What to Bring on a Boat Trip: The Complete Checklist

Five hours of sun, salt water and a space smaller than a house change what is actually worth bringing. This list separates what makes a real difference from what just takes up room.

The essentials

• SPF 50+ waterproof sunscreen. Reapply every two hours. Glare off the water burns faster than at the beach, even under partial cloud.
• Sunglasses with a strap. Without one, they go to the bottom of the sea on the first big wave. It is the item lost most often aboard.
• A cap or hat that holds up to wind, with a cord if possible.
• Swimwear and a cover-up. Dress underneath before boarding, since there is no changing room aboard.
• Non-slip sandals. The deck stays wet the whole trip.
• More water than seems necessary. Sun and wind dehydrate faster at sea than on land.
• Photo ID. Asked for at boarding.

Worth bringing

• A UV shirt. For anyone staying exposed the whole trip who does not want to reapply sunscreen as often.
• A snorkelling mask, if the route includes the Cagarras Islands or another snorkel stop.
• A waterproof bag or pouch for phone and wallet. A bigger splash soaks anything loose on your lap.
• Motion sickness medication, taken about 30 minutes before boarding. Once nausea starts, medication helps less.
• A towel and a dry change of clothes for the end of the trip.

Food and drink

Coolers with ice are included in the price, and whatever you bring aboard is on you, with no extra charge for bringing it from outside.

• Beer, sparkling wine, water and juice in cans or plastic bottles
• Fruit, snacks and sandwiches, which hold up better in the heat than anything with mayonnaise
• Avoid saucy dishes, which spill easily with the boat rocking

What not to bring

• Glitter and confetti. It stays stuck to the deck after the trip ends, and it is the restriction that catches out most people who did not ask beforehand.
• Glass cups and bottles. Broken glass on a wet deck is a real risk. Cans or plastic instead.
• Heavy shoes or heels. Uncomfortable, and they slip on the wet deck.
• Valuables that cannot get wet, unless they go in a waterproof pouch.
• Large luggage. Storage space aboard is limited.

Before you pack

Confirm the route you have booked, because it changes what is worth bringing: a snorkelling mask for Cagarras, more coverage for the sunset trip, a spare outfit if the group is a bachelorette party with decorations.

List ready, now pick the trip: complete boat rental guide.