Good crew moral is essential for any yacht to run smoothly. Some captains would even say that the crew getting along with each other is top on their priority list. It can be challenging to get along with everyone you’re working with considering the tight quarters, months at sea and varying cultures and backgrounds of other crew members. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to make sure you get off on the right foot with your new crew:

• Do… ask fellow crew members about themselves (i.e. hobbies, interests, yachting history etc.)
• Don’t… come off too strong with opinions (i.e. politics, personal etc.)
• Do… be sensitive to the fact that crew come from all over the world and there may be cultural differences.
• Don’t… be the crew mess drunk! Handle your booze or give it up, you don’t want a bad rap when it comes to drinking.
• Do… plan outings to do as a crew, hanging out outside of work is a great way to loosen up and get to know each other as friends.
• Don’t… screw the crew! This can mean showing up late or slacking at your job or literally screwing the crew either one isn’t a good idea.
• Do… maintain a positive attitude and be friendly, have the reputation of the crew member who’s always smiling
• Don’t… talk smack! No matter how big of a yacht you work on, word travels fast and the last thing you want is the reputation of a gossiper.