Mastering yacht charter etiquette: a comprehensive guide.

Yacht charters are a unique experience as there is great joy to be had, especially on the picturesque waters of the French Riviera and Corsica.

Some of these experiences can be enhanced by following some yacht charter etiquette.

Respect and communication

The crew is the most important part of the family yacht charter experience.

It is paramount to keep the crew informed with your decisions and your preferences regarding cuisine and activities. This includes all the basic information with your broker at a pre-charter meeting, planning itinerary, food preferences, and any celebrations you may want to enjoy on-board.

This communication also includes considering the customs and traditions of the people and the places you are visiting along the way. This will enable you to have a richer, more rewarding experience with the locals you encounter.

The barefoot rule: more than a tradition

Going barefoot, is not just a rule but a rite of passage of your yachting experience. It keeps your yacht expensive deck safe from wear and tear, as well as allows you more connection with the sea and the experience of yachting itself.

So take your shoes “off at the door” and allow your deck to connect with your senses. Or at least consider getting a comfortable pair of shoes with soft soles.

Flexibility: a chance to uncover hidden gems

You may not be aware of this, but flexibility could prove to be your biggest advantage while on a yacht charter.

Your captain might have insider’s knowledge that would recommend traveling to wonderful, off-the-beaten-path spots that you may have never intended on going to. Or, maybe the weather suddenly changes and you need to move from your planned itinerary.

When you embrace flexibility, you often can discover unexpected pleasures and opportunities. It could truly take your experience of the French Riviera and Corsica into a realm beyond your original plans!

In most cases, a change of plans may simply mean that you have to cancel a pre-booked activity or restaurant and may even incur the necessary fee.

However, if you enjoy the incredible spontaneous experiences you often have during the charter, it will more than compensate for any fees or changes in plans.

Preference forms: your template for personalization

A preference form is not just a box ticking exercise, it is an essential part of personalizing your excellent trip.

For the best charter experience, remember that good planning and preparation are key. Don’t just show up and expect quality!

A preference form is incredibly versatile, useful for everything from tailoring food choices and preferred activities to enhancing beach club experiences and planning ashore visits.

Besides, it will help introduce the crew in getting the yacht ready for you and supply adequate and timely bookings for berths and restaurants.

If you have an interest in local foods it may be fun to ask your chef to present some local flavors as you have an authentic gastronomic exploration adventure.

Be environmentally responsible: charter responsibly

As you are sailing between The Lérins Islands and la Batide Blance area, remember the importance of these natural wonders as your responsibility to preserve.

Simple habits such as choosing an eco-friendly yacht (did you ever charter a luxury sailing catamaran?) , reef-friendly sunblock, or reducing the amount of plastic you use on a vacation can have meaningful effects on your unique adventure experience.

Legal and safety compliance: it’s non-negotiable

As you operate your 250hp jet skis, it is important to understand and commit to legal requirements such as speed limit and safety practices.

Practicing common courtesy ensures everyone enjoys a safe and pleasant water experience.

Following legal local requirements and safety procedures for safety include abstaining from illegal drugs, following the captain’s safety briefing, and ensuring all guests’ safety and health while aboard.

Smoking policies

Smoking regulations exist to maintain safe practices. Stick to designated smoking zones.

Drugs on board

There is a zero tolerance drug policy onboard for illegal drugs. Legal drugs usually will not be a problem but any possession or use of illegal drugs will end your charter and you will also need to vacate the yacht.

No refunds in these scenarios.

Crew quarter: respect shared spaces

Certain zones are exclusively for crew members; respect their space as they respect yours.

Trust your Captain (and your Broker): the gateway to local treasures

Your captain is more than a navigator; they are a wealth of local knowledge. From secluded beaches to local cuisine, the captain can offer experienced suggestions that will enhance your adventure thousands of times over.

And don’t forget, your yacht charter broker is your friend in experience and value, guiding you to the best local experiences and communicating your special requests, such as themed dining, or surprise functions.

As you disembark your yacht, filled with memories of sunsets and seas, we encourage you to think about leaving a testimonial or review for the benefit of those on the crew and future guests onboard.

Discover what our clients have to say about their charters on TripAdvisor.

If there were areas that might be improved upon, think about providing constructive feedback regarding future improvement to the charter company or crew, to improve the service for future charters.

Ready for your next yacht charter experience?

Contact Charterminute: for personalized guidance and to explore our luxury charter services, reach out to us. Your next bespoke luxury charter along the French Riviera awaits.

Additional resources



About the author: Remi van der Deure - French Riviera Charter broker.

Hello,

I am the senior Yacht Charter Broker at Charterminute, a well-known yacht charter boutique in Antibes.

I have served in the yacht charter industry for over 15 years and have gained a strong reputation among my clients, as evidenced by consistent 5-star ratings on Google Reviews and TripAdvisor.

My specialty is organizing corporate yacht charters for startups and large companies during popular events like the Cannes Lions Festival, MIPIM, TFWA, and MIPCOM.

I am also proud to be a member of esteemed yacht broker associations, e-MYBA and ECPY, demonstrating my unwavering commitment to providing exceptional yacht charter services and memorable experiences in the French Riviera.

You can contact me directly at +33 (0)662.465.991 or remi@charterminute.com.

French Riviera yacht charter and boat rentals
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