If you’ve already booked and are getting ready for your yacht charter, it’s time to start thinking about what to take.
Fortunately, the kit you’ll need doesn’t vary much wherever you decide to go sailing. We are all aware of the basics: floaty dresses, flip flops, light shirts, sun hats and sun cream, but there are a few other things worth knowing about that you should pack. Below, we list just a few extra items to add to your list to ensure you are ready for your lifetime trip.
Soft-sided Luggage
Avoid hard suitcases, which can be difficult to pack into your cabin and luggage space.
Instead, opt for soft-sided luggage (such as a duffle bag), which can easily fit into smaller spaces and be folded up and stored away once you have unpacked.
Hard luggage can also cause damage to decks, so bringing a soft form of luggage will help to avoid this.
Deck shoes
Yacht surfaces can be slippery, especially when wet, so investing in a good pair of deck men’s shoes is a great idea to avoid any slips or trips.
Deck shoes are designed to be worn on a boat; they are made from comfortable leather and have unique non-marking soles and extra grip on the bottom, making them suitable to wear on wet decks.
Deck shoes are highly durable and perfect for wearing on and off the yacht – so get them in your bag!
It’s also worth packing a sturdy pair of shoes to wear ashore if you plan to go on any afternoon walks to local sites or hikes to find the perfect sunset view.
Light waterproof jacket
You may be planning for glorious weather (fingers crossed!), but there’s no harm in packing a lightweight waterproof jacket, just in case. If it rains during your trip, you want to be prepared.
Taking a light jacket won’t take up too much space and will keep you warm on misty or chilly evenings. It always pays to be prepared!
Essentials
Don’t forget to pack your passport, sailing licenses, shampoos, shower gels and toothpaste.
A power bank is a great idea to ensure your phone is always charged.
Don’t forget beach towels, dry bags, insect repellents, and some evening wear.
Sea sickness medication is also handy on board, just in case.
Fun items
Now that all the serious stuff is out, you can make room for the fun items. Pack a deck of playing cards for some great evening entertainment.
Compile your favourite summer playlist to blast out on a sunny day at sea. A waterproof phone case can be a great idea to protect your phone and help you get the best pictures.
Don’t forget to bring a couple of books and a travel journal – you’ll want to remember this trip forever, and there’s nothing better than writing at anchor on a glistening sea.
Packaging a bottle of gin or rum for those relaxing evenings under the stars is also a good idea.
What not to pack
You do not need to bring bedding or cooking utensils, as these will be provided on board.
First aid kits, nautical charts, speakers and yacht equipment will also be provided.
What to Pack for a Sailing Holiday
So, here’s a complete checklist of everything you’ll need to make the most out of your next yacht charter:
- Soft-sided bags
- Flip flops
- Light clothing – floaty dresses, light shirts
- Swimwear
- Sun protection – sunglasses, sun hats, high SPF sun cream
- Deck shoes
- Sturdy shoes for walking ashore
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Passport
- Sailing licence *
- Toiletries – shampoos, shower gels and toothpaste
- Beach towels
- Insect repellent
- Playing cards
- Power bank
- Waterproof phone case
- Books
- Travel Journal
* A sailing licence is only required for bareboat charters.
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