What to bring on board? – Green Yacht Crew Tips
Congratulations, you’ve secured your first contract to work on board a yacht! You’re probably very excited and want to be prepared and make a list of what to pack. But what do you pack as a green yacht crew member?
Our comprehensive list will help you pack all the essentials you’ll need whilst working at sea.
- Documents and Essentials
- Toiletries and Personal Care Items
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Miscellaneous items
Documents and Essentials
Let’s start with the important stuff, documents, and essentials.
We know it’s obvious, but you’ll need to pack your Passport (and any visas depending on your nationality). Be sure to check that your passport is up to date and has sufficient validity before it expires. Some countries won’t let you travel with less than six months until your expiry date, so if your passport expires soon, double-check the return date of your contract.
Working at sea also requires obtaining extra certifications such as Four-Part Basic STCW and ENG1 Medical. If you need STCW training and don’t know where to go, the Maritime Skills Academy has a range of STCW courses you can book online. Alternatively, if you’re joining the interior department and would like to expand your skill set, Luxury Yacht Interior Training has some incredible additional training courses, such as Mixology training, Barista Training, Cigar Training, and many more…
Another essential you might overlook is a medical kit. Create a small medical bag for your time at sea that includes any prescriptions, seasickness remedies, and basic first aid needs. A first aid kit will be on board, but it won’t hurt to have your own supply.
You’ll also want to bring some local currency to buy any items before waiting to be paid.
Toiletries and Personal Care Items
Regarding toiletries on board, prepare as if you’re staying in a hotel. You won’t need to bring body wash or towels as basic amenities will be provided, but you will need your toothbrush and any specialist items, such as your favourite hair products.
Another essential item provided by the yacht is a decent sunscreen. You’ll be working outside, under the direct glare of the sun, so if you’d prefer to bring your own sunscreen, that is perfectly acceptable.
Clothing
Each yacht will have a uniform that you are expected to look after and wear while working. It’s important that you always dress appropriately, as you would in any other professional setting.
Of course, you won’t always need to wear your uniform. Bring some comfortable casual wear for off-duty hours and days off. Packaging swimwear would be ideal if you’re working a summer season, and want to cool off in the sea.
When it comes to footwear, typically, shoes aren’t allowed, especially on the deck. Pack some light flip-flops, or boat shoes with non-marking soles. On your days off, you can wear trainers as you disembark and explore the beautiful towns and cities.
Sunglasses and caps are also essential when packing, as you’ll want to protect yourself from the sun.
While on board, you might be invited to events or dinners, so packing a few pieces of smart clothing will help you be prepared: chinos and a shirt or light packable dresses.
Electronics
Remember to bring a phone charger with you. Your phone will help you to stay in touch with family members or friends while you’re away from home. Bringing a power adapter for the regions you’ll be visiting is also a good idea.
There will also be opportunities on your days off or off-duty hours when you might want to watch a film or listen to music. Having headphones means that you’re not disturbing your crew mates and will allow you some privacy.
If you still have room in your luggage, why not take your laptop or tablet with you for personal use?
Miscellaneous
If books are your way of relaxing, perhaps bring an e-reader with you. Books take up space in your luggage and cabin, but an e-reader allows you to store multiple books electronically.
Personal items such as photos or small mementoes can help you feel at home when you’re hundreds of miles away.
Tips for Living on a Yacht
Now that you have a comprehensive list of all the items you’ll need as a Green Yacht Crew member, it’s still important to pack light, as space is limited. Packing your items in soft luggage instead of hard-shell suitcases will make it easier for you to store them on board. If you have a luggage bag that is easy to fold and waterproof, that’s even better!
Most importantly, you’ll be sharing this space with other crew members, so respect each other’s space. To be considerate of your fellow crew members, keep common areas, such as the crew mess, clear of your personal items.
To make it even easier, download our Yacht Crew Packing checklist here so you don’t forget anything.
And don’t panic if you do happen to forget some items; you can always visit a shop when you dock at a port or ask a fellow crew member if you can borrow their item if you’re desperate!
