Sailing essentials: what to pack for a yacht charter holiday

31st Oct 2018

When preparing for your yacht charter, packing light is the name of the game. Storage on sailing yachts is limited, so bringing just the necessities is advisable. To help you pack wisely, we’ve pulled together a list of the essentials that you’ll need on a yacht sailing holiday, wherever in the world you’re sailing.

Soft-sided luggage like a backpack or duffle bag is a must
  • Baggage: First thing’s first, soft-sided luggage like a backpack or duffle bag is a must. Hard luggage is difficult to fit in closets and cabinets while on a yacht
  • Sunblock: Oil free is best, especially if you are reapplying a lot, and water resistant as you’ll be spending lots of time in the sea! Apply insect repellent after sunblock while on the islands to avoid any unwanted insect bites
  • Documents: Don’t forget your passports and licenses as well as copies of them. We always advise you to keep them in ziplock bags to keep them dry (just in case!). Bring extra ziplock or “dry bags” for money or electronics too
  • Clothing: When it comes to what to wear, pack light! Some t-shirts, a few pairs of shorts and a couple of swimsuits is all you really need.  For quick drying, the lighter the material the better. A windbreaker or a light rain coat always comes in handy, ideally something that is easily rolled. Sturdy shoes for exploring islands is a must, even though most of your time of the boat will be spent barefoot. Sunglasses and a hat to shade your eyes from the sun are always handy too
  • Towels: Linen and towels are usually included, but we recommend you still bring your own beach towel. Opt for a quick dry or microfibre towel to minimize drying time for the next use
  • Medicine: Pack seasickness pills or a patch, just in case you encounter some rough seas – even some of the most experienced sailors get seasick you know!
  • Chargers: Be sure to check the yacht specs of your yacht before you go to figure out what kind of plugs or adaptors you need to charge any electronics
Capture all of your adventures
  • Yachts frequently fly flags to show where they come from. If you have any flags that you would like to fly (from your country, county, university, favourite football team, etc) feel free to bring them along
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory card to capture all of your adventures
  • Favourite CDs and/or small portable speakers as there’s no greater feeling than sailing around the British Virgin Islands with the wind in your hair and your favourite music playing in the background! All boats have CD players for you. Or for iPod/tablet users, why not bring some small portable speakers so you can chill to your favourite sailing tunes while relaxing on deck. Don’t forget your auxiliary cable!
  • Playing cards – just in case
  • Hammocks and inflatable floats or other water toys – sailing holidays are perfect for laid back fun, so if you have room, popping a few of these in your luggage is a great idea.
Leave your hair dryer at home
  • Cutlery and kitchen utensils
  • Nautical bits and pieces including sailing charts and navigation tools
  • First aid kit – all boats have them on board, but they’re quite basic so you may feel more comfortable taking your own
  • Leave the expensive bling at home and maybe even your hair dryer (you’ll be in and out of the sea lots, plus there is often complications with voltages to get them to work)  
  • Daily stresses and strains
  • Work!

A yacht charter is a fun experience, so don’t laden yourself with tons of unnecessary luggage that will only stress you out while travelling to your base. If you need any further advice, our brilliant team of sailing specialists are on hand to help you. Give them a call today on 01227 479900.

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The Latesail team are all experienced sailors who can help you find the perfect charter. Get in touch and we are happy to provide a personal service. Call us on: 01227 479 900

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