When packing for your weeklong trip aboard a cruise ship or yacht, you may be tempted to bring nothing but teeny bikinis and high-heeled sandals. But if you’ve opted to take your vacation on a sailboat instead of its pricy compatriots, then you’ll need to bring a better-rounded wardrobe. This isn’t to say that you can’t look your best when hopping aboard a sailing skiff, but you definitely need to consider the utility of the clothing you opt for. So if you’re not sure of how to go about choosing the proper attire for a sailing trip (and fashion is still on your list of priorities) then here are a few items you won’t want to go without.
- Swimwear. You didn’t think you’d leave this behind just because you’re not going on a cruise, did you? When the sun is high and the water is warm, there’s no reason not to park the boat and enjoy a swim or a few moments of sizzling on the deck. And although there are certain locales where it’s perfectly acceptable to go partially or fully au naturel, most places still require you to remain at least minimally covered in public.
- Lightweight cover-up.Sarongs are great for the beach, but they can prove fairly inefficient when it comes to sailing, twisting around your legs in the wind or flipping up into your face. Instead, get a lightweight, knit top to keep the sun off your shoulders and opt for some stylish, wide-leg, linen trousers to cover your legs. You’ll embody 100% class when you want to cover up on deck and remain comfortable and cool, even in the sun.
- Deck shoes. If you thought these loafers were just for looks, you’ll think again when you’ve got them on the deck of a boat. The flat, rubbery soles are great for grippingthe decking (even in wet weather) so that you don’t go slipping and sliding right off the starboard side. Plus, they’re comfortable and lightweight; a bonus considering you’ll be running up and down the deck exhaustively if you happen to be captaining the vessel. Finally, the minimal lacing (or total lack of it) allows you to kick them off in an instant if the warm, blue waters beckon alluringly and beg you to take a dip.
- Rain slicker. It’s not uncommon for storms to spring up out on the open ocean (depending on the area, the time of year, and the current weather conditions). Even if you’re prepared for warm temperatures, it behooves you to have a little insurance against rain in the form of a slicker. When you’re stuck in front of the steering wheel with spray hitting you from every side (and a deluge dropping from above) you’ll be glad you lugged it along.
- Skipper hat. Even though you won’t be paying a visit to Gilligan’s Island any time soon, you might want to pair this classic sailing head-wear with your ensemble. A wide-brimmed hat offers more coverage, to be sure, but even a small breeze will easily whisk it away. The skipper hat will stay securely affixed to your head, even in a strong wind, while providing some shade for your face (and making you look like you belong aboard a ship…or on a Captain and Tennille album cover).
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