What to Pack for Your Sailing Charter With Us
Embarking on a sailing charter with St. Augustine Sailing is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re joining us for a romantic sunset sail, a private day adventure, or a special occasion on the water. To make the most of your time aboard, packing wisely is key to ensuring comfort and enjoyment. This guide will walk you through what to pack for a seamless sailing charter with us our of St Augustine. From footwear to attire and a few extra essentials, we’ve got you covered so you can focus on the beauty of the sea.
Understanding Your Sailing Charter Experience
At St. Augustine Sailing, we offer a variety of shared and private sailing charters tailored to different preferences and occasions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening or a full-day adventure, knowing what to expect helps you pack appropriately. Here are a few of our popular offerings, which you can explore further at our Shared & Private Charters page:
- Sunset Sail (Shared Charter): A serene evening cruise, perfect for couples or small groups looking to enjoy St. Augustine’s stunning sunsets.
- Private Day Sail: From 2 hour to a full-day excursion ideal for families or groups wanting to explore the waters at a leisurely pace.
- Special Occasion Charter: Customized for events like birthdays, anniversaries, or proposals, offering a memorable experience on the water.
Packing for your sailing charter depends on the type of sail, the season, and the weather. Florida’s climate can vary, with hot summer days and cooler evenings, especially in fall or winter. Proper preparation ensures you’re comfortable and ready to enjoy every moment of your sailing charter adventure.
Footwear: Choosing the Right Shoes for Your Sailing Charter
When stepping aboard a yacht for your sailing charter, footwear is one of the most important considerations. Not only does the right choice keep you safe, but it also protects the yacht’s deck from damage. Many of our guests love the freedom of going barefoot while sailing — it’s a quintessential part of the experience! However, if you prefer to wear shoes, make smart choices to ensure safety and comfort.
For footwear, prioritize non-skid and non-marking soles. Here are some great options:
- Flip Flops: Lightweight and easy to slip off, flip flops are perfect for warm-weather sailing charters. They’re ideal for quick transitions between the deck and barefoot sailing.
- Rubber-Soled Shoes: Boat shoes, deck shoes, or athletic shoes with non-marking soles provide excellent grip and comfort. These are especially useful for longer sailing charters like our Private Day Sail.
- What to Avoid: Steer clear of high heels, heavy boots, or shoes with black soles, as they can mark the deck or make moving around safely difficult.
If you plan to go barefoot, bring a small bag to store your shoes while onboard. This keeps the deck clean and your belongings organized during your sailing charter. By choosing the right footwear, you’ll move confidently and protect the yacht, ensuring a smooth sailing experience.
Attire: Dressing for Comfort and Conditions
Dressing appropriately for your sailing charter is essential to stay comfortable, whether you’re basking in the summer sun or enjoying a crisp evening breeze. St. Augustine’s coastal weather can vary, so plan your attire based on the season and the type of charter you’ve booked. Here’s a breakdown to help you pack for different scenarios.
Warm-Weather Attire for Summer or Daytime Charters
Florida summers are hot, so lightweight, breathable clothing is a must for daytime sailing charters like the Private Day Sail. Opt for:
- Shorts, T-shirts, or Tank Tops: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and comfortable.
- Swimwear: If your sailing charter includes swimming opportunities, bring a swimsuit. A cover-up or rash guard offers extra sun protection.
Sun-Protective Gear: A wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and a long-sleeve rash guard are great for shielding yourself from Florida’s intense sun.
Cooler Weather Attire for Evening or Fall/Winter Charters
Evening sailing charters, like our Sunset Sail, or sails during fall and winter months can get chilly on the water. Be prepared with:
- Light Jacket or Sweater: A windbreaker or fleece is perfect for staying warm without overheating.
- Long Pants or Leggings: These provide extra warmth while remaining comfortable.
Layering: Bring layers you can add or remove as temperatures shift. A lightweight scarf can also add warmth and style for evening sails.
Charter-Specific Attire
Different sailing charters call for slightly different attire to match the vibe:
- Sunset Sail: This shared charter has a romantic, relaxed atmosphere. Women might opt for a sundress, while men could wear a collared shirt with shorts or lightweight pants. Keep it casual but polished.
- Private Day Sail: Comfort is key for longer sails. Choose activewear-style clothing, like athletic shorts and moisture-wicking tops, especially if you plan to swim or move around the yacht.
Special Occasion Charter: For events like birthdays or anniversaries, slightly upscale attire works well—think nice casual outfits like a linen dress or khakis with a button-down shirt. Still, prioritize comfort for the marine environment.
Accessories
No matter the charter, always pack:
- Sunglasses: Polarized lenses reduce glare on the water.
- Hat: A baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat protects your face from the sun.
- Sunscreen: Apply high-SPF sunscreen before boarding and bring a travel-sized bottle for reapplication.
Avoid heavy or restrictive clothing that could get caught on yacht equipment. Loose, flowy garments are fine but ensure they’re secure in windy conditions. By dressing smartly, you’ll enjoy your sailing charter in comfort and style.
Sail in Comfort: How St. Augustine Sailing Makes Packing Effortless
When you sail with St Augustine Sailing every detail is designed to enhance your experience on the water. we know how much planning can go into a trip, so we make it easy, offering thoughtfully selected essentials that keep you comfortable and carefree from the moment you step aboard.
Our team curates high-quality sailing accessories and onboard amenities to help you relax, enjoy and fully immerse yourself in the magic of sailing. Forget the hassle of shopping or packing, we have already done that for you.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay refreshed with our St. Augustine Sailing Insulated Bottle, designed to keep your drinks cool even under the Florida sun. Each one is eco-friendly, refillable, and available before you depart—filled and ready for your charter.
Pricing starts at $2,500 + tax/gratuity
Picnic & Weather Blankets
Whether you are enjoying a romantic sunset sail or lounging during a mid-day cruise, our picnic and weather blankets are perfect for cozy comfort. soft yet durable, they’re ideal for deck lounging, dockside picnics, or wrapping up under the stars.
Gourmet Add-Ons & Specialty Boards
Why pack snacks when you can idulge in freshly prepared, local flavors? Include on or our culinary experiences to your sail.
- Charcuterie Board: artisan meats, cheeses, and accompaniments
- Brunch Board: pastries, fruit, and light bites for morning sails.
- Lunch Board: satisfying selections of sandwiches, fruit, chips, and cookies for mid-day adventures
- Hot Brunch Option: freshly prepared onboard for morning charters
- Sunset Tasting Cruise: pairing of fine wines and small bites
- Chef Prepared Dinners: a gourmet dining experience on the water.
And since we’re fully licensed, we proudly offer a variety of premium beer and wine selection, curate to complement your sailing experience perfectly.
Set Sail Without the Stress
Every item above is available as part of your pre-sail concierge service. simple let us know what you’d like before your charter, and we’ll have everything ready when you arrive.
From plush blankets to gourmet bites and chilled wine, we make it easy to enjoy every moment, because with St Augustine Sailing “The Fun Begins Where the Land Ends.”
Thank Your Captain: Showing Appreciation
Our captains at St. Augustine Sailing work hard to make your sailing charter safe and memorable. From navigating the waters to sharing local knowledge, their expertise enhances your experience. Showing appreciation through a gratuity is a thoughtful way to acknowledge their efforts.
A typical gratuity is 15–20% of the charter cost, though any amount is greatly appreciated. Bring cash in a small envelope for convenience, or ask our office about digital tipping options when booking your sailing charter. A verbal thank-you also goes a long way — let your captain know how much you enjoyed the experience. Your gratitude helps make every sailing charter special for both guests and crew.
Directions and Arrival Tips
To ensure a smooth start to your sailing charter, plan to arrive at our marina at Camachee Island with time to spare. Here’s how to get to us:
- Directions: Use your GPS to navigate to the entrance of Camachee Island marina. Continue straight past the guard gate. Our office is located in the fifth building on the right, facing the harbor… or next to the second speed bump, next to the blue water tower.
- Arrival Time: Arrive at least 15 minutes before your sailing charter to complete check-in and board on time.
- Parking: Ample parking is available at the marina. Look for St. Augustine Sailing signage to guide you to our office.
For more information and to stay updated, visit www.sta-sail.com and follow them on social media @StAugustineSailing.
