When you want to extend a warm greeting, you can use phrases like welcome aboard or welcome on board.
People usually think of boats and planes when they hear the phrase “welcome aboard.” You’d use it to greet a guest who is stepping onto a ship or plane.
On the other hand, “welcome on board” can be used in similar situations when you need a more formal tone. Nowadays, you’ll also find it being used in formal business settings to welcome new individuals joining a team or organization
Welcome Aboard vs Welcome On Board
The phrase “welcome aboard” is usually used for people getting on a boat or plane. It’s the same as saying “hello” to them as they get on.
You’d use “welcome on board” more often to welcome someone new to a team or company, though.
Actually, you can use these two phrases together because they mean pretty much the same thing. The difference is more in the tone and context than in the words themselves.
Usage in Formal and Informal Contexts
You’ll often hear welcome aboard in casual, laid-back settings. It’s also the go-to phrase when you’re welcoming someone who’s starting a new job or joining an organization.
If you’re in a more formal, professional situation, you might prefer to use welcome on board.
In terms of written communication, you’d primarily use welcome on board in the context of international business, corporate hiring, or formal announcements.
Aboard or On Board: In the Travel and Service Industry
The informal welcome aboard is a phrase traditionally associated with sea and air travel. Even the Cambridge Dictionary describes “aboard” as an adverb or preposition meaning: on or onto a ship, aircraft, bus, or train. For instance:
- Planes: “We’re thrilled to have you aboard Flight 109.”
- Ships: “Welcome aboard the S.S. Marina.”
Though you could use “welcome on board” in these scenarios too, it is not a common practice.
Corporate Environments: On Board or Aboard?
You may have noticed that “welcome on board” and “welcome aboard” are often used to mean the same thing in the business world.
In professional settings, “welcome aboard” is often used as a friendly, casual greeting. It suggests that the new member is now embarking on the company’s journey with them.
Welcome on board, on the other hand, sounds a bit more formal. One of the meanings of the phrase “on board” is being “part of a group or team, especially for a special purpose. It’s often used in HR communications, like welcome emails or the first event for new employees to meet everyone.
For instance:
- Formality: “We are pleased to welcome Mr. Smith on board as our new Chief Financial Officer.”
- Friendly informal tone: “Hey everyone, let’s give a big welcome aboard to Sarah, our newest team member!
Examples for Using Welcome On Board in a Sentence:
“Welcome on board, Sarah! We’re excited to have you in our team.”
“Congratulations on your new job, and welcome on board!”
“You’ve joined our club, so welcome on board and let’s have fun together.”
“Welcome on board the flight to New York; please enjoy your journey.”
“You’re the newest volunteer, welcome on board and thanks for helping out.”
“Welcome on board our new project; your skills are a perfect match.”
Examples for Using Welcome Aboard in a Sentence:
“Welcome aboard the cruise ship; your vacation starts now!”
“Welcome aboard, new interns! We’re thrilled to have you with us.”
“You just got on the spaceship ride, so welcome aboard and hold tight!”
“Welcome aboard our team, where we work hard and support each other.”
“As you step onto the yacht, welcome aboard for a day of sailing.”
“Welcome aboard flight 302; please enjoy your trip with us.”
Best Responses to Welcome Aboard or Welcome On Board Messages
When you receive a ‘Welcome Aboard’ or ‘Welcome On Board’ message, it represents a warm greeting in a professional or organizational setting. Your response to such messages should be polite and show your excitement about joining the team. Here are some sample responses for you:
Formal Reply:
“Thank you for the warm welcome. I am eager to contribute to the team and learn from everyone.”
“I appreciate the warm reception. It is a privilege to be part of such an esteemed group.”
Informal Response:
“Thrilled to be here! Thanks for the hearty welcome; can’t wait to get started!”
“Thanks a bunch! Looking forward to great times and successful projects with the team.”
For Direct Replies to a Boss or Manager:
“Thank you for the opportunity. I am looking forward to working with you and the team.”
“I’m grateful for the friendly welcome. Excited to start this journey under your guidance.”
How formal your answer is may depend on who sent the message, such as your boss, a new coworker, or someone introducing the group.
Finally, the best answers are ones that are positive, show appreciation, and let the person know you want to be an active and involved team member.
