How to pack for a sea cruise?

When planning a sea cruise, it is worth remembering that on the open sea there is no access to shops, pharmacies or other amenities that we have on land. This means that we need to be well prepared and take with us everything we might need for the duration of the trip.

The following list will help you prepare properly for the cruise so that nothing is missing during your sailing adventure. Many marinas and ports offer access to washing machines, but assuming you are going on a week-long cruise where there will be no possibility of washing, this list includes everything you will need for such a period. If your cruise is longer, you can simply do laundry and use the same set of clothes for the following days.

Key things to take with you

🔹 Documents:

✔️ ID card or passport (depending on the cruise location)

✔️ Sailing licenses (if you have one)

✔️ Seaman´s book (if you have one)

✔️ Insurance policy, EHIC card or other medical documents

✔️ In the case of minors - consent of parents or legal guardians

🔹 Clothing and footwear suitable for sea conditions:

✔️ A oilskin or a good raincoat with waterproof trousers

✔️ Wellington boots (useful on rainy days)

✔️ Footwear for deck - light, soft soles, non-scratch and non-marking the deck

🔹 Health and comfort:

✔️ Medicines - if you are taking any medicines, take enough for the entire cruise (+ a few more days for any accident)

✔️ Local currency or payment card - for expenses in ports and marinas

Clothing suitable for a cruise

The weather at sea can be very changeable - sunny and warm during the day, cold and strong wind at night. That is why it is worth taking care of different types of clothing:

✔️ Warm sweatshirts or fleeces - min. 2 pieces

✔️ Long trousers - min. 2 pairs

✔️ T-shirts, underwear and socks – a 7-day set

✔️ Warm, thick socks – especially for Wellington boots

✔️ Warm hat – even in summer, nights at sea can be cold

✔️ Sailing or cycling gloves – for working on ropes (leather gloves can slip and wear out quickly)

✔️ Headgear to protect against the sun – a cap or hat

✔️ Thermal underwear / long johns / leggings / fleece trousers – an additional layer of warmth on colder days

✔️ Pajamas or other sleeping clothes – if you like, you can take a nightcap 😉

Necessary additions and accessories

✔️ Towel – preferably quick-drying

✔️ Cosmetic bag – everything you need, but in a minimalist

✔️ Shower flip-flops – standard in ports and marinas

✔️ Sunglasses and UV cream – water reflects the sun's rays, so it's easy to get burned

✔️ Headlamp – very useful on a yacht, especially at night

✔️ Phone with roaming and charger – it's good to have a charged powerbank

Additional things worth taking

✔️ Camera – for capturing beautiful views

✔️ A good book – perfect for quiet moments on board

What to pack?

Space is very limited on a yacht, so choosing the right bag or backpack is key.

What to avoid?

❌ Suitcases on wheels – they are bulky, won't fit in any cabinet, and you'll probably have to sleep with them under your feet.

What works best?

✔️ Sailing bag – waterproof, flexible, easy to fold and fit into the yacht space

✔️ Backpack without frame – lightweight, can be easily compressed and stored in the storage compartment

📌 Additional tips

✅ Minimalism is key – don’t take more stuff than you really need.

✅ Leave room for souvenirs – if you plan on shopping in ports.

✅ Check the weather forecast carefully before your cruise and adjust your clothing.

✅ Protect electronics from water – if you’re taking a phone, camera or laptop, pack them in a waterproof case or bag.

A well-packed sailor is a happy sailor! 

Take a good mood and readiness for adventure – the rest is just an addition. 😊