What to Wear on a Boat Ride, From Swim Stops to Sunset
For a boat ride with a swim stop, wear a swimsuit under a secure, lightweight layer and bring a dry change. For sightseeing or a sunset cruise, start in dry clothes and pack a light layer for the wind. Ask the operator what shoes they allow, since boarding and deck rules vary.
What to wear and pack by boat trip
Choose the row that matches your booking. If the outing combines two plans, such as a swim and a marina dinner, dress for boarding and keep the next outfit dry in your bag.
| Trip | Wear to board | Pack in your bag |
|---|---|---|
| Charter with a swim stop | Swimsuit, secure shirt or wrap, and operator-approved shoes. | Towel if needed, wet bag and dry underwear and shorts. |
| Sightseeing ride | Lightweight top and shorts or trousers you can sit in. | Wind layer, secure hat and a pouch for phone and keys. |
| Sunset cruise | Dry outfit that fits any onboard dress code. | Light jacket or sweater and a change of shoes if dinner ashore requires it. |
For example, wear trunks with a button-down on the way out, then change into dry shorts for lunch. If you prefer a one-piece, wear a pull-on skirt or shorts over it for boarding. A plain shirt over a bold print works for either person. See the couples vacation edit for print ideas if you’re planning outfits together.
Dress for a swim stop with limited changing space
On a small boat, you may have a bench and a shared cabin rather than a private changing area. If a swim is planned, wear your suit from the hotel and carry a cover-up you can put back on easily. A button-down with sleeves you can roll or pull-on shorts with a secure waistband are easy to handle on a breezy deck.
After the swim, towel off and put on your dry layer. If you can change before heading ashore, separate the wet suit from your dry clothes. Pack your dry clothes in one pouch and leave a second bag empty for wet items. Some operators recommend arriving in swimwear because stops are short. Check the plan for your tour in advance. Capri Boat Tour’s clothing advice gives one example.
Check footwear before you leave
Ask what you’ll need for the dock, on deck, and at any shore stop. For example, Harper Yachting asks guests who want to wear shoes aboard to bring clean, non-marking boat shoes. Another operator may have you remove shoes onboard, or recommend a specific shoe if you’ll step ashore on rocks.
When shoes are allowed, look for a sole with grip and a fit that stays on as you step aboard. Keep any shoes for dinner ashore in your bag, and follow the crew’s instructions for boarding and moving around the boat.
Five things to check before boarding
- Check the itinerary. Find out whether there are swim stops, shore stops or an indoor meal.
- Confirm footwear and dress rules. Check the operator’s booking details or ask directly.
- Ask what the boat provides. Confirm towels, shade, and whether there’s somewhere private to change.
- Make your dry kit easy to reach. Keep a light layer, phone pouch and dry clothes together. Bring an empty wet bag for the return.
- Check the weather for the return trip. Pack for the wind and the later temperature as well as for departure.
If the ride is part of a longer trip, add the boat gear to the printable beach vacation checklist before you close your suitcase.
Boat outfit questions
Should I wear my swimsuit if I’m not planning to swim?
Dry clothes are usually the more comfortable starting point for sightseeing. If you’re undecided, bring a suit only if the operator allows swimming and there’s a place to change.
Can I wear jeans on a boat ride?
Jeans can work on a dry sightseeing ride if you’re comfortable sitting in them. For a small boat where you expect spray or a swim stop, lighter trousers or shorts are easier to deal with if they get wet.
What should I wear to dinner after a boat ride?
Bring a dry top and bottom or a dress you can change into ashore. Check the restaurant’s footwear and swimwear rules, especially if you’re going straight from the dock.