Packing Essentials

What to Pack for Your Vagabonde Adventures Charter

Pack Smart

When it comes to packing for life at sea, less is more. Space on a yacht is precious and all a part of the charm! We like to call it ‘glamping on the water’.

Use a soft-sided duffle bag only (no hard suitcases, please) as they can’t be stowed easily onboard. You’ll spend most of your time in swimwear and flip-flops, so pack light and embrace the casual lifestyle.

Pro Tip: Pack everything you think you’ll need… then take out half!

Essential Items

  • Travel Documents: Passport, visa (if required), travel insurance details, and copies stored digitally.

  • Money Matters: Notify your bank of your travel dates and bring some local currency (USD works well in the Bahamas (1:1 exchange) and the BVI, EUR is used for places like Croatia and Greece).

  • Health & Safety:

    • Seasickness medication or patches (even if you rarely get motion sickness, just in case)

    • Mosquito repellent and after-bite cream

    • Reef-safe sunscreen

    • Personal medications in their original containers

    • Small first aid kit (optional — our crew has one onboard)

Clothing

You’ll live in easy, lightweight layers designed for sun, salt, and fun.

  • Multiple bathing suits - you’ll rotate through them daily

  • Flip-flops and/or deck shoes with non-marking soles

  • Quick-dry shorts and T-shirts for sailing days

  • Sun Protection is Crucial:

    • Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap (don’t let it blow away!)

    • Long-sleeve UPF-rated sun shirt

    • Polarized sunglasses (bring a retainer strap - they can fly off fast!)

    • Reef-safe sunscreen & SPF lip balm

  • Evening Comfort:

    • Light rain jacket or windbreaker

    • Long loose pants and a light sweater for cooler breezes

    • Smart-casual outfit for shore dinners or beach bars

  • Walking Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or sandals for exploring islands

Helpful Additions

A few small items can make your trip even smoother:

  • Quick-dry towel (although we provide linens, an extra helps for beach days)

  • Waterproof dry bag for phones, cameras, and valuables on dinghy rides

  • Portable charger or battery pack

  • Personal snorkel gear and fins (optional - we have gear, but your own ensures a perfect fit)

  • Water shoes for rocky shorelines and coral areas

  • Reusable water bottle - help us reduce single-use plastic

  • Books or Kindle, playing cards, or a compact travel game for downtime

  • Underwater camera or GoPro to capture your adventures

  • International power adapter (our boats are equipped with EU outlets and USB-C plugs, but this can be handy for travel days)

Before You Depart

A few pre-trip checks make your arrival stress-free:

  • Check the weather forecast for your charter destination (Caribbean average temps are 78–86°F year-round, while the Mediterranean can vary based on time of the summer and location)

  • Confirm travel arrangements, meeting points, and boarding time with our team

  • Test your electronics and chargers, and ensure your international phone plan is active. We recommend Airalo for an easy eSim

  • Double-check your passport expiration date (must be valid for at least 6 months after travel and have spare pages to be stamped)

  • Complete and return your Chef Preference Sheet (if applicable)

  • Complete your Crew Information Form (emailed to you beforehand)

  • Bring your sense of adventure - the rest, we’ll handle!

Final Thoughts

Packing for a sailing charter is about embracing simplicity, comfort, and connection with the sea. The essentials are sun protection, lightweight clothing, and a few personal touches to make your trip feel like home.