Why Tipping Your Captain Matters: A Litt
November 29, 2025
Haleiwa
1 photo
Trip Summary
Trip Summary
Heading out on the water with us means adventure, sunshine, and unforgettable memories—powered by a captain who works hard long before you ever step on the boat. From checking weather and prepping gear at sunrise to cutting bait, cleaning your fish, and keeping everyone safe, your captain puts a whole lot of heart into every charter.
What many people don’t know is that the charter fee mostly covers the boat—fuel, maintenance, tackle, licensing, and all the behind-the-scenes costs of running a safe and fun ocean adventure. Tips, however, go directly to the captain as a “You nailed it!” appreciation for their time, skill, and Aloha.
Just like you’d tip a great server for an amazing meal, tipping your captain (usually 15–20%) is the best way to say “Mahalo for making our day awesome!” Whether they helped you hook fish, answered every question with a smile, or filleted your catch to perfection, your tip tells them their hard work made a difference.
Captains do what they do because they love the ocean—but your kindness helps keep that passion alive. So if you had a great time on the water, don’t forget to sprinkle a little Aloha their way. Trust us… it means more than you know! ??
With Aloha – The Hawaiʻi Whale Tale Team