Spending time on a boat with friends is an amazing opportunity to relax and unwind while making unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a simple day out on the water or an extended journey, it’s important to be a great boat guest. Here are ten tips for ensuring that you’re as helpful and fun to be around as possible during your time on your friend’s boat.
Be Prepared for the Trip
Before joining your friends on their boat, make sure to get all the information about the trip. Ask questions about the itinerary, duration of the trip, and any planned activities during the outing. Make sure you pack accordingly, bringing proper clothing, sun protection, your own towel, and any personal items you might need.
Offer to Pitch In
As a guest, it’s a nice gesture to offer to bring food and drink, or at least help with the shopping or any other preparation required. If you’ll be staying on board overnight, it can be a massive help to chip in for food, drink, and any docking or marina fees incurred during the adventure.
Respect the Space
Layouts of boats can vary greatly, but one thing they all have in common is limited space. Be mindful of your friends’ boat and don’t take up more space than necessary. Keep your belongings tidy, put things away when you’re done using them, and respect your friends’ personal space on board.
Mind Your Manners
Just like at someone’s house, a boat often has its own set of rules and etiquette. An important way to show respect for your friends and their boat is to follow these rules. If you’re unsure about something, always ask, and remember to clean up after yourself and help with basic housekeeping duties.
Learn the Basics
Unless you’re an experienced sailor, you probably won’t know everything there is to know about operating the boat. However, it’s essential to show respect by learning a few basic skills to be prepared to lend a hand should the need arise. You might want to study some basic knot-tying techniques or familiarize yourself with basic sailing terminology.
Contribute to the Fun
A great boat guest knows how to keep the atmosphere enjoyable and relaxed. This means contributing to the fun by being social and friendly, without being overly demanding or needy. Bring along games or music that you think everyone would enjoy and help make the trip pleasurable for everyone on board.
Stay Safe
Boating can be dangerous if proper safety precautions aren’t taken. Your friends are responsible for your safety, so it’s crucial to abide by their instructions and ask questions if you’re unsure. Always wear a life jacket when required, avoid alcohol if the situation calls for it, and let your friends know if you have any medical conditions or take medications that may affect you during the trip.
Conserve Water and Electricity
Unless you’re on a luxury yacht, water and electricity on boats are precious resources. Show your friends that you’re respectful of their resources by doing your part to conserve water and electricity. For example, you can take shorter showers and not leave electrical devices running when you’re not using them.
Maintain a Flexible Attitude
Despite the best planning, unexpected situations can arise on any boating trip. Weather, mechanical issues, or last-minute changes can all impact your plans. As a good boat guest, it’s important to maintain a flexible attitude and adapt to whatever situation comes your way. Being understanding and supportive can go a long way during a challenging time.
Be Gracious and Thankful
Lastly, always be gracious and thankful for the opportunity to spend time on your friends’ boat. It’s an expense and effort for them to host you, so expressing your gratitude is essential. Offering to help with cleanup after the trip and sending a thank you note or a small token of appreciation are simple ways to show your appreciation.
Being a great boat guest is all about being courteous, helpful, and respectful of your friends and their boat environment. By following these ten tips, you’ll ensure that everyone has a fantastic and memorable time on board.
