What should I pack for an Australian sailing charter?

Half what you think, in a soft bag. Boats have no room for hard suitcases and most operators will ask you to leave them ashore.

The real packing list is short because you will wear the same three things all week and swim in most of them.

Bring

• Sun protection that works: a broad hat, a rash shirt with sleeves, sunscreen, polarised sunglasses with a retainer.
• One warm layer and a light waterproof jacket. Nights on the water are cooler than the forecast suggests, even in the tropics.
• Non-marking soft soles, or plan to be barefoot. Black soles mark decks.
• Any medication you take, in more quantity than the trip needs. Pharmacies are ashore.
• A reef-safe sunscreen if you are sailing in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
• A dry bag for phone and wallet in the tender.
• A head torch.

Leave behind

• Hard luggage, unless the operator confirms storage ashore.
• Stilettos, white soles, and anything you would be upset to get salt on.
• Big towels if the charter provides them. Ask first; linen and towels are often extra.
• Bulky snorkelling gear if the boat has it, which most do.

Worth checking with the operator

Whether linen is included, whether there is fresh water for rinsing, and how much fridge and freezer space you have before you plan food. Provisioning covers the food side, and can we bring our own food and alcohol covers what you are allowed to load.

Seasickness gear

If anyone is unsure, sort it before you board rather than after. Most options work better taken before departure than once symptoms start. Talk to a pharmacist or your doctor about what suits you. See will I get seasick.

For region-specific notes, including how much warm gear southern waters need, see weather and seasons. If children are coming, families and groups has additions to this list.