Skipper's gear: 10 essentials for the sea

Comfort and safety at sea are essential. While charter boats usually offer standard equipment, it’s not always the best quality — and it may not suit you personally. That’s why seasoned skippers bring their own kit. They know it, trust it, and can count on it 100%. If you’re serious about sailing, it’s time to start building your own set. Here's what to include.

Most charter boats come equipped with bulky foam life jackets, which are far from ideal. They’re uncomfortable and restrict movement. A modern inflatable jacket fits better, feels lighter, and will keep you afloat in an emergency. The best choice? A deckvest — an inflatable life jacket with built-in attachment points so you can clip on to the boat in rough weather or at night.

Experienced skippers always bring their own vest — it's more comfortable, more reliable, and you can be sure it's ready for use. Look for a model with automatic inflation (that won’t be triggered by rain or spray), and don’t forget spare CO₂ cartridges.

 Every boat has a fixed radio, but it’s not much use if you're in the cockpit or out in the dinghy. A waterproof, floating handheld VHF radio gives you freedom and safety. Choose a model with good battery life, and ideally with features like DSC (Digital Selective Calling), built-in GPS, or AIS tracking.

Look for waterproofing (IP67 or IPX7), and useful extras like a flashing light in case you fall overboard. Remember to pack the charger or USB cable — most modern radios charge via USB. A handheld VHF also comes in handy when you're anchoring or heading ashore in a dinghy.

Apps like Navionics give you detailed nautical charts and GPS navigation, even offline — so long as you have a GPS signal. Many sailors have had their onboard plotter fail, and relied entirely on a phone app to complete their voyage — even offshore.

Complement your charts with apps like Windy (weather), Navily (marinas and anchorages), and MarineTraffic (AIS vessel tracking). Bring a power bank or 12V charger so you’re never caught with a flat battery.

Every skipper should carry one. Whether it’s cutting rope, tightening bolts, or fixing something in a hurry, you’ll be glad to have a tool on hand. A quality multitool will include pliers, screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and a knife blade. Look for extras like a rope cutter, marlinspike (for untying knots), or even a rigging key.

Stainless steel is best for the marine environment. Also consider a dedicated sailing knife with a locking blade, lanyard loop, and safety features. Keep it within easy reach — clipped to your belt or in a pocket.

Sailing after dark is often unavoidable. A high-quality headlamp lets you check sails, read charts, or move around the deck safely. Red-light mode is essential — it’s easy on the eyes and ideal for the cockpit or cabin.

Look for waterproof models with an IPX4–IPX7 rating and solid build quality. Many models now charge via USB, making them perfect for longer trips. Test it at home — you should clearly see 5–10 metres ahead, and be able to change modes easily with one hand.

Dry gear = happy crew. That’s why it’s smart to have a few waterproof bags and cases in different sizes. A 20–30 litre dry bag will protect your clothes, electronics, and essentials both during the cruise and when heading to shore by dinghy. We recommend packing anything important — like documents, gadgets, or dry clothes — into waterproof cases for extra peace of mind.

Roll-top dry bags made from tough canvas or PVC come in various sizes and can be folded flat when not in use. Smaller waterproof pouches for phones, wallets, or passports are great not just on board, but also at the beach. Many modern dry bags have backpack straps for easier carrying — and some are even buoyant.

Spending a more on a good bag is absolutely worth it. It protects your valuables from water damage and can double as an emergency pillow or flotation aid if filled with air. Every skipper should carry at least one medium-sized dry bag and suggest the crew do the same. No bag? A strong bin liner inside your backpack makes a decent emergency waterproof solution.

Sunlight reflects fiercely off the sea. Polarised lenses reduce glare, improve visibility, and reduce eye strain. Choose glasses with a UV 400 filter from a reliable brand — you’ll find decent models for around €40 to €100 

Attach them to a lanyard or use a floating strap to avoid losing them overboard. Consider packing a spare pair too. Don’t forget a hat and high-factor sun cream — and for rainy days, clear safety glasses can help with visibility while steering.

Conditions can change fast. Rain, spray, and wind can ruin your day if you're not dressed for it. At minimum, bring a waterproof jacket and trousers. For serious offshore trips, consider investing in a high-end foul-weather kit with a Gore-Tex or similar membrane.

In the Mediterranean in summer, a lightweight spray jacket and rain trousers may be enough — but make sure your gear is breathable so you don’t overheat. Bring a fleece or jumper and a warm hat for chilly night watches.

Footwear matters too: sailing boots should have non-slip soles and be waterproof. Some skippers manage with trainers or deck shoes, but proper boots are a solid investment if you sail regularly.

It’s a small device — either a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon), which sends a distress signal to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite network, or an AIS MOB beacon, which transmits your position to all nearby vessels via AIS when activated.

For casual coastal cruising or beginners, a PLB isn’t essential. But if you're heading offshore or planning a more demanding trip, it's well worth considering. These beacons are usually clipped to your life jacket strap — if you fall overboard or face an emergency, you simply press a button and it transmits your GPS coordinates.

The AIS beacon, on the other hand, instantly alerts your crew that you’ve gone overboard and shows them your location on the boat’s AIS system. Think of these devices as worst-case-scenario insurance — they may cost a few hundred euros and never be used, but in a real emergency, they could save your life. Before you set off, make sure you register your beacon with the relevant authority and learn how to activate it properly.

Nothing beats lying in a hammock, swaying gently in a quiet bay as the sun goes down. For a few euros, you can get a foldable hammock that easily rigs between the mast and forestay. It's a small item that brings a huge amount of joy.

Pack a deck of waterproof playing cards or travel games — they’ll save the day during rainy evenings. If you enjoy snorkelling (or want to check the keel or prop), bring your own well-fitting mask and snorkel. Charter kit is often worn out and uncomfortable.

For fun, consider bringing a GoPro or action camera to capture your underwater adventures and sailing memories. These extras aren’t essential, but they make life on board even more enjoyable for everyone.