From dock to deck: The complete guide to preparing for a luxury yacht charter vacation

Your once-in-a-lifetime yacht vacation is booked—a daydream of sun-kissed decks, sparkling blue waters, and calm waves. But let’s be honest—this is not your average vacation; it’s an experience, a piece of luxury, the ultimate escape. But before you jump on board and start living your best marine life, there’s something you need to do, as living on the water requires a little more thought.

Packing and preparing for life on a yacht isn’t as simple as throwing a swimsuit in a bag and heading to the nearest beach. With limited storage, unique conditions, and the appeal of both beach and cruise, there’s a fine art to getting it right. Let this guide be your compass—from what to pack and understanding yacht etiquette, to how to prepare for the days leading up to your luxury getaway.

Packing for life on board: The art of minimalism

Yachts, while luxurious, are not known for their extensive storage, so pack light and think smart. Forget bulky hard luggage and opt for a soft-sided bag that’s easy to fit in tight spaces. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.

When it comes to clothing, flexibility is everything. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton will be your best friends—keeping you nice and cool with the bonus of quick drying. You’ll spend most of your time in swimwear, so pack a few stylish options and bring a few cover-ups like a kaftan or sarong to lounge on the deck or head out to the beach for lunch. Of course, not all charters will be in sunnier climes, so if you’re going somewhere cooler, then pack layers!

An evening on a yacht is all about casual elegance, so leave the formal wear at home. Embrace the freedom to simply style a sundress or relax in linen trousers paired with a simple shirt – perfect for a sunset cocktail or a meal under the stars. Nights on the water can be a bit chilly, so don’t forget a lightweight sweater or jacket. Shoes should also be practical: non-marking deck shoes for boat safety, flip-flops for beach trips, and classy but comfortable sandals for walking around beach towns. If you plan to walk or bike while on the beach, don’t forget lightweight sneakers or sturdy versions of the rocky trails. There may be a bare foot policy and light slippers are provided when boarding.

Accessories are equally important. A wide-brimmed hat or sports cap will protect you from the sun, while sunglasses with UV protection are essential—perhaps pack a spare pair, just in case the sea breeze calls your fancy. Bring a beach or collapsible travel bag and a waterproof phone case to keep your gadgets safe.

While this is a one-way trip, some technology can enhance your trip. A portable charger or power bank is essential when outlets are limited. An e-reader is easier than packing books, and a waterproof camera or GoPro will allow you to capture those underwater moments. Download any playlists, movies or podcasts for you and the kids as WiFi can be bad at sea.

When it comes to toiletries, keep them compact and eco-friendly. Many boats promote biodegradable products to protect marine life, so invest in brand-safe travel-sized containers. Your charter broker should provide you with pre-boarding information about your chosen yacht and details about what cabin amenities—such as robes, hair dryers and toiletries—are provided. Most boats also provide sunscreen and will have basic first aid supplies on board—but if you have sensitivities or are particularly fond of painkillers, seasickness remedies or antihistamines, you should come prepared. Pharmacies are few and far between in remote anchorages!

Last week: Getting everything in shape for the ship

Now that your packing list is complete, it’s time to focus on the final countdown. The week leading up to your trip is all about confirming the finer details and making sure you’re ready to make the most of your time away.

Start by confirming everything with your yacht charter broker. Double-check departure times and destinations, and make sure your paperwork, from itineraries to passports, is in order. If you have requested any special provisions or have dietary requirements, now is the time to follow up. Yacht menus are tailored to your preferences, so be sure to mention any must-haves, such as a favorite wine or snacks for the kids. The yacht’s crew run a tight ship and although they will go out of their way to help you enjoy your trip, it can be difficult to find some items in out-of-the-way locations at short notice.

Next, focus on transportation. Whether you’re catching a flight to a tropical paradise or sailing a cruise ship, make sure your connections are seamless. For international travel, check passport validity and any visa or vaccination requirements.

The weather can play a big role in your experience, so start monitoring the forecast about a week before you go. Knowing what to expect will help you fine-tune your packing—swapping a lightweight sweater for a sturdy windbreaker or adding a rain poncho just in case.

Seasickness: A little preparation goes a long way

Even if you’ve never been prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to be prepared as spending a week on a yacht can be very different from other boating experiences. Ginger candies, acupressure wristbands, or non-drowsy patches are simple, low-maintenance options. Start using them a day or two before riding to get your body in the rhythm of the waves.

If you need something stronger be sure to bring motion sickness pills that work for you or visit your pharmacy for advice before you leave. There is also an effective cure for seasickness now carried by some luxury charter yachts. See-Level, a virtual reality headset is designed to provide immediate relief from the symptoms of seasickness caused by the visual disturbances you experience on board. It has been described as a ‘game changer’!

Final countdown: Focus on onboard etiquette

Now is the time to familiarize yourself with the simple but important rules of yachting etiquette to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you, your guests and crew. The staff is there to ensure that your charter is smooth and you receive exceptional service, but also for your safety. You have to listen to their instructions, be kind and respectful and remember that they are working long hours behind the scenes for your benefit, so appreciation goes a long way. The staff are not there to take care of your child, although they will likely have many fun activities in mind for children of all ages. Treat the vessel with respect – a multi-million dollar marine asset that requires care and attention and reckless behavior can lead to costly damage and can ruin your rental experience.

The boats have zero tolerance for illegal or illegal activity and penalties for both the boat and you are serious. Illegal drug use, possession of firearms or misconduct by their crew will likely terminate your charter immediately and may lead to the boat being impounded and the license revoked.

It is customary to tip employees when they leave to show your appreciation for the service you received. Although optional, 5-15% is recommended by MYBA and there is no need to carry cash as staff will accept wire payments after charter. Check with your dealer what is suitable for your chosen yacht.

Whether you’re embarking on a winter charter in the Caribbean or looking forward to summer in the Mediterranean or landing in New England, good preparation is essential. Consider working with an experienced broker who will smooth the waters during the booking process and help you prepare for the ride.

Trina Howes

Trina Howes is the Director of CharterWorld America. CharterWorld America is a private yacht charter company that creates the best vacations on the best yachts at incredible prices – around the world. If you would like to become a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog to raise your profile, please contact us.