What should I pack for a yacht charter?

A South Florida day-charter pack list optimized by repeat customers:

Essential: - Swimsuit (wear it under) and a change of clothes. - Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+). Florida has reef sanctuary restrictions — reef-safe means oxybenzone/octinoxate free. - Sunglasses with a retention strap. - A hat — wind removes non-attached hats consistently. - Soft-soled, non-marking shoes OR plan to go barefoot (the norm on most yachts). - A light layer. Ocean breezes drop the effective temperature 10°F. - Phone in a waterproof dry bag or case.

Recommended: - A portable Bluetooth speaker if the vessel doesn't have one onboard — most do, but some smaller boats don't. - Towels. Most captained boats supply 2-4 but ask for bigger parties. - Cash for captain gratuity — aim $100-$300 depending on trip and group size. - Snacks / drinks — BYO is typical; see alcohol rules. - Dramamine or Bonine if you're sensitive to seasickness. Take 30-60 minutes before departure.

Leave behind: - High heels (they damage decks and are hazardous). - Rolling luggage for a day charter — bags scuff everything. - Confetti, glitter, rice, real flower petals — most owners charge cleanup fees for any of these. - Pets unless you've cleared it with the owner in writing. - Bluetooth speakers with LED bottom lights that drip condensation onto teak.

For overnight/multi-day charters, add: sheets/pillows only if the owner specifies (typically provided), toiletries in soft bags, a second swimsuit, and a snorkel set if it isn't provided.

The consistent rookie mistake is overpacking. Charter boats are not hotel rooms — storage space is limited and you don't need everything you'd bring on a beach vacation.