What to bring - how to pack for a Yacht Charter Experience

Suggestions on what to bring and how to pack aboard

Packing  We all have a tendency to bring too much stuff, too many cloths or outfits,  so you may want to keep that in mind,  especially on a yacht where you hope to be lounging around in bathing suits and shorts.   You really don't need lots of cloths/outfits on the boat!  However, you should always bring a warm article of clothing  ie jacket / sweater as it is always cooler on the water, especially here in Southern New England as well as most other cruising places around the world.

MOST IMPORTANT  - Only Soft sided Luggage aboard please,   REAL SOFT - the softer the better!  Really don't need luggage with wheels if that can be avoided,  the wheels tend to bang and scratch the woodwork / floors insides the cabins of yachts.  In fact,  gym bags and the like are ideal to use for luggage.

Personal Items   

Sunglasses,   Sun Lotions,  Hats?   Often times as mentioned it can be or feel 10-20 degrees cooler on the water,  so bring sweatshirts / jackets depending on time of year.   Spring is even cooler on the water.  May want to think about bringing an insect repellant especially during the summer season.

Water Shoes / Sandals or equivalent,  If a day charter or longer we may go into shore with the small dinghy and may need to step out in the water near the beach!   Also, some beaches can be very rocky or shelly and you will need something protect your feet.

Cameras,  cell phone chargers – depending on duration of cruise

Bathing Suits,   There  is also a shower on the aft swim platform which can be used after a swim to get the salt off.  Wash hair  etc  so bring shampoos, and special soaps etc

iPods can connect to ships stereo system, so bring it with you if you desire.   DVD movies for kids on any cruises is always a good idea just in case.

Computer?  - but hopefully you can get by without it and really relax!

Luggage / Carry on:   Please  No Hard Sided Luggage!  soft sided gear/luggage –   ie Totes, bags,  gym bags  soft luggage that can easily be stored and flattened.  No Wheels please- if possible.  On extended cruises you will be able to empty your belongings and store them in the cabinets and closets on the yacht.  It is ideal to be able to fold your luggage down flat and we can easily store that out of the way.  This kind of luggage will not damage woodwork when/if jostled around on the water.   The exception of course is your small overnight / cosmetic bags or shaving bags for the guys.

Favorite Beverages:  You are always welcome to bring your favorite beverages aboard the
“ Sol Mate”   beer / wines  for example,   We have a freezer aboard typically with 25 lbs of cubes and also have room for small to mid size single handle carry on coolers.  The Sol Mate does have a separate freezer and refrigerator unit but they are considered small as compared to your refrigerator and home.

Misc.   Yachts will typically have bottle and wine openers and assorted glasses (plastic) dishes and silverware available.

How to Pack