Yacht Charter Packing Essentials

Ladies, trust us, we get it. You’re about to board a glamorous and luxurious yacht, you want to look your very best. Packing for any vacation is stressful, but especially when you’re going to be out to sea and can’t exactly run to the pharmacy to pick up that bottle of sunscreen you’ve ironically forgotten. You are about to embark on the holiday of a lifetime. You should be counting down the days, not counting your grey hairs. So, whether this is your first-time chartering, you’re attending a special event or just want to look and feel your best, we’ve got your back with a comprehensive guide on the essentials for yacht charter packing.

1. What Clothes to Bring on a Yacht Charter

The first, and probably most important thing to consider is what clothes to bring. The great thing about a yacht vacation is that you get to wear all of those clothes you bought on a whim and never had the chance to wear. Pack that sparkly bikini that isn’t exactly appropriate for your local swimming pool. Pack those designer flip-flops that would get ruined in the sand. Embrace your inner Carrie Bradshaw and pack all those bold and daring clothes you were never brave enough to wear at home. Nobody is judging within the privacy of your very own yacht, so go wild with your yacht charter packing!

The important thing to remember here is that, based on your itinerary, there may be a number of different outfit changes required throughout the day. Perhaps you wake up and work on your tan under the morning sun – bikini. Then, maybe you drop anchor at a popular port to explore the local town – light summer clothes and suitable walking shoes. Evening plans might vary, and this will of course influence your wardrobe.

Planning your outfits in advance will make deciding what to wear each day a breeze!

 

Perhaps your host is super chilled, and you’ll be spending nights at anchor, relaxed and gazing at the stars. Or maybe you’ll be whisked off the trendiest of nightclubs and bars every evening. When we think of spending time on a yacht, we think of lounging in a bikini all day. However, this might not be the best attire for dining in a trendy restaurant on the mainland. Be sure to read through your proposed itinerary and plan your outfits accordingly.

2. Themed Party Outfits for Yachts

Speaking of which, will there be any fun parties during your charter? Will it be someone’s birthday? Packing that LBD just in case is always a good idea. For fun, many yachts might do themed parties such as ‘white night party’ or a James bond themed event. Either way, be sure to pack at least one fabulous little number. And if you got an official invite, be sure to read the details!

If you are worrying about running out of clean clothes or washing facilities. Don’t! All of your clothes can be washed, dried and returned to you. The crew can even iron your clothes for you, making your yacht charter packing a breeze. So no need to fret about creases. And there’s no shame in outfit repeating here Ladies, it is the 21st century after all.

Party themes can vary from Disco night to Hollywood night and are always a great night.

3. Sun cream and Aloe Vera Gel – Essentials on a Yacht Charter

Next, let’s talk cosmetics. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of sunscreen. Being out on the water, you are much more exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Research says water only reflects 5-10% of UV radiation. This is why you are much more likely to get burnt at sea. Of course, there are shaded areas on board the yacht. But you aren’t going to want to spend your days hiding in the shade because you forgot your sunscreen. You want to be having the time of your life whizzing around carefree on a jet ski. Super yachts will have an array of sun creams presented in the sun lounging areas for you to use, and they are usually the nicest of brands but if you have your preferred type, bring it. Because ladies… nobody wants premature wrinkles due to sun damage!

In case you accidentally over-do it on the sun-bathing, packing some aloe vera gel might not be a bad idea. Apply this after a cool bath or shower and you’ll be good to go.

4. Good Hair Care Products to Protect your Locks whilst on a Yacht

Now, don’t get me wrong, that sea-breeze is great for giving you that wind-swept look for your next Instagram post. But several days of salty sea and air will take its toll on your luscious locks. Don’t forget to pack a good hydrating and rejuvenating hair serum. But if not, don’t worry, almost all super-yachts have a hair dryer provided. Mega-yachts may even have a beautician or hairdresser on board to provide you with that perfect blow-dry before dinner.

5. Typical Toiletries for Yachting Essentials

Forgot your toothbrush, or worse, a surprise monthly visit? Or heaven forbid you forgot a razor. Fear not, a gentle and polite request to the stewardess and she’ll be off to her trusted supplies stores to get you what you need.

People often forget insect repellent. Depending where in the world you are planning to charter, you could be exposed to some pretty exotic bugs flying about. You want to feel and look your best and not spend your day scratching at insect bites. It may not smell like Chanel or Dior, but ladies, you’ll thank me later.

6. Beforehand Beauty Prep before embarking on your Yacht Holiday

We got a few tips from ladies who have previously chartered with us. It might be worthwhile to tint those lashes before your charter. The last thing you need is to be worrying about panda eyes when having the time of your life in water. If you love that bronzed look, a spray tan a few days before your charter is also advised. It saves you the hassle of having to apply it every few days… and the embarrassment of orange peel coming off on your sheets.

Another thing to be aware of is that many yachts do not permit certain shoes in order to protect the carpet. For this reason, it may be worthwhile to pack some funky nail polish or invest in a good pedicure pre-charter.

 

A trip to the beautician beforehand for a manicure and lash tint will make getting ready on board super quick and fast.

7. Water Proof Bag, avoid any Yachting Mishaps

Finally, most yachts are accompanied by a tender or speed boat to bring guests to and from the mainland. Of course, the crew will be all hands on deck to ensure you embark and disembark the yacht in the safest way possible. However, accidents do happen, and it may be worth investing in a water proof bag when bringing your belongings on the tender. Always better safe than sorry. And if you’re worried about the backsplash of the tender leaving you looking like a drowned rat, don’t be! The crew will know the best places to sit to avoid getting splashed.

We hope this helps any women out there fretting over what to do with their yacht charter packing. This is not a time for stress, it’s a time for celebration. If you do forget one of your sun dresses? Who cares! At the end of the day, you are only going to look back and remember the amazing memories made on board with friends and family. So, sit back, sip that wine and enjoy. It’s going to be incredible!

Written by

Lewis is the Fleet Manager at 212 Yachts. He is originally from the UK. He previously worked on superyachts and traveled the world extensively by yacht. He has excellent knowledge of super yacht destinations, on and off the beaten track and what can be achieved on a yacht charter. His knowledge of boats and the maintenance required, ensures he applies the highest standards to the boat charter fleet he manages on the French Riviera. This means that you’ll always have a great day out with 212 Yachts. Lewis has previously lived in Cape Town and now lives in the South of France with his Wife and dog Leo. He loves organising smooth charters and nothing brings 'me more joy than seeing the smiles on clients faces after an amazing experience on the water'. His core value that aligns perfectly with the company is to always make that extra degree of difference, "this is how we make sure you’ll be beaming from ear to ear when you’ve experienced a 212 Charter! I hope that we can welcome you on board soon and provide you with an unforgettable experience. If you are looking for any assistance for your next charter, or you’re overwhelmed looking into your first charter, no matter how big or small, please ask for me when you get in touch."


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