Etiquette for Your First Yacht Business Lunch in Chicago

Etiquette for your first yacht business lunch in Chicago.

So, you’ve been invited to your first business lunch meeting on a yacht. But what exactly is business lunch etiquette? In Chicago, business lunch etiquette is all about finding a way to fit networking and business talk into your meal minus the business meeting vibes.

Naturally, we suggest chartering Adeline’s Sea Moose to provide amazing views of the Chicago coastline, delicious cuisine, fresh air, and a distraction-free environment. Plus, who doesn’t love spending time on the water? Adeline’s Sea Moose is one of Lake Michigan’s largest private event venues in Chicago. Here we will touch on a few of the common yacht etiquette questions we hear throughout the yachting season. And as always, remember to keep it professional and have fun!

What to wear

What to wear for your yacht business meeting in Chicago. The goal is to look professional and polished yet still comfortable. Remember that a yacht charter is a different luncheon than say a high-end restaurant. Your yacht lunch will be exposed to the elements, and while Chicago summers can be hot, the lake may have a cool breeze. Bringing a light jacket will help if you are prone to feeling chilly. Business casual clothing is usually how most of our business lunch guests dress. Add a pair of stylish boat shoes or loafers with good traction to complete the look.

And if you really aren’t sure, just ask the host. They’ll appreciate the consideration.

How to behave

How to behave during your business meeting. The most important thing to remember is to remain professional. Business lunches are a way for business associates to network, collaborate, and share ideas.

A yacht charter on Lake Michigan is an exciting and unique experience, but as Vince Lombardi said in 1967 to kick returner Travis Williams after William’s endzone dance, “Travis, the next time you make it to the endzone, act like you’ve been there before.”

Keep that in mind. Comment on how nice the view is and show appreciation for the invitation. But take pause when you feel like gushing.

What to order

What to order for lunch on a Chicago yacht? Adeline’s Sea Moose offers several options for food. From a multi-course menu to chef-designed options, and even buffet style. Your host should have already provided course options, but if not, try to order light and clean. Meaning, unless it’s the only option, you don’t want to cover yourself – and business attire – in marinara or barbecue sauce.

How to pay

How to pay for a chartered yacht lunch in Chicago. Similar to ordering food, it is likely that your host will address cost prior to your yacht business lunch in Chicago. In general it is the host, your boss or the senior person, if the host isn’t paying. However, it is not in bad taste to offer to pay your share.

Show up on time.

Show up on time, and this is important. Like all business meetings, you want to either be early or on time. On a yacht, it is especially important. Your host has chartered a yacht for a specific period of time, and you want to make sure you are getting the face-to-face time expected.

Contact Adeline’s Sea Moose for your next business lunch in Chicago.

Contact Adeline’s Sea Moose for your next business lunch in Chicago. The Sea Moose is a 68′ 45-passenger Coast Guard-certified luxury yacht on Lake Michigan. With chef-created menus, a wet bar, and plenty of room to offer a distraction-free business meeting, we’d love to host you and your guests.

Contact Adeline’s Sea Moose and speak with your event coordinator today!