Protocol  for Gratuities

Payment of gratuities is, of course, a delicate subject and one about which there is always much discussion as to how to approach and inform charter guests. Some owner/operators do nothing. Some place envelopes on stateroom pillows; and some are even more direct in their approach including discussions and correspondence before the start of the cruise.

Some persons think that it is improper to provide gratuity to owners/operators of charter yachts. This is not the case in our industry where owners/operators such as ourselves rely upon gratuities as an additional means to help pay for the very expensive costs of operating the yacht...and providing unparalleled enjoyment to their guests during their stay aboard. So...

• The main rule of thumb in the charter boat industry is that crew on all charter yachts, be they paid crew or owner/operators, anticipate a gratuity based on their success in providing a truly enjoyable experience to their guests.

• The single most successful charter yacht broker in the industry includes these words in her charter contracts:

  • "Not included in the charter fee is the ... crew gratuity customary at 15% - 20% of the charter fee at the charterer's discretion."

• The actual gratuity should, of course, be based on your experience during the charter...a great experience, higher gratuity; if we let you down, reduce the percentage to that which you feel is appropriate.