Packing for a yacht charter is different from packing for a hotel holiday. Space is limited, the dress code is relaxed, and the yacht provides more than you'd expect. Here's your complete checklist — tested over hundreds of charters across Indonesia.
What the Yacht Provides
Don't pack what's already on board:
- Beach and bath towels
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
- Kayaks, paddleboards, and water toys
- Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)
- Hair dryers
- Laundry service (most yachts offer daily washing)
Clothing
- Swimwear: 3–4 sets (they'll air-dry quickly but you'll want rotation)
- Cover-ups & Sarongs: Essential for island visits and respectful village encounters
- Lightweight Shorts & T-shirts: For island hikes and onboard daytime
- Evening Wear: Smart casual — linen pants, flowing dresses, resort shirts. No formal attire needed.
- Light Rain Jacket: Tropical showers are brief but intense
- Rashguard/UV Shirt: Sun protection for snorkeling and water sports
- Soft-Soled Shoes: Deck shoes, sandals, or water shoes. Hard-soled shoes damage teak decks and are not permitted.
- Hiking Shoes: Lightweight trail shoes for Padar Island, Wayag, and volcanic treks
Sun & Health
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+: Chemical sunscreens damage coral. Use mineral/zinc-based formulas.
- Hat & Sunglasses: With retainer strap (sunglasses overboard is common!)
- Insect Repellent: For evening island visits and jungle treks
- Personal Medications: Bring your full supply — pharmacies are scarce in remote areas
- Motion Sickness Remedy: If you're prone, bring tablets for occasional open-water crossings
Diving & Snorkeling
- Prescription Dive Mask: If needed — the yacht's gear is standard prescription-free
- Dive Computer: Experienced divers may prefer their own
- Dive Certification Card: Physical or digital (PADI app) — required for all dives
- Dive Insurance Documentation: DAN or equivalent. See our dive insurance guide.
Electronics
- Underwater Camera / GoPro: Indonesia's reefs demand underwater photography
- Power Bank: USB charging is available but a backup is smart
- Universal Adapter: Indonesian outlets use Type C/F (European-style two-pin)
- Waterproof Phone Case: For tender rides and water activities
Luggage Tips
- Use soft bags: Duffel bags and backpacks store far better than hard suitcases
- Pack light: Laundry service is available on most yachts — you need less than you think
- Dry bag: For tender transfers and beach excursions
Questions about what to bring? Our team provides a personalized packing list based on your yacht and itinerary.
