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Tips & Packing

What to Bring on a Cabo Yacht Charter: The Complete Packing List

March 2026 · 5 min read · By Easy Yacht Rentals

A Cabo yacht charter day runs smoother when you show up prepared. The crew handles the vessel, the route, and the drinks — but what you bring determines how comfortable and photo-ready your group stays from departure to dockside. Here's the complete list, organized by category, plus what to leave at the hotel.

📋 Documents & essentials

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Government-issued photo ID — Required for Port Captain check-in
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Booking confirmation — Screenshot or printout
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Hotel or resort contact info — For emergency contact reference
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Cash for gratuity — 10–20% of charter cost, handed to crew

☀️ Sun & skin protection

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Reef-safe mineral sunscreen (SPF 50+) — Required — chemical sunscreens are banned in Cabo's marine areas
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Wide-brim hat or cap — The reflected glare off water intensifies UV exposure
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Polarized sunglasses — Essential for spotting marine life and watching sunsets
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UV-protective rash guard — Optional but highly recommended for snorkeling

👙 Clothing & footwear

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Swimsuit (wear under your clothes) — You'll want it on before you board
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Light cover-up or linen shirt — For sun breaks and the marina walk
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Non-marking soft-sole shoes — Required on most yachts — leave heels at the hotel
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Light layer for the return — Wind picks up on the way back, especially at sunset

💊 Health & comfort

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Motion sickness medication — Take 30–60 min before boarding. Dramamine or Bonine work well
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Lip balm with SPF — Salt air dries lips quickly
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Small dry bag for valuables — Keeps phone, wallet, and keys away from splashes
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Any personal medications — Keep in original containers; inform the crew

📷 Photography & entertainment

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Waterproof phone case or GoPro — Snorkel stops and spray make regular cases risky
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Portable charger / power bank — Outlets are limited on most vessels
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Bluetooth speaker playlist (backup) — Crew has a sound system but your playlist makes it personal

What to leave at the hotel

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High heels or hard-sole shoes — Damage teak decks and are unsafe on wet surfaces
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Glass bottles — Most charters prohibit glass on deck — crew provides cups
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Chemical sunscreens — Banned in protected marine areas; reef-safe only
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Large hard-shell luggage — Storage is limited; bring a soft tote or small backpack
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Drones (unless pre-arranged) — Require Port Captain permit and prior coordination with crew

Pro tip: share your group's needs before departure

Let the crew know in advance about birthdays, proposals, allergies, accessibility needs, or if anyone is motion-sensitive. A quick WhatsApp message the night before lets the captain adjust the route and set up any surprise moments so they land at the right time.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to bring snorkel gear to a Cabo yacht charter?

Most Cabo yachts include snorkel masks, fins, and life jackets in the base rate. Confirm with your operator before booking — we always specify what's on board before you pay a deposit.

What sunscreen is allowed on Cabo yacht charters?

Only reef-safe mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are permitted in Cabo's protected marine areas. Chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate are banned. Bring SPF 50+ and reapply every 2 hours.

Should I take seasickness medicine before a Cabo yacht charter?

If you are prone to motion sensitivity, yes — take it 30–60 minutes before boarding. Morning charters in calm bays have minimal movement. If your group has concerns, let us know and we'll route accordingly and choose a stable vessel.

What should I wear on a yacht in Cabo?

Swimsuit, light cover-up, polarized sunglasses, hat, and soft-sole non-marking shoes. Avoid heels and hard soles — they're not permitted on most yachts. Bring a light layer for the return trip, especially on sunset charters.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes, on most yachts — but confirm first. Some all-inclusive charters (like the VanDutch 48) include a full menu and premium bar and prefer you don't bring outside alcohol. Others welcome BYO coolers. We clarify this before you book.

All packed? Check availability for your dates.

Tell us your group size and date — we'll match you with the right yacht and confirm what's included before you reserve.

WhatsApp usSee 2026 pricing

Also useful: Best time to charter in Cabo, Browse the fleet, Bachelorette yacht page.