The most important equipment on a sailing yacht

There are three types of yachts…

Although each boat is unique and a reflection of its owner's rich inner world, generally speaking, all boats can be divided into three types. Naturally, we'll categorize them by equipment type. 

So, the first type: they have EVERYTHING on board. Literally, you'll find tools, supplies, and sometimes even more than two or three sets of sails on these yachts. The second type has NOTHING on board. If you find one of these, you'll have, at best, the boat itself. The third type is the happy medium, as they have everything you need on board, but without the frills. 

An experienced sailor will almost always prefer the third type. Why? Because excess equipment creates unnecessary problems, greatly reduces the amount of space on the yacht, and many tools will never be needed. Equally experienced yachtsmen avoid the second type of boat: after all, the very first time you go to sea without a 13mm wrench, absolutely everything that can only be fixed with one breaks.

Essential yachting equipment

Seriously speaking, there's no universal set of tools or equipment for a yacht. Yes, we can refer to international maritime conventions, which provide a list of essential life-saving equipment, but many things can be learned either from personal experience or from other yachtsmen. 

The key to a truly relaxing cruise is a conscious selection of all the necessary yacht equipment. Many yachtsmen are prone to hoarding, where each year more and more items accumulate onboard that will likely never be used. Let's take a look at the essential equipment that should be onboard, drawing on the experience of generations of sailors.

Everything related to boat control

Check the anchor, chain, and ropes. They must be adequate for the boat's dimensions. If you lack experience, consult a senior sailor. When it comes to mooring, the reliability of the anchor and chain is key to safety. Ropes and ropes should be kept handy for quick use. 

The same applies to the sails: they must be ready to be raised and reefed (meaning that the movement of the sails should not be hindered by anything, and their ends and rigging should be neatly organized, - ed.). 

Also, ensure that every active crew member involved in operating the boat knows and understands how to start, operate, and stop the engine. Provide a tour of boat operation with the engine running for those who are not yet familiar with it.

Location rescue equipment Every crew member should be familiar with the safety procedures. Don't forget to conduct a safety briefing and assign roles to everyone on board. The crew must know how to act in a critical situation.

Comfort on board the boat 

Yachting clothing Rain gear is a key factor for comfort. Bring along clothing and footwear that are appropriate not only in terms of characteristics (waterproofing, durability) but also in size. Even if you're traveling to warmer climates, a raincoat is a good idea.

Footwear is another matter entirely. On board a yacht, especially on deck, you should wear special boating shoes to protect the deck from dirt and damage. Furthermore, active sailing can put strain on your ankles, so it's important to protect your feet. It's best not to walk barefoot on the deck.

The same goes for sunglasses—they're absolutely necessary. Because the water suddenly reflects the sun's rays so well, a sailor without sunglasses risks eye damage from constant glare and sunbeams. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and SPF cream to protect against sunburn.

On cold or simply windy days, a pair of gloves will also come in handy. Don't forget that when actively working with rigging, wearing special gloves is a must!

How about we talk?

You should have with you not only a stationary radio, but also a hand-held VHF radio, a mobile phone and signaling devices:

• whistle,
• signal flare,
• fog horn,
• flags,
• special mirrors.

Here the issue is already in the plane of personal safety: in conditions of poor visibility, to communicate with ships, you may need not only a radio and side lights, but also a fog horn. 

Engine

A fire extinguisher should be kept near the engine in case of fire. Besides life jackets, the fire extinguisher is the second piece of equipment on board that must be regularly inspected and recharged. In a critical situation, the proper functioning of this tool is crucial. 

Crew training is especially important. Train your crew not only on how to use the engine, but also on how to operate it properly. Don't neglect your yacht's engine manual. Most of the answers to your questions are right there in that unsightly booklet. Remember that regular engine maintenance is cheaper than a mid-ocean repair.

Medicines on board a yacht

Take a first aid kit with all the necessary items on board. Also, make sure there's enough drinking water on board for all crew members. Dehydration is a serious problem at sea, often faced by sailors. Sunscreen is also a must-have for your sailing trips.

Emergencies during a cruise These situations don't happen often, but it's important to learn how to recover from them in advance. Take a first aid course at sea, as well as courses related to emergency and urgent situations. Such events are sometimes organized by yachting associations, and sometimes by the Coast Guards of various countries. 

Sailing Yacht Navigation

Despite advances in electronic technology, paper navigation charts remain a basic item on board a yacht. It's always a good idea to have up-to-date maps of the region you're sailing in and a basic set of route-plotting tools—a pencil, compasses, a ruler, or a protractor.

GPS is also an essential tool for a yachtsman. Always carry spare batteries for GPS-enabled portable devices, and keep your chartplotters up to date. If you regularly sail in the same area, it's a good idea to have pilot books detailing the tides and currents in the area. 

And don't forget about the compass!

Repair kit

Everything is good in moderation, and that includes repair kits. While we agree with yachtsmen who have full-fledged workbenches on board that "anything can happen at sea," moderation is key. A minimum kit should look like this:

• the toolbox itself (preferably made of stainless steel),
• hammer,
• pliers,
• a set of wrenches and hex keys,
• screwdrivers,
• vice,
• nippers,
• insulating tape,
• good knife,
• manual and automatic pump,
• buckets with sponges (for the hold),
• staples, 
• fuses,
• fitting,
• blocks,
• cotter pins,
• silicone glue.

This isn't an exhaustive list, and it can and will vary from yachtsman to yachtsman. The main thing is to have a set of tools on board that covers most real and potential problems. And yes, it's best to bring extra duct tape.

Rescue equipment

Last but not least, lifesaving equipment is a must. At a minimum, each crew member must have a life jacket on board. These life jackets must be individually fitted to the individual's size. Weak swimmers are advised to wear a life jacket on deck at all times.

A life preserver should also be at the ready. Be sure to practice MOB maneuvers and man-overboard rescueLarger boats also have life rafts, which need to be maintained like life jackets and checked regularly.

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11.11.2025