Traditions and Customs in Yachting Culture: Understanding the Rules

The yachting life is steeped in traditions and customs that have been developed over decades. While some of these customs may seem strange, they are integral to yachting culture. In this article, we will explore the different rules and customs of yachting and how they contribute to the overall experience.

The Role of the Captain

In yachting, the captain is the main person on board. All crew members must follow the captain’s orders without question. While crew members may express their opinions, they should only do so after reaching the parking lot and mooring.

Greetings and Courtesies

When passing or overtaking another yacht in the sea, it is customary to exchange greetings through a wave of the hand and a change of speed to the minimum wave formation mode. At the parking lot in marinas, it is good manners to greet the crews of neighboring yachts. Additionally, it is customary to offer help to moor a yacht, especially if the crew is small or inexperienced.

Helping Others and Respecting Privacy

Yachting culture values helping others. If a yacht gives a distress signal, nearby yachts should approach and offer assistance. When anchoring in a limited space anchorage, it is not acceptable to deny another yacht’s request to moor alongside yours. Additionally, at anchorages, it is essential to anchor as far away from other yachts as possible to respect privacy.

Etiquette on Board

Excessive noise and loud music on a yacht are disrespectful to neighboring yachts. Therefore, it is necessary to keep silent when mooring and at parking lots. It is also essential to use subdued lighting at night to avoid interfering with other yachts and ships. Only enter someone else’s yacht with permission and walk on the deck as quietly as possible to avoid disturbing the crew and looking into hatches and windows.

Facilities and Waste Management

When in marinas, it is customary to use the facilities on the shore. At anchorages, it is necessary to block the discharge of fecal tanks into the sea to avoid spoiling the water and disturbing neighboring yachts.

Communication and Radio Usage

Negotiations on the radio are short and to the point. For private conversations, an alternative unloaded channel must be used.