Life aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is refined yet relaxed — here’s everything you need to know to perfect your packing list and set off in style.
Planning to set sail with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection? Lucky you! You might be wondering what to pack, and we’re here to help. We firmly believe that personal style is paramount and that the rules of dress are flexible, especially at sea. And yet, for those who want to look and feel good across a range of activities and settings — all without bulging suitcases or the dreaded feeling of having forgotten something crucial — there is an art to packing that’s well worth heeding. In fact, it’s the first step to a stellar getaway. Read on for everything you need (and nothing you don’t!) to set off in style.
Daytime Essentials
On board, you’ll enjoy plenty of sun, fresh air and access to swimming, spa and fitness, as well as casual dining and socializing across an engaging array of spaces. Stock your makeup pouch or Dopp kit with waterproof sunblock, everyday toiletries and travel portions of your favorite vitamins, supplements, and cosmetics. Vacation is a time to pamper yourself: We love packing intensive beauty treatments, aromatherapy scents, and luxe silk scrunchies and sleep masks to enhance the atmosphere of serenity and well-being.
For clothing, think casual yet elevated. That means loose, flowing silhouettes in breathable natural fibers such as cotton, linen, silk and hemp. Easy printed or solid dresses require neither significant suitcase space nor forethought; for men, think relaxed separates in classic colors and tropical prints that can be mixed, matched and re-worn. Bring a large tote bag in canvas, straw or leather to hold your essentials — books or e-reader, sunglasses, scarf/cover-up, sun hat, playing cards, reading glasses, and the like — as you move about the yacht and on shore.
Timeless footwear like leather boat shoes, slim white sneakers and waterproof sandals can be worn every day and with every look. Swimwear is a must; pack a few favorite options. Bring activewear to suit your workout style; all of our yachts offer fully equipped gyms and activities from sunrise yoga to mat Pilates.
Adventures and Excursions
Depending on your itinerary, you may be doing everything from hiking, biking and diving to gallery hopping, fine dining and shopping ashore. You’ll want to bring items that can pull double duty, like sneakers for the gym and the plane, shorts that go poolside to portside with ease, and day-to-night dresses and separates. A chic one-piece bathing suit doubles as a top when paired with a bold maxi skirt and a button-down worn open on top. Waterproof sandals with grippy soles and ankle support can go from aquatic adventures to long walks around the promenade.
You can often use your onboard fitness gear — leggings, sports bras, tee-shirts, shorts, workout socks — for shore excursions as well. A packable rain jacket is handy in bad weather and to guard against wind and sea spray. Consider travel pouches and waterproof cases to protect your watch, phone and other valuables on the go. And bring that tote bag — you’ll want your sunglasses, sunblock, hat, phone, wallet and a light outer layer handy for most excursions.
Evening Elegance
Many day pieces can easily become eveningwear with accessories and maybe a quick run-through with a handheld steamer (or just hung in a closed-door bathroom while you shower). No formal wear is required on board, though you’ll want to avoid shorts, tee-shirts, hats, swimwear and flip-flops for dinners in our onboard venues. For men, collared shirts and linen pants epitomize the “yacht sophisticated” vibe; for women, think chic sandals and bold jewelry to elevate after-dark looks. Skip precarious stiletto heels in favor of comfortable styes like flats, wedges and kitten heels. Accessorize with small items that make a big statement, like a patterned silk scarf or chic evening bag — you won’t need to carry much, so swap that tote for something sleeker at night.
Depending on when and where you’re traveling, nighttime temperatures will vary, but it’s best to be prepared for cool breezes and air conditioning on and off the yacht. The shawl you snuggled with on the plane might join you for dinner; for both men and women, a classic nautical sweater draped over the shoulders adds instant polish. A slightly dressier outer layer—a tan or navy blazer for men, a black evening or light leather jacket for women—elevates your look for cooler temperatures when the sun goes down.
Back in your suite, indulge yourself in outrageously soft cloud socks and your favorite crisp pajamas or silky nightgown. Thank yourself for packing all those heavenly scents and grooming products and treat yourself to a little nighttime primping before sailing away to dreamland.