Sailing Course Packing List: 8 Brilliant Must-Have Items to Perfect Your Course
Sailing Course Packing List: 8 Brilliant Must-Have Items to Perfect Your Course
Sailing Course Packing List... The excitement of booking an RYA course in Milna, Croatia is often followed by a very practical question: "What on earth do I put in my bag?" Packing for a week at sea is a delicate balancing act. You need to be prepared for the elements, yet you are living in a space where "storage" is a luxury. Unlike a hotel room, a yacht cabin requires you to be efficient, organised, and minimalist.
Creating the perfect sailing course packing list ensures you stay comfortable, dry, and focused on your training rather than nursing a sunburn or shivering on a night passage. Whether you are heading out for Competent Crew or your Yachtmaster prep, here are the eight essential items that should be at the top of your kit bag.
1. A Soft-Sided Bag (No Hard Suitcases!)
This is the "Golden Rule" of any sailing course packing list. Hard-shell suitcases are impossible to store on a yacht. They don't bend, they don't fold, and they take up valuable cabin space.
- The Choice: Use a medium-sized duffle bag or a rucksack that can be squashed flat and tucked away in a locker once you’ve unpacked. 2. High-Grip, Non-Marking Deck Shoes
Safety starts with your feet. You need shoes that provide excellent grip on a wet, moving deck and—crucially—don't leave black scuff marks on the pristine white GRP of the yacht.
- The Choice: Purpose-made boat shoes or technical sailing trainers are best. Avoid flip-flops while the boat is moving; they offer no toe protection and are a major trip hazard during a tack. 3. A Quality Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Even in the height of the Croatian summer, the wind can pick up, or a sudden "Nevera" (summer storm) can roll through. A lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket is a non-negotiable part of your sailing course packing list. It protects you from spray and keeps the wind chill at bay during evening sails.
4. Polarised Sunglasses (with a Retainer)
The glare of the sun off the Adriatic is intense. Polarised lenses are essential because they cut through the reflection, allowing you to see the colour of the water, navigation buoys, and underwater hazards more clearly. There is even a shop in Marina Kanarija that you can buy these items: Embark Nautical
- Pro Tip: Buy a "floater" strap or a retainer. The bottom of Milna harbour is littered with expensive designer sunglasses that took a dive during a mooring manoeuvre! 5. Sun Protection: High SPF and a Hat
Sailing involves constant exposure to the sun, magnified by the water's reflection. Pack a high-factor, water-resistant sunscreen (SPF 30+). A cap or a wide-brimmed hat is also vital, but ensure it has a chin strap or a clip to keep it from blowing overboard the moment the wind hits 15 knots.
6. Personal Logbook and Theory Books
If this is your first RYA course, you’ll need a G158 Logbook to record your miles and certificates. If you are a returning student, don't forget to bring your existing one! Having your Day Skipper or Competent Crew handbook nearby is also great for a quick "cheat sheet" look at those RYA knots before bed.
7. A Powerful Power Bank
While most modern yachts have USB charging points, often they only work when the engine is running or when the boat is connected to shore power in the marina so a back up is best to bring. To ensure your phone or camera is always ready to capture that perfect sunset over Hvar, a portable power bank is a lifesaver.
8. Layers, Layers, Layers
The temperature can drop significantly once the sun goes down, especially during night sailing. Even in August, a fleece or a thermal base layer is a smart addition to your sailing course packing list. It’s much better to have a layer you don’t need than to be the shivering crew member at the helm at 2:00 AM.
Ready to Set Sail from Milna?
The right gear gives you the confidence to enjoy your course regardless of the weather. At Yacht Sail Training, we want our students to be as comfortable as possible so they can focus on the joy of learning.
If you have questions about specific gear or the weather conditions in Croatia during your travel dates, feel free to contact Yacht Sail Training. Our team is happy to provide a more detailed kit list tailored to the specific time of year you’ll be joining us in Milna.
Final Thoughts
Packing for a sailing course is about function over fashion. If it’s breathable, quick-drying, and fits in a soft bag, it’s a winner. Once your bag is packed, you’re one step closer to the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. That is your sailing course packing list sorted!
A well-prepared sailing course packing list is the secret to a comfortable week in Milna.