Embarking on a luxury yacht charter is an exhilarating experience, offering a perfect blend of opulence, adventure and relaxation. Whether you're cruising through the Mediterranean, exploring the Caribbean, or venturing into more exotic destinations, ensuring you have the right essentials packed is key to maximising your experience. Here's a guide on what to bring on a luxury yacht charter, ensuring that your trip is as smooth and luxurious as possible.
As far as packing goes, unless you’re going to be chartering a vast motor yacht, try to keep things to a minimum. Please use soft fold-up luggage, as storage space on boats is always limited and rigid suitcases are difficult to stow.
Depending upon when and where you’re chartering, you’ll probably be chartering in a warm climate. On the yacht by day, you will most likely be in swimwear and wraps, or shorts and t-shirts. When going ashore, shorts and light tops are fine in most locations, or resort wear such as sundresses for women and linen trousers, polos or casual shirts for men. Unless you will only be on a beach, please don't go ashore dressed just in swimwear.
On the boat out on the water at night or inside in the AC it could feel cooler, so bring something with long sleeves or a pashmina, or even a light-weight fleece jacket. The dress code on yachts is usually casual, but bring something for a party on board just in case, or something for a smart restaurant.
Be extremely careful with the strength of the sun and wear high-factor sunscreens, especially for the first day or two. There will be some sun lotions on the boat, but you might prefer to take your own. Avoid sun oils as they can stain decks and furniture, and avoid sprays. You’ll need water-resistant creams and/or lotions for water sports.
Most luxury yachts have a barefoot policy on deck to prevent wear and tear, so you won’t need many shoes for onboard activities. However, if you don’t want to go barefoot, bring a comfortable pair of deck shoes or sandals with non-marking soles to protect the yacht's surfaces and wear them exclusively onboard. If you plan on exploring off the yacht, pack a pair of sturdy sandals or trainers for walks and hikes. Bring flip-flops for the beach.
The boat will supply all soaps, linens, towels, beach towels and hairdryers. There will be an extensive music and movie library aboard available through the yacht's music/entertainment system, as well as board games.
Before setting sail, ensure you have all the necessary documentation with you, including your passport, visa (if required), and any medical insurance or charter-specific documents. It’s a good idea to keep these in a waterproof folder or pouch. Don’t forget your driver’s license if you plan to hire a car for a day’s excursion, as well as credit cards and some local currency for any shore-based activities or tipping.
A yacht charter provides the opportunity to capture breathtaking scenery and memories with family or friends. Bring a high-quality camera or smartphone. Check also which chargers you need, as most modern yachts are fitted with charging points.
And finally, treat yourself to a few luxury touches with elegant accessories such as stylish sunglasses and a hat, beautiful scarves, and a piece or two of costume jewellery.
We hope this starts to put you in the mood for chartering. Please do get in touch to book your next adventure.
