What to take on your catamaran charter vacation

You've planned, you've booked, now it's time to pack!

Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure you pack the essentials.

Luggage

First and foremost it is important to remember that there is often restrictive storage space on board a catamaran, try to bring one large or two small soft sided bags or backpacks which will be easy to fold away.

Pack light and take only duffel bags for instance, which can stored away easily.

Hard suitcases are difficult to store and may even scratch and damage the woodwork.

Clothing

Light summer clothing including bathing suites, lights t-shirts, skirts and shorts are to be expected on board a catamaran yacht.

Therefore warm and sunny during the day time but often cool enough to need a jumper in the evenings, and whilst sailing the wind chill can make it cool enough to need a lightweight jacket.

Consider packing some light trousers, collared shirts and summer dresses if you intend to eat ashore as most restaurants will expect customers to comply with a "smart casual" dress code.

If you're thinking of taking to the water or for a spin on a Jet Ski or SUP pack a few old t-shirts to keep your skin protected from the sun.

Shoes

We ask our guests to abide by the "bare feet" rule whilst on board. Tennis shoes and a good pair of white rubber soled sandals should be ideal when roaming around the deck, though stiletto heels can damage the teak decking and black soled shoes can leave unsightly scuff marks making them an absolute no-no. Land shoes are fine for venturing ashore though remember to take them off as you step back on board.

Accessories

Good quality sunglasses are a must, headwear and a high factor sun screen are absolute essentials when exposed to the sun, particularly if you intend to sun lounge for the best part of an afternoon. Reflection from the water means you soak up a lot of sun while sailing.

Eyemask. Maybe overkill but some of you may need it – especially for a daytime siesta or two.

Earplugs. Things can get noisy if you are docked at a busy marina overnight.

A waterproof bag will be a good idea to carry around your camera and smartphones especially when using the dinghy.

Wind protection

Easily forgotten off your packing list, because you are thinking about the sun, but, you may get caught in some cool weather, so, pack at least one pullover, cardigan or windbreaker, just in case. A pashmina is also a great idea if things get chilly.

Beach towels

We provide you all bed linen and bathroom towels. Beach towels will not be supplied, remember to bring some.

Toiletries

This is one area you can save a lot of room. Purchase an inexpensive hanging toiletry bag, and pack in just the basics – in travel size. Your sailing packing list must-haves are soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, motion sickness meds (just in case), mosquito repellent, skin moisturiser and antiperspirant deodorant.

Electronics

Extra phone battery or solar charger – There is only one outlet for the entire cabin.

Camera and chargers – For whatever electronics you bring, make sure to pack your chargers and appropriate adapters.

iPod – There’s a lot of down time on boat, so you’ll want some tunes.

Books or e-reader.

Childrens

For your little’s ones, we recommend you bring all the necessities such as feeding bottles, wet wipes, diapers, their favorite toys. Avoid bringing plasticine (modeling compound), felt pens, small pieces such as LEGO, as it will damage the boat and someone may step on it and slide.

For children you might want to have a small bag with the following items: back pack, hat, sunglasses, beach sandals, children’s sunscreen, UV protection swimming suit, goggles, insect repellent.

If you forget anything, do not worry as you can purchase many items in Corsica. But if you have any special requirements; ensure that you bring them with you such as prescribed medication.

Tips

• Leave your valuables at home, particularly such things which are not waterproof.
  Expensive watches and jewelry, once it falls overboard, it’s gone forever...
• Pack light, you may find you wear half the clothes you pack.
• Leave room for souvenirs or pack an extra foldable bag for items you purchase while you're away.
• It is not uncommon for the wind to claim your hat or sunglasses, pack more than one.

...and don't forget

• Do not spoil your holiday, apply plenty of sunscreen!
• A waterproof, durable camera case.
• Travel documents, charter contracts.
• Passport and Visa documents (if applicable).
• Prescriptions or seasickness medication (if applicable).
• Own scuba/snorkel equipment should you be prefer to use your own.
• Sunglasses, hat and UV protection T-shirt when snorkeling.