How to Pack for a Sailing Trip

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🤷‍♀️ When it comes to packing for a sailing trip, you probably know the basics: shorts and t-shirts, casual dresses, swimsuits, beach cover-ups, flip-flops, and sunblock. However, there’s a few items novice sailors might not think to bring along. See below for a handful of essentials you should be packing to make any sailing trip a smooth one!

First and foremost, pack light! Sailboat cabins can be pretty conservative in size, and you don’t want to feel claustrophobic with unnecessary personal items cluttering up your space. Stick to one suitcase and be sensible with what (and how much) you pack. A duffel bag is recommended — rather than a hard suitcase — in order to fit your bag into tight spots or fold it up once it’s empty. We prefer to use luggage cubes to separate our clothing to quickly find what we need: one cube for swimwear, one for shorts and t-shirts, etc.

If your travel plans include more than just the sailing tour and you have additional luggage you don’t need on the boat, you will be able to store other luggage in the Marina Office, however, we recommend bringing your valuables aboard the boat with you.

Recommended Packing List
-Clothing-
The weather in and around the islands should be warm and sunny. You will spend a surprising amount of time in your swimsuit, so pack light. The islands are very casual with people in shorts and t-shirts any time of the day or night. If you want to bring something for the evening, be sure to make it lightweight and more on the casual side of things. Men, you may want a few collared shirts and lightweight pants, but it is not necessary.

If you’re sensitive to sunburn, consider bringing sun protective wear such as Sol Patrol products. They have hats and tops that block UV light, and they are quick drying. REI, Patagonia or West Marine have that type of gear.

Dresses or Coverups –  are ideal for throwing over your swimsuit. You only need a few.
✔2 or 3 swimsuits - You will spend most of your day in a swimsuit, so let one dry while wearing the   other.
✔4-6 tank tops or t-shirts - For when you reach land, it’s a good idea to have something else to wear.
✔3-4 pairs of shorts - If your trip involves hikes or anything active, be sure to bring shorts or similar.

other items.

✔1 pair of socks - to wear on planes
✔1 pair of pants
✔1 scarf - Useful for covering your shoulders when it gets windy or for balling it up to use as a pillow.
✔1 pair of flip-flops (non slip type for safe walking on board the boat)
✔1 pair of athletic type shoes for walking and hiking

✔1 pair of sandals for a night stroll on the island

Outerwear -

✔1 light jacket - You may be packing for sunshine, but don’t forget that it can get chilly and misty in the evenings. Do not forget a waterproof windbreaker (if it’s a little insulated, even better).
✔1 sweatshirt or other layer for under your jacket
✔Anything you sleep in - the nights are usually warm

Toiletries–
✔Shampoo and Conditioner - Bring something to de-tangle your hair after all that salt water
✔Eye drops and lip balm
✔Soap or body wash - preferably bio degradable
✔Toothbrush/Paste
✔Deodorant
✔Razor/shave cream
✔Travel sized brush
✔Hair ties - Necessary to keep the hair off your neck on those hot days.
✔Motion Sickness Remedies: Ginger chews, Dramamine or wrist bands
✔Prescription medications

Protection from the Elements-
✔2 pair of sunglasses - I’m prone to breaking sunglasses or losing them in the ocean, so now I bring 2 pairs.
✔1 hat - It doesn’t have to be too fashionable, as long as it covers your ears and your face
Sunscreen
✔Aloe

Electronics-
✔Cameras, phones, e-readers, iPods, tablets and chargers – For whatever electronics you bring,   make sure to pack your chargers and appropriate adapters. BTW there is cell coverage all over the area we are sailing. I am not sure if that is good or bad.
✔Waterproof camera case –waterproof camera case to take some underwater shots.
iPod and earbuds
Books or e-reader – there is a lot of relaxing time on the boat to catch up on some reading
Other-
✔1 quick dry towel- the boat is equipped with towels but if you want to spend some time on a beach or taking that beautiful walk, a quick dry towel is handy and light to carry.
✔Earplugs and eye mask – In case the motor starts early in the morning and light comes into the porthole.
✔Dry bag – Have one bag for items that cannot get wet.
✔One small shore bag such as a small waist pack or backpack to bring your camera and other personal belongings when you go ashore.