Tipping is a standard part of the yacht charter experience. Whether you’re enjoying a private yacht vacation in the U.S. Virgin Islands with Vibin’ VI or chartering a superyacht abroad, knowing how much to tip the yacht crew is essential. Crew gratuities reward the people who make your time on the water smooth, safe, and luxurious.
Below, we break down everything charter guests need to know—how much should you tip, when to tip, tipping etiquette, and more.
Why Tipping Yacht Crew Matters on a Charter
Every charter yacht relies on a professional crew. From the captain to the deckhands, each crew member plays a role in delivering a seamless and enjoyable experience. The crew works hard to maintain the vessel, prepare meals, plan excursions, and provide outstanding service. A charter tip is not only customary—it’s part of the yachting culture.
For companies like Vibin’ VI, crew gratuities reflect the exceptional service offered on every crewed charter. When you tip the crew, you’re showing appreciation for the countless hours spent ensuring your yacht charter is unforgettable.
Yacht Tipping Etiquette: Do You Need to Tip?
Yes, tipping on a yacht charter is expected. It's customary to tip the crew unless otherwise stated in the tipping policy guidelines provided by your charter broker or charter company. Whether you're on a private yacht or a superyacht, the same principles apply.
Understanding yacht tipping etiquette ensures you're following the unspoken rules of the yacht charter industry. While not mandatory, gratuity is a standard part of charter etiquette and widely appreciated by charter crews across the globe.
How Much Should You Tip the Yacht Crew?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions: how much to tip? While there isn’t a universal rule, the standard tip on a yacht charter usually ranges from 10 to 15 percent of the base charter fee. For exceptional service, many guests tip 15 to 20 percent.
It’s important to note: tips are not included in your charter rate. They’re a separate expense that should be factored into your total charter budget.
Examples of Common Tip Amounts Based on Charter Fee
Charter cost: $25,000
Tip amount (15%): $3,750
Charter cost: $50,000
Tip amount (15%): $7,500
Charter cost: $100,000
Tip amount (15%): $15,000
This tip is usually given directly to the captain at the end of the charter, who then distributes it among the crew. Charter companies like Vibin’ VI uphold the highest standards, so charter guests often feel that the crew goes above and beyond—earning every cent of that gratuity.
When and How to Tip on a Yacht Charter
Timing matters. The best time to leave a tip is during settling the final account on your last day. You can offer the tip for the crew either verbally or in written form—some prefer to include a thank-you note or card.
Hand the tip to the captain, who will ensure the entire crew receives a fair share. Many yachts follow the MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) tipping policy, which distributes tips equally unless otherwise agreed upon.
Splitting the Tip: Equal and Fair
On most charter yachts, tips are split equally between all yacht crew members, unless someone on the team provided an exceptional service you’d like to recognize separately. The number of crew members and the level of service provided may influence your decision.
If you're unsure, your charter broker can explain the yacht’s tipping practices and provide guidance on proper tipping etiquette for your specific itinerary and yacht size.
Factors That Affect the Tip Amount
1. Size of the Yacht
The larger the yacht, the more extensive the crew. A superyacht or a luxury yacht charter may have a full crew including engineers, stewards, chefs, and deckhands. The tip amount often reflects the size of the yacht and the number of crew onboard.
2. Service You Have Received
Was your experience flawless? Did the crew anticipate your needs? A higher tip is warranted when the crew exceeds expectations. Guests who experience exceptional service on a private yacht charter often opt to increase the gratuity.
3. Duration and Destination
Longer charters and more complex itineraries demand more from the crew. Chartering a yacht in the Caribbean with Vibin’ VI, for example, may involve customized experiences around St. Thomas, Mingo Cay, and more. These curated moments often justify a higher tip.
Who to Tip on a Yacht Charter
You’re tipping the charter crew, not just the captain. Every crew member contributes. This includes:
Captain
First Mate
Chef
Steward/Stewardess
Engineer
Deckhands
Each crew member is essential. The tip for yacht crews should be thought of as a collective recognition of teamwork and hospitality.
What If You’re Not Happy with the Charter?
If the level of service doesn't meet your expectations, adjust the tip accordingly. Still, it’s customary to tip the crew unless the experience was truly substandard. Discuss any concerns with the captain or broker during the end of the charter. Most crews—especially those with Vibin’ VI—are trained to deliver excellent service and will welcome feedback.
What Is the APA and Does It Include Tips?
The APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) is used for food, fuel, dockage, and other operational expenses. The APA does not include crew tips. Gratuities are not part of the base charter fee or the APA, and should be handled separately.
Bareboat vs. Crewed Charter: Is Tipping Different?
Yes. A bareboat charter does not include a crew, so tipping isn't necessary unless you hire a captain or cook separately. On a crewed charter, however, tipping is standard. With companies like Vibin’ VI, every yacht is a fully staffed crewed charter, meaning tipping practices apply.
Who Can Help You Understand Tipping Policy?
Your charter broker or yacht charter manager can explain everything related to crew gratuities and tipping etiquette. For example, Churchill Yacht Partners and similar firms often provide written tipping policy guidelines. With Vibin’ VI, your broker ensures transparency in every aspect of the charter.
Key Takeaways for Charter Guests
Knowing how much to tip helps you respect charter etiquette.
The standard tip is 10–20% of the base charter fee.
Tip directly to the captain at the end of the charter.
Tip should be in cash or as directed by the charter company.
Tipping policy may be shared verbally or in written form.
Always consider the service you have received and the number of crew members onboard.
Gratuity shows appreciation and ensures the crew feels valued for their work.
Trust Vibin’ VI for an Exceptional Yacht Charter Experience
Vibin’ VI stands out among top charter companies in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you're exploring hidden coves off St. John or cruising to Congo Cay, our experienced crew ensures your time on the water is unforgettable.
Our yacht crew members deliver excellence every day. When the charter ends, a tip for the crew is the best way to say thank you. We believe it’s customary to tip the crew who make your dream trip a reality.
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