Your Charter Packing List - Essential Yacht Packing Checklist

Pack a breathable, waterproof duffel on day one and keep a separate waterproof dry bag onboard for valuables. This setup speeds checks, enhances protection against splash, and makes it easy to store gear before you step onto deck.

Choose quick-dry tops and shorts in light colors, and insist on soft soles to protect the deck and your feet. Consider two to three outfits per person for a week, plus a compact rain shell, and prioritize breathable fabrics that wick moisture for great comfort in sun and heat.

For snorkeling experiences, include a mask, fins, snorkel, and a rash guard; bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat. When you find animals along the route, maintain distance and never touch wildlife. Rinse gear after use and store it in a dry bag to prolong life and protect habitats.

Chartering a yacht means you should plan for organized storage: color-coded bags, clearly labeled items, and heavy gear stored low on deck. Likely you will spend time ashore each day, so pack a light day pack with water, snacks, and a compact towel. A well-arranged onboard closet reduces clutter and saves precious space for significant gear.

Before you depart, charge essentials: phones, cameras, and a satellite messenger if you need remote reach. Bring a waterproof pouch for cards and cash, plus a spare battery or power bank. Consider a small multitool and protective cases to keep electronics safe from splashes and humidity, and really protect your gear against salt spray.

Quality sleep improves focus; pack a travel pillow and a compact blanket for cooler evenings. Choose travel-sized toiletries in transparent bags to simplify checks, and store them in a dedicated bag to avoid leaks on moving surfaces. Use packable bags and section your wardrobe to find items quickly when passengers change plans or you tend to switch routines during long charters.

Your Charter Packing List: Yacht Packing Checklist; The Ultimate Sailing Vacation Packing List

Pack a portable case with a fresh set of clothing for day one; include 2 shirts, 1 sweater, and 1 pair of sunglasses within easy reach. Keep these items handy for quick access. Do a quick check before leaving the dock to prevent last-minute scrambles.

Layer for motion on deck: three breathable fabric tops, two moisture-wicking shirts, one light jacket, and one warmer sweater for evenings. A compact sunhat and sunglasses shield eyes; washable fabrics simplify care. Add a strap to secure gear during rough seas.

The kit includes swimwear, underwear, and two casual outfits for shore visits, plus one lightweight windbreaker. Store toiletries and a small first-aid kit in a compact bag, and keep any chemicals in a sealed case away from heat.

Crews value spare layers and sun protection; a portable charger keeps devices alive during long days. Keep these items in a clean bag so you can grab essentials quickly when motion or going through cabins occurs.

Vacations on board demand practical planning: include a mix of fabrics suitable for heat and breeze, an extra towel, and a durable belt or strap. For evenings, pack at least one smart option and two casual outfits. Run a quick check before departure to confirm items are ready, and enjoy flexible experiences ashore and at sea.

Onboard Packing Strategy

Keep a dedicated shore-ready kit in a waterproof bag near the helm for quick access during excursions. Include ginger for motion relief, electrolyte drinks, a compact blanket, a cover-up for sun or spray, and a few sealed bottles of fresh water. A small bottle rack keeps bottles secure during rolling seas, and a spare pair of sunglasses stays above eye level for easy reach.

Maintain a live inventory on a simple page in a waterproof sleeve. For each crew member, list essentials: one spare set of clothes, two pairs of good shoes, and a compact night kit for watches. Update after each charter so the live view reflects what is aboard.

Pack by zone: above deck items, below deck storage, and an off-boat shore kit. Use rigid, stackable cases for fragile electronics, cameras, and chargers; keep loose items in zipped bags to reduce rattling; never leave gear unsecured in wet areas.

Clothing strategy: lightweight, quick-dry fabrics; pack a cover-up per person; include a spare set of socks and deck shoes; rotate items to stay fresh; temperatures swing around 60 degrees at night, so layer options matter.

Meds and personal care: pack a compact first-aid kit, allergy meds, and motion relief (ginger). Store medications in a labeled case; keep cosmetics and cover-up in a separate, waterproof pouch. Be mindful of animals; keep food sealed to avoid attracting animals.

Rental gear: if you use rental equipment, tag it separately and return it promptly; this helps the crew track what is aboard. Spend a few minutes before departure to verify all items, including spare filters and chargers, are accounted for.

Night and daily rhythm: store a compact light source within reach; a headlamp for night checks; keep a clear view of deck level to avoid trips; use non-slip shoes and lightweight footwear.

Shore-side readiness: pack a small shore kit for excursions with sun protection and water bottles; this reduces time spent on the dock. A handy approach: keep one bag ready and refresh it between hops to smooth the flow.

Clothing by Climate and Sailing Schedule

First, pack a core kit: a pair of quick-dry base layers, a sun-protective long-sleeve top, lightweight shorts or pants, a windproof shell, and a packable rain layer. These items let you adapt from sunshine to spray without extra bags. Choose fabric blends that move moisture and dry quickly, and keep an eye on the forecast so you know which pieces you’ll need at your next port.

For chartering trips, outfit clothing that covers all climates you’ll encounter aboard: tropical heat, temperate breezes, and brisk nights. In sunny ports, choose fabric that breathes and dries fast. A wide-brim hat, glasses, and a UV shirt keep you comfortable on deck. Carry a spare shirt and a light scarf for sun protection, and keep the same pocket ready for cash and small electronics you might need ashore. Knowledge of local weather and sea state helps you pick the right kit for that day.

Flowletting fabrics move moisture away from skin, reducing cling on humid days. Almost any day benefits from this layering plan, and a portable jacket that packs flat lets you adjust to changing decks without adding weight.

In temperate seas, layer in a sequence: base layer, mid-weight fleece, then a windproof shell. A portable pack helps you carry clothes between ports; plan for two tops, two bottoms, and extra socks. In a back pocket or bag, stash a spare pair of gloves and sunscreen for quick access. This approach keeps your options flexible and your back free for a jacket that goes away when you head ashore.

For cold gusty passages, add a thermal layer and waterproof outerwear. Warm socks, waterproof boots, and a beanie boost comfort when spray hits the deck. If animals accompany you on a charter, check the vessel rules and bring a dedicated bag for pet items. This would reduce stress if you need to adjust at a moment’s notice.

Knowing the forecast lets you adjust your wardrobe. The same approach works for days with sunshine and cloud cover, as you switch between sun and shade, and you can almost always pack away an extra layer in a compact bag.

This setup has served charters for years, adapting to longer trips or shorter legs.

Must-Have Safety Gear and Personal Items

Ensure everyone wears a properly fitted PFD and keep a spare in each cabin for quick access. They stay accessible even during rough seas. This must be complemented by a throwable flotation device, a compact fire extinguisher, and a marine first-aid kit with a basic set you can use for minor injuries. Have two signaling devices (whistle and mirror) and a waterproof flashlight with spare batteries on deck.

Keep a handheld VHF radio topped with fresh batteries, and if youre likely to head offshore, add an EPIRB or PLB. Make sure all equipment is applicable to your plan and within easy reach while the boat moves. Ensure at least two spare batteries for lights and radios, and store them in a dry bag so you can grab them fast while youre underway.

On deck, install a safety line and harness for moving around the bow during a chop. If you carry a dinghy, attach a kill-switch lanyard and keep a throw line, paddles, and a spare oar in a dry bag. Pick a layout that makes these items easy to grab in busy spaces so you wont waste time during loading or landing.

For personal items, pack sun protection with fabric that dries quickly: SPF 30+ sunscreen, lip balm, UV sunglasses, a hat, and breathable, comfortable fabrics. Bring a light jacket for wind and spray, and comfortable shoes for islands visits. Include a compact toiletries kit, a change of clothes for each day, and a rain layer for showers.

Store important docs and memories in a dry, accessible place. Take pictures of IDs and insurance cards and keep copies on ipad for quick access. If youre planning a flexible itinerary, provide a simple, printable plan and a digital copy to everyone to set expectations. Youre ready for islands, beaches, and back-to-back stops, and you wont scramble when docking. For sand heavy days, keep a spare dry bag for valuables and a light snack for the crew; at least one bag per person helps everyone carry their own items. Assign a small bag to each guest and label it for the cabin so you wont misplace gear when you go ashore by dinghy. Ensure these bags stay near the back of the cabin for quick reach before departure from port.

Onboard Comfort: Sleep, Food Prep, and Laundry Plan

leaving the marina, set the cabin to 21°C with breathable fabrics and soft soles slippers for better sleep, and keep a compact sleep package by the bunk so youre ready when lights go down.

• Sleep plan
  • Target a stable, low-noise environment: below deck cabins feel calmer, set dimmed lights to a red spectrum, and use a sleep mask with soft earplugs to reduce engine rattle while you rest.
  • Clothing and comfort: wear skin-friendly sleepwear made from natural fabrics, and keep a spare set of nightwear in your baggage for temperature swings; if you must wear suits during the day, switch to lighter sleep clothes before turning in.
  • Foot comfort: keep soft soles slippers ready at the bunk, and place a lightweight blanket for variable weather aboard.
  • Pre-sleep routine: hydrate with a mug of ginger tea from a small package of tea, and do a quick stretch to loosen tight muscles–this adds significant comfort through calm breathing and reduced tension.
  • Timing and safety: before lights-out, power down nonessential tech and store valuables in a secure locker; keep a little water nearby, and use a sleep-friendly routine to improve the chances of safe, deep rest.
• Food prep
  • Plan simple, flexible meals that travel well: 2-3 dish rotations using ingredients stored in a compact galley, with clear labels and a dedicated spice package to minimize rummaging through places in the cabin.
  • Sea-sickness and flavor: carry a small ginger and lemon kit; a ginger package or ginger chews can help you feel better during rough seas, especially while traveling between watches.
  • Storage and safety: store perishables in labeled containers below deck, and use sealed bags or a small cooler to keep food fresh throughout the voyage; keep most ingredients in the baggage locker to reduce clutter in the galley.
  • Tech aids: use a compact electric kettle or portable induction setup (if allowed) to boil water for tea or hot broth, and keep a digital inventory on your phone to track what’s left in the fridge or freezer.
• Laundry plan
  • Washing cadence: run a quick wash every 2–3 days using a small, dedicated wash bag; use biodegradable detergent in small capsules to minimize residue and weight.
  • Load and fabrics: wash light fabrics separately from heavier items; avoid overloading the machine to prevent friction that wears down skin and fabrics.
  • Drying: hang items on a compact drying rack or lines in a well-ventilated area; if sun is scarce, finish with a portable fan to speed drying below deck.
  • Maintenance: wipe down denims or suits after wear, and store clean clothes in a carry-on or onboard locker to keep baggage organized and ready for travel to different ports.

Tech, Navigation, and Power Gear

Keep the ones you rely on charged and protected with a rugged waterproof case. A handheld VHF with a spare battery, a compact GPS, and a power bank keep you connected when the main system takes a hit, both during day watches and at night. Use dry bags for cables and chargers to keep water out. One thing to check is battery health before departure.

Stock a thoughtful navigation kit: electronic chart plotter, AIS, radar, and a set of up-to-date paper charts as a backup. A compact compass, a whistle, and a small flashlight help staying on top of the situation even in darkness. dramamine can be a helpful option for seasickness on longer hops. Cross-check waypoints on the device with the charts so you wont rely on a single source.

Power strategy centers on versatility. Use a lightweight solar panel or wind charger to top up USB-C banks between hops. Carry at least two USB-C/USB-A cables and extra adapters for laptops, tablets, and radios. Pack a weatherproof power bank that can recharge a phone, a tablet, and a handheld radio–these products are a great way to stay connected when mains fail.

Clothing should be warm and breathable. Choose layers with moisture-wicking bases and a breathable shell for spray and drizzle. If you are wearing gloves, ensure they are grippy and comfortable. Sand and salt demand frequent rinse; wipe screens with a microfiber cloth to avoid salty residues. A bonus tip: keep a lightweight, breathable layer ready for every evening on deck.

Night and evening lighting runs on headlamps with red-light mode, waterproof torches, and spare batteries. Keep a small red LED beacon on your life raft or cabin to guide the crew without ruining night vision. They wont waste time fumbling with screens; practice switching between nav modes in low light before you leave port.

Toiletries and water discipline: store travel-size toiletries in a labeled kit, and keep a bottle of water within reach during night watches. This may seem minor, but it improves comfort and focus. A simple routine saves space and weight while you sail: pack compact soap, toothpaste, and a quick-dry towel so life on board stays comfortable, safe, and practical.