What should I pack for a superyacht charter?

Pack light and use soft-sided luggage (hard cases are difficult to store). Essentials include swimwear, cover-ups, sun protection (reef-safe sunscreen, hats, sunglasses), smart casual evening wear, soft-soled deck shoes or sandals, a light jacket for evening breezes, and any personal medications. The yacht provides towels, toiletries, and water sports equipment.

What shoes should I wear on a superyacht?

Soft-soled, non-marking deck shoes or boat shoes are ideal. Many guests go barefoot on deck. Avoid dark-soled shoes, stilettos, or any footwear that could mark or damage the teak decking. For shore excursions, bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals.

Do I need to bring water sports gear?

No, charter yachts provide all water sports equipment including snorkelling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, wakeboards, and inflatables. If you have personal dive equipment or specific gear preferences, you're welcome to bring them, but it's not necessary.

What to Pack for a Superyacht Charter

The Definitive Yacht Charter Packing Guide

Packing for a yacht charter is different from packing for a hotel holiday. Space is at a premium — even on the largest superyachts — and the lifestyle on board is inherently more casual than you might expect. Here is everything you need to know about packing for your charter.

The Golden Rule: Pack Light, Pack Soft

Yachts have limited storage space, and hard-sided suitcases are difficult to stow in cabin wardrobes and under-bed storage. Use soft bags, duffel bags, or collapsible luggage that can be folded flat once unpacked. Most yachts will store your empty luggage in a separate area during the charter.

Essential Packing List

Swimwear (3–4 sets): You will change frequently between swimming, water sports, and lounging. Quick-dry fabrics are ideal.

Cover-ups and resort wear: Lightweight kaftans, sarongs, linen shirts, and shorts for moving between the beach and the yacht.

Evening wear: Smart casual for dinners on board — linen trousers, a nice shirt or blouse, a summer dress. Pack one slightly more formal outfit if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants ashore.

Deck shoes or soft-soled shoes: Essential for on-board wear. White or light-soled shoes only — dark soles mark the teak decks.

Sun protection: High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe if possible), a wide-brimmed hat, quality sunglasses, and a lightweight long-sleeved cover-up for sun protection.

Light layers: Even in summer, evenings on the water can be cool. Pack a light cashmere sweater or linen jacket.

Waterproof phone case: Essential for water sports and tender rides.

Medications: Any prescription medications, plus seasickness remedies if you are prone to motion sickness (patches or tablets — consult your doctor).

What to Leave Behind

Hard suitcases: Use soft bags instead. High heels: They damage teak decks and are impractical on a moving vessel. Excessive luggage: You will spend most of your time in swimwear and casual clothes. Hair dryers and straighteners: The yacht will have these in your cabin. Towels: Provided by the yacht, including beach towels. Snorkelling gear: Most yachts carry a full set for all guests.

Items First-Time Charterers Often Forget

Reef-safe sunscreen: Many marine parks now require it.
Seasickness medication: Even experienced sailors can be affected.
A light rain jacket: Brief Mediterranean showers are common.
Cash for crew gratuity: Euros or dollars, depending on destination.
A good book: For those blissful afternoon hours at anchor.
Charging cables and adapters: Yacht outlets may differ from your home country.