The Caribbean has always been a dream destination for any sailor. For those of us in the Mediterranean, these tropical islands represent the perfect escape from the harsh winter, offering white sandy beaches, emerald waters, coral reefs, palm trees, and a pleasant, laid-back atmosphere. Among the archipelagos most familiar to sailors are the Antilles, the Grenadines, as well as Antigua and Martinique—all enchanting islands bordered by the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. Not to mention the steady trade winds, which blow consistently from the east or northeast, especially during the winter months (December to April being peak sailing season in the Caribbean). With winds typically reaching 15–20 knots and occasional gusts, these are a sailor's best friend, allowing us to cruise through these crystal-clear waters without a need for the engine.
Essential Documents
The first items to pack are, of course, your personal documents: travel tickets to your embarkation point and your passport. For nearly all Caribbean islands, entry requires a passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of arrival. A visa, however, is usually unnecessary for stays shorter than 90 days.
Money Matters
When sailing in the Caribbean, it's essential to carry cash on hand. A good reserve of cash will help cover daily expenses, such as taxi rides, quick purchases at outdoor markets or beachside souvenir shops, and potential mooring fees. It also ensures you're prepared if credit card payments are not accepted for any reason.
Climate and Clothing
The Caribbean enjoys a typically tropical climate. With an average annual temperature of 25°C (77°F) and minor fluctuations of 3–5°C (37–41°F) throughout the year, you'll mostly live in swimwear aboard your yacht. When heading ashore, swimwear paired with a cover-up, sundress, T-shirt, tank top, or shorts is perfectly acceptable. Opt for natural fabrics for maximum comfort. Depending on your cruise itinerary, you might want to include one or two "going out" outfits if you plan to dine at a glamorous restaurant. Pack light, and use soft luggage or a medium-large duffel bag, which is ideal for the limited storage space onboard.
Footwear
For most of the time onboard, you'll likely be barefoot, but pack a pair of flip-flops or sandals for going ashore. If you enjoy hiking, include a pair of comfortable closed-toe shoes. Consider bringing boat shoes and waterproof footwear suitable for walking on beaches or rocky terrain.
Packing Guidelines
Bring only personal items and remember airport restrictions for liquids and prohibited accessories, such as sharp objects, blades, or scissors. Larger items, such as insect repellents or sunscreens, can be purchased upon arrival at the marina. For women, leave your full makeup bag at home and bring only the essentials, such as powder, lip gloss, and mascara. A glowing Caribbean tan will soon replace the need for heavy makeup, as your sun-kissed skin will only need a light touch.
Useful Accessories
The list of accessories for a Caribbean sailing cruise is highly personal, but here are a few essentials that may come in handy:
- Hat: A must for shielding your face from the sun. Choose one with an adjustable strap to prevent it from blowing away in the wind.
- Sunglasses: Opt for high-quality polarized lenses for eye protection and enhanced visual clarity. Again, add a strap to avoid losing them while handling ropes, fenders, or boarding the dinghy.
- Dry Bag: Ideal for safely storing electronics, such as cameras or smartphones, as well as cash and credit cards, especially during tender rides or excursions ashore.
- Insulated Mug or Thermos: These are invaluable for keeping drinks cool during onboard activities or land excursions. In the Caribbean sun, ice melts quickly, and drinking water is always a precious resource. A stainless steel thermos will keep your beverages refreshingly cold for longer.
- GoPro or Action Camera: If you love capturing videos and selfies, a GoPro will let you preserve every unforgettable moment of your cruise, both above and below the water.
Are you ready to plan your next Caribbean vacation? Contact us at info@nsscharter.com for a quote!
For any information send us a message 