Ahoy there! Welcome to the sophisticated world of yacht clubs. Being a member of a yacht club comes with prestige, class, and status. However, it also comes with a certain set of social etiquette. Being knowledgeable about these customs and traditions is essential to enjoying the full benefits of membership in a yacht club. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the do’s and don’ts of yacht club etiquette, so you can confidently navigate this world and have fun at the same time.

Dress Code: The “Smart Casual” Look 👕

First impressions are everything, especially in the world of yacht clubs. Dressing appropriately is crucial in portraying the right image. A boat shoe, polo shirt, and dress shorts are just some of the staple items that are expected. Generally speaking, clubs encourage members to wear clothes that are neat, clean, and presentable. Avoid any overly casual items such as ripped jeans, sweatpants, or sports jerseys. Don’t forget to accessorize, sunglasses and a sun hat a must.

A man and women in "smart casual" wear standing on a yacht

RSVP: Respond As Soon As Possible đź“©

If you are invited to an event, it’s important to let the boat club’s organizers know if you are attending or not. It’s good manners to RSVP as soon as you know whether you can attend rather than leaving it to the last minute. This helps the organizers plan effectively and ensures proper hospitality. The last thing you want to do is to leave an organizer stressed-out about not knowing the correct number of attendees for drinks and food.

A woman getting an invitation for a yacht club event

Greetings: Mind Your “Please” and “Thank You” 👋

Greeting people with a warm, welcoming smile is always a good start. Address people with respect using their proper titles such as “Captain,” “Commodore,” or “Chairman.” There is no rule of thumb to greetings, but generally, it’s nice to use polite expressions such as “please” and “thank you” when addressing those with whom you are unfamiliar. If you introduce yourself, always offer your hand. It’s considered a sign of respect for someone to remember and address people by name.

A group of people talking and shaking hands while boarding a yacht

Table Manners: Keep Your Elbows Off And Your Finger’s To Yourself 🍴

Whether you’re dining indoors or outdoors, table manners are critical in social etiquette. Always remember to keep your elbows off the table and use proper cutlery. Keep your phone on silent mode and avoid using it during meal times unless its something urgent. Don’t start eating until everyone at the table is served. When you’re finished, place your knife and fork in the center of the plate with the prongs facing downwards.

A table set up on the deck of a yacht

Drinks: Drink Responsibly 🍸

Drinking is a part of social life in yacht clubs. However, it’s essential to know your limits while drinking and avoid drinking too much. Watch your alcohol intake and avoid becoming a burden to the organizers. Always remember the drink you pay for is not your license to overindulge. Let’s drink Responsibly.

A bartender preparing cocktails on a yacht

Now that you know these essential tips and tricks for mastering yacht club social etiquette, you can enjoy all the fun of yacht club membership while looking and acting the part. Remember, yacht club etiquette is a reflection of the values, traditions, and manners of a yacht club. It is the cornerstone of what community and social relations are, so always be respectful to those around you and have a great time. And don’t forget to admire the breathtaking sunset from the deck of your yacht club.

A group of people on a yacht overlooking a sunset