Crew Fee Explained: Understanding the Costs of Your CoastEase Tikis Experience

If you’ve ever booked a trip with us at CoastEase Tikis, you might have noticed that your checkout is split. One part is for the boat ahead of time, and the other is for our incredible crew on the trip.

We understand that when you’re planning a party for 18 people, you want your checkout to be as simple as possible. So, why the separate fees? It’s not just us being “extra”—it’s actually a strategic move designed to keep more money in your pocket and provide more support for our local captains.

Here’s the inside scoop on why we do it this way:

1. It Keeps Taxes Lower for YOU

In the beautiful state of Alabama, boat rentals are subject to specific sales taxes. However, in Orange Beach, service-based labor (like your captain’s hard work) isn’t taxed the same way a rental is. By keeping the crew fee separate, you aren’t paying a rental tax on a human being’s labor. It’s a legal and savvy way to ensure your total “out of pocket” stays as low as possible.

2. We’re Dodging Those Pesky Platform Fees

Booking platforms are great for keeping our calendars organized, but they take a cut of every dollar that passes through them—sometimes up to 5% or more! If we bundled the captain’s pay into the main booking, the platform would take a slice of the captain’s hard-earned money. By paying the crew fee independently, we bypass those corporate fees, ensuring that 100% of that fee goes directly to the person driving the boat.

3. Your Crew Works Hard & Gets Paid FAST with their Crew Fee

Our captains are the heart of CoastEase Tikis. They aren’t just drivers; they are your DJ, your photographer, your safety officer, and your local tour guide. By paying the crew fee directly, you ensure that the person making your day special gets paid immediately for their work. No waiting for a corporate payroll cycle—just direct support for local maritime professionals!

4. How to Handle the “Payment App” vs. Cash Debate

Our crew is flexible, but here is the “Captain’s Secret”: Cash is King. While most of our captains can accept payment apps (Venmo, CashApp, etc.), those apps often charge a 3.5% transaction fee. If you want to make sure your captain gets every penny you intended, cash is the way to go. If you prefer the convenience of an app, just keep that small fee in mind!

5. Don’t Forget the “Tiki Tip”!

Just like your favorite bartender or server, our captains work for tips! They go above and beyond to make sure your bachelorette or family reunion is legendary.

• The Industry Standard: A tip of 15%–25% is standard for private charters.

• Pro Tip: Base your tip on the total cost of the trip (Boat + Crew Fee).

The Bottom Line:

We do things a little differently at CoastEase Tikis because we care about the local community and we care about your budget. By separating these fees, we are fighting the “tax man” and the “platform fees” on your behalf.

Why Choose CoastEase Tikis?

When it comes to private boat charters, we strive to be the top choice in Orange Beach and Pensacola. Our mission is to ensure that every group, from families to bachelorette parties, has an unforgettable and personalized experience on the water. We believe that every moment counts, and we want to make sure you have the best time possible.

What to Expect on Your Trip

When you book with us, you can expect a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Our experienced captains will guide you through the beautiful waters, sharing local stories and tips along the way. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind, we’ve got you covered.

Planning Your Perfect Day

To make the most of your trip, consider what activities you’d like to include. Do you want to swim, snorkel, or just relax with a drink in hand? Let us know your preferences, and we’ll tailor the experience to fit your needs. Remember, this is your day, and we’re here to make it special!

Ready to Get Out on the Water?

Now that you’re a pro on the logistics, it’s time to book your spot! We can’t wait to welcome you aboard and create lasting memories together.