Answer
Tipping mates is customary on Ocean City charters—often a percentage of the trip fare when service and fish care are solid. Confirm whether mate tips are pooled.
Cash helps; ask the captain if you are unsure of norms for half-day vs full-day runs.
Sources: Visit Ocean City
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
