard is 10–15% of the base yacht charter fee, paid in cash or by wire to the captain on the final day to distribute among the crew.
Should I bring gifts for the yacht charter crew?+
Not necessary, and not expected. A generous gratuity, kind words and a positive review are far more meaningful than gifts.
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