Boat Trip Packing Checklist
Everything you need to pack for the perfect day on the Adriatic. What to bring, what is usually on board, and what to leave at the hotel.
Pack Smart, Enjoy More
You have booked your private boat tour from Hvar and your day on the Adriatic is approaching. Now the question is: what should you actually bring? Packing for a boat trip is different from packing for a regular beach day. Space is limited, the sun is relentless, and salt spray reaches everything.
Whether you are heading to the Pakleni Islands, the Blue Cave, or along the Hvar coastline, the same few things make a boat day comfortable. This checklist covers the sun, the sea, and the limited space on board. Follow it and you will be perfectly prepared for your adventure.
The Golden Rule: Pack light. A small backpack or soft tote bag is all you need. Everything should fit in something you can tuck under a seat. Leave the big bags at your hotel and bring only what you will actually use on the water.
Essential Items
These are non-negotiable. Do not board the boat without them.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
The Adriatic sun is intense, especially reflected off the water. Reapply every 2 hours. Reef-safe formulas protect the marine ecosystem.
Sun Hat with Chin Strap
Wide-brim hats provide the best protection. A chin strap or tight fit prevents it blowing away in the wind. Baseball caps work too.
Swimsuit (Worn Under Clothes)
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes so you're always ready for a swim. Bring a spare if you prefer not to sit in a wet suit.
Sunglasses (Polarized)
Polarized lenses cut glare off the water dramatically. Use a retainer strap to avoid losing them overboard. Plenty of pairs end up on the sea floor.
Water Shoes / Reef Shoes
Croatian beaches are mostly pebble or rocky. Water shoes make beach entries comfortable and protect your feet from sea urchins.
Light Cover-Up or T-Shirt
For sun protection between swims. The combination of wind and sun can burn you without you noticing. A light UV-protective shirt is ideal.
Phone in Waterproof Case
Salt spray, splashes, and wet hands are inevitable on a boat. A waterproof phone case (or at minimum a ziplock bag) protects your device.
Cash (EUR)
For island restaurants, beach bars, cave entrance fees, and optional tipping. EUR 50-100 is usually sufficient for a day trip.
Nice to Have
Not essential, but these items will enhance your experience.
GoPro / Action Camera
Waterproof cameras capture amazing underwater footage while snorkeling. The Pakleni Islands and Blue Cave are incredibly photogenic above and below the waterline.
Dry Bag (10-20L)
Keeps electronics, wallet, and dry clothes protected from splashes. Essential if you're carrying expensive camera equipment.
Light Windbreaker or Jacket
Even in summer, boat speeds create wind chill. A light layer is welcome on the return trip, especially on evening or sunset cruises.
Quick-Dry Microfiber Towel
Compact and dries fast between swims. Great as a backup to any towels on board, especially on full-day tours with multiple swimming stops.
Snacks & Energy Bars
Sea air builds appetite. Drinks are often provided and some tours include food, but having personal snacks ensures you're never hungry between stops.
Motion Sickness Remedy
If you're prone to seasickness, take medication 30 minutes before departure. The Adriatic around Hvar is generally calm, but it's better to be prepared.
Biodegradable Wet Wipes
Useful for cleaning hands before eating, wiping off sunscreen residue, or freshening up. Choose biodegradable to protect the sea.
Reusable Water Bottle
Most boats carry water, but having your own insulated bottle keeps water cold throughout the day. Reduces single-use plastic too.
What NOT to Bring
Leave these at your hotel. Trust us, you will not need them.
Large Suitcases or Heavy Bags
Space on boats is limited. Bring a small backpack or soft bag only. Hard-shell luggage is impractical and takes up deck space.
High Heels or Dress Shoes
Unsafe on a boat deck and useless on rocky beaches. You won't need them, and they risk scratching the deck.
Valuable Jewelry
Rings, necklaces, and watches can slip off in the water. The Adriatic has claimed many wedding rings. Leave valuables at your hotel.
Glass Bottles
Broken glass on a boat is dangerous. Most skippers ask for cans or plastic bottles. If bringing wine, decant into a plastic bottle.
Dark-Soled Shoes
Black rubber soles leave marks on white boat decks. Wear light-soled or non-marking footwear to keep the boat looking its best.
Excessive Electronics
Laptops, tablets, and drones (requires permits in Croatia) are better left on land. The goal is to disconnect and enjoy the sea.
What Is Usually on Board
Most skippered private boats in Hvar carry these items. What is included varies by boat, so check with the skipper when you get your quote.
Snorkeling Gear
Masks and fins on most boats
Towels
Provided on many boats - ask to be sure
Drinks
Water, often soft drinks, and sometimes local wine
Life Jackets
Required on board; ask for children's sizes
Shade Canopy
Bimini top on most boats for shade while cruising
First Aid Kit
Standard safety equipment on board
Season-Specific Packing
What you need changes throughout the season. Adjust your packing based on when you visit.
May & Early June
20-25°C air / 18-22°C water- Bring a light jacket; mornings and evenings can be cool
- Wetsuit or rash guard helpful for extended swimming
- Sun still strong; sunscreen remains essential
- Fewer crowds; restaurants may have limited hours
- Wildflowers in bloom; beautiful for photography
Late June & July
28-33°C air / 23-26°C water- Maximum sun protection: hat, sunscreen, UV shirt
- Water shoes essential; beaches get hot
- Light, breathable clothing only
- Stay hydrated; drink more water than you think you need
- Peak season begins; book tours early
August
30-35°C air / 25-27°C water- Peak heat and peak crowds
- Double down on sun protection
- Water is at its warmest; swimming is heavenly
- Book everything in advance; tours fill up fast
- Afternoon shade breaks are wise
September & October
22-28°C air / 22-25°C water- Water is warm from summer heat; best swimming month for many
- Air begins to cool; bring a light layer
- Fewer tourists; more peaceful experience
- Some restaurants close late October
- Wine harvest season; special culinary experiences
Quick Reference: What to Wear
The perfect boat day outfit is simple: swimsuit underneath, light cover-up or UV shirt on top, comfortable shoes with grip, a hat, and sunglasses. That is it. Dress for comfort and sun protection, not style. You are going to get wet, salty, and sun-kissed. Embrace it.
Request a QuotePacking FAQs
What is usually provided on a private boat in Hvar?
Most private boats carry snorkeling gear (masks and fins), fresh water, a shade canopy, life jackets in all sizes, and a first aid kit. Many also provide towels and soft drinks, and some tours include snacks or local wine. What is included depends on the boat, so check with the skipper when you get your quote.
Do I need to bring my own towel on a boat tour?
Many private boats provide towels, but it is worth bringing an extra towel or a quick-dry microfiber towel, especially on full-day tours where you may swim multiple times. A dry backup is always nice.
Should I bring cash on a boat tour from Hvar?
Yes, bring some cash in euros (Croatia uses the euro). While many island restaurants accept cards, some beach bars and smaller establishments are cash-only. Also useful for tipping your skipper, buying from local vendors, or paying the Blue Cave entrance fee if visiting Biševo.
What shoes should I wear on a boat in Hvar?
Wear comfortable, non-marking flat shoes or sandals with grip (boat shoes, Tevas, or similar). Bring water shoes or reef shoes for rocky beach entries. Avoid heels, flip-flops without back straps (they fly off in the wind), and dark-soled shoes that can mark the deck.