What to Bring on a Martha’s Vineyard Sailing Charter

Whether you are a year round island resident, a summer regular, arriving for a long weekend, or visiting Martha’s Vineyard for the season, preparation makes all the difference. This Martha’s Vineyard sailing charter packing list covers everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable day aboard Our Passion. We suggest passing it along to everyone in your group ahead of time.

All Trips

  • Sunscreen, applied before you board. The reflection off the water intensifies UV exposure significantly, even on overcast days. Please do not use spray sunblock while aboard as it damages the vessel’s surfaces.
  • Lip balm with SPF. Often overlooked and always appreciated after a few hours in the sun and wind.
  • Polarized sunglasses with a case to protect them when not in use
  • A hat that stays on. The waters around Martha’s Vineyard can be breezy and a hat with a strap or a snug fit is far more useful than one that ends up overboard.
  • Layers. Martha’s Vineyard summers are beautiful but the temperature on the water can run 15 to 20 degrees cooler than on shore. A long sleeve shirt, light sweatshirt, and a windbreaker will keep you comfortable no matter what the day brings.
  • Bathing suit
  • Towel
  • Non-marking sole shoes. Boat decks scratch easily and dark soled shoes are not permitted aboard.
  • Insect repellent. No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be an issue at anchor during summer months, particularly when the wind dies and around sunset.
  • Waterproof phone case or dry bag. Even on calm days salt spray finds its way onto everything. Protecting your phone and any valuables before you board is far easier than dealing with water damage after.
  • Camera. The light on the water around Martha’s Vineyard is exceptional and the coastline, harbor approaches, and islands make for extraordinary photography. If DSLR shooting is your hobby this is the place to use it. A waterproof case or padded protective bag is strongly recommended for any camera gear brought aboard.
  • Any personal medications or medical items you may need during the charter
  • Your favorite snacks and beverages. We provide cold bottled water but guests are welcome to bring anything else they enjoy. Please note that red wine is not permitted aboard.
  • Cash for gratuities and any shore side stops
  • Sea sickness remedies if needed (see below)

Drones

The views from above Martha’s Vineyard and the surrounding waters are stunning and we understand why guests want to capture them. Drones are welcome aboard with the captain’s permission prior to launch. All operators are responsible for complying with applicable FAA regulations and must hold any required licenses. We are not liable for misuse, equipment loss, or damage, and all reasonable precautions should be taken when operating equipment over water.

Cuttyhunk Trip

  • Good walking shoes, sneakers recommended
  • Bug spray with DEET
  • Your own lobster tools if you prefer them. Note that the Cuttyhunk lobster shack is seasonal and may not always be available.

Seasickness

Seasickness is genuinely rare on our Martha’s Vineyard charters. Fewer than one percent of our guests have ever experienced it. If you know you tend toward motion sickness in cars, on planes, or in other moving vehicles, a small amount of preparation before you board is all it typically takes to have a completely comfortable day on the water. Over the counter remedies most effective when taken up to two hours before boarding include:

  • Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
  • Meclizine (Bonine)
  • Ginger supplements or ginger chews
  • Sea-Band acupressure wristbands

For those who know they are significantly affected by motion sickness, speaking with your doctor before the charter is worthwhile. Prescription options including transdermal Scopolamine patches, Promethazine, and Cyclizine tend to be considerably more effective than over the counter alternatives and are worth discussing with a medical professional if you have adequate advance notice.