When you start to plan your crewed yacht charter, the crew’s tip is an important aspect to consider in your charter budget.
Tipping is common practice in the charter industry and it is important to show your appreciation to your crew, it shows recognition for their hard work and exceptional service.
In the Caribbean and Bahamas, tipping is typically 15% – 20% of the charter rate and 10% – 15% of the charter base rate in the Mediterranean.
Your crew will be working for you from the moment they receive your preference sheets to the moment you disembark. There is a lot of preparation that goes into creating an unforgettable yacht charter. Your chef will be planning the menu taking into consideration any allergies, likes, and dislikes. Food and drink orders will be placed for delivery to the yacht and your chef will go shopping for fresh items and specialized requests. Your captain will be planning an itinerary to include the places you wish to go and the things you would like to do. They will organize any excursions you would like to go on and book any SCUBA diving that you would like to partake in if the yacht does not offer that onboard. The yacht will have been fully provisioned, cleaned, serviced, and maintained ready for your arrival.
Tipping is a way to acknowledge and reward your crew for their service, attention to detail, and professionalism throughout your charter experience. The crew will work hard for the whole of your charter to give you the best experience possible. The crew often goes above and beyond their regular duties to make sure you are enjoying yourself and are comfortable. They may organize special events such as birthday parties and anniversary dinners, theme nights, prepare personalized meals, or arrange unique experiences for you.
Most crewed yachts that offer SCUBA diving include high-quality SCUBA equipment onboard, so you don’t need to bring bulky items like tanks or weights. However, many divers prefer to bring their own mask or dive computer for comfort and familiarity. Equipment onboard is well maintained and regularly serviced.
No. The barefoot rule is there to keep the decks undamaged, carpets from getting stained and soles from marking the clean decks. If you need to have shoes on for medical reasons you can wear white soled shoes that have not been worn outside. Shoes specifically designed for yachts or soft sports sandals, with a good grip on the sole, would be an option. Here is more information on What to Pack
What Should I Pack for My Yacht Charter?
What Should I Pack for My Yacht Charter?Packing for a luxury yacht vacation is different from packing for a typical resort stay. Space is limited onboard, but a great deal is already waiting for you. Your crew provides beach towels, bed linens and snorkel gear for every guest, along with everyday comforts like hairdryers, so none of that needs to come with you. To help you prepare, we have created a practical packing guide so you bring everything you need without overpacking. Browse Our Luxury Charter Fleet to see what’s already included onboard.
Essential Wardrobe
- Multiple swimsuits for daily water activities
- Light, breathable clothing to wear over swimwear
- 2–3 casual dinner outfits for onboard dining
- 1–2 smart casual outfits for restaurants ashore
- Light jacket or sweater for evening breezes
- Comfortable, non-marking deck shoes or sandals
- Sun Protection
- High-quality polarized sunglasses
- Sun hats or caps with secure straps
- Reef-safe sunscreen and lip protection
- UPF-rated rash guards for extended water activities
Personal Items
- Prescription medications in original containers
- Seasickness remedies if prone to motion sensitivity
- Personal toiletries and hygiene items
- Small camera or GoPro for capturing memories
- Lightweight backpack or dry bag for shore excursions
- Electronics & Documents
- Passport and travel documents
- Credit cards and small amounts of local currency
- Power adapters if traveling internationally
- Phone and charger (most yachts offer WiFi)
- Downloaded playlists, e-books, or podcasts for offline use
Entertainment & Extras
- Books, e-readers, or magazines
- Portable waterproof speakers (optional)
- Travel journal or sketchbook
- Small gifts or souvenirs for crew (optional)
Practical Packing Tips
- Choose soft-sided luggage that can be folded and stowed under beds—avoid large hard-shell suitcases.
- Pack versatile items that mix and match easily.
- Avoid overpacking, storage space is efficient but compact.
- Most yachts supply beach towels, linens, and water sports equipment. Confirm with your broker before bringing extras.
For more planning advice, visit our Yacht Charter FAQ Hub
Final Advice
Your yacht crew will help you feel at home and can provide personalized recommendations for your specific destination and season. If you’re unsure about packing certain items, ask your charter broker for guidance.
For personalized packing suggestions or help planning your trip, call 1-954-271-3005
