Be the perfect boat guest this summer
- July 16, 2017
Social As a boat guest, you are going to be exposed to a whole new set of etiquette rules and nautical terms that you may not yet have come across. After an enjoyable experience, you’d love to be invited again, although you would never invite yourself, so your only way of leaving the best impression as a perfect boat guest is to know what you have to do and what not. Let’s help you before you set foot on deck and while we’re mentioning feet, we’ll start with:
Tip 1 – Proper Attire
Getting yourself ready for the trip includes properly selecting your outfit. Remember that if you’re stuck on what to wear, just ask. Better to be well prepared than feeling awkward when you arrive. Soft-soled, and non-skid shoes, like deck shoes, hence the name, are the best. Absolute no to heels or any other shoe that can mark the deck. Avoid black and leather soled shoes even if they are non-marking. Check the weather before because it may get fresh out at sea so layer slightly. Although sun protection is important, keep in mind that if you wear a hat it can fly off so make sure it fits well.
Tip 2 – Punctuality
There is nothing more frustrating than having a boat full of people waiting for a guest so plan well and arrive on time. You can check whether the time given is the time you are expected to show up or the time the boat sets sail. Keep in mind that you would usually be expected to familiarise yourself with the boat, stow away your belongings and settle in so take all these into consideration. It is considered rude and disrespectful to cancel at the last minute unless the reason is a well-justified one. Forgetting you had another commitment, is not one of them.
Tip 3 – Guests
Was the invitation to come aboard just for you? Then no, you cannot bring your guest. Was the invitation for you and a guest? Then yes, you may bring someone along and it would be courteous to the host to mention who you’re bringing with you. On board, do remember to introduce your guest and thank the host for the invitation. Pets on board are not always welcome so it is best to steer away from asking unless you’re sure it’s fine.
Tip 4 – Food and Drink
You may be asked to bring your own food and drink for the trip which means that you have to think of sharing with others too. Sharing is common practice on a boat. Avoid glass where possible unless you’re bringing along a bottle of wine. Speaking of wine, keep to white and avoid taking a bottle of red wine yourself.
Tip 5 – Cigarettes
It doesn’t mean that because you’re out at sea you can smoke freely. Ask whether smoking is permitted. Never throw the cigaratte butt in the water. Be mindful of how you hold the cigarette if you are allowed to smoke. Away from other guests and away from wooden and leather items too.
Tip 6 – Safety
Safety of all on board is always top priority. It is therefore advisable that you familiarise yourself with the rules and what is expected of you as well as where life jackets are stored. Do not stand on seats and make sure that any coolers are kept on the floor. Avoid leaving personal belongings running around as this prevents injuries on board. Should anything happen, follow any instructions you are given – refrain from giving your recommendations in such situations when not asked for.
Lastly, at the end of the trip don’t just say thank you and head off. If you want to be remembered as the perfect boat guest, then offer help with any end-of-trip cleaning. If you are frequently invited, then you should also offer to pool in for the fuel too.
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This was a blog post written for http://www.indulge.com.mt.
