- Blog
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by Admin
Owning a yacht feels like a unique mix of freedom, luxury – and responsibility. While you are free to explore the open seas and indulge in your private oasis on the water, as a yacht owner, you are also responsible for the vessel’s and everyone’s safety and well-being. You have to follow the maritime regulations, plan routes, be responsible for the yacht’s maintenance, and know the etiquette of how to deal with your crew and guests.
In this article, we will discuss some of the yachting etiquettes you must follow to make sure your voyage turns out to be a smooth and enjoyable experience for yourself, your crew, and fellow yachties.
Do:
- Be a considerate host. If you have guests on board, prioritise their comfort and enjoyment. Make sure everyone knows the yacht’s layout and safety procedures well before you set sail. Some of the things you should tell them before they arrive on your yacht include mealtimes, dress codes (if any), and any specific expectations you may have.
- Respect the crew. The crew works hard to give you the best yachting experience. In return, remember to be courteous and respectful when you talk to them. Also, communicating your needs clearly and thanking them afterwards are some of the common yachting etiquettes every yacht owner should follow.
- Communicate effectively with other vessels. Maintain a VHF radio listening watch (keep listening to broadcasts by Coast Guard stations and other vessels in case there are any warnings, distress calls, or navigation hazards you must be aware of). Also, adhere to maritime communication protocols. Signal your intentions clearly when manoeuvring and follow right-of-way rules to avoid collisions.
- Respect the environment. When you are at sea or in marinas, dispose of your waste properly. Adhere to local regulations on fishing and diving. You must keep your yacht’s environmental impact to a minimum.
- Be a good neighbour. While anchoring, maintain a safe distance from other yachts and minimise noise disturbance, especially during late evenings. If you witness another yacht in distress, offer whatever help is possible.
Don’t:
- Overcrowd your yacht. Be mindful of passenger capacity regulations and make sure there’s enough space for everyone on board to move around comfortably. Familiarise yourself with international maritime regulations (COLREGs) and local boating laws to ensure safe and legal navigation.
- Disregard safety procedures. Safety should always be your first priority. Give safety briefings to guests and make sure you have life jackets for everyone on board.
- Drink and drive (or sail). Anyone who’s operating the yacht (including the captain and crew) should be sober at all times. Alcohol impairs judgment and slows reaction times.
- Use strong odours. They can make others in confined spaces with you uncomfortable. These might include perfumes, strong-smelling foods, and even cigarettes.
Beyond these basic guidelines, here are some additional pointers for the discerning yacht owner:
- Show your appreciation for the good work of your crew by tipping them generously. While it’s not mandatory, we have seen the best tippers receive the best services.
- If you are attending a formal event on a yacht, adhere to the dress code.
- At sea, it is always a good idea to know some basic knots. Who knows when you might need them to save a few lives?
Following these yachting etiquette tips as a yacht owner can help you ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. They will help you navigate the seas with confidence and foster camaraderie within the yachting community.
