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I had a sailboat for 23 years. I never expected anything to run the boat.
I would sometimes expect that people would at least feed themselves. That is , if its a day trip , don't expect me to load up with grinders and soda , etc. Anyone who knows anything would not only bring their own food but also some for you.
Its a social thing and you have to be careful not to hurt peoples feelings too. . For example , someone invites you to their house and wines and dines you and somewhere along the way you invite them out on the boat , you can see how they may figure the boat ride is payback and not bring anything. Most people will ask , should I bring anything , if you expect it , let them know. If you say , no I got everything , don't be surprised when they do show up empty handed.
You also have to be careful how you word the invite. "Would you like to come out boating Sat as my guest"? That person shouldn't be expected to pay anything.
"How about we split expenses and go out on the boat for the day" , then people know up front. This is my personal preference when invited out on someone elses boat. Just let me know what the deal is upfront and I'm glad to chip in.
I also think it depends on how often people do it. Someones first invite out maybe you take care of everything , even feeding them. However if its every week with the same people , they should catch on and start bringing food , beer etc.
Now I understand fishing trips are different than a day sail. Fishing trips burn gasand people get to take home fish. It should be discussed up front that if possible , a little help with gas money , after the trip is over , would be nice. Also , don't expect to share anything more than the comsumables , like gas ,. You;re crazy if you think people are going to add an extra $50 cause they know the outboard gets wear and tear. Also , if gas is $60 , don't expect each person to give you $60. Just their share is nice enough.
You also have to take into account someones circumstances too. Don't ask a dirt poor guy with 10 kids to go out fishing and expect a hundred for gas. If this is what's expected , make it clear ahead of time.
Anyway , as I said , I never wanted anything for the boat , gas , dock etc. That's my resposibility as the owner but if you want ham samdwiches and cheese and wine , bring some , enough for everyone.
The last thing I wanted to mention was that some people don't want to insult you by offering money. There may be many points of view as to whether the trip is shared , payback , just being nice , philanthropic , etc
Anyway , I would much rather have everything discussed up front so no one gets disappointed or surprised or put in the situation of not knowing what to do. As the boat owner , if you never expect anything , you are never disappointed and sometimes pleasantly surprised.
Good topic though. There are a million scenarios and circumstances under which you may be expected to chip in , hope you'll chip in , not expected to chip in and insulting for even offering to chip in.
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