What to Pack When Sailing The British Virgin Islands
Organizing your packing list for a sailing trip in the British Virgin Islands is a great way to ensure that you don’t forget anything important. Besides clothes and personal items, you’ll need to make sure you bring some important sailing items and emergency essentials that would be a problem if they were missing.
Check the list of what your boat will come with, and then ensure that you remember to bring along:
Documents:
Before you embark on your journey, make sure to visit the official website for determining the British Virgin Islands passport requirements. It is prudent to also check the visa requirements for other places you will be visiting in case you have a multi-destination trip. Additionally, make sure to bring along the necessary documents such as your passport, visa, travel tickets, ID cards, and proof of accommodation. Remember to keep important documents on you and to keep a copy of them in your bags as well. You never know what might happen, so it’s best to keep these items safe. With your BVI bareboat charter, you’ll also want to keep your charter paperwork readily available.
Pens:
Silly as it may seem, make sure you pack a few pens to use to complete all the customs paperwork. You will need one!
Swim Lights:
These are optional, but if your boat is not outfitted with swim lights, you might want to find them. This way, you can watch the fish swim under your boat!
Glow Sticks Or A Bright Scarf:
Tie this to your dinghy before heading ashore. Dinghies can start to look very similar. Even if you study the boat before leaving (as you should), you might have a hard time when you return. Make sure to mark your boat in some way so that this is not a problem.
Sunblock & Protection:
Bring sunblock for your skin, lips, and anything else that might be exposed. You’ll need it while sailing! Go with the rub-on variety. You’ll also want rashers, loose layers, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Zip-ties:
You never know when you might need a zip-tie! These can be very helpful for both personal and sailing uses, so make sure to pack some.
Sailing Gloves And Deck Shoes:
If you own sailing gloves or deck shoes, bring them along. If you don’t, consider buying some before your trip!
Headlamps:
When moving around your boat at night and in the early morning, a headlamp is a great way to make sure you can see! You can also use this to get back to your boat after dark.
Your Own Navigation Supplies:
Boats may come with basic supplies, but you’ll want to bring your own BVI chart and navigation supplies, including a handheld navigation device to ensure that you won’t lose course.
Sunglasses:
Grab a pair of polarized sunglasses. These help you see the underwater more clearly. Equip yours with a lanyard so you don’t use it!
First Aid Kit:
While some first aid items should be available on the boat, pick up your own when you get provisions so that you will be able to take care of any bumps or bruises.
