Top 5 Things to Wear for Sailing in Croatia

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Top 5 Things to Wear for Sailing in Croatia

We packed for two very different trips: a week in London, then a week living on a 45-foot double-hull catamaran on the Adriatic Sea in Croatia. London meant museums, dinners and markets. Croatia meant swimming, kayaking, tender rides and stops ashore.

I packed terribly. I ended up wearing the same jumpsuit, black halter dress, denim shorts and black top over my bathing suits. I also brought dresses without the right bras, so some never made it out of my bag. My daughter and niece did better with light dresses, shorts, tees, flat sandals and simple tops.

1. A Light Dress for Lunch or Dinner Ashore

Choose a dress you can actually wear with the underwear you pack. Try the whole outfit before leaving. A light cotton dress can be a useful starting point, but check the fabric, lining and care label rather than assuming every summer dress dries quickly. Leave room for a dry change after swimming.

2. Shorts You Can Repeat With Several Tops

Denim shorts worked in my original wardrobe. For your trip, choose the pair you already find comfortable for sitting, walking and getting on and off the boat. Add enough tops for the laundry arrangements your operator confirms. Do not assume you can wash everything at every marina.

3. A Button-Up Shirt or Simple Cover-Up

A button-up shirt can work over a swimsuit and with shorts or a skirt. Pick something you can put on easily when it is time to head ashore. Keep a dry layer separate from the one you just wore over a wet suit.

4. Cotton Tees and a Swimsuit That Fits

Bring tees you like wearing, and try sitting and moving in your swimsuit before putting it in the case. Check straps, support and coverage rather than choosing only by the print.

5. Shoes for Each Part of the Day

Ask your charter operator what belongs on deck. A boat shoe is different from a water shoe or footwear for a rocky shore walk. For dinners, simple flat sandals were much easier for me than heels on the tender. Choose the sole and fit for the ground and conditions, not just the outfit.

The Extra Layer I Was Glad I Packed

A storm came in on our last sailing day. We were glad we had windbreakers and raincoats. That is our trip experience, not a forecast for yours. Check your own weather and the operator’s packing list, including any equipment they provide.

What I Would Leave Off the Boat Outfit

My daughter lost a graduation-gift earring while washing her hair in the water. I would leave sentimental jewelry somewhere dry rather than replacing it with another piece that can fall off. Protect bags, wallets and documents before a tender ride. A straw tote can hold dry clothes ashore, but it is not waterproof.

Keep your beauty kit simple enough to use in the cabin. For seasickness questions, ask a clinician or pharmacist about an option that fits you, and follow the crew’s guidance. Our experience does not establish what is safe for another passenger. Check connectivity with your charter operator and mobile provider rather than relying on the old router or roaming-price claims in this archive.