.png)
Whether you are dreaming about a sailing vacation or counting down the days, you should know that packing for a sailing trip is unlike most other adventures. This is because luxury sailing, like that of a trip with As You Wish in the Virgin Islands, allows for all of the ideal beach-vacation ware without constant battle with sweat or even sand.
The important thing to consider when it comes to a sailing trip, whether in the Virgin Islands or other areas of the world, is to err on the side of packing light. Soft bags rather than suitcases will also come in handy if your boat has minimal storage.
The Clothing Essentials
There is always a breeze and you wont really sweat, so you can wear most things several times. Look for lightweight “quick dry” or performance fabrics, like “fishing clothing” at Academy (Columbia, PFG, etc). Keep it simple and minimalistic.
For a 7 day vacation, I would recommend packing the following:
2 to 4 Swimsuits
I usually put a swimsuit on and wear that most of the day. If that’s your personal preference, binging 4 or so is ideal. Or if you will only put it on for getting in the water (snorkeling, paddle boarding, and so forth), you may only desire to bring 2.
A Few Pairs of Shorts
I like to wear shorts over my swim suit when I am walking around the islands or playing games on the yacht. You may also want to make sure you have good hiking shorts in case you desire to hike around some of the beautiful islands!
1 or 2 Swim Cover-Up
I usually bring 1 or 2 to put on around lunchtime when we go ashore. You will want to dress up more for dinner so just something to slip over your swimsuit is ideal.
2 - 4 Sundresses
Sundresses are one of my favorite parts of this vacation! I usually bring 3 or 4. Bring ones that won’t wrinkle. I like the ones that are that stretchy fabric.
Long Sleeve Rash Guards or SPF Shirt
I’m the kind of person who will get cooked by the sun. Really, I get sunburned very quickly. So I actually bring a few light weight long sleeve shirts to wear when I’m swimming and when I am just walking around. If that’s you, make sure you are prepared!
Sun-hat and/or Ball Cap
Or both! I usually bring both a sun-hat and a ball cap or two. With salty hair from swimming, I like to stick on a hat before I go walking around the island!
Waterproof, but Comfortable, Footwear
EVAplasic Birkenstocks is what I wear the entire time. I sometimes wear tennis shoes on the plane and then put them away once I get there. But otherwise, one pair of comfy, waterproof sandals will do the trick. I even wear my Birkenstocks in my sundresses!
RipSkirts (Optional)
This is a personal favorite of mine! I love RipSkirts! They are super comfy and easy to wear over a swim suit! They also come in many colors and patterns that always make me feel the island vibes!
The Fun Accessories
Polarized Sunglasses
You will wear sunglasses most of the week and having polarized sunglasses is important to avoid the glare off of the water. I also recommend purchasing a sports strap to keep them from falling into water. I have lost a few good pairs that way getting in and out of the dinghy. I would also recommend bringing an extra cheaper pair of sunglasses for rougher use.
Waterproof Phone Bag
Some places you may want to visit you have to swim-up to. We have done that when we visit the Baths on Virgin Gorda. For this reason, you may want to bring a waterproof bag for your phone so that you can take your phone with you.
A Waterproof Bag
For those swim up locations, it is ideal to take towels, snacks, sunglasses, and so forth. It can also be a good beach bag to have to take ashore.
The Needed Toiletries
Other than the essentials you would take on every trip, make sure you bring:
Good Sunscreen
It must be reef safe. Absolutely NO spray sunscreen, as it will make the boat deck slippery and could lead to someone getting hurt.
Good Hair Detangler and Shampoo/Conditioner
The stores there usually have one kind of shampoo and sunscreen. So if you have the kind you want, pack a few small bottles of what you need.
The Fun, Optional Extras
These are the fun things you could bring if you want!
Underwater Cameras
These are fun to take snorkeling! We have had some really wonderful pictures taken on our underwater camera of sea-creatures and of the kids having fun!
Snorkels
If you have your own snorkel you would like to bring, great! They are also usually available for rent.
Sports Team Decal or Flag
We are Aggies and have loved joining with the tradition of adding car stickers to WillyT’s and a flag at Foxy’s. This is just a fun tradition to be a part of!
Bring A Book
Even if you are not a huge reader, there will be downtime. Even those in my family who never read will often read an entire book in that week. I would recommend having every member of your family bring a book.
A Compact Game
There are sometimes games on the catamarans in the BVI like ours. But bringing a deck of cards, Yahtzee, or other compact games is a good idea.
What NOT to Bring
Bulky/Fluffy Towels
Bath towels and beach towels are provided!
Expensive Jewelry
I would recommend leaving diamonds and other expensive jewelry at home. Just in case. Because you will be getting in and out of the boat constantly, I suggest leaving them so that they don't slip and fall off into the water.
Sail on As You Wish
With As You Wish, we do our best to make sure you have everything you need! We also can help you by making a personalized itinerary and give you suggestions to the best spots! Contact us with any questions or to check on our availability! We are offering 35% off sale!
Comments