Top 9 Things You Can't Do Without on a Charter Yacht

Any charter yacht has a basic "gentleman's" set of necessary things on board: life jackets, flashlights... However, in most cases this set is far from ideal, things are often worn out, and some tools are simply inconvenient.

Real yachtsmen come on board with their own luggage. The skipper knows every item in this baggage and is confident in its reliability. It's time for you to put together such a set. Here are 9 types of things to pay attention to - a bonus point at the end.

1. Inflatable life jackets

On charter yachts, you can mostly find classic foam life jackets. Such life jackets are bulky and restrict movement. Modern automatic inflatable life jackets are almost imperceptible on the body and, in case of danger, even have the function of turning the person into the desired position.

Plus, it already has attachment points for an emergency lanyard, so you can attach yourself to the lifeline in bad weather or at night. Tip: Get a model with an automatic release that won’t be activated by rain or splashes, and bring spare CO2 cylinders.

2. VHF Handheld Radio

A fixed radio in the cabin is useless if you are on the transom or in a dinghy. At such moments, a hand-held floating waterproof radio is more suitable than ever. Look for IP67/IPX7, a good battery, preferably DSC, GPS or even AIS.

Don't forget the charger: most modern models are charged via USB. This radio will help you out when mooring, at anchor, and on all shore excursions.

3. Navigation applications and digital maps

Navionics or similar displays detailed maps directly on a smartphone and works offline if GPS is available. Many crews have completed the route only with a phone when the onboard plotter "died".

Add Windy for weather, Navily for marinas and anchorages, MarineTraffic for AIS traffic. If you actively use your phone, a power bank or 12 V charger is a must on board.

4. Multi-tool or “marine” knife – will save you in any situation

A skipper without tools is like a yacht without an anchor! Cut a sheet, tighten a bolt, quickly patch something up - a reliable multi-tool will always help out. Look for a stainless steel multi-tool with pliers, screwdrivers, a bottle opener, or better yet, a cable cutter, a knot-untying spike, and a rigging key.

A separate folding knife is also not superfluous. Keep it handy - on your belt or in your jacket pocket.

5. Headlamp with red backlight

Night watches are unavoidable. A headlamp frees up your hands, allows you to check sails and charts without blinding the crew. A red light preserves night vision and is ideal for the cockpit.

Take models with IPX4-IPX7 moisture protection, with a durable case and USB charging. Check at home: the beam should confidently illuminate 5-10 m, and switching modes should occur with one button even with gloves.

6. Dry bags 

Dry clothes = happy crew. A couple of dry bags of different sizes will protect valuable equipment both during the crossing and in the dinghy. A universal option is a 20-30 l bag, which will fit clothes, documents, and electronics.

Rolled PVC bags fold into a flat envelope. For your phone and passport, take small transparent cases, they will also come in handy on the beach. It is also very convenient if the bag has backpack straps and stays on the water.

Don't skimp: a good "cracker" will save gadgets from salt water and, if necessary, will act as a pillow or buoy. At least one medium dry bag should be with the skipper - even better, for each crew member to have one. No bag? A thick garbage bag inside the backpack is an acceptable emergency replacement.

7. Polarized sunglasses

Glare from water is as bad as welding. Polarized lenses remove "sun bunnies", make the picture brighter and protect your eyes. Look for glasses with UV 400 from trusted brands - a decent pair can be found for 40-100 €. Attach the glasses to a cord or floating band, or better yet, take a spare pair. Don't forget a cap and SPF 50 cream. In the rain, keep transparent protective glasses: they will help out at the helm.

8. Waterproof clothing

The weather changes instantly: rain, splashes, wind… And the day is ruined if you get wet. The minimum set for any yachtsman includes a waterproof jacket and pants. For the ocean, you need a full storm set with a membrane like Gore-Tex. In the summer Mediterranean, a light windbreaker is enough, the main thing is that the fabric "breathes".

Fleece and a warm hat will save you during the night shift. For footwear, it is advisable to choose a model with a non-slip sole and moisture protection. Some people wear sneakers, but if you are often on the water, then yacht boots will pay for themselves quickly.

9. Personal emergency beacon 

Small device:

• PLB – transmits an SOS signal directly to Cospas-Sarsat satellites;
• AIS MOB – broadcasts “man overboard” coordinates to all nearby vessels.

You can do without a PLB for walks along the coast, but if you go far away, a device for a couple of hundred euros is worth your life. The beacon is attached to the vest: if you fall, you immediately press the button, the system sends a GPS point. The AIS option immediately displays an alarm on your plotter. Register the device in advance and practice turning it on.

10. Bonus point - entertainment

Buy a folding hammock for a couple of euros, stretch it between the mast and forestay - the best investment in pleasure. Add a waterproof deck of cards or a board game for a rainy evening and life will sparkle with new colors. 

Do you like snorkeling or want to inspect the propeller? Bring your mask: charter masks are usually “tired” after a dozen or so yachtsmen before you. For chronicles, a GoPro or an action camera: both underwater footage and the sailing race will be remembered more vividly.

New video on Interparus channel

😦 We have collected ALL questions that beginners ask about sea adventures - from "do I need to know how to swim?" to "which yacht should I take first?" And here's what we figured out... In the new video on the channel, Sasha Goron will not only answer the most important yachting questions, but also tell you about some life hacks for yachtsmen that will help simplify life on board. Enjoy watching!❤️

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26.06.2025