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.
