What Crew Members Wish Tourists Knew Before Boarding
What Crew Members Wish Tourists Knew Before Boarding
When you book a private boat charter with Playa del Carmen Boat Rental, you’re signing up not just for a ride on the water but for an experience.
The crew aren’t just there to steer the boat – they’re your hosts, your marine-guides, and often your lifeline when it comes to safety, comfort and fun.
We spoke (metaphorically) to many crew members and staff who serve in the Riviera Maya to find out: What do you wish tourists knew before boarding? These insights will help you prepare, relax and maximize the joy of your boat adventure.
1. A little preparation goes a long way
One of the most repeated points from crew members: come prepared.
This doesn’t mean lugging half your wardrobe onto the deck – but small things matter.
Bring your non‐slip shoes or sandals, valid ID (sometimes required at marina), a light cover‐up or windbreaker for early morning or sunset, and sunscreen that is reef-safe (the Caribbean reef ecology thanks you).
Arriving on time helps too – charters often have strict sailing windows and tide/weather considerations.
A smoothly boarded group makes the crew’s job easier, and your trip smoother.
2. Follow the safety briefing with an open mind
Before departure you’ll hear the standard safety and briefing talk: life jackets, where to move, rules for snorkeling or jumping in, etc.
Crew members stress that this isn’t just formalities: when everyone listens, the risk of accidents, seasickness or delays drops dramatically. So even if you’ve been on a boat before, give the briefing your attention.
And if you have questions (e.g., “Where exactly will we stop to snorkel?”, “How stable is this catamaran compared to a yacht?”), speak up early.
3. Know the difference between boat types
Whether you’ve booked a sleek 40-ft motor yacht or a 45-ft catamaran, each vessel brings its own feel.
From the Playa del Carmen Boat Rental fleet example, catamarans tend to be wider and more stable (great for guests prone to seasickness) while motor yachts may offer more speed, a sleeker design and often more luxurious finish.
The crew advise: match your vessel choice to your group’s comfort, motion-sickness sensitivity, activity-level (snorkeling, floating, partying) and budget.
4. Be kind, respectful and collaborative
This might be the simplest (yet often the most overlooked) advice: the crew are working hard, often in hot sun, changing weather, balancing logistics, safety, guest satisfaction and cleaning.
A friendly attitude, patience when boarding or disembarking, gratitude for service, and a little extra tip can go a long way in creating a positive dynamic.
When the crew feels appreciated, you’ll feel it in how smoothly the trip runs and in the care put into your experience.
5. Know how you’ll move, drink and snorkel
If your charter includes open bar, snorkeling gear, water toys, paddle boards or inflatables, good for you!
Many offerings from Playa del Carmen Boat Rental list these inclusions: “open bar, snorkeling, crew, life jackets, snorkel equipment, food.”
But what the crew wishes you asked: Which bar items are included? Is there water/soft drink for all guests? What’s the plan for snorkeling?
Clarify ahead: where you’ll anchor, how long you’ll snorkel, what the exit/entry looks like, how to handle your gear.
This reduces delays, confusion and dissatisfaction.
6. Beware of the weather and sea conditions
Even in tropical paradise, the sea doesn’t always cooperate.
Crew members ask guests to accept that while the plan is often to anchor in calm turquoise shallows, sometimes wind or tides shift the best route.
It might mean moving the snorkel stop, altering the time of the sunset cruise or adjusting the drink-service area.
They also appreciate guests who bring motion-sickness meds if needed. The more flexible you are, the more you’ll enjoy the ride.
7. Respect marine life and protected areas
While you’re out there on the blue, you’re visiting sensitive ecosystems.
Crew members frequently remind tourists: don’t stand on coral, don’t chase turtles, don’t discard plastics or anything into the sea.
These behaviours protect the very beauty you’ve come to enjoy.
Besides, the crew want to share the wonders (like turtle-snorkeling at the Inha Reef) in best possible condition for you and future visitors.
8. Keep your group size and behaviour in check
Many charters talk about “15 guests for 4 hours” or extra guest policies.
Crew members appreciate when group sizes align with the charter, and when guests remember it’s a shared vessel – not a hotel bar.
That means: don’t dominate the deck with lingerie parties (unless pre-approved), don’t run wild, keep music reasonable, coordinate bathroom or swim breaks, and let the crew manage logistics.
A well-behaved group frees the crew to focus on delivering great experiences – not damage control.
9. Arrive sober-ish and stay safe
Yes, charters often include open bar, and yes it’s a party atmosphere.
However: the crew emphasize that being too intoxicated can slow the trip, cause safety hazards (especially if jumping off the boat or snorkeling) and strain the crew’s ability to care for everyone.
They prefer guests who enjoy, but stay reasonably aware.
If your plan is serious revelry, talk it over in advance – plan for safe transportation to/from the marina, perhaps assign a sober buddy, and respect that on-board safety is the crew’s top priority.
10. After-trip etiquette: tips, feedback and follow-up
When you disembark, a few minutes of gratitude go a long way: “Thank you, the crew did a great job” is meaningful.
Many tours include gratuity suggestions; the crew trust that guests who ask and listen to their tips will reward good service.
Also, leaving honest feedback (especially if you enjoyed unique touches) helps the crew and future guests.
Bonus pointers from veteran crew
- Dress for the breeze. Even in tropical weather, once the boat speeds up you’ll feel the wind. Light cover-ups help.
- Secure your valuables. The boat has lockers or secure areas – ask if you need one.
- Photograph responsibly. Use the crew’s local knowledge for best photo stops. Don’t block walkways or run on deck.
- Ask about transport. Many charters offer hotel pick-up. Confirm location, time, and any extra cost.
- Plan for seasickness. Catamarans are more stable; yachts less so. If you’re prone, mention it ahead; the crew will help choose your seating and stop points.
Why these tips matter
Charters like this one aren’t just about water and waves – they’re about seamless service, special moments (snorkeling with turtles, floating under golden hour, toasting the sunset), and memories.
The difference between a “nice boat ride” and a “day we’ll never forget” often comes down to alignment between guest and crew expectations.
If you board with respect, clarity, curiosity and a willingness to collaborate, the crew will match you with enthusiasm and professionalism.
Ready to raise the anchor on your next adventure?
Book your private charter with Playa del Carmen Boat Rental today and set sail on the turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya with an expert crew who’ve told us exactly what makes guests shine.
Request a quote now and let us handle the logistics while you focus on the memories.