Sailing is exhilarating. The last time I set sail was just over a year ago when my wife and I booked a yacht charter along with the British Virgin Islands and down toward the Caymans. It was the kind of trip you don’t forget. Sure there were a couple of moments when things got bumpy, especially during a few nights when the threat of a monsoon sent us scrambling to keep the boat upright. But what really stood out was sailing along with uninhabited islands that looked like something out of a dream. I would recommend booking your own yacht charter if you’re planning a special holiday, but as I have with friends, I would suggest bringing certain items you won’t realize are important until you’re already well on your way. Here is a list of things are easily overlooked. Continue scrolling down to find out what to bring on your next yacht charter.
A snorkel and fins
Snorkeling scuba diving jack russell dog with mask snorkel at the beach on summer vacation holidays
The Caribbean is full of stunning coral reefs and arrays of colorful fish like you’ve never imagined. You might plan on renting a snorkel and fins, but not every place has them on offer. Some of the best places to jump in the water are the most secluded. Be sure you have your own pair on hand, you won’t regret it.
Duffle bags
Boats require a lot of care, and I mean a lot of care in order to be kept in tip-top shape. Hard luggage can easily scratch the wood on deck and other delicate wooden surfaces. Hard bags also take up more space, when space is already such a scarcity on an unscrewed charter boat like a monohull.
Earplugs
Young woman blocking her ears on a pink background
Not everywhere you dock will be the peaceful haven you might have imagined. Night clubs along the shore can pump their music well into the small hours of the night, and you want to be well-rested the following day if you’re going to set sail to your next destination.
Seasickness medicine
Even if you have some experience on a boat, or you’ve taken sailing lessons, your body probably isn’t prepared to cope with the sheer amount of time you’ll be spending rocking back and forth on your boat. It’s useful to stick with non-drowsy pills so you can be ready in case sudden hard work is needed to steer your boat back to safety.
Water shoes and flip flops
Summer beach bag with straw hat,towel,sunglasses and flip flops on sandy beach
In almost all cases street shoes are forbidden from being worn on board as they can damage the wooden floorboards. A couple of pairs of flip flops will be much more comfortable on long journeys, and water shoes can help protect your feet from sharp rocks.
Be practical. Don’t over-pack but think about the nature of your trip. How long will you be on the boat, and will you be heading to destinations where you’ll want to do a lot of swimming, or maybe hiking? Don’t rely on local places to rent the supplies you need, if it’s something small and light pack it yourself. You’ll be very grateful to have those snorkels on hand when you find the perfect uninhabited beach with pool-like crystal clear water and amazing fish.