Etiquette for Yacht Charter on Blue Cruise

When you step aboard a gulet for a Blue Cruise, it is good to consider the crew as your host. You must deal with them with the same courtesy as you would to someone who is hosting you for a visit to their home.

Firstly, treat the crew with respect. They are usually professionals trained to offer their service with perfection and must not be equated as servants. Most are friendly, ready to offer tips about the cruise and share their knowledge about the area and culture.

Here are some tips about etiquette aboard a crewed Blue Cruise gulet:

·       Before you board the Gulet, politely ask permission. Your crew maybe waiting to greet you, but it is still better to take permission.

     Keep away your street shoes while boarding the yacht. Many yachts have lockers or shoe baskets at the boarding area where you can deposit your walking shoes.  They can be worn again when you step ashore next time. Keep only one pair of shoes in the locker and not your entire collection.  On board the gulet, you can walk barefoot, don clean socks, a pair of slippers or light soled shoes, which are not suitable for street wear.

·    Pay attention to pre-departure instructions: You will be given detailed instructions on safety and maintenance before you set sail. Pay full attention. These instructions are for your safety and comfort, so follow them.

·         After you board the Gulet, the crew will explain the systems of the boat.

Ø  Toilets- Marine toilets are not flushed in the way of household toilets. Follow crew’s instructions regarding the same. 

Ø  Electrical outlets:  Electricity aboard a gulet is provided by an invertor or generator. Some outlets can handle only computer and camera batteries and not hair dryers. The crew will instruct you on which is suitable for what. 

Ø  Lights: Location of lights will be pointed to you. Lights are run by the yacht’s batteries, so it is better you use them sparingly, switching them off when not needed.   

Ø  Showers and water: Most gulets carry enough fresh water. But you must use it sparingly. For this, learn from the crew how to operate showers and faucets. Don’t let water run continuously while brushing or shaving.

     Taking care of kids: While you are going on a blue cruise and you have kids on tow, don’t expect the crew to take their responsibility. The crew has important work to do rather than baby sit your kids. They may offer to do this on their own accord but it is not their duty.

·      Don’t clutter up saloon: The saloon is community space, so don’t clutter it with your personal items like towels etc.

For an experience of a Blue Cruise, go aboard sailing yachts Mikado. A  Gulet Mikado was created in 2011 in Istanbul. She offers luxurious accommodation in 4 cabins for 8 persons. She is ideal for honeymooners or private family charter. Her average speed is 10 knots. She has complete inbuilt electronic system from computers and internet to satellite TV and DVD player.  She has water toys like fishing tackle, snorkeling equipment, sun mattresses, deck shower, etc.