or a that we hang from the bimini on our boat when we leave in the evening. That way we can easily tell which boat is ours on our way home. Even if we’ve had a couple of painkillers.
That’s my list of what nobody else will tell you to bring but will make your life a lot easier! These things are cheap (except for the cooler) and easy to carry too!
Here’s some other things to consider:
That should take up at least one suitcase! Speaking of suitcases, these North Face waterproof duffles make great carry ons and can then work as a beach bag to keep your towels dry on the dinghy ride to shore.
What else would you pack?
Tip: give every crew member a unique bottle.
Get our FREE editable and printable packing checklist template right here !
Her Packing List
Packing for a caribbean bareboat charter.
The following has been submitted by Tammy Kennon . See all of our packing list posts here .
Sailing along on an ocean breeze, soaking in the tropical sun, listening to the water skim along the hull, it’s the stuff of daydreams. I was about to make it a reality with a one-week sailboat charter in the British Virgin Islands, and it’s too bad daydreams don’t come with a packing list .
It was my first charter, and since I only had daysailing experience, I struggled with what to throw in the suitcase (mistake number one). Now, after living onboard my own sailboat for four years, I know exactly what’s necessary and, just as importantly, what’s not.
First, think lean. Limit yourself to one carry-on sized bag — and don’t worry. Your basic daily uniform will be a bathing suit and shorts.
Second, think easy-to-store. What’s smaller than a bread box? The storage space on a boat. Use a soft bag, not a hard-sided suitcase. A duffel can be rolled up and stowed away. A hard suitcase will be your bunk mate.
Third, think low-maintenance A sailboat is a damp environment. The faster your clothes dry, the more comfortable you will be. Ideal clothing should be quick-dry (no denim) and wrinkle resistant (no 100% cotton).
Now, let’s do some packing!
2 bathing suits — one to wear, one to be drying. For my taste, the fewer ties and strings, the better. Slip on and go! Remember that you’ll be jumping in and out of the water, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, climbing ladders and in and out of the dinghy. Comfortable, low-maintenance coverage is key.
1 bathing suit coverup or summer dress — This should be something you’d be comfortable wearing to a beach bar and durable enough to withstand the active lifestyle. Extra points if it’s fabulous.
1 going-out outfit — Keep it on the casual side – a summer dress and nice sandals to enjoy a beachfront restaurant.
2 pairs of shorts — Avoid denim. It takes too long to dry. Any high-tech fiber or cotton/rayon blend is better.
1 skirt — I like Patagonia’s knit skirts. They are hardy yet feminine, roll up small and don’t wrinkle.
4 or 5 shirts — These should be comfortable and not snug. A little air flow keeps you cooler. Ideally your shirts will match your skirts, shorts and your bathing suits for maximum mix-and-match options.
2 bras that go with all the shirts.
5 pairs of non-cotton underwear . Quick-drying is key.
Cheap flip-flops — If you plan to stay at marinas and use the showers, you’ll want shower shoes.
Flip-flops — You could easily get by with this one pair of shoes the whole week, unless you plan to go hiking.
1 jacket or sweatshirt — Tropical nights can be cool, especially with sun-kissed skin. Consider buying a sweatshirt on arrival, which does double duty: you don’t have to pack a jacket, and you have a wearable souvenir.
A few scarves — Scarves elevate a tank top and shorts to an outfit. They are easy to pack and can serve other useful purposes. (See below.)
Sunscreen — While this seems obvious, don’t forget SPF lip balm . Break yourself in slowly. If you get burned on the first day, the rest of the week will be miserable. Wear your highest SPF the first day and then ease off. Double up on your nose.
Lotion — Your skin will take a beating between sun, salt, sand and water. Give it some TLC at night.
Water bottle — The elements are harsh on the rest of your body as well, so make sure you stay hydrated. Extra points if your bottle has a carabiner clip. Collapsing bottles that roll up when empty don’t take up any space when not in use.
Shampoo — Take along a little extra in case you need to hand wash a few undies or bras.
Go Toobs — These travel bottles have many great features, but my favorite is that they float. If you want to shampoo your hair in the sea (and then fresh water rinse), these little bottles will float right next to you.
Personal wipes — With a limited water supply, long showers are not an option. Wipes are great for keeping you fresh in between. TIP: Baby wipes are much less expensive than ‘personal’ wipes.
Hats/Hair ties — Funny thing about sailing, there’s always wind. You’ll want to tame your hair, so it won’t get in the way of important things — like seeing while you’re lowering the anchor or raising a sail. Hats are also good for protecting your hair and shading your face.
Sleeping pills — If you’re a light sleeper, some mild sleeping pills can help you relax and ignore the new sounds and motion. Mid-Nite brand is good without leaving you feeling drugged.
Bug spray — If you are susceptible to bites, take some.
A flashlight or head lamp — For those nights you stay a little too long at the beach bar, a light will help you make your way back to the boat. It will also come in handy if there’s an issue above decks at night. As a bonus, shine it in the water at night, you’ll get a peek at night time sea life.
A dry bag — Transportation between the boat and shore is a small, open boat. Things can easily get wet. A Ziploc bag works (known as a sailor’s wallet), but, if you have something valuable like an SLR camera, a waterproof bag is a good investment.
Polarized sunglasses — Sailing in shallow water that is full of reefs, you’ll need to read the water. Polarized sunglasses cut the glare, making the underwater world more obvious. The ocean floor is littered with expensive sunglasses. A lanyard strap will keep yours from joining them .
Deck shoes — If you’re serious about sailing, you probably already have some. Take them.
Handheld GPS — If you own one, it will come in handy. Make a waypoint on your boat before going exploring in the dinghy. It helps you find your way back, especially after dark.
Windbreaker — These are thin and can roll up small. If you have one, you’ll probably wear it.
Sailing gloves — Again, if you have some, you’ll want them with you.
Thin wetsuit — The water might seem warm, but it’s always lower than 98.6 making it a losing battle for your body. If you have a wetsuit on, you’ll be the last one out of the water! It also provides protection from the sun and for your skin if you bump a reef.
Snorkel mask — The charter company will provide snorkel gear, but if you have your own mask and/or fins, they’ll be much more comfortable. If you use the charter company’s gear, take your time selecting it. The better your mask and fins fit, the happier you will be in the water.
Ankle socks — It might not be the height of fashion, but worn with fins, socks will keep you from getting blisters.
Long sleeve rash guard — Sometimes you just want a little coverage, protection from cool water and blazing sun.
Small tube of toothpaste — a little in your snorkel mask will keep the fog away.
Underwater camera — Some of your best vacation photos just might be below the surface.
Strap and float for camera — Don’t let your best vacation photos end up on the ocean floor. A float will not prevent you from taking it under but will keep it from plummeting if you drop it.
Walking shoes — Islands provide a welcome opportunity to stretch your muscles. They tend to be rocky and hardscrabble, sometimes with low-growing cactus, so flip-flops offer no protection.
A lot of jewelry . As mentioned above, you shouldn’t wear it while sailing. In the water barracudas have bad eyesight and eat shiny fish. Get it?
Lots of electronic devices . 1. Energy consumption is limited. 2. Look at the scenery, not a device. 3. Take a paperback, not an e-reader. Finish it? Trade with someone else. 4. The fewer devices you have to worry about in a rough environment, the better.
Gobs of makeup . Foundation makes fantastic sunscreen, because it’s made to stay in place. Keep all else it to a minimum – and enjoy! Face wipes are good for removing the foundation without using precious water supply.
Electric hair implements . There is not enough power on a boat to run blow dryers, curling irons and straighteners. Au natural is beautiful. Embrace it.
Fair winds!
>> You might be interested in reading these other packing lists: Packing List for a Sailing Trip , Packing List for a Scuba Diving Trip .
About the Author: Tammy is a freelance writer and full-time traveler. She blogs about her experiences at ploddingINparadise.com and has a regular column about sailing in Classic Yacht magazine . Her Pinterest page is a visual directory of her work and her interests.
*All photos except title photo by Tammy Kennon.
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September 22, 2015 at 2:04 am
What is your best advice on preventing and remedying motion sickness?
February 11, 2016 at 2:49 pm
I have successfully used the Scopolamine patch (“transderm” – behind the ear). If left me a little drowsy and dry mouthed at first but did relieve nausea. It’s not cheap but works well for most people. It also lasts about three days. Apparently you need to plan a little with the transderm patch and allow several hours for it to start working. If you’ll be in the water or sweating a lot apply a waterproof cover patch (may come with the “Scope”). Use some tincture of bromide directly on the skin as a tackifier to help the patch and cover stick. I swam three days with mine; no problems. I also was introduced to medical Mary Jane (MMJ) and found it relieved nausea as well as the anxiety about getting seasick. Interestingly the side effects were about the same. For more immediate relief and If unsure of needing 3 days of Scope + side effects, I’d try the MMJ first.
COMMENTS
Man clothes. 3 pair of swim trunks for man. 1 tee shirt per day. 2 Linen Shirts with long sleeves to protect you from the sun while snorkeling. 3 pair of shorts (Opt for cotton or high-tech fiber, it is much easier to dry in the wind) 1 pair of non-marking boat shoes. 1 pair of non-marking flip-flop.
BVI, Yacht Charter BVI, Yacht charter packing list Anny Wooldridge. Anny was born and raised in a small town in Norfolk, England. She is a passionate traveller and has visited over 30 countries as well as living and working in Greece, France, the USA and Colombia. ...
Clothing & personal sailing packing list items. Swimwear / swimsuits - you don't need one for every day, but they don't take up much space!; Long-sleeved cover ups - there will be a point each day where it may be difficult to re-apply sunscreen. It's usually because you are wet - rain, sweat, dripping from a recent dip, etc.
It was my bucket list dream to travel the British Virgin Islands by a catamaran. Once the trip was booked it was time to start thinking of packing and buying some new clothes. ... Packing List. Swimsuits- We had a seven-day charter so I packed 3 swimsuits. You will spend a lot of time in the water snorkeling and swimming. 3 swimsuits were the ...
The British Virgin Islands are known for their unique sailing culture and traditions. They offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that entices travelers from all over the world. But before boarding your yacht, ensure you've packed the essentials. This article includes a downloadable packing list for your BVI trip.
a british virgin islands catamaran experience. the packing list. What in the world should we pack for this amazing adventure? Casual is the name of the game in this neck of the woods! Think easy going, no fuss dressing. No dress slacks or fancy jewelry required! Make sure you bring flip flops for ease in getting in and out of the dinghy on your ...
Sunglasses: Being exposed to direct sunlight for a couple of minutes is a good idea. But not when it comes to the blazing UVs of the BVI summer sunlight. Doctors, indeed, suggest 20 min. of sunlight exposure per day. But you'll definitely get much more than that when in Virginia Islands.
Make sure you have your passport, travel documents and cash (United States Dollars) with you. When you arrive in BVI, the immigration authorities will need to know the name of the yacht and place of meeting (e.g. the name of the marina) so make sure your all party knows this as they enter. Most places in the British Virgin Islands accept credit cards but ATM machines may be spaced out around ...
If you're lucky enough to be joining us for The Yacht Week BVI - either for an epic NYE or a banging first week of 2021 - then here's the tropical packing list you need to ensure you're all prepared for your Caribbean adventure. From party outfits to power adaptors and polarised sunglasses, we've got you covered.
For a complete list of things to consider when packing for your BVI yacht charter, ... Discover the Dreamy Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 - Your Ultimate BVI Charter Catamaran! Read More . July 5, 2023 Ahoy Mateys! Sail the BVI in Style with a Catamaran Rental Read More
The British Virgin Islands are often referred to as 'natures little secret' by sailors and many believe it is a sailors paradise. On a British Virgin Islands catamaran charter, you can explore over 60 unspoiled islands, relax on white sandy beaches or swim in turquoise shallow waters.. The British Virgin Islands has a year-round average temperature of between 23c and 30c.
When planning a sailboat trip in the British Virgin Islands, it is important to pack the essential items to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The following items should be included in your packing list: Navigation Equipment: Bring a GPS device or marine chart plotter to help you navigate through the waters of the British Virgin Islands.
This BVI packing list is intended for use by a general visitor going to the BVI or someone looking for what to wear at a resort in BVI. However many people go to the BVI for other reasons such as to go on a catamaran or a BVI sailing trip. We have special guides on these so click on the below for more information. BVI sailing packing list.
9. Deet free repellant. I have this set for relief, spray, and patches for if you get bit. 10. card games. we always like to play a few card games at night, and they are easy to pack with you. These are waterproof! 11. Sunglasses, hats, sun shirts - all musts on a trip like this! 12. A new book!
BVI Catamaran Charter Day 6: Relax at Sandy Spit and hike to the Bubbly Pool. Take your time in the morning - you aren't going far. Mosey up north and drop the hook at the anchorage to the west of Sandy Spit - it's a idyllic uninhabited white sandy island. Swim, snorkel, or head ashore for a picnic.
When planning what to pack for a sailing trip, also choose dresses or tops that transition well into night. VV 2-Piece Dress "Halter + Tiered" in Navy. Overall your days and nights will be casual, but you will want to put on dry clothes at some point so have options for dinners out on the island.
Just as important as knowing what to pack for a Caribbean yacht charter is knowing what not to pack. Avoid overpacking non-essential items like: Utensils and cookware. GPS or other navigational tools. First-aid kits*. Expensive or heirloom jewelry. Linens, towels, and pillows*. *Equipped on all yachts.
Packing list for a yacht charter in BVI. If you are wondering what to pack for a week or two on a yacht, here is a handy list: Clothes for a sunny day - shorts, t-shirt, cap, sunglasses, swimsuit; Clothes for a cloudy day - long trousers, a windproof jacket; Evening clothes - sweatshirt or sweater; Wet weather gear (if sailing in the low ...
5 things you should take on your next yacht charter that you won't find on anybody else's packing list. equipment, featured, packing, planning; When we charter a yacht in the BVI, we bring along these unusual, but very handy items. (They are also inexpensive and pack easily, so there's no reason not to take them!) ... The best way to ...
Table of Contents. Sample 7 Day BVI Sailing Itineraries. Start: Road Town, Tortola. Day 1: Pelican Island and Norman Island. Day 2: Salt Island and Cooper Island. Day 3: Virgin Gorda Spanish Town. Day 4: The Dogs and Virgin Gorda North Sound. Day 5: Cane Garden Bay. Day 6: Jost Van Dyke.
4 or 5 shirts — These should be comfortable and not snug. A little air flow keeps you cooler. Ideally your shirts will match your skirts, shorts and your bathing suits for maximum mix-and-match options. 2 bras that go with all the shirts. 5 pairs of non-cotton underwear. Quick-drying is key.
5. Re: packing list. Wow, 3 connections, definatly 2 carry-on bags per person. In Tortola, you can purchase sunscreen for $8 to 10, shampoo around $7, bring your own mask for snorkel, charter company will provide fins & towels.
Ensure a smooth and enjoyable BVI catamaran trip with these essential packing tips. Discover what to bring to make the most of your adventure on the beautiful Caribbean waters.