What to Pack for a Crewed Yacht Charter

Packing for life onboard

One of the biggest surprises for first-time charter guests is how little luggage they actually need.

Unlike a traditional holiday, your accommodation travels with you, and life onboard is generally relaxed and informal. Most guests spend much of their time in swimwear, lightweight clothing and barefoot on deck.

Packing thoughtfully makes moving around the yacht easier and helps everyone enjoy a more comfortable charter.

Choose soft luggage

Whenever possible, bring soft-sided luggage rather than hard suitcases.

Soft bags are much easier to store onboard, where cabin storage space is often more limited than in a hotel room.

Many yachts have dedicated storage for luggage during the charter, but collapsible bags remain the easiest option.

Clothing

Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for the destination and season.

Typical items include:

• T-shirts
• Shorts
• Swimwear
• Light evening clothing
• A lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
• Light rain jacket or windbreaker if appropriate
• Hat or cap
• Sunglasses

If your itinerary includes restaurants ashore, ask your broker whether any venues have dress expectations.

Footwear

Most yachts operate barefoot onboard to protect the decks.

You may wish to bring:

• Comfortable sandals
• Flip-flops
• Lightweight walking shoes
• Reef shoes if recommended for your destination

Avoid dark-soled shoes that may mark yacht decks.

Sun protection

Time on the water increases exposure to the sun.

Consider bringing:

• Reef-safe sunscreen where appropriate
• Lip balm with SPF
• Sunglasses with a retaining strap
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Rash guard or lightweight UV shirt

Personal items

Useful personal items include:

• Prescription medication
• Travel documents
• Chargers for electronic devices
• Reusable water bottle if desired
• Personal toiletries
• Motion sickness medication if recommended by your doctor

If you have medical conditions, allergies or dietary requirements, inform your broker well before departure.

Electronics

Many guests choose to bring:

• Mobile phone
• Camera
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Power bank
• Charging cables

Electrical outlets vary between yachts, so ask your broker if you have specific charging requirements.

What you usually don’t need

Many professionally crewed yachts provide items such as:

• Towels
• Bed linen
• Basic toiletries
• Snorkeling equipment (where available)

Exactly what is supplied depends on the yacht, so always confirm before travelling.

Before you leave home

Before departure:

• Complete your preference sheet carefully.
• Confirm passport validity and travel documentation.
• Review arrival instructions.
• Confirm transfer arrangements.
• Advise your broker of any last-minute changes.

Preparing these details in advance allows the crew to focus on delivering an exceptional charter experience.

How YCA helps

We’ll guide you through the preparation process before your charter begins.

From travel planning to preference sheets and packing questions, we’re here to help ensure you arrive relaxed, prepared and ready to enjoy your time on the water.