With all my years of experience in the superyacht industry, I’ll be honest, I was once green too. We’ve all been there. New to yachting, full of excitement, but not always aware of the little things that make or break you as a crew member.

This industry has a language and etiquette all of its own. Some rules are written down in manuals, but the ones that really matter? The unspoken rules you only learn by messing up, getting a raised eyebrow from the chief stew, or a quiet word from a captain.

So, here on this platform, I want to pass those lessons on. If you’re new to yachting, these are the do’s and don’ts of yacht etiquette that I’ve learned the hard way , so you don’t have to.

Respect the hierarchy

Know who you report to, and follow that chain. Don’t skip ranks unless it’s about safety. Radio comms should be short, clear, and professional , no chit-chat, no jokes when guests are aboard.

Guests come first

When guests are on board, you’re invisible unless needed. Walk quietly, step aside on stairs, close every door and locker gently. Voices carry through bulkheads , keep them low.

Uniform and grooming

Always wear the correct uniform, clean and pressed. Hair must be neat, and for the girls: no wet hair while working. It looks unprofessional and sloppy. Light scent only , confined spaces mean overpowering perfumes or aftershaves are a no-go.

Shoes, smoking, and socials

Shoes scratch teak, so follow the boat’s policy: usually barefoot or clean deck shoes only. Smoking is only in the designated crew spot, never inside, never in uniform, and never near guests. Social media? No guest photos, no location tags in real time. NDAs are real, and breaches can cost you your job.

Crew area courtesy

The crew mess is everyone’s living room and office. Keep it tidy. No loud drama, no wandering around in towels or half-dressed. Respect quiet hours , someone is always on rest or night watch.

Cabins and bathrooms

Treat shared space like gold. Stow your gear, wipe down after showers, squeegee the glass, keep it dry. Close doors softly , never slam. Quick showers are standard; fresh water is precious.

Galley etiquette

If you’re not galley, don’t touch mise en place, guest stock, or plate garnishes. Label crew food. Clean up your own cups and dishes. The chef is under immense pressure , don’t make it harder.

Guest spaces are off-limits

Never sit on guest furniture, use their bathrooms, or dip in the jacuzzi. If you’re passing through a guest space, do it silently, quickly, and with purpose.

Alcohol and off-duty conduct

On charter, you’re sober , full stop. Off duty, follow the yacht’s alcohol policy. But never show up late, hungover, or smelling of alcohol. Nothing ruins a reputation faster.

Deck manners

Don’t touch polished stainless or varnish with greasy hands. Coil lines neatly. Don’t step into another crew member’s job without asking. Respect the work of others, even if it’s not your department.

Safety culture

Safety rules trump everything. Wear PPE, show up early for drills, and keep your headphones off on deck while underway. Ask if you don’t know , that’s professionalism, not weakness.

Confidentiality always

Conversations about guests, their food, their quirks , that all stays on board. Be warm, be polite, but don’t gossip. What happens on the yacht, stays on the yacht.

Final word

Every yacht has its quirks, but these unspoken rules are universal. Follow them, and you’ll not only survive , you’ll thrive. Yachting isn’t just about service , it’s about respect: for the guests, the vessel, your fellow crew, and yourself.

So if you’re starting your career in this industry, remember: etiquette is the difference between being seen as “green” and being seen as a pro.

Instagram: @cheftzarina