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Your yacht charter vacation of a lifetime is all booked – daydreaming of sun-soaked decks, sparkling turquoise waters and the serene surroundings of the waves. But let’s be honest—this isn’t your typical holiday; It’s an experience, a piece of luxury, the ultimate escape. But before you hop aboard and start living your best marine life, you need to do some preparation, because life on the water requires a little more thought.

Packing and preparing for life on a yacht isn’t as simple as throwing a swimsuit in a bag and heading to the nearest beach resort. With limited storage, unique conditions and the allure of marine and onshore adventures, there is a fine art to getting it right. Let this guide be your compass – from what to pack and understanding yacht etiquette, to how to prepare in the days leading up to your luxury vacation.

Packing for life aboard: the art of minimalism

Yachts, while luxurious, aren’t known for their huge collections, so pack light and think smart. Forget heavy luggage and opt for soft-sided bags that are easy to carry in tight spaces. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.

When it comes to clothing, versatility is everything. Light, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton will be your best friends – keeping you nice and cool with the bonus of quick drying. You’ll be spending most of your time in swimwear, so pack a few stylish options and bring simple cover-ups like a kaftan or sarong for lounging on the deck for lunch or popping ashore. Of course, not all charters are for sunnier climes, so if you’re going somewhere cold, pack layers!

Evenings on yachts lean towards casual elegance, so leave the formal wear at home. Embrace the freedom of simply styling a sundress or relax in linen trousers with a simple shirt – perfect for sunset cocktails or dining under the stars. Nights on the water can get a little chilly, so don’t forget a lightweight sweater or jacket. Footwear should also be practical: non-marking deck shoes for onboard safety, flip-flops for beach visits, and a pair of chic but comfortable sandals for walking around coastal towns. If you plan on hiking or biking along the coast, don’t forget some light sneakers or sturdier versions for rocky trails. An open-foot policy and light shoes are likely to be provided while you’re on board.

Accessories are equally important. A wide-brimmed hat or sporty cap will protect you from the sun, while sunglasses with UV protection are a must – maybe pack a backup pair, in case the sea breeze claims your favourite. Bring a tote or foldable beach bag for excursions and a waterproof phone pouch to protect your gadgets.

While this is a chance to unplug and disconnect, some tech can make your trip better. A portable charger or power bank is essential if outlets are limited. E-readers are lighter than packing books, and a waterproof camera or GoPro will let you capture those underwater adventures. Download any playlists, movies or podcasts for you and the kids as WiFi can be patchy at sea.

When it comes to toiletries, keep them compact and eco-friendly. Many yachts encourage biodegradable products to protect marine life, so invest in reef-safe brands in travel-size containers. Your charter broker should provide you with pre-boarding information about your chosen yacht, which cabin amenities—such as robes, hairdryers and toiletries—are provided. Many yachts also supply sunscreen and will have a basic first aid kit on board – but if you have sensitivities or a particular preference for painkillers, sickness remedies or antihistamines, you should be prepared. Pharmacies are few and far between in remote Anchorage!

Weeks ago: Getting everything ship-shaped

With your packing list finalized, it’s time to focus on the final tally. The week leading up to your trip is all about confirming the fine details and making sure you’re ready to make the most of your time.

Start by confirming all the logistics with your yacht charter broker. Double-check departure times and locations and make sure your paperwork, from itineraries to passports, is in order. If you have requested any special provisions or dietary requirements, now is the time to follow up. The yacht menu is tailored to your preferences, so be sure to mention any must-haves such as favorite wines or snacks for the kids. Yacht crews run a tight ship and although they will go out of their way to help you enjoy your trip, it can be difficult to source specific items in outlying locations at short notice.

Next, focus on transportation. Whether you’re catching a flight to a tropical paradise or driving into a marina, make sure your connections are seamless. For international travel, check passport validity and any visa or vaccination requirements.

Weather can play a big part in your experience, so start checking the forecast a week before you travel. Knowing what to expect will help you adjust your packing – whether it’s swapping out a lightweight sweater for a sturdier windbreaker or adding a rain poncho just in case.

Seasickness: A little preparation goes a long way

Even if you’re never prone to motion sickness, it’s smart to be prepared because spending a week on a yacht can be very different from other boat experiences. Ginger candies, acupressure wristbands, or non-drowsy patches are simple, low-maintenance options. Start using it a day or two before boarding to ease your body into the rhythm of the waves.

If you want something stronger make sure you bring travel sickness pills that work for you or visit your pharmacy for advice before you travel. There is also a breakthrough solution for seasickness that is now carried by some luxury charter yachts. C-Level, a virtual reality headset designed to provide instant relief from the symptoms of seasickness caused by the visual disturbances you experience on a boat. It has been described as a ‘game changer’!

The final countdown: brush up on onboard etiquette

Now is the time to familiarize yourself with the simple but important rules of yachting etiquette to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you, your guests and crew. The crew is there to ensure that your charter is seamless and you receive exceptional service, but also for your safety. You should listen to their instructions, be kind and respectful, and remember that they work long hours behind the scenes for your benefit, so appreciation goes a long way. The crew isn’t there to babysit you, although they will have lots of fun activities for kids of all ages. Treat the vessel with respect – it’s a multi-million-dollar piece of marine equipment that needs care and attention, and thoughtless behavior can lead to costly damage and compromise your charter experience.

Yachts have zero tolerance for illegal or illegal activity and the penalties are severe for both the yacht and you. Use of illegal drugs, possession of firearms or disrespectful behavior towards the crew will result in immediate termination of your charter and seizure of the yacht and revocation of license.

It is customary to tip the crew upon departure to reflect your appreciation for the service you received. Although discretionary, 5-15% is recommended by MYBA and you do not need to carry cash as the crew will accept a wired gratuity after the charter. Check with your charter broker what is appropriate on your chosen yacht.

Whether you’re embarking on a winter charter in the Caribbean or looking forward to summer in the Mediterranean or even fall in New England, good preparation is important. Consider working with an experienced charter broker who will smooth the waters during the booking process as well as help you prepare to board.