Be a Perfect Boat Guest

When inviting people on a boat, the first question one often hears is “What can I bring" or "How can I help? “ Here are some helpful tips for guests and hosts.

Steps

  1. Understand the type of boat and activities to expect. Sailing and power-boating are quite different. Will you be going out on the water or to a beach? Will the activities depend on the weather on the day of the adventure?
  2. Bring some food: Ask if you can bring chips and dip, fresh fruit or their favorite picnic dish. Whatever you bring, food or drinks, it must not be in a glass container. Finger food works the best. Desserts are always great for kids.
    • A special treat might be ice cream, but in order to keep it frozen you need to get dry ice for the cooler. Ice cream will melt if kept with ordinary ice.
  3. Offer to chip in for gas: Many boat guests wonder, “Should I offer to pay for gas?” If you are with the captain when he fuels up, offering to chip in is fine. If you're out for the first time, then you are captain's guest, but if you're out every weekend, you should be chipping in for the weekend adventures.
  4. Help clean up: Upon returning from a cruise, some people all of a sudden remember that they have to be somewhere else. If you're a frequent cruiser on a boat, then you should schedule time after your cruise to help the captain and his crew.
  5. Dress Appropriately: High heels and expensive clothing may not be the best idea on a boat. Wear non-marking sandals or boat shoes (tennis shoes), comfortable clothing, and don't wear anything that you wouldn't want to lose to the drink. If you're not sure what to wear, ask your host. Be prepared for weather conditions (sun, wind, etc) and your destination (a beach for family fun or brunch at a dock and dine).
  6. Bring supplies: Your needs may be different from your host's. Make sure you bring what you will need to enjoy your day (sunscreen, chairs, towels). Again, when in doubt, just check in with your captain.
  7. Tell the owner if you are not feeling well during the boat ride. It might be motion sickness. They might be able to help you feel better. The worst thing you can do is to keep quiet and end up vomiting. This will make everyone else sick too and a mess to clean up.

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References

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