Your Essential Boat Trip Packing List

A day on the water in Greece is one of the best experiences you can have — but only if you come prepared. Whether you are renting a motorboat for a few hours or chartering a sailboat for the week, packing the right items makes all the difference.

Here is our tried-and-tested checklist for boat trips in Greece.

Sun Protection (Non-Negotiable)

The Greek sun is intense, especially on the water where it reflects off the surface. Sunburn can ruin your trip faster than anything else.

  • High SPF sunscreen (50+): Reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming. Choose reef-safe if possible.
  • Wide-brim hat: A cap is not enough — you need shade for your neck and ears too.
  • UV-protection sunglasses: Polarised lenses reduce glare off the water. Use a strap so they do not fall overboard.
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirt: A UPF-rated rash guard is ideal for extended sun exposure.
  • Lip balm with SPF: Often forgotten, always regretted.

Clothing and Footwear

Pack light, but pack smart. The weather can change, and boats get wet.

  • Swimsuit(s): Bring at least two so you always have a dry one
  • Quick-dry shorts and t-shirt
  • Light windbreaker or fleece: Essential for evening sailing or windy days
  • Non-slip boat shoes or sandals: White-soled shoes that will not mark the deck. Never wear black-soled shoes on a boat.
  • Change of clothes: For dinner on shore or the trip home

Safety Essentials

Most rental boats come with required safety equipment, but it is always good to have your own basics.

  • Personal medication: Seasickness tablets if you are prone (take 30 minutes before departure)
  • Basic first-aid items: Plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief
  • Waterproof phone case: Protects your phone from splashes and drops
  • Whistle: A simple safety item, especially when swimming in open water

Food and Drinks

Unless your charter includes catering, you will need to bring provisions. Most marinas have supermarkets nearby.

  • Water: At least 2 litres per person per day. Dehydration on the water is real.
  • Snacks: Fruit, nuts, crackers, cheese — things that do not need refrigeration
  • Cooler bag with ice: For drinks and perishables. Some boats have a fridge, but check in advance.
  • Easy meals: Sandwiches, wraps, or pre-made salads for lunch on board

Tech and Extras

  • Portable charger / power bank: Boat outlets may be limited
  • Bluetooth speaker: Waterproof models are best for setting the mood
  • Snorkelling gear: Some boats include it, but your own mask always fits better
  • GoPro or waterproof camera: The best moments happen on the water
  • Dry bag: Keeps valuables safe from splashes — essential for keys, wallet, electronics

Documents

  • ID or passport
  • Boating licence (if bareboat charter)
  • Booking confirmation
  • Travel insurance details

What NOT to Pack

  • Hard suitcases: Soft bags are much easier to store on boats
  • Too many clothes: You will spend most of the time in a swimsuit
  • Expensive jewellery: Risk of loss overboard
  • Dark-soled shoes: They leave marks on boat decks

Pro Tips

  1. Pack in a soft duffel bag — rigid luggage is impossible to store in boat cabins
  2. Bring a reusable water bottle — refill at marinas to reduce plastic waste
  3. Download offline maps — mobile signal can be patchy between islands
  4. Pack a headlamp — useful for multi-day charters when moving around the boat at night

Ready to Go?

With this checklist, you are fully prepared for your Greek boat adventure. The only thing left is to choose your boat and set sail.

Find your perfect boat on TapYourBoat