Be A Great Boat Guest: Tips And Tricks

Being a good boat guest is about more than just having good manners—it's about ensuring your safety and comfort, as well as that of your hosts and fellow guests. Here are some tips to help you be the best boat guest you can be:

- Ask your host about the boat in advance. Is it a sailboat or a powerboat? Knowing this beforehand will help you prepare and give you an idea of what to expect.

- Dress appropriately for the elements. It can get chilly out on the water, so bring extra layers, and don't forget the sunscreen and sunglasses!

- Plan ahead if you're prone to seasickness. It's better to be prepared than to suffer in silence.

- Be helpful and lend a hand where you can, but also remember that there can only be one captain. Respect their decisions and instructions, and don't try to be a know-it-all, especially if you're not an experienced boater yourself.

- Bring snacks and drinks to share, but avoid perishable items unless you know they fit with your host's plans.

- Be punctual and respectful of the schedule. Boat trips often involve tight schedules and coordination with other crew members or marine staff.

- Be mindful of space constraints and keep your belongings tidy and compact.

- Be considerate and respectful of your hosts and their property. This includes being honest about any accidents or breakages and leaving the boat as you found it, or even tidier!

Ask the host about the boat type, and dress accordingly

Asking your host about the boat type in advance is a great way to prepare for your trip and be a good boat guest. It will help you know what to expect and how to dress accordingly.

If you're going to be on a sailboat, for example, you'll want to dress in layers as it can get chilly out on the water, especially with the wind in your hair. Bring extra towels, blankets, long sleeves, and other good layering options. On the other hand, if you're going to be on a powerboat, you might want to wear boat shoes with non-slip and non-marking soles to avoid losing your footing on a slick deck. Boat shoes are more than just a fashion statement and will help you stay safe on board.

In addition to dressing for the type of boat, you should also consider the weather conditions and pack accordingly. It can feel cooler on the water than on land, so make sure you have appropriate clothing to stay warm. Bring waterproof layers and quick-drying clothes in case you get wet.

It's also important to consider the activities you'll be participating in. If you plan on swimming or snorkelling, bring the necessary gear. If you're going to be hiking or exploring, comfortable shoes and clothing are a must.

Lastly, don't forget to ask your host about any specific dress codes or requirements. For example, if you'll be visiting churches or temples, you may need to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.

By asking your host about the boat type and dressing accordingly, you'll not only be comfortable during your trip but also ensure that you're following proper boat etiquette. So go ahead, ask away, and get ready to set sail in style!

Be prepared for seasickness

Being a good boat guest requires some preparation, especially if you are prone to seasickness. Seasickness can affect even the most seasoned boaters, so don't be embarrassed if you start feeling unwell. Tell your friends, and they might have some anti-sickness medication or wristbands available. It is always a good idea to take precautions and be prepared, so consider packing some seasickness medication if you are going to be sailing outside a protected harbour. It is preferable to take it before you set sail, as it takes a while to absorb into your system.

If you start feeling unwell, it often helps to take deep, measured breaths and keep your eyes on the horizon. Seasickness can lead to disorientation, so try to prevent it if you can. If you are feeling unwell, it is best to admit it and then suffer in silence. Look to the horizon, stay above board, and throw up overboard if you need to—it is counterintuitive, but it is worse below deck. Power through, and remember that this too shall pass.

There are some other simple steps you can take to prevent seasickness. Take along extra towels, blankets, long sleeves, and other good layering options. It can get chilly out on the water, especially on a powerboat, and these items can help keep you warm and prevent you from getting sick. Additionally, make sure you pack smartly, as you won't have a washing machine onboard. Bring quick-drying clothes, and avoid denim, which takes a long time to dry.

Finally, be mindful of your luggage. Space is limited on boats, so bring soft bags that can easily be stored. You may have to sleep next to your bag, walk long distances with it, or get it in and out of dinghies, so a backpack, small duffle bag, or soft bag with wheels is ideal.

Bring gifts for the host

When you're a guest on a boat, it's important to show your gratitude to your host. One way to do this is by bringing a gift. Here are some ideas and tips to help you choose the perfect gift for your boat host:

Be Generous and Thoughtful

Bringing a gift for your boat host is a wonderful way to express your gratitude and appreciation. It's important to be generous and thoughtful in your gift selection. Consider something that your host can actively use during the trip, such as games, binoculars, or other nautical-themed items. If you want to make a grand impression, you could opt for an all-leather backgammon set, custom monogrammed cards with an alligator case, or even a pair of Hermès binoculars. These gifts will not only be functional but will also add a touch of luxury to your host's boating experience.

Combine Perishables with Non-Consumables

If you're thinking of bringing food or drinks as a gift, it's a good idea to combine perishables with non-consumable items. For example, you could bring a tin of caviar or other gourmet treats, but make sure it aligns with your host's menu and preferences. You don't want to unintentionally disrupt their meal plan. Always consider their likes and dislikes, and if they have any food allergies or aversions. This shows that you've put thought into your gift and want to enhance their boating experience.

Opt for Practical and Space-Saving Gifts

On a boat, space is limited, so it's best to choose gifts that are practical and won't take up too much room. Soft coolers, non-marking soft bags, and compact items are ideal. You could also look for gifts that are useful in multiple scenarios, such as Turkish towels that are lightweight, fast-drying, and perfect for both showering and beach days. Another idea is to bring a solar-powered portable power pack for charging electronic devices without relying on the boat's power supply.

Consider Gifts that Enhance the Boating Experience

Think about gifts that will make your host's boating life easier and more enjoyable. For example, Luci lights are solar-powered inflatable floating lanterns that can illuminate the boat at night while also charging electronic devices. You could also offer to provision for the trip by bringing snacks, meals, or their favourite drinks. This not only saves your host time and effort but also ensures that everyone has a well-stocked voyage.

Don't Forget the Captain

If your host is also the captain of the boat, consider a gift that recognises their role and responsibilities. The captain has a challenging task, ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the boat. You could bring a gift that expresses your appreciation for their leadership and expertise, such as a personalised captain's hat or a nautical-themed gift basket filled with items they can use while navigating the seas.

Be punctual and cooperative

Being punctual and cooperative is a key part of being a good boat guest. Schedules on boats are important, and there may be a lot of variables to consider, such as meal times, outings, appointments, and the weather. Being on time shows respect for the captain, other guests, and the boat itself. It also ensures that you don't hold up the group or cause delays.

Before your trip, communicate openly with the captain about the duration and destination of the voyage. Ask about their expectations and how you can best cooperate with them and the rest of the crew. Be flexible, as plans often change due to weather conditions and other factors. If you are unsure about any aspect of the trip, ask for clarification to avoid misunderstandings.

During the trip, follow the captain's lead and instructions. There can be many tasks to manage on a boat, and the captain has the final say in decision-making. Offer to help where you can and be attentive to their needs. If something goes wrong or breaks, own up to it immediately so that issues can be addressed promptly.

Being punctual also means being mindful of your own responsibilities. Keep your belongings organised and out of the way, especially in tight quarters. Be considerate of others' space and time, and respect the routines and protocols established by the captain. Remember that everyone is contributing to making the trip a success, and your punctuality and cooperation are essential to this collective effort.

Help with tasks and expenses

Being a good boat guest is about more than just being friendly and respectful—it's also about pitching in and helping out where you can. Here are some ways you can help with tasks and expenses when you're a guest on someone's boat:

On-Water Tasks

On-water tasks are crucial to keeping the boat in good shape and running smoothly. As a guest, you can lend a hand with various tasks, such as:

• Organising dock lines and other ropes
• Re-stowing gear
• Helping to balance the load
• Monitoring the engine for any signs of trouble
• Keeping an eye on marine and weather conditions
• Assisting with docking

On-Land Tasks

There are also several tasks you can take on when the boat is docked or on land:

• Ensuring proper oil levels
• Prepping coolers
• Stowing gear
• Helping to clean and unpack the boat at the end of the trip
• Following the captain's directions if you're trailering

Expenses

While it's not always expected that guests contribute financially, it is a kind gesture to offer to chip in for certain expenses. Here are some ways you can help with expenses:

• Contribute gas money, especially if you're going out on the boat regularly. It doesn't have to be a large amount, but it shows your appreciation and understanding of the costs involved.
• Provide drinks for the captain and crew each trip. This doesn't have to be expensive, as the captain shouldn't be drinking excessively while operating the boat.
• Occasionally offer to buy food when dining at a dockside restaurant. It's a thoughtful gesture that won't break the bank.
• Bring snacks and drinks to share. Just as you might bring a dish to a friend's house, do the same for the boat. Make sure any food you bring won't melt in the sun or stain the cushions.

Remember, the goal is to make the captain's life easier and allow them to focus on safely operating the vessel. By pitching in with tasks and expenses, you'll be a welcome addition to any boating trip!

Frequently asked questions