What to pack for your sailing course

Plenty of things create anticipation when planning a sailing course or expedition. One of the biggest concerns is deciding what to pack.

The good news is that you don’t need to bring a big suitcase for most of the sailing courses. Space on sailing yachts is often limited, and organising your belongings is an important part of life on board. In such instances, it is better to bring the right belongings in the right quantity.

Select the Right Bag

First and foremost, avoid hard-shell suitcases.

Rigid, closed-shell suitcases don’t work well on sailing yachts and take up a lot of unnecessary space. Instead, pack a soft sailing bag or duffel bag that is collapsible or compressible.

For most sailing courses, a lightly packed medium-sized bag is all you need. For extended sailing expeditions, check with your instructor for luggage restrictions.

Dress Practically

Since sailing is an outdoor activity, comfortable clothing is essential for changing weather conditions.

We recommend bringing:

• T-shirts or base layers
• Shorts
• Long trousers
• Fleece or other warm layers
• Sailing jacket
• Waterproof trousers (very advisable for longer expeditions)
• Underwear and socks
• Swimwear
• Clothing for the evening
• Sleepwear

Do not pack too much clothing. You'll likely spend most of your day wearing a few comfortable sailing clothes.

For colder or longer expeditions, layering is much more effective than bringing one or two heavy items.

Footwear
Good footwear is important on board. Non-marking, non-slip deck shoes or sailing shoes are a must. Bring shoes that you can wear ashore, such as comfortable trainers, flip-flops, or sandals. Avoid shoes with dark, soft soles that will mark the deck. If your course has a lot of walking ashore, bring suitable walking shoes as well.

Protection from the Sun

Even though the weather feels cool, many hours on deck will bring sun exposure and sun reflecting off of the water.

Sunglasses with a retaining strap, SPF 50 sunscreen, ​cap or hat and a long-sleeve shirt.

Clothing

Bring your personal essentials, but try to minimise. Bring a small towel. Bring a power bank to charge underway, a small pouch, a small bag to carry all your important documents, and a water bottle (avoid metal - plastic doesn't damage gel coat).

What about Towels?

For an expedition a fast drying microfiber travel towel a great idea.

Seasickness

Seasickness pills if you aren’t an experienced sailor.

If you use a specific remedy, take it with you and let us know when checking in.

Electronics

There is no need to bring a lot of gadgets.

Your phone is more than enough for your own use, and the boat will have its own operating equipment.

Remember:

• Phone
• Charger
• Power bank
• Seasickness pills
• Earplugs if your classmate snores a lot
• Waterproof pouch for your phone (if you choose to bring it)
• Headphones (if you choose to bring them)
• Documents
•  
• A few things you probably don’t need
• The biggest mistake beginners make is packing too much.
• You won't need:
• A big luggage
• Lots of outfits
• Expensive jewelry
• Excess shoes
• Huge bottles of bath products
• Hairdryers and bulky devices
• Items you don't want to go wet

Remember, everything you bring has to find space on the boat.

The Golden Rule: Pack Light

Life on a yacht is much easier when everyone keeps their belongings organised.

Pack light and stay organised!

The boat, the sea and the amazing experience are waiting for you!