Charter boat fishing captains reported that they generally receive tips of 10 to 20% of the trip cost. A tip of 15% is generally expected. The tip is divided between the captain and the partner on most ships. First, let's clarify a couple of things.
A tip is not mandatory, it is not a salary and there are no definite rules. A tip is a customer-driven act that generally demonstrates an appreciation of the level of service. The “rates for how much to tip a ship captain vary from 5 to 20%, but there is a certain label. The tip is always given to the captain, in cash, who then distributes the tip to the crew equally.
If there is a crew, of course, the thing to keep in mind here is that charters are not like restaurants. People who work charters would compare it more to a lifestyle because their shifts tend to be longer. In some countries, seasons are only good for 12 to 16 weeks and they have to work every day. Even when the captain owns the boat, most of the money goes to maintaining the boat and the expenses of owning a business.
This same principle carries over to charter captains, fishing guides and first officers who provide services during their fishing experience. Typically, customers will add between 15% and 20% gratuity to the price of the trip, depending on the quality of the service. Although not required, there is a certain label to show your appreciation. If you think the Captain or Guide didn't deserve to be appreciated, maybe just a 5% tip is justified; but we'll get into what is good service in a moment.
Often, the tip you give goes directly to the first officer (if applicable). In some cases, tipping is the only compensation a first officer receives, since they are mostly interns learning their trade. If you think both the Captain and the First Officer deserve a tip, you can offer cash to both. The Captain can still give all or part of his part to the First Officer, but the gesture is noticeable and appreciated.
If you have further questions about how to tip the captain of your charter boat, consult your charter agent, who should be able to advise you.
