Packing for a sailing course is very different from a normal holiday. Space onboard is limited, conditions are practical, and everything you bring needs to earn its place.

Our golden rule is simple: less is better.

Below is a guide to help you pack smart, stay comfortable, and make the most of your time onboard.

✅ What to Bring

Essentials for life onboard

• Insulated water bottle (keeps water cool in the tropics)
• Small notebook and pen (great for theory notes and briefings)
• Personal medication
• Head torch or small torch (very useful at night onboard)

Clothing & sun protection

• Hat or cap (strongly recommended)
• Sunglasses with a retention strap
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
• Long-sleeve UV protective shirt (highly recommended)
• Light jacket or rain jacket (tropical showers can appear quickly)

Footwear

• Non-slip, closed-toe sailing shoes or deck shoes
  (old runners with good grip are fine if clean and non-marking)

Sailing gear (if you have it)

• Sailing gloves (very useful for rope handling)
• Mask & snorkel (optional but great for swim stops)

Optional but useful

• Ear plugs (shared cabins = shared sounds!)
• Small dry bag for personal items
• Phone charger + power bank (charging opportunities are limited)
• Zip-lock or dry bags for wet clothing

❌ What NOT to Bring

Space onboard is limited and storage is shared, so please avoid bringing unnecessary or bulky items.

Bags & luggage

• Hard suitcases ❌
• Large travel bags ❌
• Oversized luggage of any kind ❌
• Cardboard boxes ❌

(Soft duffel bags or backpacks are ideal)

Bedding & household items

• Sleeping bags ❌
• Sheets and pillows ❌
• Towels (these are provided or can be arranged depending on course)

Clothing & footwear mistakes

• Heavy boots or bulky shoes ❌
• Non-non-slip shoes ❌
• Excess clothing “just in case” ❌

Other items to avoid

• Wet wipes (can block marine toilets) ❌
• Spray tanning products ❌
• Strong aerosol sprays below deck ❌
• Anything fragile or difficult to store safely ❌

A Few Final Tips

Life onboard is shared, practical, and hands-on. Everything has a place, and keeping the boat “shipshape” makes the experience better for everyone.

A good rule of thumb:
If you’re unsure whether you need it… you probably don’t.

You’ll spend most of your time sailing, learning, exploring, and enjoying the Whitsundays—not managing luggage.