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A safe and unforgettable sailing holiday starts with one thing: a proper sailing preparation checklist. Whether you’re cruising the coast of Croatia or hopping islands in Greece, being well-prepared ensures your time on the water is smooth, stress-free, and truly memorable.
This detailed sailing preparation checklist helps you:
- Avoid costly delays or mid-trip surprises
- Save time, money, and hassle
- Sail with total peace of mind
- Feel confident from the marina to the open sea
Use this ultimate sailing pre-departure checklist as your go-to planning tool, and don’t forget to share your own tips in the comments or with the Borrow A Boat community!
Checklist Before Setting Sail – What You’ll Need:
Start your sailing preparation checklist with the paperwork. These documents are essential whether you’re skippering or just along for the ride.
- Sailing certifications (e.g. ICC, RYA)
- VHF radio license
- Boat registration papers
- Passport and any necessary visas
- Insurance details (travel and charter)
- Local permits (fishing, diving, national park access)
- Vaccination records (if required for certain destinations)
Pro tip: Store digital and printed copies of all essential sailing documents for easy access.
Safety & Navigation Equipment: What to Double-Check
No sailing preparation checklist is complete without verifying safety and navigation gear. While most of this is provided by the charter company, double-check everything before departure.
- Fire extinguishers, flares, and horn — ensure functionality
- Life jackets and throwable flotation devices for everyone onboard
- Updated navigational charts and GPS equipment
- VHF radio, distress beacons, and backup mobile communication
- Flashlights, batteries, and a fully charged power bank
- Emergency raft and bilge pump — verify readiness
If anything is missing or faulty, alert the charter team immediately.
Tool & Repair Kit – Your First Line of Defense
While your vessel should be in good general working order, unforeseen issues may occur. An on-board tool kit can save time and frustration, by allowing onsite repairs versus returning to port for repairs. Portable marine tool kits can be found online. Here’s the list of the most important tools you should not miss from your checklist before setting sail:
- Socket and ratchet sets for quick repairs
- Multi-purpose utility knife and work gloves
- Screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches
- Electrical tape, glue, and marine sealant
- A bucket — for emergencies and practical use
- A dry bag to store tools safely
First Aid Kit – Be Ready for Anything
All sailors should bring first aid kits in preparation for both minor and major injuries. Pre-made kits can be purchased online. When choosing a kit, determine the number of people on board, the length of journey, and distance from medical care. Examples of such kits typically include the following items:
- Adhesive bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes
- Seasickness remedies (Meclizine, ginger tablets)
- Burn gel and aloe vera for sunburn relief
- CPR face shield and splint for emergencies
- A guide to marine medicine for reference
- Personal medications and EpiPens (if applicable)
Final Walkthrough – The Last Check Before You Go
A complete yacht charter preparation walk-through can make or break your trip. Always run through this section of the sailing preparation checklist just before you leave port.
- Inspect standing and running rigging: lines, sails, mast
- Check engine oil, coolant levels, and fuel
- Confirm anchors, docklines, and fenders are in place
- Ensure all safety equipment is present and working
- Verify that towels, bedding, and heads are clean and ready
- Share your planned itinerary with the charter company
- Understand the marina check-in and check-out processes
If you still don’t know what to expect on a sailing trip, check out the guide to sailing for beginners where you can find all the useful information.
Expert Tips for Smooth Sailing
Use this trusted sailing preparation checklist to make sure you’re ready for every wave, wind shift, and wonder that comes with life at sea. Then explore the best charter options with Borrow A Boat — from sleek catamarans to spacious monohulls in top sailing destinations.