Waterproof Clothing: Essential, particularly in cooler areas such as UK waters. You’ll need a jacket and trousers in case of rain or rough tides, or instead of enjoying the freedom and luxury of chartering a yacht you’ll just be extremely soggy. If you’re sailing in the Mediterranean at the height of summer this is less vital – but can still save you masses of inconvenience.
Wellies: Not any old rubber boot – bring proper yachting wellies. You may be bale to rent these from the chartering company or they may be included as part of the boat’s equipment but make sure you have a pair available for the skipper (presumably, you). These wellies have tight tops to stopping water from getting in even if you go overboard, making them perfect for going ashore via the on-board dinghy, as well as having specially treated soles that make them perfect deck shoes (see below).
Deck Shoes: If you’ve got proper deck shoes, you know what they offer. If you haven’t, then a pair of non-slip, non-marking trainers is necessary before you go out on your chartered yacht. The deck is no place to slip and it certainly will get wet at some point – and if your shoes leave marks, prepare to pay some extra costs when you return your boat to the owner.
GPS: Most chartered yachts have some form of fixed GPS technology already installed when you hire them. That said, a portable, hand-held GPS can still be a useful item to have handy. If the boat’s electrics go then you can use the hand help as a backup system, sailing the yacht back to shore with ease.
Mobile Phone: Although if you’re far away from the coast you’re unlikely to get much in the way of signal, when you’re at berth or off the coast you’ll probably be fine. A phone is indispensable if you need to talk to the charter company about any issue with the boat or your charter. It can also be useful for making arrangements whilst you’re away; from booking a table to arranging a berth in a busy marina, a mobile can be invaluable.
Sun screen & hat: Even in UK waters, the sun can be debilitating if you’re out on deck all day. Take a high factor sun screen and try to take a wide-brimmed hat to provide some portable shade for your head. There’s not much shade on a yacht unless your below decks, so sun stroke or nasty burns can sneak up on you if you’re not careful.