Newsletter    « Return to the Newsletter   On-Board Etiquette Simple on-board rules will help you be at ease on your charter vacation. Remember your last charter? You were king or queen for the entire cruise. The crew brought you whatever you requested as you sat back and soaked in the rays and the service. Did you ever feel you may have " crossed the line?" Your crew will be truly appreciative if you keep these few points in mind. Those who are educated in the finer points of yachting etiquette and protocol can take comfort in knowing that they have been a first-class guest! • Ask permission to come aboard Stepping on board a yacht is like entering someone's home. You should ask the captain for permission to board. Simply asking, "Permission to come aboard?" will be much appreciated, not to mention that you will start your vacation off on the right foot with your captain. • Remove shoes when boarding It is courtesy to take off your shoes when boarding. The yacht is owned by someone who probably takes great pride in their investment. The deck surface is generally highly maintenance, and can be easily damaged by heels. Always pack soft-soled shoes. • Bring soft luggage Remember, you are on board a yacht. Think small! As a courtesy to the other guests, the crew, and respecting the lack of space, pack lightly in soft luggage that can be easily stowed aboard the yacht. • Don't waste fresh water There is nothing like a cold, refreshing glass of ice water when you've been in the sun all day. On a yacht, there are a certain number of gallons of fresh water aboard. It is important that each guest aboard respect the regulations regarding the use of fresh water. • Don't enter the galley unless invited We all have great curiosity as to where the crew is creating all these exceptional meals. Don't barge in and expect to be greeted with a huge smile, especially when meals are being prepared. Ask for permission for a galley tour ahead of time. They will be ever so grateful! • Tip the crew It is considered proper etiquette to tip your crew from 15-20% of the charter fee based upon the quality of services rendered. It is customary for the charter party to leave the gratuity with the captain, with suggestions on how it should be distributed. Take the entire crew into account when determining your tip. Reprinted from International Yacht Vacations & Charters:Volume 1 Issue 3 | 2004. Original Article by Melissa Leonard