What are the basic rules of etiquette on a charter yacht?

Answer

The basic principle is to respect the yacht, crew and other guests.

This normally means following the crew’s safety instructions, respecting footwear and smoking policies, treating furnishings and equipment carefully, observing reasonable noise levels and following instructions concerning water toys and other onboard equipment.

The crew will explain any yacht-specific rules.

Analysis

A private yacht is both a luxury accommodation environment and a working vessel. Some practices that are perfectly normal in a hotel may not be appropriate onboard.

Most yacht etiquette is straightforward once the reason behind the rules is understood.

Broker’s advice

You don’t need to learn a long list of yacht rules before boarding. The crew will guide you. Common sense, respect for the yacht and listening to the captain are generally enough.