Caribbean Yacht Charter
Waypoints

The Ultimate Vacation Packing List for Your Caribbean Yacht Charter

Waypoints Yacht Charters

Almost ready to set sail on your BVI yacht charter? Before you can step aboard your floating home-away-from-home, you’ve got to pack your bags. 

No matter whether you’re a first-time charter guest or a seasoned sailor, packing can be tricky. To make the packing process easier for you, we’ve put together the ultimate Caribbean vacation packing list that’s perfect for a BVI or USVI yacht charter.

From essential documents to the perfect beach attire, we’ll walk you through everything you need for a comfortable and stylish island-hopping experience. 

We’ll cover:

  • Travel documents
  • Clothing essentials
  • Footwear for deck and shore
  • Sun protection must-haves – Reef Safe 
  • Electronics and gadgets
  • Accessories and personal items
  • Medications and toiletries
  • Entertainment options
  • Water activity gear

Plus, we’ve included special sections for specific types of yacht charter trips, like fishing expeditions and scuba diving adventures. We’ll even let you know what you can leave behind to save space in your luggage.

Speaking of luggage, we recommend packing in a duffel or soft suitcase. Space aboard is limited, so a more flexible bag helps make the best use of that space.

With that, let’s get packing!

Travel Documents

Before diving into the specifics of what to pack in your bags, let’s address what you’ll need to pack in order to travel smoothly:

  • Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your trip)
  • Visa (if required)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Yacht charter confirmation
  • Credit cards and some cash for onshore expenses and tips

Keep these documents in a waterproof pouch or dry bag for added protection against the elements.

Clothing

The Caribbean tropical climate calls for lightweight, breathable attire. Pack these essentials:

  • Swimsuits (3-4)
  • Long-sleeve cover-ups (for sun protection)
  • T-shirts and tank tops
  • Shorts
  • Sarongs (versatile for beach and boat)
  • Light raincoat or windbreaker
  • Light sweater or jacket (for cooler evenings)
  • Polarized sunglasses

Remember, space on board is often at a premium, so choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Opt for quick-drying fabrics that resist wrinkles and salt water. You can easily wash your clothes in the sink and sun dry them.

Footwear

Your Caribbean vacation packing list should include footwear suitable for various activities:

  • Non-marking deck shoes or boat shoes
  • Waterproof sandals
  • Walking shoes for island exploration
  • Reef shoes for rocky beaches and snorkeling

Avoid packing shoes with black soles, which may leave marks on the yacht’s deck. 

Sun Protection

The Caribbean sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Pack:

  • High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe is preferred)
  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap
  • UV-protective rash guard for water activities

Electronics

While disconnecting can be blissful, you’ll likely still want at least some of these electronics:

  • Smartphone (check with your provider about international plans)
  • Camera or waterproof action camera
  • E-reader or tablet
  • Portable charger and adapters
  • Waterproof phone case

Consider a roaming plan or local SIM card or eSIM for data… but remember that even with those plans, cellular coverage can be spotty between islands.

Accessories and Yacht Charter Essentials

These items will make your stay aboard all the more comfortable:

  • Dry bags
  • Waterproof watch
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Backpack or beach bag for day trips
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Ziplock bags for organizing small items

Medications and Toiletries

First-aid kits are provided aboard all Waypoints Yacht Charters. Please pack a supply of any of the prescription medications you’ll need for the length of your trip, along with:

  • Motion sickness remedies
  • Pain relievers
  • Antihistamines
  • Insect repellent
  • Toiletries (biodegradable options are ideal)
  • Lip balm with SPF

Also, if you wear contact lenses, be sure to bring an extra pair (and your glasses as a backup!).

Entertainment and Personal Items

For those moments of relaxation on board:

  • Books or e-reader
  • Portable speaker (waterproof)
  • Playing cards or travel-sized games
  • Yoga mat for on-deck stretching

Gear for Water Activities

Your Waypoints® Yacht Charter Specialist can work with you to rent any water toys you may want – sun chill, snorkel, or scuba gear, just to name a few. You may want to bring your own underwater camera! 

For the Anglers

Many of our guests rent, and our Yacht Charter Specialist can help to arrange this for you.

Here are a few of the things Waypoints can have available on your boat: 

  • Fishing license
  • Compact fishing rod and reel
  • Basic tackle and lures
  • Filleting knife

If you do plan on fishing, be sure to check out our recent blog about the fish you can catch and cook in the BVI and USVI.

What Not to Pack

Streamline your Caribbean vacation packing list by leaving these items behind:

  • Valuable jewelry
  • Bed linens, beach towels, and bath towels
  • Hair dryers
  • Bulky coolers (your yacht will have refrigeration)

The Carry-On Strategy

Packing a carry-on bag with essentials for the first day or two of your trip ensures you’re prepared, just in case your checked luggage is delayed. 

Here’s what we recommend including:

  • Change of clothes
  • Swimsuit
  • Basic toiletries
  • Medications
  • Important documents
  • Electronics and chargers

Enjoy Your Next BVI Yacht Charter With Waypoints

With this Caribbean vacation packing list, you’re set for an unparalleled BVI yacht charter experience. 
For a helping hand getting the rest of your trip planned, reach out to our Waypoints Yacht Charter Specialists today.