If you’re looking for an unforgettable summer vacation, there’s no grander experience than chartering a yacht in the Philippines. Though before it was an activity solely for the wealthy due to many of them owning boats, yacht charters have made sailing an activity that is fully accessible to everyone. You can now freely cruise around iconic Philippine islands, indulge in unforgettable sights, and try local cuisine, all while enjoying luxury services that the best private yachts have to offer.
Once you’ve booked your ideal yacht chartering adventure, all that’s left to do is pack your bags and get ready to set sail, right? Well, not quite. Packing properly can be quite the challenge, as it can be with any trip. What you bring, and how much of it, depends on what type of boat you’re using and how long your trip will be.
First, take note of what you don’t need to bring. Private yacht rentals usually have complimentary towels and toiletries, so leaving your own at home can help you save space in your luggage.
Next, choose the right type of luggage to use for your yacht charter. Even the largest and most luxurious yachts have limited stowage areas, and you need to adjust your luggage and the amount of things you’re packing accordingly. A backpack would be ideal for a day trip on a speedboat or monohull sailboat. Meanwhile, soft, collapsible luggage cases are your best choice for a catamaran voyage. It’s best to leave your hard luggage at home, as it takes up more space and could scratch the surfaces of the rental yacht.
1. Medication
If you have any necessary medication, it’s best to stock up before you set sail. Your trip will be packed with activities and visits to beautiful beaches, coves, reefs, and lakes in the Philippines—meaning, you might not find a pharmacy or drugstore that carries your medication throughout your trip. Make sure to bring enough to last you the entirety of the trip, and throw in some medicine for seasickness while you’re at it.
2. Swimwear
An essential for any boating trip, whether you’re lounging onboard or stopping by the beach. Swimwear doesn’t take up a lot of space, so feel free to bring several.
3. Day and Evening Wear
Bring your favorite outfits for when you’re staying dry, either onboard or onshore. Some smart casual outfits or evening wear is also a good idea for evening dining on the yacht. If possible, make sure the clothes you decide to bring are quick-drying.
4. Weather Gear
Even if you choose to book your trip during the dry season, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Bringing a raincoat or poncho may be a good idea in case it rains. You can also bring a cover-up in case the weather becomes too windy and chilly. A high-quality sarong or shirt can also protect you from the harsh sunlight when you’re away from the water.
5. Footwear
When choosing footwear to bring, comfort is key. Look for flip-flops, sandals, sneakers, or aqua shoes that are fashionable, yet comfortable. Leave your high-heels at home; they could cause damage on the yacht’s flooring or give you an ill-timed injury during the trip.
6. Suncare Products
Summers in the Philippines are notoriously hot, and protection from the sun is crucial to properly enjoy your yacht charter experience. Look for reef-safe sunscreen that has a high SPF and PA rating to protect yourself from burns—and aftersun lotion to replenish any skin moisture lost from the UV rays. A pair of sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sun protective UPF clothing can provide you further protection.
7. Gear for Water Activities
Yacht rentals can provide gear for the water activities in your schedule, but you can still bring your own if you’re more comfortable doing so. Be sure to double-check which activities are included in your package, but some examples of items you might want to bring include snorkelling gear, scuba diving equipment, freediving fins, and inflatables or flotation devices. You can also bring fishing gear, but be sure to have the necessary permits first and take note of areas where fishing is prohibited. Lastly, a dry bag can keep your things safe while you’re having fun in the water.
8. Electronics
Your trip’s scheduled activities won’t last all day, so bring your electron0ic devices for entertainment or to squeeze in some extra work during your trip. These can include your phone, laptop, e-book device, gaming console, camera, and portable charger. Be sure to also get a local SIM or e-SIM to keep in touch with peers and loved ones.
All Aboard an Unforgettable Yacht Getaway
Now that you know what to bring to your trip, it’s time to make the most of what a yacht charter has to offer! A trip to islands all across Palawan in the Philippines, for example, will take you to enlightening WWII shipwrecks, beautiful coral reefs, remote islands, and gorgeous white sand beaches. Make this summer one to remember for years to come by booking your first yacht expedition. (ADV)